Be bold, start cold. That was hammered into my mind my first time snowshoeing. You’re going to be moving so much that quickly, you’ll be warm enough to not need a billion thermal layers. However, if snow is falling or calf-deep, it’s still nice to have waterproof pants. But how do you strike a balance […]
Guided Snowshoe Expeditions at Snoqualmie Pass
Having mountain passes around us means in Seattle it’s easy to play in the snow when wanted. But if you’re a beginner or novice, there’s a lot of equipment involved you might not want to initially purchase. Enter the Forest Service’s Winter Snowshoe program!
Snow Pack: Gregory Maya 32
For winter hiking, you need to bring more layers (and more food!) compared to a summer hike. I’m an over-preparer and in addition to an extra jacket, I like to have an extra hat, gloves, and socks as well. There’s no way my 18L hydration daypack would hold all of that–it’s recommended to have a […]
Franklin Falls
I got a taste of snow hiking last winter and loved it. Snow hiking is like snowshoeing, only the trail is so packed down or light with snow that you can get away without snowshoes and use gear like microspikes for traction. Armed with a new pair of microspikes from Mama Boots, I set out […]
Onions (and Hikers) Have Layers
Year-round, it’s important to have layers in the Pacific Northwest for any outdoor activity, but none moreso than hiking. Weather can change drastically from morning to high noon to night, and being prepared for the elements is vital. But when do you need a midweight layer or a thermal layer? What is long underwear? And […]
Worth the Weight: My Backpacking Luxuries
For your first time backpacking, bringing ‘just the essentials’ can feel like a ton (especially if you’re not using the most-lightweight stuff money can buy), and every single ounce counts. So why would I advocate bringing luxury items? Because you’ve earned it! Backpacking, especially for milestones like the first time, should be celebrated–and here’s how […]
First Time Backpacking Tips
Before my first time backpacking this September, I had many questions, most of them regarding the idea of carrying everything I needed and how much it would hurt. Luckily the boyfriendo was not a novice, but for those of you who are, here’s my tips.
Steering Wheels & Spare Tires: What You Really Should Have On the Trail
A quick dive into any hiking post on facebook or advice given will likely mention “The Ten Essentials.” These are ten items any hiker should have when doing any hike, no matter ease or distance. But do I really need to bring an emergency shelter with me for a three mile hike?!
A Tale of Two Winthrops, Part Two
After enjoying a beautiful sunny hike and exploring town day one in Winthrop, we planned for a longer hike (Pipestone Canyon) for day two. However, we awoke to the sound of driving rain on a metal roof and suddenly nine miles didn’t seem like a whole lot of fun.
When in Winthrop…Drink Local!
After hiking Patterson Mountain in unexpectedly warm weather, the boyfriendo and I were super ready for a beer and food. Winthrop might be a small town, but it’s big on great food and drinks!