Getting good sleep in the backcountry can be challenging, and a lousy night of rest does not make hiking enjoyable the next day. Here are a few tips to help you get better zzz’s. Find a Comfortable Camp Site. Take your time scouting a flat, rock-free spot and clear away any sticks and pine cones before pitching your tent. If you are sensitive to light, try to avoid areas with a direct view of the night sky. The light from a gibbous or full moon can be bright enough to keep you awake. Open areas can be windy. Pitching your tent […]
Backpacking Tips
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Backpacking involves a long and steady aerobic workout with fitness benefits that rival other more intense, higher impact activities. Although backpacking is a non-competitive recreational activity with a low chance of burn-out, the constant climbing and descending can lead to cramping and injury. Besides the overuse of the muscles, leg cramping is exacerbated by inadequate eccentric contraction strength, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance from sweating, and insufficient carbohydrate intake. Common Causes of Leg Cramps When Hiking When you are backpacking, the muscles in your leg contract while in motion and stretch out when motion is completed, or another muscle moves it in […]
If you hike with your dog in the U.S., you know how frustrating it can be to find a dog-friendly destination. Many of the national parks do not allow dogs on trails and state parks vary by state. Some U.S. states allow dogs on state managed lands while others, such as California, mostly prohibit dogs. This is why we’ve put together these useful resources to help you find tail friendly hiking and travel spots. What should I bring for my dog on the trail? Collar & Leash (with ID tag and license) Towel to keep in the car to wipe […]
Remember this helpful tip if you are ever lost during the dark when the moon is visible in the sky: mentally draw a line that connects the endpoints of the crescent moon and then extend this line to the horizon. This point where it touches the horizon indicates South.
Peak performance on the trail requires food that nourishes and strengthens you. Some tips on how to find it.