Outdoor Trail Adventures

Mount Kit Carson

This morning I went to one of my favorite hiking areas, Mount Kit Carson. I had originally planned to go hiking with a friend in the Kaniksu National Forest, however, it was cancelled for medical reasons. So at the last minute I decided to go to Mount Kit Carson. Now that Fall has arrived inContinue reading “Mount Kit Carson”

Packing Checklist – Day Hiking

The Essentials:Day packTrekking poles (optional, but recommended)MapCompassGPSKnifeWater bottle and/or bladderWater filter or purifierFirst-aid kitLighterHeadlampToilet paper or portable bidet Food:Lunch and an extra day’s supply of foodTrail snacks Additional:IDCell phoneCredit card and/or cashSunscreen and SPF lip balmSunglassesSun hatHand sanitizerBug repellent (avoid repellent that has DEET listed as an ingredient, as it can ruin gear)

Packing Checklist – Backpacking

The Essentials:The 10 essentialsMulti-day backpacking pack (recommended 50L or 65L)TentSleeping bagSleeping padPillowTrekking poles (optional, but recommended)KnifeFirst-aid kitHeadlampBear canister (if camping around bears) Kitchen:Stove and fuelCooking potEating utensilLighterWater bottle and/or bladderWater filter or purifier Food:Breakfast, lunch and dinner for the duration of your tripTrail snacksExtra day’s supply of food Toiletries:Sunscreen and SPF lip balmHand sanitizerBug repellentContinue reading “Packing Checklist – Backpacking”

The 10 Essential Systems

Navigation – Topographic map, compass, GPS Sun Protection – Sunglasses and/or hat, sunscreen Insulation – Extra layers for an unplanned bivouac (a temporary camp without tents or covers) Illumination – Headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries First-aid Kit – Include gauze, latex gloves, antiseptic, scissors, and a splint at minimum. Fire Starter – Butane lighterContinue reading “The 10 Essential Systems”

Sherman Peak / Colville National Forest

I took my very first solo hike! For this hike, I went to the Colville National Forest around Sherman Peak. It was about a 2-hour drive from where I live and was a beautiful drive, especially when crossing the Columbia River and near Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake. I parked at the Kettle Crest Trailhead, whichContinue reading “Sherman Peak / Colville National Forest”

Horseshoe Lake

I went to Horseshoe Lake with my friend, Rocki, for a morning of kayaking. It was our first trip of the season and it did not disappoint! From the moment we launched our kayaks into the water, we were met with a maze of lily pads which was only in the center of the lake.Continue reading “Horseshoe Lake”

Olympic National Forest

Wow, what a trip this was! I went on a 4 day backpacking trip through the Olympic National Forest, a total of 32 miles with my brother, cousin, and cousin’s husband; Josh, Paullena, and Kyle. We hiked along the Quinault River on East Fork Quinault River trail. Paullena, and I started planning this trip inContinue reading “Olympic National Forest”

Dusty Lake and Ancient Lake

For this hike, I went to Dusty Lake and Ancient Lake near Quincy, WA with my cousin, Paullena. It was about a 2 1/2 hour drive from where we live. It was a nice drive, though a little smelly as we drove through Moses Lake, WA. Quincy, WA is a beautiful little farm town. WeContinue reading “Dusty Lake and Ancient Lake”

Mount Spokane and Mount Kit Carson

I went on an overnight trip with my cousin, Paullena, to Mount Spokane and Mount Kit Carson. It was a fantastic little weekend getaway that was close to home. My main goal was to make sure everything was right with my new sleep system. I decided to go the hammock route. My sleep system consistsContinue reading “Mount Spokane and Mount Kit Carson”

Trekking Poles

Let’s talk trekking poles. A few people have asked me about their importance. • They reduce the impact on your legs, knees, ankles, and feet, especially when going downhill.•. They promote good blood circulation and help keep your hands, fingers, and wrists from swelling.• They incorporate your arms and shoulders, allowing you to propel yourselfContinue reading “Trekking Poles”