Hiking and Trekking, are they the same?
Topic: Hiking

Take A Hike
Written by  Dorothy Williams

 

Bust out your backpack. Become a trekker. Take a hike. There
are all kinds of ways to get out there and enjoy a day on the
trails. Backpacking, trekking, and hiking are three great
outdoor activities, and while they may seem the same, there are
subtle differences to each.

As far as outdoor adventurers are concerned, hiking and
trekking are basically the same. The differences lie in the
origin of the words. The term "hike" is derived from the Middle
English word "hytchen" which became the English word "hitch".
The word "trekking" is borrowed from the African term for
ox-cart transport. Those taking part in a hiking adventure
through the Himalayas could safely use the term "trekking"
without literary repercussions.

The term "backpacking" is much less exotic. You'll use this
term when you walk to a nearby place, over a day or two.
Generally "backpacking" involves hauling some gear in a package
on your back. If you do want to walk on the wild side, but
you're not quite ready for the Himalayas, backpacking through
somewhere like the Grand Canyon can fit the bill.

When telling people you're about to take a hike, they will
likely imagine you traversing miles of trail. Your audience
will picture you traversing miles of trails, winding through
forests, scaling mountains, and stopping only to admire the
scenic vistas waiting you encounter along the way. It's no
wonder that hundreds of hikers spend their vacations on trips
like these. From leisurely self-guided winery tours, to rugged
backcountry travels through pristine wilderness, outdoor
itineraries are limited only by the traveler's imagination.

Itinerant hikers have tons of options available. You may have
dreamed of standing at the foot of Mount Everest and reliving
the moments when the first climbers reached its peak. Perhaps
you'd like to witness sunrise over Africa from atop Mount
Kilimanjaro. Those adventures are available to you. One of the
most exciting aspects of planning and taking a hiking trip is
that you can visit places that are otherwise remote and
isolated from civilization.

Most guided hiking trips are basically the same, but the
location and the level of strenuousness can vary. There is also
a bit of variety in the styles of treks, all having affect on
the difficulty or degree of adventure that your trip will hold.

A traditional hiking trip is often expedition-style, which
means that it involves a crew including guides, porters, and
cooks. This support team will prepare meals, set up or take
down camp and even carry your gear.

If you want fewer people along for the journey, consider taking
a lodge-to-lodge hiking trip. Take this style of hike and you'll
stay in alpine huts or rustic mountain lodges, with no cook or
porter. A limited number of support staff may accompany you on
your expedition, but the group will be substantially smaller
than in the traditional style of hiking. Lodge-to-lodge hiking
usually costs a bit less than fully catered alternatives, but
they can be inconvenient. Many hikers would rather focus all
their energy on completing the hike, rather than worrying about
their next meal.

Hard-core adventurers also have a hiking style just for them.
Mountain climbing treks and the exploratory hiking trips, while
offered by only a few adventure travel companies, are trips on
routes not previously offered by that company. These trips
offer genuine adventure, since even the guides aren't sure what
to expect around the next bend.

Hiking, trekking or backpacking. Choose your adventure and get
ready to experience the pure beauty of nature. When your
friends ask where you've booked your next vacation, tell them
you're just going to take a hike.

About The Author: Dorothy Williams writes articles for several
web sites, such as http://nulaf.com and
http://new-recreation.com

Camping Safety Tips: Part 1 ? Food, Water, Ticks
Topic: Hiking
Camping out in the woods can be one of the most gratifying
experiences available for those who stress over the hustle and
bustle of daily life in or near a city. The dangers of
contemporary lifestyles and environments can themselves drive
people to the slow pace of the woods. Crime, careless drivers,
pollution, identify theft. Who needs it!

While seeking a safe haven from the pitfalls of "civilization",
the camper must also bear in mind that the great outdoors is
fraught with its own set of dangers. Let's consider a few and
how you can counter the risks.

In part 1 of this two-part series, we'll look at food safety,
ensuring you have clean water to drink, and avoiding ticks.

FOOD SAFETY

Bacteria can invade many types of food, especially those high
in protein and moisture, such as milk, milk products, eggs,
meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, cream pies, custards and potato
salad. After preparation, these foods must be kept either hot
(above 140 degrees Fahrenheit) or cold (below 45 degrees
Fahrenheit). Between the two temperature ranges lurks the
danger.

A camper who does not have the means of sustaining food that
can easily spoil outside of those thermometer readings should
not bring them on the trip at all. It would be much safer to
bring canned food and garden goodies.

Exposed food should be prepared prior to the trip and protected
in plastic prior to icing them since ice can trap harmful
bacteria. For example, though ice pulled from a frozen stream
in winter can help to keep food cold, it should never be
permitted to touch the food itself.

And whether eating meals from a picnic table or sitting on the
ground, always cover the eating area with something clean, like
a plastic table cloth.

Any food that you suspect may be spoiled should be disposed of
rather than eaten. The risk is just too high.

CLEAN DRINKING WATER

When you are thirsty, there is nothing like a cold, clear glass
of water to satisfy. At home, our tap water is normally
relatively safe, though many people opt to filter it through
one means or another to improve the odds of safe drinking.

Aside from water that is purified for us, however, it has been
estimated that the vast majority of surface water in the US
fails to meet government standards for intake safety.

When you are camping without your own water (or a sufficient
supply) and are not at a camp ground that has purified running
water available, you will need to take additional measures to
protect yourself from water contaminated by bacteria and
viruses.

There are fundamentally four options for accomplishing this.
The first you can do at the camp site. The other three require
preparation prior to heading out to the camp site.

* Boil the water - Heat suspect water to a boil, and let it
continue to do so for several minutes. After cooling off, it
should be consumable.

* Iodine liquid or tablets - Instructions that come with the
iodine will explain how many drops to use for a specific amount
of water, and for what time period.

* Filtering - Most microorganisms can be filtered out depending
upon the materials used in the filter and the filtering design
of the unit. When purchased, be sure the instructions clearly
state what will and will not be filtered out.

* Purification - Purifying will remove or kill all dangerous
water-born bacteria. Using this method, the water should be run
through the purifier at least a couple of times to ensure
drinking safety.

AVOIDING TICKS

Ticks look innocuous on the surface. But tiny as they are, they
still have the potency to make a person very ill with Lyme
Disease. They can dig their way into a person's skin very
easily without notice when he rests up against a tree or walks
in brush. Once on the skin, ticks will burrow their way in and
are not easily removed.

Before you head into the woods, you will need to minimize
opportunities that these blood suckers have to find their way
to your skin through an opening in your clothing. Tuck in
whatever clothing you can: shirt into pants, pant legs into
socks, shirt sleeve over top of gloves (if the weather is cool
enough for gloves).

Additionally, spray on your clothing a good insect repellent
that has a high percentage of. The repellent can be located at
any sporting goods store and most general retail outlets.

Upon return to your camp site or turning into your tent for the
night, check your body visually and with your hands looking for
any small bumps that may be indicative of a tick that has
landed on or embedded itself into your skin. Have someone else
look carefully through your hair (running their fingers through
it) and scan anywhere else that you cannot easily see, such as
your back.

If you find that a tick has dug itself into your skin,
immediately (but very carefully) remove it with tweezers. Grab
it as close to its legs as possible, making sure to extract its
entire body. If you are unable to do so, it would be better to
leave the camp site for a time to visit a doctor than to risk
infection.

In part 2 of this brief series, we will continue our
consideration of camping safety tips, focusing specifically on
camp fires, wild animals, and dangerous activities in the
woods.


About The Author: GreatWay Plus, LLC. Owner: Mike Foster. Check
us out at http://www.GreatWayPlus.com

Some hiking basics to make your hike more enjoyable
Topic: Hiking

Hiking Basics
Written by  Nancy Jackson

Gear up for an exhilarating day in the great outdoors. Whether
you're a beginner or a veteran hiker, being prepared and
following a few hiking basics can help make your adventure as
safe as it is sensational.

You don't have to be a professional hiker to fully enjoy a
hiking adventure. Hiking basics begin with a good sense of the
outdoors and a willingness to get connected with the
wilderness. The right equipment and supplies can help ensure a
successful outdoor adventure.

Hiking Boots

Can you safely say, "These boots are made for hiking"? If not,
it's time to go shopping. Hiking basics start from the ground
up, so make sure you've got a good foundation. There are all
sorts of different styles of hiking boots to choose from.
Choose your boots and wear them for a few days before your
hiking trip. If your boots are nicely broken in, blisters and
sore feet won't spoil your hike. Remember, your feet will be
your only source of transportation on the trail, so you've got
to keep them comfortable.

Clothes and Accessories

There are no fashion runways in the forest, but it's still
important to choose the right clothing and accessories. You
want to be comfortable, but you need protection. Layering your
clothes is always best. Start with a light shirt or tank, and
then wear flannel or fleece over top. If the hike heats up, you
can tie the top shirt around your waist; if the air gets chilly,
you've got an extra layer of warmth available. Zip-off and
roll-up cargo pants are also great for offering flexibility and
comfort. Remember to bring a hat and sunglasses, just in case
your hike takes you to a sunny spot.

Food and Water

It's important to keep your energy and hydration levels on
track while you're on the trail, so pack plenty of snacks and
fresh water. It's great to pack light, but more important to
have enough water and food when you get hungry or need an
energy boost. Fruit, trail mix and protein bars are all easy to
pack, and packed with energy. Just be sure to take any food
wrappings with you. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that give
you an initial boost, and then cause you to crash. Sugar
doesn't replenish energy, so leave it at home. Drink lots of
water along the trail to keep from being dehydrated,
particularly on hot summer hikes.

Survival Supplies

Don't underestimate nature, or overestimate your navigational
skills. Accidents can happen and you may become lost, so be
prepared for anything. Pack a first aid kit for unexpected cuts
and mishaps, and bring anything you might need in the event you
get stuck or lost. Chances are, you'll never need your survival
kit, but in this case, it's better to bring what you don't need,
than it is to need what you don't have.

Respect Nature

Leave nothing behind, and take only your memories. These are
important hiking basics for all adventurers. Nature is a gift
that must be respected as well as enjoyed. Take a break every
now and again to appreciate your gorgeous surroundings. Bring a
camera to capture your memories. Smell the flowers and breathe
in the fresh air. A few quiet moments can create memories that
last a lifetime.

A few hiking basics are all you need to hit the trail for a
great day outdoors. If you have kids that can safely hike the
trails, bring them along to let them experience natural wonders
they don't get to see everyday. You'll all see the world in a
whole new way.

About The Author: Nancy Jackson writes articles for several
popular web sites, including http://zigug.com and
http://yogey.com

Campground Recreational Vehicle Parks - A Great Holiday Option
Topic: Hiking

by Susan Dean

Wow, it is nearly holiday time again and the whole family is starting to get a little restless. What we need is to get away for a while and see some of our magnificent country. As we are owners of an RV we can do exactly that without it being too expensive. We as a family love to head off around the country and stay in campground recreational vehicle parks. We also like to just stop off somewhere remote and camp as well but mostly we like the atmosphere of a park.

These campground recreational vehicle parks have so much to offer. For a start you feel more secure than when camping out on your own, you have the use of their facilities, some of them are even like mini resorts. We get to meet so many different types of people which are always interesting, and the kids get to play with other children.

It is such a wonder experience to travel by road as you get to see so many things that you would not ordinarily see. Some people think that this type of holiday is not relaxing enough but I would disagree whole-heartedly. How can you not say that finding a beautiful private lagoon or a hidden valley is not relaxing? Sitting down with your family all alone seeing countryside that is basically untouched is to me very relaxing.

Ok, so you do have to drive a fair bit of the time but the scenery that you see makes up for it all and then of course you arrive at one of the many campground recreational vehicle parks and what else do you do but relax. In fact you don't have to go to lots of these parks in one vacation. Lots of people have their favorite ones and go there and spend their whole vacation in the one place just relaxing.

To travel like this does not mean that you have to own your own RV or camper like we do because you can rent one if you like. In fact it is a good idea to do just this first if you are thinking of buying one. Then you can see if you really like this type of holiday traveling around the countryside.

I know lots of people who like to travel with friends or family in a sort of convoy. This way they have company while traveling. They all end up at the same park and continue on with their vacation as a group. Of course there are others who prefer absolute privacy and stick to themselves. This is really a very personal thing. But the good news is that this type of vacation suits everyone.

It's funny how when you travel like this you become very relaxed and sometimes forget to be cautious. Just because you are on holiday does not mean that you should forget to be safety conscious. By this I mean make sure you lock your RV or camper when not in attendance. Don't leave valuables lying around, as you never know who is lurking around ready to pry on unsuspecting happy holiday goers.

Other than this, enjoy your time away camping whether alone or at one of the many campground recreational vehicle parks. I know my family and I will.

About the Author

Susan Dean is a successful webmaster and publisher of http://www.bestrvguide.info/ She provides lots of handy hints and advice on recreational vehicles at her web site.

[hiking camping]

Expedition kayaking in the western states
Topic: Hiking

Upper Cherry Creek - www.eddyflower.com   by Nick Wigston

We have been driving around California for about two weeks now, paddling some of the steepest creeks in the state. It is July, so the snowmelt is trickling away. We spend some days driving to rivers only to find no water, while others are spent exploring some of the most beautiful granite canyons on earth.

After several weeks of sleeping on the ground, and paddling class V rivers every day, our energy levels are running low. The anticipation of running the next river on our list drives us on. For Sean, Jared, and me, expedition kayaking fuels our lives. Most people live to make money, buy a nice house, a nice car, and live in the suburbs. We live to kayak.

The time has come to put the icing on the cake. We are ready to take on the ultimate High Sierra creek. Upper Cherry Creek is a three-day expedition stacked with big waterfalls and long, fast granite water slides. Upper Cherry is at a perfect water level and not more than an hour from Yosemite, our current location. We load up the car and head for Cherry Lake, the take out for the creek.

We ride in silence as we think about our upcoming adventure. The rumors and horror stories of past trips run through our minds. There have been tales of long arduous hikes and portages, and stories of paddling through huge bare, smooth granite canyons, littered with big drops. We have been told stories of the infamous Cherry Bomb Gorge, whose steep walls and technical rapids allow no escape, except by river. The stories put a feeling of fear into all of us. It makes our stomachs feel like lead weights. Overcoming that fear by conquering an adventure so long and difficult sends a warm tremendous pride through one's body. This pride drives us to attempt such journeys.

 

"I heard it's a pretty good hike to the put-in," says Jared with a sly grin.

"It can't be too bad since so many other people have done it," I say doubtfully.

"Let's get it done," exclaims Sean, "I'm not scared of a little hike."

We arrive at Cherry Lake, the take-out, midday on July 2nd. It is about 90 degrees out, perfect hiking weather. We find the trailhead and begin getting our rations together for the three-day expedition.

The crux section on Upper Cherry Creek: Cherry Bomb gorge, with 40-foot Cherry Bomb Falls at the top.

After a half hour of sweating in the California sun, we see a truck pull up. A couple of bearded, sun-baked paddlers look out the window at us. Surprisingly enough, Jared knows the driver.

"Are you guys going to run this?" he asks his friend.

"We just took out," Says the driver. "Can't you tell? You guys are in for the adventure of a lifetime. I hope you all have yak-packs because that hike will kick your ass if you don't."

"How far is it?" I ask.

"Twelve miles over that mountain," He replies. A look of distress crosses all of our faces. "Make sure you start early in the morning because it will take all day. Don't hike alone cause you'll get lost. When you get to a fork in the trail near a big granite hill, head to the right. Once you're on the river, you'll run into a series of fast technical slides with big hydraulic holes. The river mellows out until you reach the first gorge. There's some good shit in there. When you reach a tree across the river, you are approaching Cherry Bomb Gorge. Get out on river left and scout the whole gorge. There is an amazing campsite at the base of the gorge. That is all I can tell you now."

After hearing details of the hike and the two days of extreme kayaking, we decided to get a good night sleep and begin our trek in the morning. We spend the rest of the day hanging out by the lake rigging our not so state of the art kayak carrying systems. I strap my snowboarding backpack to my boat and put it on my back so it sits sideways. The weight of the boat along with three days of gear is going to be painful. I walk around a bit to test out my new rig. I have to be careful not to hit any trees with the ends of my boat, which protrude three and a half feet to either side of me. I wonder if I will be too wide for the trail.

A few hours later, an injured character walks up from around the lake. It's Forrest Noble with his arm in a sling and a huge grin on his face. "Hey guys," Says Forrest.

"What happened to you?" asks Jared.

"I ran the last thirty footer and dislocated my shoulder," says Forrest still with a big grin.

As we chat, Gary, Ethan, Gordon, and the rest of our crew from Colorado paddle up to the boat ramp. We hang out with them for a few hours listening to stories from their trip. We heard everything from how horrible the hike was to how sick the creek was to how beautiful the canyon and all of the gorges were. They told stories of carnage and near drownings, foot and shoulder injuries, and how much fun it really was. All these stories put fear into our hearts, but made us even more eager to start our own expedition.

As the sun slowly rises the next morning, we all know that it is time to start our journey. We pack our things and drive to the trailhead only to see our friends from Oregon, Eric, Ben, Brett and the Knight others. Everyone packs their gear in relative silence, anticipating the strenuous hike that lies ahead.

Day One: The 12-mile hike to the put in, through Styx Pass

I knew I had to get started with the hike or I would lag behind. I pick up my seventy-pound boat, which is precariously strapped to my backpack, and take the first of many steps on the way to the put-in. After a couple of miles I am still at the middle of the group. My shoulders are already in pain and I am starting to wonder if this was such a good idea. I see a nice tree to stand my boat against and take a rest with Devon and Ryan Knight. It seems like a good time to munch on the power bars I have in my snack bag. We sit, and eat, and we start to realize how long this hike is really going to be.

"Nick, where's your paddle?" asks Ryan.

"It's right the......where is it?" I reply. "I must have left it at the last rest stop." I immediately sprint back about a mile to where I last remembered having my paddle. I come around a corner and see it sitting there. I am now officially at the back of the line. I make it back to my boat and continue hiking. I am now alone and will be for the remainder of the hike.

The trail leads me up and over Styx Pass, and offers some of the most spectacular views in California. I look out from the top of the pass and see miles of naked granite domes speckled with trees. I can see Cherry Creek from here. It is far away. I can see a gorge containing several waterfalls. Though small they look, I know how big they will be when we are in there. I think I am about half way now, and my legs, back, neck, arms, stomach, and everything else attached to my body are all getting very fatigued. The end of my boat has been hitting me in the ankles for about four hours now, and I am starting to get very aggravated. "Why are you doing this to me?" I ask my boat. Gus answers by banging my heel once again. "That's it, one more time and I am going to throw you into the canyon." He hits my ankle once again. I don't come through with my threat. I just keep trucking, up, trying desperately to reach the top.

I finally reach the top of the peak only to see the top of the next peak. A feeling of defeat starts to creep up inside me. "Damnit Wigston, why are you doing this to yourself?" I ask myself.

"It's going to be worth it. Just keep going," my conscience answers.

"This is the stupidest thing I have ever done," I say out loud. "There is no way any river could be worth this torture."

"Just keep going we are almost there."

"I sure hope so, because I am out of water, and Sean has the Iodine." At this point I had already filled my water bottle with water from a little stream I had found. I figured if I got Giardia, it wouldn't kick in for another two weeks. By then I would be home and it wouldn't matter, because I could just go to the doctor and get some drugs.

Just then I stumble on a sign that says "Cherry Spring". I look around and see a stream of muddy water. I follow the stream to its source and find a pipe sticking out of the ground with crystal clear water flowing abundantly from its mouth. Suddenly a feeling of hope comes over me. I am back in the game. I drink as much of the ice-cold spring water as I can, and get back on my feet and go.

After another mile or two, the trail finally begins its descent to the creek. A couple of hours later at the brink of nightfall, I come around a corner and I see the campfire in the distance. I scramble down the hill and paddle across the creek to meet my buddies. "We didn't know if you were going to make it," says Sean. "I bet Trey a six-pack."

"That I wouldn't make it?" I reply.

"You need to jump in the water. You are the dirtiest kid I've ever seen," Sean says.

After a much needed bath I join my friends at the campsite. "How long have you guys been here?" I ask.

"About four hours" says Eric. "Where are the rest of the guys?"

"Who?"

"The Knights and Brett aren't here yet. Are they behind you?" asks Eric.

"They were ahead of me a long time ago," I say. "They must have taken a wrong turn."

"I think they're lost, man," says Trey.

"They probably made it to the river further downstream. We will catch up to them in the morning," I say.

"Nick, do you have a lighter?" says Ben with a joint in his hand.

"You bet your ass I do," thrilled to finally be able to relax.

"Good, cause we've been waiting for four hours for that lighter, I mean you, to get here."

Day Two: First Gorge to the campsite below Cherry Bomb Gorge.

As the sun comes up in the morning, everyone awakes to the bluest sky possible. I slowly lift my sore body off the ground, eat some oatmeal, and begin to get my gear together for the first day of paddling. As we begin downstream, we are immediately greeted by a steep section of fast granite water-slides with big holes. Eric signals to us from shore and we negotiate our way down the drops without scouting.

FOR THE COMPLETE ARTICLE GO TO WWW.EDDYFLOWER.COM

About the Author

Professional Kayaker

[hiking packbacking][kayaking]

hiking etiquette
Topic: Hiking

Go Hiking!
Author: James Munroe

Hiking is an outdoor sport that requires no equipment. It's one
of the least expensive sports you can engage in. It's basically
walking, conducted in a natural setting. Some hiking is
goal-oriented, with a specific distance or destination in mind,
while other hikes take the form of rambling, with no particular
goal other than exercise and enjoyment.

Hiking can be a social experience. You can join hiking groups
and clubs to meet people with similar interests. Many singles
organizations, in fact, run hikes as a form of low-stress
get-together. Other people consider hiking to be a peaceful and
solitary activity. Keep in mind these different approaches to
hiking when you are on the trail.

Observe hiking etiquette whenever you are on a hike. Many
hikers prefer peace and quiet, so if you are in a group, avoid
shouting your conversations. Many hikers also enjoy seeing wild
animals, and loud conversation and loud music are sure ways to
scare animals away. Remember that you are in a natural setting
and behave accordingly.

Hiking etiquette requires that a group stick to the pace of the
slowest hiker so that no one is left behind. The easiest way to
do this is to put slow hikers up front. If you find the pace of
your group too slow, just choose a different group to hike with
the next time.

If you cause a low-hanging branch to brush back, it is proper
hiking etiquette to hold the branch for the next person so that
it will not snap into their faces. However, it is also proper
etiquette to maintain enough distance between yourself and the
person in front of you so that they will not have to worry
about hurting you with branches.

Right-of-way on hikes is different than the rules of the road
for walking and driving. People heading uphill have the right
of way on a narrow trail over people going downhill. Smaller
groups of hikers have the right of way over larger groups.


About The Author: http://www.hikingwalkingtrekking.com/

[hiking trails] [nature] [wildlife]

Camping Tips for the Noncampers
Topic: Hiking

Camping – Do You Love It Or Hate It?
Author: D Ruplinger

In my family, we have camping lovers and camping haters. My
husband, kids, and I love to go camping. My mother just stares
at me every time I talk about an upcoming camping trip and asks
why I want to leave my brand new home that has a brand new bed
with a brand new mattress so that I can go sleep in the woods
on a mattress I fill with air. Being the articulate person I am
I say, “Because it’s fun.”

It’s hard to explain to a non camper how relaxing it is to be
out in the open air all day at a campground with miles of
trails to hike and bike; or by a lake to go swimming, boating,
or fishing in.

I tell my Mom how it’s fun to explore the area trails; looking
at the views, the vegetation, and the wildlife. For example,
during a recent camping trip an evening bike ride brought me
within 10 feet of a baby deer out with its mother. It’s hard to
explain how fun it is to be able to see something like that.
But instead my Mom asked me how bad the bugs bit and if I got
sunburned during that day’s hike.

Then I try to explain to her about how much fun it is to sit
around the campfire at night. It’s a great time for casual
conversation and to have a beverage and maybe a few toasted
marshmallows or S’mores. I love watching the flames and
listening to the wood crackle and pop. My mom asks how we keep
the mosquitoes away (lots of tiki torches and mosquito
repellant) and says, “Doesn’t it get boring after a half hour?”
Again, being the articulate person I am my answer is, “Ummmm,
no.”

I try to explain the food cooked outdoors just tastes better.
Campfire coffee along with bacon and eggs is hard to beat. And
those little S’more makers you can buy in the store are nothing
like the delicious S’mores you make over a real campfire. And if
you’ve never had a pudgie pie made over a campfire, you’re
missing out on one of the best camping foods there is! But when
I explain to my Mom how good camping food is, she wonders if the
bugs buzz around the food we’re trying to eat and asks if I miss
my dishwasher. Thanks Mom! My pop-up camper doesn’t have hot
water so I have to do things the old fashioned way and heat the
water I need to wash dishes.

When it comes to camping though, most non campers could deal
with sleeping in a tent or a pop-up camper and wouldn’t mind
cooking their food outside. But the one sticking point for many
non-campers is the bathroom and shower facilities at campgrounds
(unless you’re lucky enough to have a camper with its own
bathroom and shower facilities). Camping is not like staying at
a 5 star hotel. The bathroom and shower amenities take a little
getting used to. Some people will wait as long as possible to
go to the bathroom because they want to avoid using the pit
toilets at the campground any more than necessary. My
sister-in-law doesn’t mind the pit toilets as much as she minds
the spiders that are usually in them.

Camping is what you make of it. Nobody says you have to like
it. My Mom doesn’t but I sure do. It’s a way to get away from
the daily stresses of your normal life, kick back, relax, and
enjoy yourself for a few days. You’ll have responsibilities no
more taxing than deciding what clothes to wear that day, what
to eat, and whether you want to go for a walk or a bike ride or
just sit in a chair and relax by the campfire.


About The Author: D Ruplinger shares her camping experiences
and advice at http://www.campingearth.com/.  Make sure you get
her outstanding camping newsletter for great camping tips and
campfire recipes - http://www.campingearth.com/newsletter/.

[hiking] [camping]

Camping Tips
Topic: Hiking

Camping Equipment
Author: John Morris

One of the best trips you can go on is within your own country
- camping. It does not matter if you have done it a million
times before or if this is your first time. Having the right
camping equipment is crucial to having a great trip in the
wilderness. When you are preparing to go camping, it would be a
smart idea to make a checklist of the necessary items you will
need for your camp out. Being prepared is an important aspect
of being far away from a major town or city.

1. Plan your packing

Packing is the first step to a great camping trip (well,
besides planning). Once you are ready to start packing for your
camping trip, make a list of the items that you want and need to
bring with you. As you pack them, check them off to ensure that
you are not forgetting anything. This is the best system for
remembering everything before you leave your home.

2. Shelter and bedding

Shelter for camping and the bedding you will need for sleeping
is very important to any camper. Make sure that you pack all
your blankets and tents if you are planning an overnight trip.
It is best to have some sort of shelter for sleeping to protect
you from not only the weather, buy to also make you feel more
secure. You need the blankets to keep you cozy and warm at
night.

3. Personal effects

Make sure that you pack all of your personal hygiene items for
you trip. Chances are you will not need makeup or hairspray.
You will however need toilet paper, soap, shampoo, a hair brush
and toothbrush. Bring along a few washcloths and towels to
freshen up in the mornings.

4. Clothing

Make sure that you pack enough clothes for your camping trip.
You will not be able to wash clothes so pack at least one
outfit for everyday. You will need pants, warm shirts, warm
socks, and underwear. Have some rain gear on hand too in case
Mother Nature throws a shower or two at you.

5. Cooking gear for camping

You will need to be able to eat while you are in the woods.
Make sure that you have your grill packed as well as a few
other things. Bring along your cooking utensils, cutting board,
paper plates, cups, silverware, aluminum foil, dish soap and
wash clothes and towels. These are some of the important items
that you will need in the woods. Do not forget the garbage bags
to put your trash in while camping.

6. Survival Gear

Of the most important things to remember, be sure to bring
along your cellular phone if you have one. This can save your
life in the case of an emergency. Always remember to bring
along a first aid kit, sharp outdoor knife, sunscreen and
insect repellent. These are things that you use on a day-to-day
basis and you will defiantly need in the woods. With the right
gear, it is quite possible for you to survive for weeks or more
without any supplies.


About The Author: For more great camping related articles and
resources check out http://mountaineeringhq.info/

[outdoors]

[camping]

Hiking for the Heart
Topic: Hiking
by Taylor Eisenman

Hiking for the Heart Pack the Walking Boots on Your Next Family Vacation By: Taylor Eisenman

I always seem to lose my breath hiking. It could be high altitude, or maybe the vigorous walking. Probably it's both. But, I like to think it's the scenery that takes my breath away more than either of those things. Growing up, my family would go to Winter Park, Colorado, nearly every summer. We would hike in and around Rocky Mountain National Park, experiencing the thrill of reaching stunning elevations with amazing vistas, and everywhere you looked, 360 degrees, there would be mountains. We would hike in fields of wildflowers, searching for Indian Paintbrush and Elephant Head. My sister and I would rock hop in ice-cold mountain streams trying to see how far we could get. In the mornings, my parents made sandwiches to take along, so we could stop to have lunch next to an alpine lake or waterfall.

We could have traveled to other places. My family loves the beach, too. But, something brought us back to Colorado year after year to hike old favorites and find new trails to accomplish together. I'm sure we argued about stuff -- what family vacation is complete without some fighting -- but I don't remember any of that. All I remember is being immersed in a beauty that I can't describe, and experiencing all of it -- good, bad, and otherwise -- with my family.

"Walking or hiking together is the perfect chance to talk to each other and interact with the environment -- whether it be your neighborhood, a park, or on a trail," says Wendy Bumgardner, a certified marathon coach and eight-year board member of the American Volkssport Association, the largest walking club in the U.S. Hiking is one of America's fastest growing recreational activities. According to a study done in 2002 by the Outdoor Industry Association, nearly one-third of all Americans went hiking, and the USDA Forest Service is predicting a steep increase in backpacking and hiking, especially in the Southern and Pacific Coast where they are forecasting an 80 percent increase over the next 50 years. If hiking becomes as popular as predicted, it could be mean great things for the health of Americans, as well as the state of our natural areas.

Hiking for Awareness A resounding theory exists among most nature lovers, including myself, that when people experience the wonders of Mother Nature firsthand they will be more likely to want to preserve and protect it -- making it available for future generations, like their grandchildren, to enjoy. "I think we will lose our natural parks and trails if families don't unplug and get out and enjoy them," Bumgardner says. "Unless children experience nature on their own two feet, they won't value it, and when they are adults, they will be less likely to protect it."

Now, I know what some of you are thinking: How am I going to take my little one hiking when we can barely make it through a trip to the grocery store? Hiking with children is not as hard as it may appear. Whether you're hiking in a park close to home or along the ridge of an 11,000-foot peak, you and your family can be free of worries if you are prepared and have planned ahead.

Anticipate, Arrange, and Advise Anticipate. The hike you choose should not be a mystery to you or your children when you arrive at the trailhead. Researching everything from the expected weather conditions and insects in the area, to knowing the elevation gain, mileage, and difficulty of a hike are all going to play important roles on whether your hike is fun and safe. If the weather forecast says sunny and 75 degrees, that's doesn't mean you shouldn't expect rain and 50 degrees. In the mountains especially, weather can change in an instant, and if you're not prepared, you'll be in for one cold and miserable hike with kids who have every right to complain. In Colorado, we hiked in layers with raingear. It seemed that almost every afternoon around one o'clock it would rain for about an hour and then go straight back to being sunny again. And then there were those days when we looked out from the top of a peak as dark clouds and a blanket of rain came toward us in the distance. You just never know what the day will bring, so you have to be ready for anything.

Arrange. What are you going to bring? Food and water are the two most important items you can have along. Remember a hike that was suppose to take two hours could take four or more, and having enough food and water along can be the difference between happy, healthy hikers and dehydrated, overheated hikers prone to fatigue and crankiness. Besides snacks and drinks, Bumgardner suggests being sure to bring along a small first aid kit with bandages, insect repellent, bee sting treatment, and sunscreen.

Finding the perfect location for a hike, whether it's your family's first hike or just one of many you've accomplished, is pertinent to having a good experience. For a family on their first hike, Bumgardner recommends "a mostly-level trail that goes through woods or along a stream," and, in case you are worried about keeping the little ones entertained, she says to look for a hike with informational signs about the plants and animals of the area. Breaking up the hike by stopping to read the signs and looking for various plants and animals are great ways to keep everyone happy and learning at the same time. The American Hiking Society advocates the use of games, like I Spy, to play on the trail. My personal favorites in Colorado were the 20 questions game and the alphabet game... "I am going to a party and I am bringing a, for apples," and so on until you get to z, for my pet zebra.

Advise. So now you know where you're going, what you're bringing, and how to keep the kids entertained. But, what about keeping them safe? "Parents need to teach their children basic trail courtesy," Bumgardner says. She recommends talking to them about no running, staying on the trail, and not taking shortcuts off the trail. No rock or pinecone throwing or disturbing their surrounding environment. "Teach them to leave only footprints and take only memories," she says.

Involving your children in planning the hike will help them feel like a part of the process, and teach them about where they are and what dangers are possible. Hopefully this will influence them to make good choices, such as listening to directions. Letting them carry items like trail maps and snacks in their own mini backpacks is a great way to show them how important they are to the hike, making it even more necessary for them to be on their best behavior.

One way to help you keep track of your little ones is by dressing them in brightly colored clothing so that they are extremely visible. On one Colorado trip, my family and I hiked a trail where a mountain lion had just killed a child a few weeks previously. The child had run ahead of the family and crouched down in the grass off the trail to surprise them as they came around the corner. The mountain lion thought the child was prey and attacked. That tragedy could have been easily prevented had the parents made sure everyone stayed together and stuck to the trail.

Benefits of the Heart A good walk not only does wonders for your emotional heart (strengthening your family's bond), but it also bolsters your heart's physical health.

Only 15 percent of the U.S. adult population practices sufficient moderate physical activity, reports The National Center for Health Statistics. And while the fact that more than 60 percent of adults in the U.S. are overweight or obese is alarming enough, child obesity is on the rise affecting more than 13 percent, starting as young as two years old. Bumgardner sees walking/hiking as a way to combat this epidemic. "With both childhood and adult obesity skyrocketing, every family needs to find an activity they enjoy that can set a healthy pattern for lifelong fitness," she says. "Even slow walking is excellent exercise, especially compared to other common forms of entertainment such as video games or watching movies."

A study conducted by the National Park Service found that people who exercised compared to people that lived a sedentary lifestyle had 14 percent fewer healthcare claims, 30 percent fewer days in the hospital, and 41 percent fewer claims greater than $5,000. "Walking 30 to 60 minutes a day significantly reduces risks of Type II diabetes, heart disease, stoke, and cancer," Bumgardner says.

Not only does hiking increase emotional ties, help prevent disease, and promote physical fitness, but it also puts you in a better mood. Nutricise.com finds that mood elevation is one of the most noticeable benefits of walking. The releasing of endorphins that occurs when walking helps to boost your self esteem and lift your spirits -- who wouldn't want that for themselves and their children?

Taking your family on a hiking vacation could be one of the best decisions you ever make. It will benefit the health of your family physically as well as emotionally. And, it will help your children understand the importance of nature, so that as adults they will make conscious decisions to support and save our earth. They'll remember how wonderful it was hiking with mom and dad, and they will want that for their children. I'll never forget Colorado, and I want to give my children the chance to hike to the top of a peak, seeing nothing but mountains and sky.

About the Author

As a child growing up in the exciting suburbs of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I was fortunate that my family liked to travel. Every year we made plans to go someplace new, but wherever we ended up, nature was almost always some part of the journey. From the hiking in the Canadian Rockies to snorkeling in the azure waters of Cancun, Mexico, my family and I have an affinity for the beauty and adventure of nature-based vacations. One vacation we took over [hiking]  [backpacking]

Hiking in the Flambeau River State Forest .
Topic: Hiking

I went hiking in the Flambeau River State Forest in northern Wisconsin this past weekend. The trailhead is located on highway W, which is 22 miles west of Phillips Wisconsin. It was a beautiful fall day with sunshine and colorful leaves. I took along my 800mm lens hoping to see a bald eagle on the Flambeau River but no luck. I did get some pictures of Ruffed Grouse.

The trail is known as the Flambeau Hills. You can backpack in and camp along the trail. There are no camping fees. But you do need to pick up a permit at the ranger station on highway W. It is a great daytrip hiking experience. Wildlife expected to see would be White tail deer, Red Fox, Ruffed Grouse, and other northern Wisconsin wildlife.

The trail is very easy walking and wide to accommodate cross-country skiing during the winter. This trail would be excellent for mountain bikes. There are maps at the trailhead to help you stay on track.

 

 

[hiking] [photography]