Outdoor Recreation

The Benefits of Solo Backcountry Camping

outdoors — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 12:06:28 +0000

Backcountry camping is within itself a way to experience nature and its beauty in the raw, no matter what location you choose. Searching for the perfect camping spot is really part of the adventure of getting there–by making ones way though woods, water logged trails and rocky cliffs, all the while observing the natural elements that are untouched by man.

Choosing to go backcounty camping alone is a thrilling experience that brings with it a sense of personal growth and inner achievement, not to mention a whole new meaning of the term flying solo. Learning self reliance is key to successfully making it through a backcountry camping experience.

There is no need to ask questions or concur with another about where to stay or set up camp, it is simply all about choosing a location and enjoying camping activities such as fishing, hunting and wildlife observation for a desired length of time.

Finding a location that is off the beaten path is what backcountry camping is all about. A grassy knoll near a riverbed or a small cliff overlooking a freshwater lake–each location will allow you to observe nature in a quiet, uninterrupted setting.

It is true that things appear and sound different when camping alone. Your mind has time to focus on and capture the flames and crackling of the campfire and you notice how wildlife dances around you when you have no one else there to distract or interrupt your train of thought. You spend more time being one with nature as opposed to participating in group activities with others, instead you hike the area, finding solace in feathered friends, four legged animals and the natural habitat of marine life.

Backcountry camping allows the sportsman to be one with nature and often times replenishes the soul to be able to gain a sense of self once again.

There are a lot of things the hidden trails and undiscovered territories tucked away in the backcountry of the United States can tell us–not only more about animals and living off of the land but more about ourselves as well.

Short Trips on the Appalachian Trail

outdoors — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 21:26:02 +0000

The Appalachian Trail can be an amazing hiking experience, though to understand the sheer distance it spans can make your head spin.

The best way to explore the Appalachian Trail may be to take a series of short hikes, exploring certain areas one at a time. A spur of the moment hike, “to see what it is like,â€ is possible during a road trip along the highways that run parallel to the Trail. Many states will show where the trail intersects with a highway. In addition, some have erected crossing signs that can range from 24â€ ovals in Connecticut, or larger signs in Pennsylvania. Hiking clubs will often erect signs on secondary and less traveled roads.

While spur of the moment hikes can be fun during a long road trip, some are no comfortable exploring an unfamiliar trail. Planning for a day can bring greater discovery of what the trail has to offer. With in the 2,000 mile trail, there are approximately 33 hiking clubs that share responsibility for maintaining it. Contacting the local club for where you live or will be visiting, you can receive a guide book with specific information on that portion of the trail.

In researching for this post, I discovered the many opportunities available on the trail and will, in coming days, provide a deeper look into the Appalachian Trail, with a first focus on shorter day trips.

Fall Hiking at Glen Onoko Falls

outdoors — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 12:57:32 +0000

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in the Northeast. As the weather become cooler and the leaves begin to change colors the mountains, becoming an artists palette with their breath taking colors. While seeing this all as you drive by does not compare to the experience of hiking a trail surrounded by this incredible scenery.

Northeastern Pennsylvania offers the hidden beauty of Glen Onoko Falls. Found in the small town of Jim Thorpe, with a unique history of its own, the falls offer breathtaking views, among towering natural falls. Glen Onoko Falls is a rugged hike and those with little experience should use caution. An important point, when considering the trip to Glen Onoko Falls is the falls are part of a natural area with hazards formed from nature including, moss covered rocks, steep terrain and fast moving water.

The falls begin with a mountain spring, boasting cool water even through the summer. From the mountain the water forms streams that travel down the mountain and over several waterfalls, some as high as 75 feet, only inches from the hiking trails. All this is found deep in the forest, and is a wonderful start to an endless supply of fall adventures.

Welcome To Outdoor Recreation!

outdoors — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 21:53:38 +0000

Outdoor activities and hiking can be very general and mean different things to different people.

The path is where we begin, no matter what our destination; there is a path to the beginning. This path will take you to different places in the United States and around the world, from the easiest trail to the most challenging mountain; add to these solo trips and family adventures and the list of places to go will never be depleted.

It is my hope through this blog to introduce you to a new adventure, whether you are a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a new hobby, stop by often for the latest information on a new destination and equipment.