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Outdoor

Learn and experience everything outdoors. Camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing and mountain climbing are just a handful of activities you can enjoy in almost any climate or environment. Explore your environment. Learn how to read maps, bring along the right gear and pack for the perfect trip.

    Outdoor Editor's Picks

    • How to Choose Hiking Gear

      says: Before planning your next outdoor hike, be sure to choose the right gear first. This is important because the gear will help assist you with managing your trip and making movement safer.

    • How to Prevent Common Hiking Injuries

      says: Hiking injuries are a common occurence on the trails. If you are a backcountry hiker especially, you should know the safety basics of hiking and how to prevent injury. Staying safe will assure a safe return.

    • How to Pick Hiking Poles

      says: Hiking poles are an essential tool for the avid hiker. Hiking poles provide support and stability when and where you need it. Knowing what to look for in a good hiking pole will assure that you have the right kind of assistance when out on the trail.

    • How to Practice Hiking Etiquette

      says: Hiking etiquette means more than just being friendly and helping out your fellow trekker. It means being mindful to the environment around you. This article explains how to take care of the trails and the area around you during a hike.

    • How to Reduce Our Carbon Footprint

      says: It is important to learn how to reduce our carbon footprint wherever we go in the environment. Not only should we reduce, reuse and recycle when possible, saving on energy is also important.

    Outdoor Quick Guides

    • Rock Climbing

      Hanging from your finger tips off of a cliff...

      says... Being outdoors means engaging in activities that bring us close to nature. Rock climbing is one such sport. From the spirited beginner to the advanced climber, this article covers what you need for a successful climb and how to stay safe.

    • Backpacking

      Hitting the open trail can instill as sense of...

      says... Backpacking is something very near and dear to most outdoor enthusiasts--especially hikers. Making sure that safety is kept in mind is of the utmost importance. This article teaches you how to recognize types of backpacks, the best backpack for your outdoor adventure and the basics of backpacking gear.

    • Camping Kids Activities

      This campground setting is serene, but that...

      says... This is a great compilation of kids activities and camping resources. Keeping kids busy during a camping excursion is important for both the kids and the adults. This quick guide has everything you need to enjoy the outdoors with your little one.

    • Grand Canyon 101

      The Grand Canyon, one of the most...

      says... The Grand Canyon hosts a large scale area of outdoor activities for every age. This quick guide covers what you to know about all things "Grand Canyon" If you are planning a vacation there, this guide will serve as a valuable resource for your visit.

    Outdoor Articles

    • About Backcountry Hiking

      Hiking is a sport enjoyed by many outdoor enthusiasts. Avid hikers are always on the lookout for rough and rigorous terrain to explore. Hiking the... more »

      says... Hiking the backcountry is more than just an activity for many outdoor enthusiasts, it's an addiction. This article covers what backcountry hiking is and how hikers may prepare for their trip.

    • Basics of Hiking

      Explore the world around you at 2 miles an hour. Hiking refreshes your senses, exercises your mind and body and is something the whole family can... more »

      says... Before venturing out on your next hiking trip, knowing the basics will assure that the trip is safe and stress free. This article covers many aspects of hiking and how to discover local parks as well as large state park hiking trails.

    • How to Take Pets Hiking

      Although this article is titled "pets", we will assume for convenience sake your pet is a dog. Taking a pet cat, bird, monkey, etc. on a hike is... more »

      says... Many outdoor enthusiasts enjoy bringing along their four legged friends for companionship and exercise. This article covers all of the basics that pet owners must know before bringing along their dog on their next hiking trip.

    • How to Selecting Hiking Boots

      Hiking is a fun way to burn calories and experience the great outdoors. While it can be tempting to pick a direction and start walking, doing so... more »

      says... Hiking offers a great way to get exercise and explore paths that can not be reached by SUV or other off-road vehicles. One of the most important fundamentals of hiking includes wearing the right clothing and boots. Choosing the right hiking boots will prevent discomfort and injury during and after the trip.

    • How to Cook When Hiking

      Nothing beats a hot meal after a long day of hiking so if you're tired of carrying the same predictable no-cook foods, such as crackers, chocolate... more »

      says... Cooking is an important skill to know when venturing into the outdoors. Not only is it enjoyable, it can also save your life. Knowing how to prepare a fire or heat source can be essential in outdoor hiking survival.

    Additional Web Resources
    • Trails

      Trails.com is the premiere online source for everything outdoors! Trails contains an extensive libary of outdoor resources including articles, maps and trail information.

    • Rockclimbing.com

      Rockclimbing.com is a wonderful resource that provides information for both the avid rockclimber and the advanced climber.

    • American Hiking Society

      Hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and remain physically active. Americanhiking.org explores different trails and gives you the resources in how to prepare for the next big hike.

    • Camping.com

      Camping can be explored in many different ways. This site covers tent camping, RV camping and remote backcountry camping. From supplies to resources this site is wonderful stomping ground.

    • Fishing.net

      For the avid angler, fishing.net covers all the questions that may come up concerning the sport of fishing. This site is a great resource for the championship anglers and begining fisherman.

    Topic Manager

    Julie is an environmental activist and has a passion for the...more

    Julie is an environmental activist and has a passion for the outdoors. She has plenty to share with her experience with the backcountry. She has hiked, biked and kayaked throughout many lakes and rivers in Michigan, Canada, Ohio and South Carolina. She has traveled extensively throughout the United States and remote areas of Canada. She calls Michigan her home where she spends her spare time camping, fishing, sightseeing and exploring backcountry, public and state land areas. | hide

    's Latest Updates

    • Solar Cooking on 11/20/2009

      Even though the air is turning very chilly, it doesn’t mean the sun still isn’t... more

      Even though the air is turning very chilly, it doesn’t mean the sun still isn’t hot and powerful. When backcountry camping, travelers know keeping weight minimal is a priority. The CookSack solar powered oven is a great way to free up space and enjoy a lightweight cooking source that is easy to use. Using only the energy from the sun to heat water and food, the CookSack is an affordable asset to any traveling experience. Using a parabolic mirror and a conductive thermal pot, this oven uses sunlight to generate heat. Because it uses no batteries or flames, it can also be stored as part of a disaster survival kit. The CookSack is getting ready to launch its product line to the public in the near future.

      hide
    • Cool Season Kayaking on 11/20/2009

      For many who hesitate to go out into the baking sun to enjoy a kayak excursion—late fall... more

      For many who hesitate to go out into the baking sun to enjoy a kayak excursion—late fall may be the perfect time to get out and enjoy the water. Bug free and often times sunburn free, the cool crisp air can be refreshing and offer a new kayaking experience. Just be sure to be equipped with a few clothing essentials such as a wetsuit that’s itleast 3mm thick or a drysuit, waterproof spray pants, a paddling jacket to serve as a windbreaker and possible some waterproof gloves. If kayaking near the ocean or a large body of water, weather can be unpredictable. Its best to dress in layers, yet keep the essentials to a bare minimum for a lightweight trip.

      hide
    • Eco-Friendly Food Storage Ideas on 11/20/2009

      For the avid camper, making sure to have proper storage is essential—especially when it... more

      For the avid camper, making sure to have proper storage is essential—especially when it comes to food storage. Choosing recyclable materials allows you to feel better about the environment while knowing your food inside is safe. The Preserve line of food storage products is a safe and affordable option for the camper who wants to protect and preserve their food in the outdoors. Unlike traditional plastic storage containers, Preserve containers are made from 100% recycled plastic. They have lids that keep food fresh and the bugs out. They are stackable and come in both round and square designs. They are lightweight and perfect for taking on hikes and long camping trips.

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    See All 's Updates »

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