Author: Damian Thomas

Hiking with your loyal canine friend will make the trail even more enjoyable. Before you head out the door to the trailhead however consider a few factors that will make your mountainous wanderings more enjoyable for him/her. DOG-FRIENDLY TRAILS There is more to choosing a dog-friendly hike than simply identifying whether or not dogs are allowed on the trail. Just because dogs are allowed doesn’t mean the trail itself is dog-friendly. If possible it’s best to scope out the trail yourself before taking your dog along and keep your eyes open for the following: Shady Trails – Dogs enjoy shady trails! Paths with too much sunshine often also have hot rocks scattered along the trail which can hurt dogs’ sensitive paws. Soft Terrain – Your dog will benefit from packed or unpacked earth as well as…

Man’s best friend can’t help but make your hiking experience fun and enjoyable! Make the trail more enjoyable for him/her by taking the following items on your next day's hike or backpacking trip. #1: COMMON “DOG SENSE” Before you hike ask yourself if your dog is of an appropriate age and fitness level to be hiking in the first place. Nursing pups and older dogs with aching joints will be happier at home. Make sure that your dog is regularly exercised (at least daily) before embarking on long hikes! #2: WATER PURIFICATION PRODUCTS Dogs, like humans, are susceptible to giardia and other parasites often found in unpurified water. Getting sick from waterborne parasites or bacteria is no fun and can make your beloved pet severely ill. Make sure to pack…

There’s no one better to accompany you on a hike than man’s best friend! Playful and often natural outdoor lovers, dogs are always ready and willing to go on an adventure and have a great attitude while doing it! Hiking isn’t made for all dogs, however, and there are a few items you’ll want to check off your list before taking your dog along on your next day's hike. #1: AGE Dogs are a lot like humans in that they need time to develop and learn before doing the things they’ll be doing when they are adults. Nursing puppies should not be taken on hikes as they need to be close to their mothers and nursed often. The process of nursing is a developmental rite for puppies as it is…

Hiking provides healthful exercise, a way to soak in the beauty of nature, and entertaining single-day activity. WHAT IS A SINGLE-DAY HIKE? A single-day hike can last anywhere from 4 hours to 14 hours. It’s not difficult to define a single-day hike but when you’re out enjoying Mother Nature she can throw some surprises in your path. If you plan on a single-day hike sometime in the near future here’s a quick checklist of items that you’ll want to pack for a day on the trails. HOW TO GET READY FOR A SINGLE-DAY HIKE Water and Liquids With Electrolytes Protection from the Elements Navigation Tools Snacks for Energy Illumination Curiosity, Openness, Cheer First-Aid Kit Footwear Shelter WATER AND LIQUIDS WITH ELECTROLYTES Hydration, of course, will be one of your foremost concerns as…

What does it mean to “break in hiking boots” and why it is so important? By putting it simply, wearing boots casually and breaking in the leather before heading out is referred to as “breaking in hiking boots.” In order to achieve your best fit, it is very important that you break in your hiking boots before a hike, which is also the case with any other piece of footwear. There are just three simple steps to break into your hiking boots: HOW TO BREAK IN YOUR HIKING BOOTS First, get boots that properly fit you. Wear the newly bought boots around your home for a few days. Now, you are ready to take these boots out on your hiking trips. THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING HIKING BOOTS You must first evaluate how…

The mountains! The backcountry! They are glorious….aren’t they? Perhaps you’ve heard of the fun, the inspiration, and even “the high” associated with hiking and now you’re planning on hitting the trails. Congratulations! Hiking truly does combine enjoyable physical activity, views that are often breathtaking, and that unique sense of inspiration that only nature can provide. It’s great you’re off to the hike! Just remember that like most new hobbies there are a few things of which beginners should take note. 10 THINGS BEGINNER HIKERS FORGET Check the Weather First-Aid Kit Water Wearing Synthetic Materials “Breaking in” Footwear Right Attitude Designated Trail Maps Traveling in a Group High-Quality Sleeping Bags and Outdoor Gear Staying in Good Physical Shape WHO IS CONSIDERED A BEGINNER HIKER? If you have been on less than five…