MyLifeOutdoors

Win a Gregory Z45 BackPack - A Review of LeftLane Sports

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Lets face it, outdoor gear is expensive. From boots to rain gear to packs and tents...it doesn't take long before your out several hundred, or several thousand dollars. I used to think ebay was the only way to get decent, albeit used, gear at affordable prices. But a little more then a year ago I came across a small discount gear website called LeftLane Sports, that changed the way I shop for and buy gear.

LeftLane Sports is what is known as a flash sale site, which basically means they have top of the line gear on sale at steep discounts for short lengths of time. Typically they will feature one brand at 50%-70% off for three days at a time.

When I first discovered LeftLane I couldn’t believe their prices, it seemed to good to be true. Others seemed to agree. I was getting a lot of search engine traffic with the search term “LeftLane Sports Scam.” I too was curious and decided to test the waters and make a purchase on some unbelievably discounted gear. With my first purchase LeftLane had a hiccup or two getting my gear to me within the promised time. I wrote a review based on my experience and posted it on MyLifeOutdoors. you can read that review here.

Since that time, however, I have had multiple dealings with LeftLane Sports. Within the last year I have purchased jackets, packs, boots, ski pants, knifes, shirts, pants, and even socks from LeftLane Sports. According to my order history I have made 14 separate purchases since December of 2010. Of those I have made at least five different returns or exchanges. All of my dealings have been pleasant and according to their published polices. Shipping times have become lightning fast. When I first started dealing with LeftLane Sports shipping seemed to take for ever. Now everything ships in one business day, often the same day.

I have been so impressed with my dealings with LeftLane Sports I hardly buy gear from anywhere else. If there is some piece of gear I need I will wait, because I know LeftLane will eventually sell it at steep discounts. Right now I’m in the market for a new set of Ski boots and Skis. Come on LeftLane, hook me up with something good.

The other part of LeftLane Sports I have come to love is their Give $10, Get $10 referral service. For everyone you refer to LeftLane Sports you get $10 in store credit, and so do they. In fact if you sign up using this link we will both get a free $10 credit. Credits only apply toward purchases over $50, and I don’t get my free credit until you make your first purchase.

Two things you should know about LeftLane is returns are only good toward store credit. They will not refund your credit card. And hot items sell out fast. There may be a 3 day sale on your favorite brand, but the good stuff will be gone in the first few hours due to popularity and limited quantities. It doesn't always work out this way...but I never risk it. If I want an item I buy it fast before it sells out.

To make things even better LeftLane Sports is very generous. I contacted them and told them I would be writing this review. I asked if they wanted to sweeten the pot by throwing in a free piece of gear for a giveaway. They came back with a Gregory Z45 BackPack. A $180 value, free for you to win. There are multiple ways to enter with several chances to win. The only required entry is that you be a member of LeftLane Sports. New members who sign up with the link provided will receive a free $10 credit whether they win or not. Enter below through the Rafelopter interface. Good Luck

The contest will end at Midnight EST on Sunday 1/29/2012. I will announce a winner within the next few days.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclamier: LeftLane Sports is providing the Prize for this giveaway. Their generosity has in no way effected my opinions in this review. LeftLane was contacted by me after the review was written but before it was published.

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Grand View Point - Grand Tetons National Park

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:18:00 +0000

The name says it all: Grand View Point. My family and I were looking for a short easy hike that could get us away from the crowds of Grand Tetons National Park. And that is just what we found tucked away at the end of a short dirt road just off the main highway. Anybody following us would have thought we made a wrong turn down a road closed to the public. At least thats what we were hoping as we pulled up to the trail head and found only one other car. With any luck we wouldn’t see another soul.

Looking East from Grand View Point - Grand Tetons National Park

And we were pretty lucky. The owners of the one other car passed us just as we set foot on the trail. They had already been up and were headed back to their car. We talked for a bit before continuing on. We were in no hurry. We had all day to hike the short 1.1 mile trail.

For a short trail, however, it gains a lot of altitude. I had my 2 year old on my back with my wife and 10 year old in tow. It didn’t take long before we were all a bit winded. “I thought you said this would be an easy hike” my wife said. She was nursing a injured tow from our 5 day backpack through Glacier the week before. The pain was forcing her to hike in sandals and the steep incline of Grand View Trail wasn’t making it any better. “We will be there before you know it.” I said. And we were. Moments later we started to catch Grand Views between the trees. First of the Tetons to the West. Then of some meadows and lakes to the East. And before we knew it we had reached what felt like the summit of this short trail.

Grand View Point Trail

Heading up Grand View Point Trail

Tetons through the Trees

Grand View Point Trail

Looking East from the Grand View Point Trail

Looking South East from the Grand View Point Trail

I took off the child carrier and let our littlest one stretch her legs. Looking West you could see the entire Teton range in full panoramic view. Jackson lake sprawled out before their feet with large islands in full view. To the East small natural lakes surrounded by forest beckoned me to more hiking and exploring. This was indeed a Grand View. My family and I sat up their for the better part of an hour. Breathing in the fresh mountain air and taking in the country side. It was a good moment, with a view that never changed but was better then any TV show.

My Youngest at Grand View Point

Looking out at the Grand Tetons and Jackson Lake just below Grand View Point

My two daughters looking out toward Jackson Lake and the Grand Tetons

Grand Tetons and Jackson Lake from Grand View Point

As we were getting ready to leave I saw that the trail continued north. I thought we had reached the top, but Grand View Point was actually about another 10th of a mile down the trail. A sign marked the true summit and as it turns out the real Grand View Point didn’t have as Grand Views as where before. Trees completely blocked the view of the Tetons to the West. The best views, with practically a 360 field of view lay back down the trail a little ways.

Marker at Grand View Point - Grand Tetons National Park

A bee on a nearby flower

Having accomplished what we set out to do my family and I headed back down the short 1.1 mile trail back to our car. We never saw another soul the rest of the time we were there, which made this trail quite a gem in an otherwise crowded park. Short, not too hard, with plenty of solitude. This hike was one of our favorites of all time.

My Littlest was asleep before we made it back to the car.

The Hike:
Length: 1.1 Miles One Way
Starting Elevation: 6892 feet
Ending Elevation: 7823 feet
Elevation Change: 931 feet

Map of Grand View Trail - Grand Tetons National Park

Getting There:
The road can be hard to find as there is no signs or other markers to distinguish it. Just a small dirt road off the main hwy. Head North 0.9 miles from the Jackson Lake Lodge. (see map below). Once you are on the dirt road stay left at both of the forks and follow the road until it dead ends at the trail head. High Clearance vehicles are recommended.

Dirt Road Entrance: 43.894181, -110.571556
Trail Head: 43.899160, -110.561728
Grand View Point: 43.908746, -110.560055

View Larger Map

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Woe To You Dr. Pepper - How a Part of Texas Died and Who's to Blame

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000

I don’t know anything about Joyce Meyer, but her words seem to fit: “If I have to build a big company by mistreating other people then the Bible says WOE to me. I don't know what that is, but I don't want any of it.” Woe to you Dr Pepper Snapple Group, for your greed has killed a Texas icon.

I don’t normally write about topics that don’t, in some way, pertain to hiking, backpacking, camping, or the like. But I know I have a good number of Texas readers, and any self respecting Texan needs to know how Dublin Dr. Pepper died.

A Dublin Dr Pepper bottle. One of the last to ever be made.

I was laying in bed wednesday night when I got a text from a friend that said: “At 5pm today there is no more Dublin Dr. Pepper.” For those who don’t know Dublin Dr. Pepper is sweetened with a pure cane sugar formula dating back to 1891, when Dublin Dr. Pepper got its start. Unlike any other Dr. Pepper, the taste is considered by many (including myself) to be some of the best soda known to man. But DPS recently sued the small town Dublin Dr. Pepper bottling company for altering the Dr. Pepper logo and selling their unique formula under the name Dublin Dr. Pepper.

Dublin Dr. Pepper was the oldest Dr Pepper Bottler in the World, killed by the greed of its parent company.

For my family Dublin Dr. Pepper is an elusive treat. Something we only get when we drive out of our way to the small town of Dublin to visit the bottling plant and buy one or two six packs of the heavenly soda. The rest of the year we spend our money on regular Dr. Pepper. But not anymore. DPS has gone too far, and I know I am not alone when I say their greed knows no bounds.

If you go to Dublin today you can still find Cane Sweetened Dr. Pepper. But its not made by the Dublin Company, nor will it bare the name Dublin Dr. Pepper. It seems some time ago DPS realized Dublin Dr. Pepper was better and began selling “nostalgic” Dr. Pepper sweetened with pure cane sugar. I bought some at our local grocery store. But it wasn’t the same as Dublin Dr. Pepper, something was different. It seems now that DPS has realized they couldn’t compete with Dublin Dr. Pepper and so they decided to bully them around until they gave up their lunch money. And now a part of Texas is dead.

A historic photo of the Dublin Dr. Pepper Bottling Plant, still in existence today

It is my hope that enough Texans raise enough stink about this that DPS comes crawling back to Dublin begging them to reopen their production. I hope enough texans send letters and e-mails protesting this shameful act of greed. Right now I have three small bottles of Dublin Dr. Pepper sitting in my fridge. They are probably the last three I will ever see.

Woe to you Dr. Pepper Snapple Group.

If you would like to contact Dr Pepper Snapple Group and tell them how you feel, you can do so by following this link

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Bad Gear Reviews: No Such Thing?

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:30:00 +0000

There is no such thing as a Bad Gear Review, because there is no such thing as bad gear...only specialized gear.

Let me explain:

Last week I published a post about bad gear reviews and asked “when it was appropriate to publish a bad review?” Part of of the discussion revolved around the idea of contacting companies before publishing a bad review...to see if they would listen.

Most of the responses we received were from the viewpoint of the end-users. different bloggers who are used to using gear...but have probably never designed gear for retail sale. This week, however, I received a response from Rand Lindsly who is the co-founder of Trail Designs and co-creator of the Caldera Cone Alcohol Stove. As a cottage manufacture Rand’s products have received a wide range of reviews, allowing him to comment from the viewpoint of the vendor.

Trail Designs Team. photo by George "Tin Man" Andrews

What if “bad” gear doesn't really exist. Only specialized gear that falls into the hands of reviewers that don’t have the needs designed to be met by the gear they are reviewing. Thus they give the gear a bad review.

Here is part of what Rand had to say:

“I suppose there might be some "bad" products out there that need to be slammed.....but not likely....and if so, not many. More likely, there are just products out there that are designed for certain purposes and needs, and they find their way into the hands of reviewers that either don't understand their purposes, don't need their strengths, or have a completely different conceptual paradigm they are comfortable with and can't get their head around the product.

This is really the danger......getting a "review" that comes from a biased viewpoint that isn't reviewing the gear, but trying to fit a square peg/solution into a hole they have defined as round.”

This intrigues me. If you think about it, companies spend a good deal of money on designing, testing, and refining gear. All in order to meet specific needs of their end users. Different people have different needs. If you have gear that doesn't meet your needs...you will not have a high opinion of that gear.

A simple example: Suppose you are sent a bivy to review, but have previously always hiked with a (relatively larger) tent. You might review the bivy as “cramped, with no room to change clothes.” Or suppose you need a sleeping bag that can be easily washed. You are sent a down bag to review and throw it in the washer only to find the down gets terribly heavy when wet, ripping through the bags baffling. You might review the bag as “poorly constructed” Or “poor choice of materials” Neither of these reviews would be accurate. The gear isn’t bad gear...it simply wasn’t designed to meet those needs.

Even “cheap” gear made from lesser quality materials is designed to meet a specific need, that of the budget minded end-user. If you are in need of better quality...you have to pay for it. If you review a $20 tent from Wal-mart and say “It didn’t hold up on my through hike of the AT.” Its because it wasn’t designed to.

What it all boils down to is the bias of the reviewer. We need to realize we are all human and have a hard time opening our minds to products that fall outside our preferences. But a good reviewer will look past his bias. As Rand says “the pressure is on the reviewer to be completely open minded about what the vendor is trying to do, and look at the product from the viewpoint of the audience they are trying to reach.” This is something I think print media has managed to do, and something bloggers could learn from.

So the question isn’t “when is it appropriate to write a bad review” but rather “Is this gear designed to meet my needs? And if it isn’t, don’t we have a responsibility to not review the gear in question?

I would really like to know what you think. Is there such a thing as “bad” gear? Are reviewers being unfair when they review gear that doesn't meet their needs? What happens when gear is designed to meet your needs but fails to? Is it bad gear, or false advertising? I would really like to know what you think.

Please add your comments below.

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My Life Outdoors: 2011 The Year in Review

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

Well 2011 is coming to a close and I find myself, once again, writing a Year in Review post, despite my strong dislike for such posts. But 2011 was a great year for me. At this time last year I was aggressively participating in a contest hosted by Active Agion to win an all expense paid trip to Glacier National Park. Shortly after 2011 began I discovered I had won that trip. It was a chance of a lifetime and probably the only way I was ever going to get to see Glacier National Park. It changed my life, and now I don't think I am going to be able to stay away.

Below, is my posts from our Glacier Trip we won.

Apart from that My Life Outdoors became MyLifeOutdoors.com when I finally obtained that domain. I got the chance to hike the South Rim Loop in Big Bend National Park. Large portions of Texas caught fire due to extreme drought. I received a long awaited SPOT messenger for Fathers Day and had to begin contemplating the Responsibility of such a device. In September I surveyed the outdoor blogosphere to determine the The Hiker's Choice Top Outdoor Blog. And eventually wrote some thoughts on Why We Hike. Now the year comes to and end and I believe I have made new friends in the Outdoor Blogosphere. At the risk of leaving someone out:

If your not on the list...I apologize...Its probably because I don't feel like you consider me a friend. So if I'm wrong...drop me a line and let me know how good of a friend you are. And I will make sure your on this list next year.

Most of all I want to thank you for reading and helping me feel like I have a voice in the Outdoor Blogosphere. I really enjoy writing My Life Outdoors and derive satisfaction from knowing someone is actually reading this stuff. Despite my dyslexia and grammar issues. Thank you again.

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Lower Falls and South Rim Trail - Yellowstone National Park

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

All my life, I have dreamed of going to Yellowstone National Park. So this summer after winning a trip to Glacier National Park we decided to drop south and visit Yellowstone for a few days. I was disappointed. Which may seem sacrilegious for an outdoors blog, but Yellowstone simply couldn’t live up to 30 years of expectations cooked up in my mind. Had I had time or energy to venture deep into the backcountry I might have felt different, but one thing is for certain, Yellowstone front country is sadly filled with gift shops, gas stations, parking lots and other “amenities” that detract from the otherwise breathtaking scenery. Having said that, however, there were still parts I managed to enjoy.

Lower Falls from Artist Point

Of all the attractions offered at Yellowstone, Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone proved the most rewarding. My family and I pulled up to the overflowing parking lot at Artiest Point. It took us hours just to get into the parking lot due to the clog of cars blocking the road to take pictures of an Elk. I regret to say I added to the part of yellowstone I hate by stopping myself and taking a picture of the same Elk.

Roadside Elk causing quite a traffic jam

Once we reached Artiest Point the views of Lower Falls and the Yellowstone River were simply amazing. The crowds present at Artiest point, however, rivaled those at Wal-mart on black friday. Desperately seeking escape from the crowds we ventured down the short South Rim Trail that was clearly marked as a Bear Frequenting Area. I was willing to take my chances if it meant getting away from the people.

Lower Falls from Artiest Point

Lower Falls from Artiest point

Bear Frequenting Area

The South Rim Trail proved very pleasant and practically isolated. We passed a few people as we hiked but that was all, a few. The South Rim afforded beautiful, up close views of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon with the occasional view of Lower Falls.

The surprisingly desolate South Rim Trail

Up Close views of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Views along the South Rim Trail

Lower Falls viewed from the South Rim Trail

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone from the South Rim Trail

At the West end of the South Rim Trail we found Uncle Tom’s Trail. A brochure promised up close and personal views at the base of Lower Falls via 328 steps. Going down is easily deceptive and we all decided to go see the enormous falls.

Sign at Uncle Tom's Trail

Down, down, down the Uncle Tom "trail"

328 steps later we were close to the falls but hardly at the base. But we were rewarded by up close views of beautiful rainbows caused by the the falls billowing mist. Then punished by a steep climb back up the crowded steps.

Lower Falls from Uncle Tom's Trail

Yellowstone River from Uncle Tom's Trail

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Yellowstone River

Rainbow at the bottom of Lower Falls

All in all Lower Falls is breathtakingly Beautiful. Had this short hike been miles from paved roads and other signs of civilization I would have been beside myself. As it stands now the NPS has done a terrible job of upholding their mission to leave the Natural Beauty unimpaired. But if you find yourself in Yellowstone, as I believe everyone should at least one in their life, be sure to escape the crowds on this short, easy hike along the South Rim.

Map of Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

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My Life Outdoors Now Available on Kindle

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

My Life Outdoors is now available in the Kindle Store for monthly subscription fee of $.99. I would have offered to you for free, but Amazon wouldn't let me. So if it is more convenient for you to receive My Life Outdoors on your Kindle, downloaded so you can read it even when you are away from your internet connection, it is now available for the low low price of $11.88 a year. Of which I will only receive 30%. But I'm not doing it for the money...I'm doing it for your connivence.

If you are interested you can search My Life Outdoors in the Kindle Store. Or follow this link: My Life Outdoors for Kindle.

If you are interested in publishing your blog through Kindle's Blog Service the process is simple. You will need to set up a Kindle Publishing Account and give them your tax ID and Bank Account info. Then provide your blog’s RSS feed, a description, a screenshot, and then wait for Amazon’s approval process. I was up in just a day or so...though Amazon never told me when I was approved...I just happened to look a couple of days after I applied and saw that I was already in the Kindle Store. Oh and Amazon sets the price they believe is fair for your Blog. Most of the ones I have seen are $.99 a month.

I got the idea from Hiking The Trail. Adam's in the Kindle Store too.

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Win a Free Tool Logic Knife - Merry Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 21:19:00 +0000

I wanted to post something special for Christmas, but not just another "Merry Christmas." And since Christmas is all about giving I thought I should give something away. So to celebrate Christmas with everyone who may be trying to escape their in-laws after Christmas lunch, I have a Tool Logic SL Plier up for grabs.

The Tool Logic SL Plier states: The look and feel of a tactical folder with the versatility of pliers. The knife features a three inch Carbon Stainless Blade on one end and spring loaded pliers (with wire cutters) on the other. One end has an interchangeable flat and phillips screwdriver bit with two sizes of each. The unused bit conveniently clips onto the side of the knife.

To win is easy. Simply mention @MyLifeOutdoors in a twitter post that says "I want to win a free Tool Logic Knife." Or use the tweet this button below.

I will give you until 8:00 pm (CST) tomorrow night (12-26-2011) to tweet. And then announce the winner on Tuesday. I hope you win.

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When is it Appropriate to Post a Negative Product Review? - A Discussion

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:12:00 +0000

A free knife I received to review

“When’s the last time you read a bad product review on a blog?” This was the question asked by Chris Wallace on Twitter yesterday. It is a subject of quite a bit of concern. Bloggers have motivation to post positive reviews. For one, companies like to send us free stuff if we will write about it. I have thought, as I’m sure several bloggers have, “if I write a negative review, companies wont want to send me free stuff anymore.”

So the question is: are any blog reviews worth anything? I certainly hope so. Here at MyLifeOutdoors I make it my duty to only post honest reviews. In other words, I won’t say I like something if I really thought it was crap. But most of the reviews I have written have been positive, mainly because I think twice before posting a negative review. I admit (as does Brian at Brian’s Backpacking Blog) I have been guilty of not posting a product review because I didn’t like the product. A sort of “if you can’t say anything nice don’t say anything at all.” But this could be unfair to my readers. After all, I honestly want to know if a product is crap before I buy. I’m sure you do too. So the question becomes... when is it appropriate to post a negative review?

Free gloves I received to review

My first response was to look at the company producing the product. Is the company in its early stages (an upstart) with everything on the line. A negative review could sink such a company. On the other hand, a huge company (with deep pockets)...a negative review wont even phase them. I have a harder time giving the former a negative review, and will easily give the latter what they deserve.

But the latter don’t need reviews, at least not often. They have made a name for themselves and will sell products with or without blog reviews. Only once have I been offered a product by a well known manufacture. And then the never sent it anyway.

Most of the products I am offered to review are from companies who are trying to get their name out into the outdoor community. They have spent their life’s savings on a small production run and are offering a handful to bloggers in hopes we can help publicize their product. Most of these offers I don’t even respond to, because I know they won’t like what I have to say.

But Chris brings up a good point. Are we doing the company a disservice by allowing them to go to market with a crummy product? Maybe what we bloggers should do is review the product and then send it to the manufacture for consideration before posting it publicly on our blogs. This would, hopefully, allow the company to make needed changes before a large production is made. I don’t know. Would a company even listen...I would say most are sold on their product the way it is. They might even become defensive.

But what I really want to know is what you think? After all you (my readers) are my first obligation.

When is it appropriate to post a negative review?

Should I post all reviews, even if they are negative?

And what I would really like to know from you...

Should I accept all products offered to me, no matter how small or silly, no matter how I think I might feel about them, and review them for you all to read?

I would really like to know what you think.

To see the whole twitter discussion please visit the Storify created by Tookie Bunten

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Baring Falls and St. Mary Falls - Glacier National Park

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

We were looking for a short hike that my parents and children could go on. We had spent the night on the east side of Glacier National park and had seen signs for “Sun Point” and "Sunrift Gorge" just off Going to the Sun Road. We were intrigued and decided to go see what it was, maybe a suitable place for a picnic.

View of St. Mary Lake from Sun Point

What we found was a short hike to three different waterfalls. It was only three miles to the furthest waterfall (Virginia Falls), and only 0.7 miles to the closest (Baring Falls). We decided to eat our picnic in the parking lot and then head off to see the waterfalls.

Just a short distance from the parking lot is Sun Point, the former location of Sun Point Chalet. Here a large metal plaque points out different mountains and other views. My family and I stopped to take in the many views from atop the large rock outcropping before heading down the trail to Baring Falls. From Sun Point it is a little hard to find the trail toward the falls. But just keep walking west and you will eventually find it.

St. Mary Lake looking East from Sun Point

looking across St. Mary Lake to a small peninsula. Looks like a great place to camp.

My daughter and mother at Sun Point

In no time we arrived at Baring Falls. We crossed over the small foot bridge. We sat in the shade while the waterfall covered us in mist. As an amateur photographer waterfalls are one of my favorite subjects. Regrettably Baring Falls was in direct sunlight making picture taking difficult. But I didn’t let that stop me.

View of St. Mary Lake from the trail.

My Father and daughter on the trail to Baring Falls

Baring Falls

After spending a few moments at Baring Falls we continued on to the second waterfall, St Mary Falls, just another one and a half miles down the trail. When we arrived we found St. Mary falls much more crowded then Baring Falls. But for good reason. It was much more beautiful too. My Family crossed over the large foot bridge to get a better view, while my daughter and I followed a short trail to the top of the falls.

Heading toward St. Mary Falls

St. Mary Falls

Looking down from the top of St. Mary Falls

We spent quite a bit of time at St. Mary falls, to the point that we didn’t have time to continue on Virginia Falls, which I understand is much bigger then Baring, and St. Mary Falls. Personally I would have liked to continue, but my family was ready to head back.

All and all these short trails are a great hike that gives you an opportunity to get out of the car and stretch you legs. Although it is far from secluded, the crowed was much smaller than those found on Logan’s pass or on Going to the Sun Road.

If you would like more information about Glacier National Park visit HikinginGlacier.com and corresponding blog The Huckleberry Hiker. Both are written by a friend and provide detailed information on the trails and park news.

Click here for Hiking In Glacier's description of Baring Falls Trail
Click here for Hiking In Glacier's description of St. Mary Falls Trail
Click here for Hiking In Glacier's description of Virginia Falls Trail

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My Life Outdoors Turned Two...Last Month

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

A testament to how busy I have been. My Life Outdoors turned 2 years old last month and I didn't realize or notice. My sincere apologies to anyone who reads on a regular basis. I do my best to post on a regular basis and miss blogging terribly when I am unable to write.

The early days of My Life Outdoors. We have come a long way since then. It took me forever to find this screenshot.

I still have tons of trip reports to share with you...many of them long over by now. I'm finding it hard to motivate myself to write about them as they seem so long ago. That and my mind is now on winter activities. But I promise to do my best and get some good trip reports up soon...maybe even a gear review or two. And if any companies out there would like to sponsor a giveaway...that would be great (hint hint).

To make up for my lack of posting lately...and just to reminise a little...here are some posts from the early days of My Life Outdoors.

Thank you to everyone who has stuck with me over the last couple of years. Even when I go missing for weeks at a time. Blogging just doesn't pay the bills. Thank you for being understanding. Its hard to believe it has been this long. Here's to many more years of great blogging.

Thanks For Reading
Steven

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Free $30 in Credit At Several Discount Gear Sites.

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

It seems everyone is giving away a free $10 credit if you will let me refer you to their discount gear sites. first up is Sierra Trading Post who offers tons of gear at 35%-75% off. Simply sign up via this link and you will get a free $10 credit if you are a new customer. Sierra Trading Post seems like a great company. I haven't taken the time to give them a proper review...but I did buy a ski jacket from them last year with no problems. Its worth a try.

The Cylmb is also giving away $10 in credit if you will allow me to refer you to their site. Once again simply sign up though this link and you will get $10 in credit toward your first purchase. The Clymb only does this every once and a while...the offer for $10 with referral wont last long...get it now while the getting is good. The Clymb is a great site, but requires a little patience when waiting for gear to arrive. I recently ordered a pair of gloves...still waiting for them to arrive...but I guess I'm in no hurry. Go here to read my review on The Clymb.

And last but certainly not least is Left Lane Sports. This has become one of my favorite discount gear sites...practically all the new gear I have bought over the past year has come from Left Lane Sports. In fact in just the last month I have bought four or five shirts, a soft shell jacket, a pair of ski goggles, and a knife. My new philosophy has become...If I want it...I should wait, because Left Lane will sell it cheap eventually. Keep your eyes out for their great sales...and act fast..supplies don't last long.

And as always...Left Lane is offering a free $10 credit for anyone referred by a friend. You and I are friends right? If so just follow this link and you will get $10 credit toward your first purchase (slight catch...your first purchase has to be over $50 or credits don't apply.)

Click here to read my review of Left Lane Sports...but also realize I have grown to love them much more since I wrote this review. They are worth giving a try.

Add it all up and thats a free $30 in credit. Just in time for Christmas. Happy Shopping.

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Going to the Sun Road - Glacier National Park

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

As I write this, Going to the Sun Road is covered in snow, and only 21 miles are open to the public. Depending on the snowfall this winter...it could be next July before the entire 48.7 miles are open again. But I am dreaming of August 2011 when my family and I drove over Logan pass, crossed the continental divide, and took in some of our country’s most amazing views.

Wild Goose Island on St Mary Lake - Going to the Sun Road

Glacier National Park view from Logan Pass

Storm coming in over Logan Pass

For the nearly two million visitors that come through Glacier National Park each year, this road is the most of the park they will see. Glacier National Park consists of 202 square miles but has only one road (not counting hwy 2 at the Southern boarder) going through the park. For such a large park, that’s not much to see. But Glacier doesn't disappoint. Breathtaking views exist at every turn and are easily accessed from one of the many pullouts. Slowly travel toward the top of 6,646 foot Logan pass and encounter turquoise lakes, waterfalls, snow covered peaks, views of ancient glaciers, and abundant wildlife.

Overlook of St Mary Lake

One of many roadside waterfalls on Going to the Sun Road

Looking up at Logan Pass form Going to the Sun Road

Logan Pass Glacier National Park

The first chance I had to experience Going to the Sun Road was one day after I spent 5 days in Glacier’s backcountry. I was sure up close wildlife encounters would be common place. But nothing could compare to the encounters available at Logan Pass. Within minutes of reaching Logan Pass Mountain Goats and a herd of Longhorn sheep came within feet or my family and I. It was the closest wildlife experience we would encounter our entire time at Glacier.

Mountain Goat on Logan Pass

Long Horn Sheep on Logan Pass

Long Horn Sheep

Playing in the snow on logan pass

But Going to the Sun Road isn’t all positive...the sheer number of people can be overwhelming. As I said before Glacier has nearly two million visitors a year. Summer time and especially August is peak season. With very little paved access Logan pass becomes annoyingly crowded.

Large crowd on Logan pass. If you look closely you can see the line of people all the way up the mountain.

Another annoyance is vehicle traffic and construction on Going to the Sun Road. No one on Going to the Sun Road is in a hurry, everyone is looking out the windows at the scenery (and thus not looking where they are going) and the road is one lane each way. To make this issue worse harsh winters limit road construction is to just a few months a year...summertime. This requires frustrating flaggers with long waits as both directions of traffic are forced to use the same lane of road.

Waiting on a construction flagger on Going to the Sun Road

Even with the cons Going to the Sun road is a must do drive. If your not the hiking or backpacking type (and if your not...I don’t know why you are reading this blog) you don’t have much of a choice when it comes to Glacier.

Wild Goose Island - St Mary Lake

At a pull out on Going to the Sun Road overlooking St Mary Lake and Wild Goose Island

St Mary Lake

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Hiking, A Metaphor For Life! - 13,600 foot Mt. Bard, Colorado

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:56:00 +0000

I’m sitting in the middle of Downtown Denver on the corner of two busy streets. The teenagers with me are taking turns panhandling. This is part of an experiment called Urban Plunge. You see we wanted the teens to know what its like to beg for their food, their money, and their livelihood. But begging for money is illegal in Denver. So instead we are begging for smiles.

Our assignment was to create a sign that said “Can you spare a smile, any smile helps.” and then pick a location where we would “fly our sign.” Each teen had 15 min and each smile was worth $.25. You had to keep track of your own smiles and see who got the most...the catch was you couldn’t smile first...you could only return smiles given to you.

What we didn’t know is we were in someone else's territory. A gentleman named Spike walks up and sees us sitting there and sees one of our teens across the street flying our sign. He doesn't quite know what to think....we don’t look like the types that he usually sees flying signs. He says...in a somewhat drunken slur...”What are you kids doing here.” The next 10 min were a gift from God.

Our new friend Spike

Spike sits with us and tells us he isn’t homeless...He's living in government housing that some firemen arranged for him... He can’t stand it... sitting there all alone staring at the walls....so everyday he comes back to the streets to fly his sign. He misses the streets. They have been his life. They are all he knows. They have gotten him in trouble and he regrets the things that he has done. He cries and tells us about a life of sin. And when he cries...he makes us cry...he laughs and when he does he makes us laugh...he prays over us...and as he does we pray..."Lord thank you for sending Spike to us today".

Spike walking the streets of Denver

Spike is going through a season in his life. He has endured many hard things and now finds himself...an old, lonely, alcohol addicted child of God...struggling to live a civilized life. But even in the midst of all this uncertainty...Spike is thankful for moments like these...Moments when you meet a group of middle class teenagers from Texas that make your day.

Its moments like that...that make me think...‘look at the view”

Let me explain.

You see we don’t know what its like to live the way Spike has lived. He tells us stories from his life and we are amazed at what he has endured. We don’t know what its like to live like spike. But we do know what its like to do something hard. That is the whole reason why we were there.

You see earlier that week we were deep in the middle of the Arapaho National Forest at high altitude. The teens we had brought with us were loaded down...many of them with 50 or more pounds on their backs. None of them had never backpacked before. Our plan was to spend three nights backpacking, and one day climbing the summit of 13,600 foot Mount Bard.

The first day was the easiest...we were only going about a mile...but the teens didn't know that, and as they strapped on their heavy packs many were thinking...”what have I gotten myself into?”

Our group at the beginning of our hike.

It didn’t take long to get to camp and as we arrived I could feel a since of relief among the group. Everyone wanted to rest and get their packs off....but there was no time for rest...a thunderstorm had just come in and we had to cover our packs and get the tents up in a hurry.

Everyone was rushing to get the tents up and in the confusion...one group took the rain fly from my tent...without me knowing it. Franticly I looked around trying to figure out what I did with my rain fly. I know I packed it and I know it was here somewhere. But it was too late...by this point it has started to pour rain. Our tent is getting soaked...we are getting soaked...and since I’m looking for our rainfly...my pack is open and is also getting soaked.

Our four tents at low camp shortly after the storm had passed. Very, heavy, bulky, tents.

I never did find the rainfly....and it was too late anyway...the tent was also soaked. We decided to wait until it stoped raining...But it doesn't stop raining...We strung some tarps between some trees and huddled underneath them to stay warm...It rained harder and harder and harder...small streams of water began to form underneath us. then large rivers began to form underneath us. Our guide who has been leading groups out here for years...says "I’v never seen it rain this much." That night we go to bed wet and cold.

The next day we tear down camp and pack it all back in our packs...everything is soaking wet which adds several pounds to our already heavy packs. We head off toward high camp which is just below tree line at 11,000 feet. As we hike water is running down the trails. In many places there is nowhere to step but in the water....I have GoreTex boots...many of the teens do not.

Water covered the trail throughout most of the trip

Swollen creeks from the heavy snowfall last winter.

Resting just below high camp

The next morning is summit day. We wake up at 4:00 am and eat breakfast on the trail. A rule has been set...we either all make to the summit...or we all don’t...no one goes back alone...and no one gets left behind. If one person gives up...we all give up.

Alpenglo in the early morning

As we climb water is everywhere...our boots are wet...its early...The mountain is getting steeper and the oxygen is getting thiner. Its a hard hike...but I know there is a pay off in the end. As we finally push above tree line...the view of the mountain is spectacular. For some...this is proof that the effort is worth it. Others are not so sure and the view of the mountain only confirms to them that this isn’t going to end anytime soon.

the view just above tree line.

We continue to climb and it quickly becomes evident that the higher we get...the harder it gets. For some of the teens...this isn’t worth it. They have already come a long way...they have already seen amazing views...they see no reason to continue...some lose inward motivation...the journey is just too hard and so they are content to just go back to high camp.

Heading toward the summit

Resting in the high alpine.

The teens are faced with a choice. The decision has already been made...if one person goes back...we all go back. Some of us still want to make it to the summit...others have no motivation to continue. The teens have to decide...do I continue so that others may benefit. Do I sacrifice my comfort, my energy, my well being so that others may go on?

One of our first, truly great views.

With a little encouragement we all make it to the summit. The views are amazing and the pay off was worth the effort. For many of the young people with us that day it was the hardest thing they had ever done. It was a hard hike, but it was more then just a hike. It was a metaphor for life.

Our group as they reached the summit

Summit view, Mt Bard Colorado

Summit view, Mt. Bard

Standing on the Summit, Mt Bard Colorado

Summit marker?

Some neighboring fourteeners

Over the next three days we would spend time in downtown Denver working with homeless street kids. As we got to know them and the things they have been through...we began to realize a truth about life. Just like our hike...sometimes life is hard, sometimes you struggle to continue, and sometimes you want to turn back.

But every once in a while you get the opportunity to stop and rest. To sit down on some lonely bolder and rest your weary feet as you look back on the progress you made, to look back on the things you have endured, and see, in hindsight, how you are a better person for it. This is true about hiking, and it is true about life.

Looking back on our progress

A spectacular view, with a chance to rest.

I thought about that and I asked myself...why do we hike? Because it is easy? Or because it is hard? Or is it neither? Maybe we hike because the journey is worth the effort. Because we grow stronger during the process. And at the end there is a summit, with views unlike anything we have ever seen. And more then that... a sense of accomplishment that has no comparison.

It is the same for life. Sometimes its hard, but in the end...its worth it.

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The Hiker's Choice Award - Top Outdoor Blogs

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 19:05:00 +0000

Last week you all had the opportunity to vote on your favorite outdoor blog. We started out with your nominations of the best outdoor blogs. We had 50 top notch outdoor blogs nominated for your votes. Your response was amazing and now, one week later, we have the Top Ten Outdoor Blogs. Or what I would like to call. The Hiker's Choice Award - Top Outdoor Blogs.

According to your votes the top outdoor blogs in 2001 are:

Number One: Hiking Fiasco

Number Two: Smokey Mountain Hiking Blog

Number Three: Hiking in Finland

Number Four: Scandinavian Hiking

Number Five: Diary of a Day Hiker

Number Six: Meanderthals

Number Seven: Appalachia And Beyond

Number Eight: Bedrock & Paradox

Number Nine: The Gear Caster

Number Ten: Hiking The Trail

So there are your top 10 Hiker's Choice Outdoor Blogs. It is important to note Appalacia and Beyond and Bedrock& Paradox both tied for seventh place. And The Gear Caster and Hiking The Trail both tied for ninth. In the case of a tie they are listed alphabetically above.

Congratulations to our winners. If you are interested I have included a small badge our winners are welcome to place on their blogs and let their readers know they won. Anyone who clicks on the image will be brought back to this post to see your official Hiker's Choice Rank. If any blog chooses not to put the badge on their blogs I won't be offended.

Copy and Paste the text in the box below.

Vote For Your Favorite Outdoor Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 16:30:00 +0000

Last week I asked everyone to submit their Must Read Outdoor Blog list. Well I had a great response and had 50 top rate outdoor blogs submitted. Today I want to give you the chance to vote for the very best. I am calling this the Peoples Choice Top Outdoor Blog.

Below you will find a ballot where you can select ONLY ONE blog to vote for. (I debated whether I would allow multiple votes and in the end thought multiple voting would be the same as submitting your top 10 list...which we did last week.)

So take a moment to look over the blogs below. I have listed them alphabetically by what I believe is their common names followed by their web address. Unfortunately the poll widget wouldn't allow me to place links inside the poll answers so you will have to copy and paste if you want to visit the blog.

Make sure to share this post with your friends and Networks so we get the most accurate representation of the People's Choice Top Outdoor Blogs.

Next week I will post the Top 10. So what are you waiting for...go vote.

Please Vote For your FAVORITE Blog Only!

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Week In Review - September 18, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 17:00:00 +0000

All of the following links are from blogs that submitted in my Top Outdoor Blogs post last monday. If you would like to submit your own selections for Top Outdoor Blogs please go here. You have until tomorrow night to submit blogs for the top outdoor blogs. On Tuesday I will have a poll to see which ones are the best in the eyes of you... my readers.

Coincidentally Tom also wrote about his Top 10 Hiking and Camping Blogs.

Brian has an interesting post about packing out your own poop.

Chris goes hiking in the Great Gulf Wilderness

Chris's view as he hikes down to the Madison Springs Hut

Tom anticipates the release of his new book: Following Atticus.

Happy Hiker Hikes (Say that 3 times fast) into the Dry River Wilderness Legally.

I posted my final installment of my 5 day backpack through Glacier National Park.

Philip gives us a preview of the Easton Mountain Product’s New Kilo 2P Lightweight Tent

Adam, Bill, and David are testing Wool vs. Synthetic Socks. This should be interesting.

Tim and Robin have 300 friends on facebook. So they are giving away a hammock

That isn't all of them...but its a pretty good representation. Check back Tuesday for your chance to vote on your favorite.

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Bowman Lake - Glacier National Park

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:00:00 +0000

This is day four and five of our five day backpacking trip through Glacier National Park. Click here to read days One, Two and Three.

I’m sitting around the campfire at the Upper Bowman backcountry campsite. We have spent all day hiking over Brown pass. We are cold, wet, and exhausted. But we are not alone. A group of kayakers have paddled in seven miles from the other end of Lake Bowman. We talk over the campfire and before long consider them friends. Tomorrow they will hike up toward Hole in the wall. We, on the other hand, plan to take it easy with a layover day.

Our new friends ask us “What are you going to do all day?

“Oh I don’t know. We are thinking about pirating a few kayaks” our guide jokes.

“No one is going to be using them” our new friends say “Why don’t you guys take them out on the lake?

I think “you have to be kidding me.”

Our view from Upper Bowman Campsite

The next day we sleep in and take it easy. I stroll around camp...check out Numa Creek. Take a nap on the hikers bridge, but spend most of the day laying on the beach of Lake Bowman. At one point my wife looks out across the lake and says “What is that?” Something large and clumsy is swimming the length of the lake. “It can’t be a duck...Its too awkward.” I run back to my pack and grab a telephoto lens. “It’s a moose!” I say. Everyone around wants to take a look.

Relaxing on the shore of Bowman Lake

Numa Creek

My wife reading on the hiker's bridge

A Moose swimming across Bowman Lake

I look down at the Kayaks laying on the shore of the lake...I have permission...I ought to chase down that moose and have a closer look. But I’m not sure how she will react to a strange creature floating on top of the water. Plus I don’t want to seem too anxious to use the boats. So I wait.

I lay on the beach some more...but I really want to be out paddling on the lake. Eventually my wife heads back to the tent to take a nap, and I take the opportunity to paddle out on the lake. But I have waited too long. Afternoon winds have picked up and make the water choppy. I paddle about mile into the wind before giving up. So I turn around and let the wind push me back. It was really quite peaceful...and the view was even better out on the water.

Kayaking on Bowman Lake

The next day it was time to head out. We had seven miles to hike along the edge of the lake. Our friends in the Kayaks head off at the same time and before long pass us on the lake.

Hiking out on the Bowman Lake Trail

Tall trees on the Bowman Lake Trail

As we make our way out we find a small batch of wild Strawberries. They are tiny, but delicious. The rest of the trail was mostly flat and uneventful. My wife was still suffering from painful blisters and had damaged her toe nails coming down from Brown Pass. We aren't quite sure what kind of injury she has sustained but it is beginning to look like it is permanent...just the other night we were getting in bed and her toenail started to come all the way off. Her toe nails on both feet are black and damaged, once we find out more I will post in-depth about what has happened and how I think we could have avoided it.
Before we know it we come to the end of the trail. Waiting for us is another guide who has set up a picnic for us. I pile everything in sight onto my sandwich and drink an ice cold soda under the shade of a tall tree. It has been a great trip...but it feels good to be getting back to civilization.

Wild Strawberries in Glacier National Park

I'm not sure what to call this injury...Hikers toe?

Picnic provided by Glacier Guides

Our five days through Glacier’s backcountry were unforgettable. I want to say thank you to Glacier Guides for such an amazing trip. I also want to say thank you to Agion Active for offering such a great contest. If it wasn’t for them I would have never been able to experience such an amazing park in such a powerful way. Our time there has only made me want to see more. Glacier National park is truly an amazing place.

Kayakers on Bowman Lake

Bowman Lake Trail Map

Our hike color coded by day. Blue = Day One, Red = Day Two, Yellow = Day Three, Green = Day Four and Five

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What Are The Top Outdoor Blogs? Your Opinions Please

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 19:21:00 +0000

I follow a lot of outdoor blogs...so many in fact that I can't really follow them all. It seems I always end up missing something of real quality because my newsfeed is choked with stuff I don't always care to read. So the other day I went about trying to narrow down a list of Must Read Outdoor Blogs? But to be honest its hard to narrow it down. So I thought I would ask you all:

What are your Must Read Outdoor Blogs? The blogs that you never want to miss a post because its always something of great interest and quality? I'm not interested in who has the most followers or the best industry connections. I'm interested in what you enjoy reading the most. Please take the time to submit the URL of your must read outdoor blogs in the comments below.

Then tell me what makes a great outdoor blog:

What makes a great outdoor blog?

Want another option: Tell me what makes a great outdoor blog in the comments below.

What kind of content do you like to see on outdoor blogs?

Like different content: Tell me what you like in the comments below.

What is your prefered way to follow a blog?

I'm hoping to get a lot of responses on this...and if I do I would like to come back maybe next week and rank the blogs submitted below. In the end I will create my own must read list from the blogs submited here and add it to twitter.

To ensure we get a good sampling of opinions be sure to ask your friends and networks to come and chime in with their opinions as well. Thank You in advance...I'm anxious to see what we come up with.

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Week in Review - September 11, 2001

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 19:45:00 +0000

Here are some posts that grabbed my attention this week:

Susan has some amazing pictures from her Girls Camping Weekend in Alaska

Susan's view along Richardson Hwy in Alaska

Sonja continues to show us stunning views from Brazil.

Izzy shows off his Survival Carabiner kit.

GetOutdoors educates on the benefits of vertical baffles.

Brad Parker has a great piece on Texas Drought and educating youth on conservation

ZSandman reviews some Vibram FiveFingers...I'm still not convinced.

I did a report on our 3rd day in the Glacier National Park Backcountry.

Win a trip to Jackson Hole WY by clicking the link in this tweet.

Casey is concerned about people trashing our National Forests...as am I

Karl does a review on an OR zip tee.

I was impressed by Dan's paddle down the Middle Kings (Recommended Read)

SkiDiva has been blogging for 5 years...thats a long time in the blogosphere

Brian stuggles with altitude sickness on Mt. Whitney.

Hendrik educates us on Backpack design

Granola Girl took her family 48 miles around the Timberline Trail

Granola Girl's view on the Timberline Trail

Hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

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Texas Fires Devastating The State - Bastrop State Park Damaged by Fire - Extreme Drought

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:30:00 +0000

Another round of Texas wildfires have sparked up over the last couple of weeks. It seems the continued drought and high winds have caused some devastating results. According to the Texas Forest Service Firefightters have responded to over 305 different wildfires in the last seven days. Among those fires nearly 700 homes have been destroyed in past 48 hours. (Update @10:30 am 9/8/11: Bastrop Fire has destroyed 1,400 homes) All but Three of the 254 Texas Counties are under burn bans due to extreme fire conditions.

Possum Kingdom Lake - Photo Credit: Texas Forest Service

According to the Texas State Governor's office, local and state firefighters have responded to more than 20,900 fires since the beginning of wildfire season. Those fires have destroyed more than 1,000 homes and burned more than 3.6 million acres.

Cathedral Rock Fire - Photo Credit: Texas Forest Service

Now I understand that Bastrop State Park, 30 miles southeast of Austin, has been hit by fire. Most of the park has burned...only 100 of the 6,000 acres in park remain untouched. Bastrop State Park is home to an isolated forest of Lobolly pines, often called the Lost Pines. It is unsure at this time weather or not the forest will survive the damage.

Downtown Austin with Bastrop Fire in the background - Photo Credit: Unkown

Nearby Buescher State Park is closed but remains unharmed as of this date. Other Texas State Parks in the area including Palmetto State Park and Monument Hill State Historic Site remain open at this time.

Texas Governor Rick Perry put out this statement:

The wildfire situation in Texas is severe and all necessary state resources are being made available to protect lives and property. I urge Texans to take extreme caution as we continue to see the devastating effects of sweeping wildfires impacting both rural and urban areas of the state. Our thoughts and prayers are with the first responders who are working around the clock to keep Texans out of harm's way, and with the families across our state who are threatened by these wildfires."

Air drop on the Cathedral Rock Fire - Photo Credit: Texas Forest Service

I have lived in Texas my entire life...I have never seen, nor heard of fires being this bad. We are in desperate need of rain. Our lakes and reservoirs are at critical lows. To the point that it is effecting municipal water supply. Texas is a large state and we need even larger rains to quench the earth and refill our lakes. Please pray for rain in Texas.

The mighty Brazos River - Dry under extreme drought - Photo Credit: Earl Nottingham

Texas Burn Ban Map

Related Resources:
Gov. Perry: All Necessary State Resources Made Available to Protect Lives, Property
www.inciweb.org/
State park, historical buildings hit hard by Bastrop fire

Related Posts:
Wildfire Hiking Safety - What to do if Caught Outdoors in a Wildfire

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Sale on Nemo Tents at the Clymb

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 18:55:00 +0000

The Clymb is currently having a sale on Nemo Tents. I saw a Nemo tent in person for the first time recently in Glacier. I must admit I am impressed with the quality. Wish I had the extra money to spend on one at the Clymb today. Looks like these tents are selling for up to 60% off with a little less then two days left on the sale. If your interested you should go check it out for yourself.

I wrote a review on the Clymb after purchasing a couple of products and returning one. Click here if you want to see what I discovered.

Also if you are not a Clymb Member yet do me a favor and sign up through this link. If you do I get $10 credit the first time you buy something.

http://theclymb.com/invite-from/StevenSmith2

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Brown Pass and Hole in the Wall - Glacier National Park

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:53:00 +0000

This is day three of our five day backpack through Glacier National Park. Click here to read day two, Or here to read day one.

We have lost the trail, it has started to rain, and the mosquitos are the worst I have ever seen. My wife and I whip out our rain gear, but not for protection from the rain....to deter the relentless mosquitos. We are standing out in the wide open, hoping the rain will drive them away. But It doesn't. I give my head net to my wife and search franticly for the other one. But with my hands busy digging in my pack I have nothing to defend my head. I can literally see the mosquitos biting my face. And without the second head net...my only escape is to hike faster then they can fly. But thats the other problem...we don’t know where the trail is.

Bowman Creek

When we left Lake Francis that morning I had no idea the kind of day we were in for. I had expected to view spectacular scenery...and Glacier National Park did not disappoint. But that scenery would come at a price. Our third day in the Backcountry would be our hardest day yet. The most elevation change and the longest hike of our entire trip.

But we weren't worried, it was still early and Thunderbird pond had us mesmerized. In Texas the word pond conjures a much different mental image. I half expected a small, stagnant, mirky watering tank. But Thunderbird pond is the complete opposite. I turn to our guide and say “this is a pond?” He just smiles and asks if he can take our picture.

Thunderbird Pond and Thunderbird Falls

My wife and I at Thunderbird Pond

The day has warmed up fast and the water is so inviting both my wife and I think about swimming. But there is no time...we have a long way to go today. We push on ahead and begin to switchback up toward 6255 foot Brown Pass. And as we climb higher we catch glimpses of Dixon and Thunderbird Glacier feeding two gigantic waterfalls. One thing is for sure...the further we hike...the prettier it gets. But even these begin to disappear behind the ridge as we near the top of the pass and the Continental Divide.

My wife thinks about jumping in Thunderbird Pond.

Looking back at Dixon Glacier

Heading up toward Brown Pass

At the top our Guide gives us a choice. We have made good time, so if we would like we can take a mile or two detour toward Hole in the Wall. I look to my wife. For the last couple of days she has been nursing two heel blisters which only seem to be getting worse. Every step brings pain and we have only come about a third of our journey today.

Our guide tells us there is some spectacular views to be seen and we may never get the chance again. “Its up to you” he says “but to me thats the reason you're here.” He’s right and my wife knows it. Her heels may hurt but this could be a once in a lifetime opportunity.

We head off to the northwest across a large snow field. My wife’s blisters are slowing us down and our guide is having trouble keeping our pace. He knows better than all of us the time constraints we are in so he stops and offers to stay with our packs. At first I resist...I’m not used to hiking with a guide and I feel bad leaving him there to babysit. But he assures us it is his job and that he has seen it all before. So we head off toward Hole in the Wall grateful to be hiking without the packs.

A snow field along the Boulder Pass Trail

My wife's heel blister. Taken 5 days after this trip

Before long Bowman lake comes into view down at the bottom of the valley. Bowman lake is were we will camp tonight. It looks so far away and is almost discouraging. I know its not as far as it looks...but my wife sees something different...giant blisters. Its going to be a long way down. But right now the task at hand is getting a glimpse of Hole in the Wall. We continue around the ridge until the spectacular waterfalls come into view. Part of me wishes we were headed this way over Boulder Pass. But the Hole In The Wall campsite is closed under lingering snow. It's one of the reasons why we are headed to Bowman instead. We sit on the edge of the trail and gaze down into the deep ravine before us. At least a dozen waterfalls our in our immediate view including Hole In The Wall which is a waterfall that originates out of a small hole in the cliff face.

Looking down Bowman valley to Bowman Lake. Bowman lake is were we camped that night

Boulder Pass trail with Bowman lake in the distance

Boulder Pass Trail just before we round the corner to Hole in the Wall

Approaching Hole in the Wall. You can barely see it in this photo.

Hole in the Wall is on the Left.

A better angle further down the trail. Hole in the Wall is on the left

It is so pretty here I think I could sit here all day. But my body is telling me its time to keep moving. It’s nearing lunch time and all our food is in our packs back with our guide. Plus a storm is coming in over Boulder Pass so we decide it was time to head back. We are glad we came. The extra miles were well worth the view. We rejoin our Guide and eat another round of cheese, crackers, and beef jerky before heading back to Brown Pass.

Looking down on Brown Pass. The large snow field in the middle of the pass is the remains of a large avalanche.

At the Bowman Lake Trail junction we lose the trail altogether. Sometime last winter a huge avalanche came through the area completely demolishing the trail and the Brown Pass Campsite. A huge pile of snow, downed trees, and other debris covers this part of the trail. We at least know which direction to head but are forced to zig zag through a relentless maze of downed trees. Unsure which way to go we take a higher path and realize quickly that the trail is down below the ridge. We stop to assess our position when it starts to rain. We drop the packs under a couple of large trees as our guide heads off down the ridge to see if he can find a way back to the trail. My wife and I stay with the packs and before long the mosquitos find us. Or should I say attack us.

Hiking across avalanche debris toward were we think the trail is.

Still negotiating the Avalanche Field. This is the last picture I took of the Avalanche debris. It became too difficult after this to worry about taking pictures.

I have never seen mosquitos quite this bad. I look over at the back of my wife’s shirt which is covered in literally hundreds of mosquitos. With one swat I easily kill 2-3 dozen. I never find the other head net and I can’t hike to get away. I have no choice but to stand in the rain swatting at mosquitos till our guide gets back. When he finally rejoins us the mosquitos find him as well. Fresh meat. Later he tells us that was the worst he had ever seen. I don’t know why but for some reason it makes me feel better.

My shoulder covered in Mosquito bites. I received these bites through my shirt.

in the mean time he has found the trail but its not going to be easy to get back to. We drop down below the steep ridge through some thick Huckleberry Bushes. the terrain is so steep we have to sit and slide down on our butts while gripping the Huckleberry Bushes to slow our decent. We are still dealing with the effects of the avalanche. Climbing up over and sometimes under countless downed trees. But then we see the demolished pit toilet of the Brown Pass backcountry campsite. With a little more looking we find a couple of tent pads and eventually the trail. A couple of hours have gone by and we have only moved about 1/8 mile. Its going to be a long day.

All the way down the ridge the mosquitos have followed us. But the good news is it has stopped raining. We stop to take off our rain gear which only invites the mosquitos to feast on the rest of our bodies. No matter...now that we have found the trail we have a chance of out-walking the mosquitos. “Let’s get moving” I say and before long we leave the mosquitos behind us.

Heading down Bowman Valley

A random waterfall along the Bowman Lake Trail

Some Bear Grass along the Bowman lake trail.

Bear Grass. Each flower is a tiny Lily.

All the way down the valley the trail is surrounded by Cow Parsnip as tall as my shoulders. The rain is coming and going and as it does it soaks the Cow Parsnip, which eventually soaks my pants, which eventually runs down my legs into my boots. Within minutes everyone’s boots are soaked. But there is nothing to do but continue.

Some tall Cow Parsnip along the Bowman lake Trail

Looking back up toward Hole in the Wall.

As we near the bottom of the valley Bowman Creek braids itself across the trail in multiple spots. The first couple of crossings have easy logs stretched across to help us stay dry. But before long we reach a section with no easy way to cross. Our guide asks if we want to ford the creek or hike up and see if we can find a log to cross. I ask him what he would rather do. He chooses to find a log and we follow him through thick brush up the side of the creek.

Bowman Creek

A short way up the creek he finds a rather thick log and starts out across it. But after a few steps he stops. The log has come to rest several feet above fast moving water and looks rather weak in the middle. Our guide isn’t a small guy and has a very heavy pack on (my guess would be close to 75 lbs, the dude was amazing).

He yells out to me “you guys don’t have to do this.”

I chuckle and respond “that log looks weak in the middle.”

“I agree” he says “you want to go back and just ford the creek”

“Sounds like a plan, besides, my boots are already soaked.”

We decide to take off our boots, however, and put on sandals. My boots might be wet but I see no point in dunking them in the creek, I do want them to dry out eventually. We cross the creek and sit down to put our boots back on. We have to repeat this several times as we cross different sections of Bowman creek. On our last crossing our guide and my wife cross on a narrow log. I follow them across but somehow manage to slip into fast moving water up to my thighs. I have my expensive DSLR around my neck which nearly meets its demise in the water. But I managed to gain my balance before it falls in. Now my boots are beyond soaked...I abandon the log and finish crossing through the creek.

Fording Bowman Creek

I look at our Guide and my wife. We are all tired, soaked and ready for camp. My wife is still dealing with bad blisters and wet boots have only made it worse. Camp seems like it will never come. But we keep on trekking and before long we arrive at Upper Bowman campsite.

A fog comes in as we cross Bowman Creek for the last time.

Bowman Lake Trail

It is nearly dark when the rain lets up. Our guide and I decide to set up the tents before it starts again. I rush to get everything set up and then sit down on a log in utter exhaustion. Our guide looks over at me and asks:

“You pooped?”

“yes”

“me too” he replies “It was a challenging day.”

“Yes” I say with a deep breath “but I somewhat enjoyed it.”

“yeah sometimes I like a good challenge.”

I think...me too...Thankful tomorrow will be an easy day.

The Hike:
Starting Location: Francis Lake
Ending Location: Upper Bowman Lake
Starting Elevation: 5250 feet
Ending Elevation: 4250 feet
Highest Elevation: 6255 feet
Elevation Change: Up 1000 feet, Down 2000 feet

Day three of our five day backpack through Glacier National Park

Our hike color coded by day. Blue = Day One, Red = Day Two, Yellow = Day Three, Green = Day Four and Five

Day three elevation profile

Related Posts:
Lake Francis - Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park Backpack - Goat Haunt to Waterton River Campsite and Rainbow Falls
Glacier National Park - A highlight video

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Week in Review - September 4th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Here are some blogs that caught my eye this week. Enjoy.

Sonja just got back from Brazil...here are some highlights from her trip.

Sonja's view from Cabeca Do Indio

A fellow West Texas blogger is back after a long hiatus and has a post about Skyline drive in Davis Mountains State Park. Click here to read my report about Fire Damage on Skyline Drive.

You have probably read about the lady who punched the bear in the nose...but if not...then here it is.

Michael has an interesting interview with Alex Honnold and what its like to live out of a van.

Cole gives us a report from Sly Park aka Lake Jenkinson.

Cole's view in Sly Park

I shared day two of our five day backpack through Glacier National Park. Day three will be out Tuesday so be sure and check back.

Rachel was just across the border in Waterton Lakes NP, Alberta climbing Vimy Peak

This wasn't from this week but caught my eye none the less...Branden has a great piece on why Outdoor Bloggers need to compete with Big Outdoor Media. This is my Recommended Read.

Michael has a review on a tiny little GSI salt and pepper shaker.

I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

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MYOG - Free Waterproof High Quality Topo Map Using USGS Quads.

noreply@blogger.com (Steven) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:00:00 +0000

I love my GPS...but recognize its limitations. Most experts will tell you relying on a GPS as your only means of navigation, can be dangerous. Even if GPS limitations could be overcome...sometimes it just feels good to have a paper map in your hands.

Read below to see how you can make this free, waterproof, high detail, topo map

My favorite map supplier is Trails Illustrated. Their maps are detailed, waterproof, and tear resistant. At $10-12 a map, however, it can get expensive fast, and they are limited to a handful of popular parks and destinations. Some time ago I began looking for an alternative, inexpensive, map solution. That’s when I found Free Downloadable USGS quads.

The USGS has hundreds of thousand high quality scans of their most detailed 7.5 minute quads available to download on their website (Click here to go straight to the map locator). Locating the map you need is as easy as browsing through Google maps. But they are still in digital (PDF) format.

USGS Map Locator Interface. Browse the interface just like google maps. When you find the lacation you want click "MARK POINTS" to the right of the map and drop a "marker" on your desired location. Click on the red marker to see a info bubble with the available maps you can download. I prefer the design of older maps but feel free to download which ever map you like.

To overcome this I first began printing them off my home computer. The only problem was USGS quads are huge, about 22 by 27 inches. When you shrink that down to a 8.5x11 sheet of paper it loses all the detail. To solve this I started printing the large files on our color copier at the office. But I still ran into a size problem. The largest sheet I can print is 11x17, which will only fit about a third of a USGS quad without losing detail. I started thinking and came up with a solution for a detailed, waterproof, tear resistant, foldable map that was also free...or at least mostly free.

Cropping the map in Photoshop. Notice the rulers at the top and left hand side. These will allow you to crop to your desired paper size.

In order to get the most map I could I started cropping out 11x17 inch map sections using a software program like Photoshop Elements. I then printed each 11x17 inch section individually, making sure they overlapped each other a little.

11x17 inch printouts of a USGS quad

I then cut each 11x17 inch sheet in to four equal strips about 4.25 inches wide. I laid all the pieces out on the table, in order, like a puzzle. My plan was to eventually laminate the map to get the waterproof, and tear resistant qualities I was looking for. I made sure to leave about a quarter of an inch between each piece and taped the pieces together with clear scotch tape. The quarter inch gap is important as it allows easy folding once the map is laminated.

Cut each 11x17 inch section in to four equal strips.

Tape the pieces together leaving about 1/4 inch between each piece.

Several print shops provide laminating services for a small fee. But I was looking for free, so I went up to church which has a large laminating machine in their supply room. I warmed up the Laminator and fed the delicately taped map into the machine Once it was done, I trimmed the excess laminate and folded the map on the precut seems.

Feed the taped map through a laminator.

It comes out the other side durable, and waterproof.

Total cost to me. $0.00 for a high quality, detailed, waterproof, tear-resistant Map.

Laminated USGS Quad

You can do this too:

Don’t have access to a large color copier? You can still use your printer at home...you just have to crop out 8.5x11 inch sections rather then the larger 11x17 inch size. Use the ruler feature inside Photoshop and similar programs to make sure your cropping the map to right size. You may end up with more sheets but the results should be about the same.

Don’t have access to a Laminator? You can always take it to your local print shop but it won’t be free. Instead call your local church or school office and ask if they would allow use of their machines.

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