The wild edible berries covered here are found in the Midwest of the US, since that’s where I live. There are so many others, too, but this will get you going on some great snacking options when hiking and camping. Edible wild berries are wonderful to add to cereal, yogurt, pancakes and desserts. If you … Keep reading…
Some of my very favorite wildflowers are the tiny-but-tough alpine flowers that only the privileged few who hike up into the high altitudes get to see. They always makes me feel grateful for such an opportunity! There are others, though, that are just as beautiful and easier to access. I especially tend to notice the … Keep reading…
LL Bean’s Vista Trekking Shorts are my all-time favorite shorts for outdoor activity, bar none. Here’s why: Why These Shorts are So Great I have three pairs of these shorts now in three different colors. I can’t recommend them highly enough. They’re… SO COMFORTABLE—The nylon material has a bit of spandex in them that make … Keep reading…
Wildflowers are one of the wonders of our natural world. They grow, literally, everywhere (except maybe Antarctica) in mind-blowing variety. One of my favorite things about being outdoors during the spring and summer in our climate is the beautiful blooms along trails, in the woods, near the water and at the campgrounds. Seeing these beauties … Keep reading…
It’s always fun to hear about what others like to cook when they camp. Here are a few camping recipes sent in by readers… Stovetop Egg Bake This hearty breakfast or brunch dish was sent in by Krista Erickson of Duluth, Minnesota. You can use as many or few fresh veggies and toppings as you … Keep reading…
Some of North America’s most magnificent mountain ranges and national parks are prime grizzly bear habitat. That doesn’t mean be scared away. But learn to be bear aware and practice common-sense bear safety guidelines. A great source of bear safety info is our National Park Service. It’s in their best interest for park visitors and … Keep reading…
It’s sure handy having family in Colorado! On a recent trip out there from Minnesota, my brother suggested the hike to Royal Arch in the world-famous Flatirons of Boulder, CO. What a fantastic trail! I’d heard about the Flatirons, but saw them for the first time on this latest trip. They’re huge, slanted slabs of … Keep reading…
The Grand Tetons are some of the most picturesque mountains in the world, and there are loads of gorgeous hiking trails in the National Park. The trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake is one of the most accessible…but you don’t have to sacrifice stunning views just because it’s easy to get to! Why String … Keep reading…
Whether it’s a daily workout or an occasional activity like a hike, bike ride or paddle, it’s important to prepare our muscles. In the old days, when I was in high school and college, the only type of stretching we were taught was the type now called “static stretching.” We knew it was important to … Keep reading…
Spring hiking here in Minnesota wasn’t always high on my list of recommended activities. In fact, before last weekend it wasn’t on my list at all! But I’m older and wiser now. My husband, Nick, and I celebrated our 26th Anniversary over the past weekend with a stay at our favorite North Shore resort, Bluefin … Keep reading…