Relief from Poisonous Plants while on the Trail

April 30

Did you just touch poison ivy, oak or sumac? How can you avoid a rash after touching them? What can you do to alleviate the itching if you develop a…

Don’t touch these poisonous plants!

April 30

The plant world is coming back to life as the temperature is starting to warm. Did you just touch poison ivy, oak or sumac? Know how to identify these common…

Doing dishes in the backwoods

February 25

The doing dishes task is one of dread for many backpackers because cleaning often involves finding and collecting more water. And after cleaning, you have to walk a few more…

Foods You Need to Eat when it is Cold Outside

January 17

Winter backpacking can require an additional 500 – 1,000 calories per day, an average of 4,500 calories per day for men and 3,500 for women. Start planning the right foods…

Tips for Staying Warm and Comfortable Backpacking In the Cold

December 21

Cold weather means everything takes longer. Anticipate and plan for the extra time needed. Be realistic when it comes to hiking mileage. Stop to rest when hiking. Excessive sweating and…

Interesting Facts about Turkeys

November 27

Despite many Americans viewing the turkey as a Thanksgiving centerpiece food, the Turkey should earn more respect than this. In the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday, we'd like to share…

Backpacking with Peanut Butter

October 3

Peanut butter is a convenient and high-calorie snack for backpackers to take on the trail. It is loaded in healthy fat and offers a decent amount of protein. But not…

Why You Should Pack Dark Chocolate on the Trail

August 31

What chocolate best stands up for backpacking? Not all chocolate is created equal. There is the junk food variety of chocolates and the pure, minimal ingredient chocolate sources. There is…

Replenishing Electrolytes

July 1

It is summer here in the South and that means high humidity with daily temperatures in the 90s. Engaging in almost any outdoor activity will surely bring plenty of sweat. Sweating…

Looking Skyward: Forecasting Weather using Nature

June 2

When the temperatures become hot, water vapor condenses from nearby water sources and around mountain tops, forming dark clouds. These clouds have the potential to culminate in intense electrical storms.…