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Articles written by Bill SassaniAll 119 articles written by Bill Sassani Different Features of Personal Locator Beacons: A Description of PLB's and Three Units Category: Backpacking Gear Personal locator beacons are small units that can be helpful in a backcountry emergency. more... What to do When Encountering a Mountain Lion: Appearance, Defensive Techniques, and More Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) By taking some simple steps hikers can be proactive when encountering a mountain lion on the trail. more... 2009 Fall Outdoor Gear Sales: Reduced Prices on Equipment from REI, EMS, and Local Stores Category: Backpacking Gear Find bargains on camping, hiking, and other outdoor gear at nationally-known stores, and also the local gear shop. more... Tips for Viewing Fall Colors: Researching Color Hotspots, Camera Gear, and More Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Fall is a great time for hikers and campers to enjoy the changing colors of leaves. more... Defensive Techniques When Encountering Bears: What to Do When Spotting a Bear and Using Bear Spray Category: Wilderness Backpacking Knowing what to do when spotting a bear can be important for staying safe in the woods. more... Category: Wilderness Backpacking By taking some simple steps, backcountry hikers and campers can protect their food from bears. more... Category: Backpacking Gear There are several products on the market that allow hikers to have clean water without carrying a lot of weight. more... Staying Hydrated While HIking: Using Water Bottles, Hydration Systems, Purification, and More Category: Backpacking Gear Hikers need to drink water to stay hydrated while on the trail. Having the right gear and knowing how to get purified water can help. more... How to Use Trailhead Kiosks: Learning about Park Rules, the Environment, and Safety Information Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Trailhead kiosks are a common sight at the start of trails. Using these tools can help hikers learn about the place they want to visit. more... Deer Creek Canyon Park, CO USA: History, Facilities, and Hiking the Meadowlark Trail Category: Hiking & Trails This Jefferson County Open Space park rests along the Colorado Front Range, and has great views of the surrounding plains and foothills. more... Understanding Trail Signs: How Hikers and Backcountry Travelers can Utilize Signs Category: Hiking & Trails Trail signs help visitors by providing information on the area, warn travelers of safety concerns or environmentally sensitive areas, and finding one's way in the woods. more... National Trails Day, 2009: How to Get Involved With This Volunteer Opportunity Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) This nationwide event brings together outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy America's trails to perform service work and celebrate the outdoors. more... Category: Hiking & Trails This park located in the Colorado foothils near Evergreen has lots of hiking trails and opportunities for scenic views and wildlife. more... Spring, 2009 Outdoor Gear Sales: Discounts from REI, EMS, Sierra Tradinig Post, and Cabela's Category: Backpacking Gear Save money on outdoor gear this month at spring sales events. more... Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Earth Day is an opportunity for backpackers and hikers to do their part to help the outdoors and teach others. more... Using Tarps and Flies for Backcountry Camping: Alternative Shelters for Hiking and Backpacking Category: Backpacking Gear A tarp or fly is a lightweight and cheap option for a backcountry camp shelter. more... Category: Backpacking Gear Know what to look for when buying a tent and what to do when buying one in a store or online. more... Category: Backpacking Gear Finding the right kind of tent for the next backpacking or camping trip. more... Category: Backpacking Gear Take advantage of deep retailer discounts and find some great deals on hiking gear. more... Backpacking During Spring Break: How to Plan A Hiking Trip and Destination Ideas Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Spring Break offers a large block of time for students to get out backpacking, whether it is a self-organized trip or one with a college group. more... Valentine's Day Hiking and Camping Ideas: Day Hikes, Overnight Trips, Meals, and Gifts Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) With Valentine's Day approaching, consider spending with that special someone on the trail. more... Off Season Training For Hikers: Getting Fit, Researching New Hiking Areas, and Getting Prepared Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) The winter can be a time for hikers and backpackers to prepare for when the snow melts on the trails. more... Avalanche Safety for Hikers: Ideas for Research, Training, and Equipment for Winter Travelers Category: Winter/Remote Camping Avalanches can be a danger to winter hikers. With some training, preparation, and the right equipment, hikers can enjoy the winter safely. more... Category: Hiking & Trails Celebrate the New Year by going on a hike or backpacking trip. more... Category: Backpacking Gear Retailers offer deep discounts to consumers this holiday season. more... Inexpensive Outdoor Gifts for $20 and Under: Headlamps, Pocket Knives, Compasses, and Other Ideas Category: Backpacking Gear It's still possible to find a gift without breaking the bank. more... How to Stay Warm in A Sleeping Bag: Using Hot Water Bottles, Exercise, Sleeping Pads, and Layers Category: Wilderness Backpacking Ideas for staying warm through a cold night, including using a sleeping pad, hot water bottles, and more. more... Gas Friendly Adventures: How to Get Outdoors Without Spending Too Much Money on Fuel Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) When planning a hike or other outdoor adventure, consider using carpooling, public transportation, and other means to enjoy the outdoors. more... Using Tinder to Start a Campfire: How to Utilize Natural and Man-Made Tinder Materials Category: Wilderness Backpacking Take advantage of both natural and man-made tinder to start a campfire. more... Hiking During Hunting Season: How Hikers Can Stay Safe Category: Wilderness Backpacking Hunting season poses risks for hikers who want to enjoy the outdoors, but don't want to interfere with hunters enjoying their sport. more... Sun Protection For Hikers And Campers: How to Prevent UV Exposure While Outdoors Category: Wilderness Backpacking Ideas for preventing sunburn from ultraviolet radiation by utilizing sunscreen, clothing, sunglasses, and hiking techniques. more... First Aid Kits: For Personal, Medium-Sized, and Expedition Medical Needs Category: Backpacking Gear Bring along the appropriate sized first aid kit, whether it is for personal use, medium sized, or a large expedition kit. more... Mount Belford: Hiking from the Missouri Gulch Trailhead Category: Hiking & Trails Mount Belford offers a moderately challenging hike for those looking for a weekend dayhike in Colorado. more... Mount Shavano and Tabeguache: An Extended Hike in the Colorado Rockies Category: Hiking & Trails Mount Shavano and Mount Tabaguache are two Colorado Founteer that are an extended hiking opportunity for climbers. more... Mountain Biking in the Valle Vidal: Bicycle Adventures in Northern New Mexico Category: Mountain Biking Mountain bikers can enjoy this area known for its open meadows, vistas, and wildlife such as elk and black bear. more... The Museums of Cimarron: History of the Old West in Northeastern New Mexico Category: Historical Travel (general) History buffs traveling through Cimarron, NM can enjoy visiting these museums and historic sites. more... Cimarron Canyon State Park: Camping, Fly Fishing, and Hiking in Northern New Mexico Category: Camp Sites Located in Northern New Mexico between Eagle Nest and Cimarron, this state park offers outdoor opportunities for campers or those passing through. more... Philmont Second Season Programs: High Adventure Opportunities During the Fall and Winter Category: Walking Tours The largest high adventure base for the Boy Scouts of America offers backpacking, winter camping, and training courses outside of the traditional summer season. more... Philmont Scout Ranch: Backpacking Expeditions in Northern New Mexico Category: Walking Tours Philmont Scout Ranch offers participants backpacking trips filled with activities and opportunities to develop leadership skills. more... How and Where to Buy a Backpack: Tips for Making an Informed Hiking or Camping Gear Purchase Category: Backpacking Gear Advice for those looking to buy a new backpack, including pack space, types of packs, fitting advice, and other ideas. more... Polycarbonate Water Bottles: New Report Raises Concern of Bisphenol A Category: Backpacking Gear A new reprot from the U.S. government has raised concerns that products such as water bottles contain a toxic chemical. more... Volunteer Opportunities Outdoors: Ways to Give Back to the Environment Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Includes ideas on ways to get involved locally and on the national level to contribute to the protection of the environment. more... Colorado Lift Tickets Pricing: Prices for Five Resorts in Colorado Category: Skiing For those looking to ski in Colorado this spring, here are daily lift ticket prices at five resorts in Colorado. more... Snowbird Ski Resort: One of Utah's Best Known Winter Destinations Category: Skiing How to get there, lift tickets, ski runs, and other cool features. more... Ideas for Winter Camping: Tips for Keeping the Cold Out and Staying Protected from the Sun Category: Winter/Remote Camping Includes ideas on sun protection, using padding stay insulated from the ground, the use of chemical heat packs, and more. more... Avalanche Resources on the Web: Websites with Avalanche Forecasts, Training, and More Category: Skiing Finding information to stay safe in avalanche terrain on the internet. more... Winter Camping Basics: How to Stay Warm in the Backcountry Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Tips for staying warm and dry while winter camping. more... Outdoor Gear Bargains: Finding Deals and Returns for Outdoor Equipment After the Holidays Category: Backpacking Gear Companies that have discounts on equipment and tips for making returns on gear. more... Last Minute Gifts: Shopping for the Outdoor Enthusiast Category: Backpacking Gear Gift ideas for the holiday season that are affordable and creative. more... Clothing Layers for Staying Warm: Outdoor Oriented Base Layers, Middle Layers, and Outer Layers Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Includes ideas on different clothing options for staying warm, as well as how to keep hands and feet warm. more... The Ashley National Forest: Hiking, Camping, 4x4ing and More in Northeastern Utah Category: Adventure Travel Description of the Ashley National Forest, with links to the official website and local community. more... Longs Peak Keyhole Route: A Classic Colorado Fourteener in Rocky Mountain National Park Category: Mountain/Rock Climbing A quick guide to climbing the Keyhole Route on Longs Peak, with specific advice for summiting this high Colorado mountain. more... Climbing Ideas for Rainy Days: Tip for Rock Climbers Looking for Gear and Beta Online Category: Mountain/Rock Climbing Ideas for rock climbers who have the rainy-day blues. more... Cell Phones in the Backcountry: The pros and pittfalls of using cell phones outdoors. Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Discusses cell phone use in backcountry situations, with particular attention to emergency situations and impact on others, cell phones backcountry more... Using Campfires Wisely: Campfire Safety, Disposing of Ashes, and Alternatives to Fires. Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) This article provides advice for using campfires in established camprgrounds and remote areas. It also includes ideas for alternatives when fires are not permitted. more... Climbing a Colorado Fourteener: Advice for Climbing Colorado's Mountains Category: Mountain/Rock Climbing Want to climb one of Colorado's 54 Mountains over 14,000 feet? This article covers training, equipment, and other advice for reaching the summit. more... Wastach Mountain State Park: Close to Salt Lake City, Heber City, and Soldier's Hollow. Category: Adventure Travel A great state park in northern Utah that has something for everyone in the family. more... Arches National Park: Things to See and Do Category: Historical Travel (general) Information on Arches National Park, and including a link to the park's official website. more... Pharoah of Philadelphia: A Tour of the Egyptian Exhibit at the Franklin Institute Category: Historical Travel (general) After a 30-year absence, the Egytian exhibit features artifacts from the Pharoahs, including King Tutankamun. more... Antelope Island: A Piece of the Old West in the Great Salt Lake Category: Historical Travel (general) A description of the natural and historic opportunites on Antelope Island. Includes discriptions of the vistor center, beaches, wildlife, and the historic ranch house. more... Personal Locator Beacons and Their Use: What They Are, How to Use Them, and When to Use Them Category: Backpacking Gear Personal locator beacons have been in the news lately. Just what are these devices and what are they used for? more... Fall Gear Sales with Online Retailers: FInd Discounts from Mountain Gear, Backcountry.com, and REI Category: Backpacking Gear This fall there are plenty of discounted outdoor clothing and eqiupment to be found at online retailers. more... Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Hikers need to drink water to stay healthy while on the trail. By using some strategies, hikers can get the water they need throughout the day. more... Snowmass Mountain, CO USA: Getting to the Trailhead, Hiking the Approach, Safety, and More Category: Hiking & Trails Snowmass Mountain offers both beautiful views and a tough climb for hiker looking for a challenge. more... Mount Falcon Park, CO USA: Trails for Both the Experienced Hiker and for Families Category: Hiking & Trails Mounta Falcon Park is rich in history and natural beauty. Both the casual hiker and the more experienced will find trails that they can enjoy . more... Hiking in Black Bear Country: How to Identify a Bear, What to Do When Spotting a Bear, and More Category: Wilderness Backpacking Know what to do when encountering a bear in the woods. more... Different Water Purification Techniques: Using Filters, Iodine, and Boiling to Purify Drinking Water Category: Backpacking Gear Knowing how to purify water from a variety of techniques can help backcountry travelers obtain safe drinking water. more... Hiking in Rattlesnake Country: How to Identify Rattlers and What to Do When Encountering a Snake Category: Hiking & Trails With a little preparation and common sense, hikers can safely travel in areas that are prone to rattlesnakes. more... Hiking with Dogs on the Trail: What to Bring for Dogs, Dog Behavior, and Fun Ideas Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Dogs can make great hiking companions, or be a nuisance if not properly behaved. Knowing what to do can help ensure a positive outdoor experience with a pet. more... South Valley Park, Colorado, USA: Origins, Facilities, and Hiking the Coyote Song Trail Category: Hiking & Trails South Valley Park is a Jefferson County Open Space park in Colorado that has hiking trails and views of the mountains. more... U.S. National Get Outdoors Day, 2009: An Opportunity to Learn About the Outdoors and Public Lands Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) This annual event introduces outdoor recreation activities to underserved populations, and first-time users of U.S. public lands. more... Hiking Multi-Use Trails: Identifying a Multi-Use Trail, Regulations, and Tips for Hikers Category: Hiking & Trails Different kinds of outdoor enthusiasts use trails. Knowing how to coexist can help not only hikers, but all users to have a positive experience. more... Lair O' the Bear Park, CO USA: Fishing, Picnicking, and Hiking the Bruin Bluff Trail Category: Hiking & Trails This park has opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking for the whole family. more... Backpacking and Camping Tent Designs: Features, Weight, and Design of Tents Category: Backpacking Gear Knowing what the different features and designs of tents are can help hikers pick the right one. more... Hiking the Lookout Mountain Trail, CO USA: A Short Hike Near Golden, Colorado Category: Hiking & Trails Located on the Colorado Front Range, the Lookout Mountain Trail is a short hike that allows hikers access to other trails and points of interest. more... Hiking the Chimney Gulch Trail, CO USA: Hiking Near Golden, Colorado and Lookout Mountain Category: Hiking & Trails The Chimney Gulch Trail is a short and steep trail near Denver that allows hikers the opportunity for a quick workout with great views of the area. more... Ski Helmets and Safety: Functions, What to Look For, Who's Wearing One, and Protection Category: Skiing A helmet can provide protection to skiers and snowboarders, but it is just one part in staying safe on the slopes. more... Cheap Spring Break Hiking Ideas for Students: Using Local Trails, Parks, and Smart Planning Ideas Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Take advantage of local trail systems and parks, as well as smart planning, to get out hiking without spending a lot of money during Spring Break. more... Ski Resorts Near Denver, CO USA: Loveland Ski Area, Eldora Mountain Resort, Echo Mountain Park Category: Skiing Save time on the highway and gas in the tank when visiting these ski areas. more... Gloves for Backcountry Travelers: Using A System for Keeping the Hands Warm Category: Backpacking Gear Gloves can be used individually or combined as a system for keeping hands warm when it's cold out. more... Different Jackets for Staying Warm and Dry: Finding the Right Jacket and How to Buy One Category: Backpacking Gear Knowing the different kinds of jackets and how to purchase one is important when considering this important clothing layer. more... Category: Winter/Remote Camping Enjoy the outdoors in winter by covering up, wearing layers, and utilizing backcountry shelters. more... New Year's Hiking Resolutions: Set Goals and Find Motivation for Getting on the Trail Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Find ways to set hiking goals, such as using a calendar, finding a hiking partner, and more. more... Category: Backpacking Gear Shoppers can take advantage of discounts and bagains offered by retailers after Christmas. more... Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Membership in an outdoor non-profit or making donation in someone's name makes a great gift and helps others as well. more... Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Times may be difficult this season economically, but that doesn't mean it is possible to find thoughtful gifts that won't break the bank. more... Nine Mile Canyon, Eastern Utah, USA: Hiking, Historic Rock Artwork, and Desert Canyons Category: Hiking & Trails This canyon located in eastern Utah offers vistiors hikes into desert canyons, as well as beautiful petroglyphs. more... Buying Inexpensive Outdoor Gear: How to Find Deals on Outdoor Equipment Online and at Stores Category: Backpacking Gear Outdoor enthusiasts can find great deals on outdoor equipment and gear, even during the current econmic climate as well as the holiday season. more... Different Ways to Start a Campfire: Using Matches, Lighters, Magnesium, and Primitive Techniques Category: Wilderness Backpacking Lighting a campfire can mean using simple matches or creative primitive living skills to create heat and warmth. more... Fall Hiking and Camping: Autumn Colors, Hunting Safety, Changing Temperatures, and Weather Category: Wilderness Backpacking Fall is a time for camping and hiking to take advantage of autumn colors, while at the same time being aware of changing temperatures, fluctuating weather, and hunters. more... Digging a Cat Hole: How to Dispose of Human Waste in the Backcountry Category: Wilderness Backpacking Backcountry travelers can take care of their needs while at the same time maintaining hygiene and protecting the environment. more... Backpacking Camp Stoves: Isobutane, White Gas, and Multi-Fuel Stoves Category: Backpacking Gear There are different camp stoves on the market that run on different fuels, and have their advantages and disadvantages. more... Labor Day Camping and Backpacking Gear Deals: Finding Outdoor Equipment for Sale Online Category: Backpacking Gear Labor Day weekend is a chance for those looking for bargains to find equipment at significantly reduced prices. more... Taos, New Mexico: Art, History, Culture, and More in Nothern New Mexico Category: Budget Sightseeing The oldest town in the United States has plenty to see and do for those interested in Southwestern history, art, and more. more... Backpacking Hygiene: Staying Clean on Backpacking Trips Category: Wilderness Backpacking How to stay clean while hiking or backpacking, such as washing hands, bathing, dishes, and laundry. more... Cimarron, New Mexico: The Old West, Outdoor Adventure, Art, and More Category: Family Travel (general) This village in Northeastern New Mexico has something for all ages who love the outdoors, art, and Southwestern history. more... The Valle Vidal in Northern New Mexico: Outdoor Adventures in the Carson National Forest Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) The Valle Vidal is a beautiful area with lots of adventures for hikers, mountain bikers, hunters, horse enthusiasts, and campers. more... Philmont Special Treks: High Adventure Backpacking Expeditions in New Mexico Category: Walking Tours Philmont Scout Ranch offers opportunities for individuals to participate in programs that are challenging and rewarding. more... Uses for Old Water Bottles: Ways to Reuse Polycarbonate Water Bottles Category: Backpacking Gear Tips for reusing an old bottle instead of throwing it away. more... Polycarbonate-Free Water Bottles: Alternatives to Bottles with Bisphane A Category: Backpacking Gear Reports of bisphane A in water bottles are causing shoppers to look for alternatives. Below are are five brands that are free of polycarbonates. more... Preparing for Summer Camp: Five Things Parents Need to Know When Getting Children for Camp Category: Family Travel (general) Knowing how to get through the paperwork, packing the gear, and being able to say good-bye can help take the stress out of preparing for summer camp. more... Picking a Summer Camp: Finding an Appropriate Program for the Kids Category: Family Travel (general) Ideas on affordable summer camps, questions to ask when searching, and finding an accredited program. more... Brighton Ski Resort: Skiing in Big Cottonwood Canyon Category: Skiing How to get there, lift tickets, ski runs, and backcountry access. more... Dead Horse Point State Park: A Charming Park Between Canyonlands National Park and Moab, UT Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) How to get there, views, facilities, and more. more... Sundance Film Festival: Ideas for a Sundance Vacation Category: Budget Travel (general) How to get tickets, make travel plans, and what to do when not seeing films. more... Winter Driving in the Backcountry: Tips for those with Trucks and SUVs in Cold Areas Category: Adventure Travel Getting a vehicle ready, planning, tire chains, personal survival, and training for winter driving. more... Tips for Ski Vacations: Staying Healthy and Having Fun on the Slopes Category: Skiing Ideas for shopping for a ski trip, staying safe and warm, and having fun. more... Ski Slope Survival: Tips for a Ski Vacation Category: Skiing Staying warm, safety on the slopes, and having fun. more... Holiday Outdoor Gift Ideas: Tips for Those With Adventure on Their Shopping List Category: Backpacking Gear Description of outdoor gear, clothing, and more, along with prices and where to purchase these items on the web. more... Down vs. Synthetic Insulation: Are Down Feathers or Synthetic Fibers Better for Staying Warm? Category: Backpacking Gear The pros and cons of two commonly used insulating materials for outdoor products. more... Rocky Mountain National Park: Adventure in the Colorado Mountains Category: Adventure Travel Includes descriptions of activities to do in the park, with links to the offical park website, rock climbing information, and a local guide servivce. more... Golden Gate Canyon State Park: Hiking, Camping, Mountain Biking and more close to Denver. Category: Adventure Travel Visiting Golden Gate Canyon State Park, CO. How to get there, things to do, things to remember while visiting the park. more... Getting Ready for Ski Season: Finding Ski and Snowboard Deals and Organizing Gear Category: Skiing Can't wait for the ski season to begin? This article has ideas for those eager to hit the slopes even though the snow hasn't fallen yet. more... Mt. Bierstadt: A Great Colorado Fourtneer Category: Mountain/Rock Climbing How to climb Mt. Bierstadt via the Mt. Bierstadt Trail. more... Trekking Poles: What are They? Category: Backpacking Gear This article provides an overview of trekking poles and their use. more... Resting on Hikes: Knowing When and How to Take Breaks While Hiking Category: Backpacking, Hiking & Camping (general) Advice for all those hikers who need a breather out there on the trails. more... Find Adventure in Moab: Ideas for Visiting Moab, UT Category: Adventure Travel Find all kinds of adventures in this truely western town. more... Buying Climbing Gear: Five Essentials for New Rock Climbers Category: Mountain/Rock Climbing This article discusses five essential pieces of gear necessary those new to rock climbing outside of a gym, and includes shopping tips when purchasing equipment. more... Preparing for Summertime Adventure: Getting in Shape, Outdoor Equipment, and Training. Category: Adventure Travel Ideas for preparing for summer, such as organizing gear, physical fitness, and learning new skills. more...
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