Gorp

How to Find Hiking Trails Near Me

Are you itching to get out on a good, scenic hike, but not sure where to go?  No worries, we can help. Thanks to the world of the internet, avid hikers and state parks have made websites and apps detailing hiking trails in surrounding areas. These sites are helpful because they outline where to go, …

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How to Start Mountain Biking

mountain biking basics

Mountain biking evokes images of fit people tackling rugged terrain, while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.  It is true — mountain biking is a great way to get your workouts surrounded by nature.  Contrary to its name, mountain biking is done in every area imaginable, and even some areas that are totally flat and quite urban. …

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Kid-Friendly Fishing

teach a kid to fish

Fishing with children is an amazing way of spending time outdoors. If done correctly, introducing a kid to fishing helps you bond and have a wonderful time together.  Not to mention, you will begin to instill an appreciation for the outdoors in the child. However, if you are not an avid fisherman (or fisherwoman) yourself, …

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Biodegradable Camping Supplies

outdoors

If you’re going camping, chances are you are a nature lover, and being in the bush has a calming and relaxing effect.  Good for both physical and mental health. However, while enjoying the great outdoors, it is our responsibility to keep the environment clean, prevent harmful substances from entering our pristine surroundings, and employ “leave …

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Choosing Where to Hike

If it’s time to schedule a hike, you may be spoiled for choice where you live! Or you could live a distance away from the trails and need to come up with a solid plan for your trip. No matter which boat you’re in though, you need to choose which hike and trail is right …

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10 Essential Hiking Skills

hiking essentials

In the 1930’s, the Mountaineers, a Seattle-based hiking, climbing, and conservation organization, came up with a list of 10 essential items that no climber should be without in a hike. Hiking is not an activity that should be taken lightly. Any mistake or assumptions made could result in catastrophic or even dire consequences. Especially on …

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Urban Camping

urban metro campsite

Not everyone has the luxury of taking off to the backcountry every weekend. What do you do when you’re an avid camper and live in a city? Enter urban camping. Urban camping is simply camping within an urban or suburban environment. It can be as simple as setting up shop in a public park, unoccupied …

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Birding and Birdwatching: Basics and Gear

birding watching

Birds are amazing animals. They come in an astonishing variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Yet despite this diversity, all birds share some essential traits: they have two wings (some also have a tail), beaks for eating and nesting, feathers for insulation and flying, and hollow bones for lightness. There’s no better way to explore …

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