Platypus SoftBottle

My son and I recently tested out the Platypus SoftBottle on a day hike in the Arizona desert.

We loved its pack ability, light weight design and the fact that it is quiet while in motion even with water in it! Simply squeeze out the air before replacing the cap and you can sneak up on wild critters like a ninja.

The SoftBottle comes in multiple colors, for those of you who like to match your gear, in a .5 or 1 liter capacity.

On the down side I would like to see the thread design be a standard so filters like the Sawyer Mini can fit on it.

Specs:

• Platy’s most flexible water bottle.
• Lightweight and packable – 80% less weight and bulk than a hard bottle.
• Taste-free and BPA-free.
• Food-grade liner with rugged exterior is pliable and durable.

Oasis 2100 Hydration pack by Teton Sports

   I recently upgraded from my Camelback hydration pack to the Teton Sports Oasis 2100. I can have to say this is the best day pack that I have ever used. Plenty of storage space, a 3 liter hydration bladder, a safety whistle built into the chest buckle, a large internal compartment with a couple of quick compartments and 2 waist zippered pockets. It even has a built in rain cover, and clip for your keys.

This pack is not only stylish, but incredibly comfortable and has a well thought out design. The padding on the back is not only designed for comfort, but airflow.  A mesh pocket on the back is perfect for those wet socks or in my case the dog bowl allowing the contents to dry while you are on the move.

I would recommend this pack to anyone who hikes, walks, trail runs, or is just looking for an excellent pack for family outings. 

  

Specs

• Dimensions: 19.5" x 12" x 9.5"
• Shell: 600D Dobby / 210D Polyester
• Hydration Capacity: 101-Ounce (3 Liter) Large Mouth Bladder Included
• Capacity: 1200 Cubic Inches / 20 Liters
• Color: Blue | Black
• Pack Weight: 2.45 lbs (unfilled)
• Waist Belt: Expandable up to 60"

I'm Back!!

Its been a while since I posted on this blog, and a lot has changed. My family and I moved out to Arizona, to an area that has lots to explore. With a new addition to our family, Jack an Australian Cattle Dog, we are off on new adventures. I will also be posting gear reviews (Teton Explorer 4000 backpack, Sawyer Mini Water Filter and several others that I have recently received from manufacturers), book reviews and anything else that I find interesting.

Your input is always welcome. While I do not claim to be an expert, I will give you my input on gear, books, hikes etc that I have personally used, read, and completed.
I look forward to starting this new adventure, lets see what lies beyond the pavement.

Mountain Lion Stalks Woman and Her Son in OC

By Adolfo Flores

An aggressive mountain lion that had lurked in the brushy hills of southern Orange County was shot and killed after it began stalking a mother and her two children after they set off on a day hike.

The woman, and a growing number of fellow hikers and passing mountain bikers, were unable to scare off the cougar, which at one point came within yards of her son.

Authorities said the cougar was hiding in the brush near a grade school when they arrived and then marched directly toward them, seemingly unafraid. The animal was shot and killed by a game warden.

The popular hiking trail, shaded by towering oaks and head-high brush, was the site of a fatal mauling in 2004, an incident that forced animal control officers to seal off the wilderness park. The wilderness park, which sits on the edge of suburban Lake Forest, was posted with warning signs again in February, when a cougar was spotted along the trail.

Madison Smith, 35, of Mission Viejo said she heard rustling in the bushes as she hiked with her two children Sunday along a stretch of trail near Foothill Ranch Elementary School.

She said the animal, described later by game officials as a 1-year-old, 60-pound male lion, suddenly pounced behind them, racing up within several yards of her 5-year-old son.

Another hiker, Joe Fleischaker, said he unsuccessfully attempted to scare away the mountain lion by yelling, putting his arms up and holding a branch. Rangers tell visitors who encounter cougars to hold their ground, stretch out their arms to appear big, yell or wave their arms.

But when the cougar didn't retreat, Smith said, she told her son Jackson to come toward her.

"As soon as Jackson moves back to me, the lion moved into a crouching position, bares its teeth and is ready to pounce on him," Smith said.

CLICK HERE FOR THE REST OF THE ARTICLE

MS Hiking for a Cure

Reposted from Ms-MegaVenture 
I recently came across Megans webpage quite by accident. Megan is hiking from Mexico to Canada on the PCT to raise money to find a cure for MS. Check out her story and support her quest.

Hello! I am hiking 2,650 miles on the pacific crest trail in honor of my father who has lived with multiple sclerosis since the year 2000. The hike starts on April 24, 2014 in Campo, CA and ends in Manning Park, B.C. It will take about 4-5 months to complete. With my home and few necessities strapped to my back, this is bound to be a wild ride!

My father has always taught me to work hard, be adventurous, and love others. It is the simple love one shows to smile, laugh or have a small conversation with a perfectly good stranger.
Multiple Sclerosis affects people in the prime of their lives, between the ages of 20 and 50. Every hour someone is newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. More than 2.5 million people worldwide live with this unpredictable disease. The symptoms of MS are different for everyone - the only certainty is that it will affect yet another person every hour of every day.




Visit my other pages for more information: 
https://twitter.com/MS_Trek
https://www.facebook.com/PacificCrestTrekForMs
http://ms-megaventure.blogspot.com/p/mission.html

Taking care of your hiking feet

Taking care of your hiking feet- Guest Post

Reposted from HikingintheSmokys.com

Spring has finally arrived, and with it comes hiking season. As we prepare for our first hikes of the year, now's a good time to take some proactive steps to help prevent unwanted blisters. The following are a few tips, suggestions and strategies for taking care of your feet before and during a hike to help ensure that it isn’t ruined as a result of blisters

Toenails: Make sure you take the time to trim your toenails before a big hike, especially one that involves long descents. It’s best to clip your toenails as short as possible so that there’s no extra nail length. If need be, file the nails down until they’re flush with the skin. Sometimes I forget to do this and end up with a long nail digging into the flesh of a neighboring toe!

Socks: One way of preventing blisters is to wear proper socks. This means staying far away from 100% cotton socks which absorb sweat and can lead to blisters. It’s best to wear socks made from synthetics, or a blend of synthetics and cotton, which wicks moisture away and keeps your feet drier and cooler. Also, make sure you wear socks that fit properly. Socks that are too big can bunch together in boots and create friction areas that result in blisters.

Finally, I always keep an extra pair of socks in my backpack just in case the ones I’m wearing get wet.

Boots: Much has already been written on boots and walking shoes, including what type to wear, proper fit, etc. That discussion is beyond the scope of this article, but if you’re looking for an informative article on the subject I highly recommend this one. Also, my wife has had problems with blisters, and even lost a toenail while hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon several years ago. She’s since discovered that as a result of her narrow feet, she wasn't wearing boots that fit her properly. This article on Backpacker Mag offers solutions for people who have similar issues.

Boot laces: One way to help prevent blisters from forming on your heels, and toes from hitting the front of your boot, is to make sure your boots are properly laced, especially on descents.

Asics Gel Venture 4 Trail Runners

Trying out the Asics Venture 4 Trail Runners today, and putting my heavy boots away for day trips and thru-hikes. Usually I carry under 35lbs so I don't really need the added ankle support of a heavy boot. Follow up coming soon.

Do you use trail runners for your day and thru-hikes? What brand would you recommend?

REI Crestrail 51

This is a 51 liter internal frame pack weighing 3 lb. 15oz and in my opinion would be best used for 0-3 day hikes.

The Crestrail is super comfortable and offers a lot of storage(8 pockets) with tons of accessibility.

I love that it has quick stays for trekking poles and has pockets on the hip belt for your compass, flashlight, snacks or whatever you need to keep handy! The chest strap even has a built in safety whistle.

If you are in the market for a new pack definitely check this one out! Normally $160 on sale for $79

I am sure this pack will be with me for years of adventure.

• Sculpted FreeFlow back panel has multiple peaks and valleys to reduce contact areas and increase ventilation; soft foam conforms to your back for a stable fit
• ActivMotion® hipbelt pivots to follow the natural motion of your hips, helping keep the pack balanced and stable on your back when hiking on uneven terrain
• Hipbelt webbing tightens with a forward pull for easy adjustment; 2 zippered pockets provide handy access to snacks
• Tubular aluminum perimeter frame is lighter weight than HDPE/stay framesheets; it transfers weight to hips and stabilizes the pack, helping prevent unwanted side-to-side sway
• Top-loading main compartment also features a large zippered opening to the bottom for easy access
• Large front pocket with double-zipper access, stretch stash pocket and lightweight lash points provide storage and organization for often-used gear and clothing
• Side bottle-locking pockets secure bottles or other items, helping prevent them from falling out when bushwhacking or taking your pack off
• Quick Clip ice axe attachments are strategically positioned to avoid interference with pockets and access zippers
• Over-the-top and dual side compression straps pull the load close to your back, minimize bulk and provide external attachment points for gear
• Floating top lid extends, allowing the pack to handle large loads
• Ripstop nylon fabric resists abrasion and tears; durable water resistant finish repels moisture
• Water-repellent zippers help keep your contents dry and eliminate the need for fabric zipper flaps
• The REI Crestrail 48 pack features a hydration-ready design that allows your reservoir's drink tube to be routed over either shoulder (reservoir not included)

Serrano Creek Trail

Serrano Creek is a little trail in Lake Forest if you are looking for a get away from it all trail, this is not it. However if you work or live in the area its great for a lunch or after work quickie. Stretching from Rancho Parkway to Trabuco Rd its an easy hike/walk/bike, but sometimes that all you have time for. This trail is well maintained and family friendly.

Trip: 4.5 miles from Rancho to Trabuco or 9 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 44 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Time 3.0 hours round trip med pace
Stars: 2 out of 5
Required: Nothing
Dogs: Yes
Other: This trail is used by horses, mountain bikers, and walkers

Hiking boots or shoes?

An avid outdoors person all my life, I have always worn boots when it came to camping and exploring in the outdoors.

As a relatively new hiker the game changes a bit. With more miles, differing terrain, it seams that making the correct choice can really help keep the dogs from barking too much. I know ultimately its whats best for me given a number of factors, but I wanted to hear from some of the more experienced trail hounds.

What do you prefer and why? 

How to use Bear Spray!!!

Check out this how to use bear spray from Backpacker Magazine and don't forget to visit their site!

Easton CTR-70 Trekking Poles

I recently ordered some new trekking poles and got to take them on trail this weekend. I have to say I really enjoyed these pole from Easton. The CTR-70 are a lightweight and durable all-carbon construction. The three-tier design features Rock-Lock™ clamping system, extended EVA foam grip, and adjustable webbing.

The webbing was easily adjusted even with a glove on. The grip design was very comfortable. Even changing the length on the fly was a breeze with the locking mechanisms.

I am extremely excited to continue to use these poles. 

Normally selling for $120.00 I got mine on sale for $40.00 delivered. Great to find things on sale and that you can use a coupon for too!

Find the full specs on Easton's site

Why Trekking Poles you might ask? Check out REI's informative link.

How to stay safe in the wilderness

How to stay safe in the wilderness

1. Know the area you are going or at least do some homework. Talk to people who have been in there, or go with someone who knows the area.
2. Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. Use programs like Yodel that can send check in messages or emergency notification to your contact(s) allowing them to see where you are on a map and relay GPS coordinates to emergency crews. If you rely on cell phones etc make sure they are charged, and possibly have a pocket sized solar charger.
3. Bring the 10 Essentials minimum
4. Pay attention to your surroundings. Time of day (allow plenty of time.  Round trip, or in and back), weather changes, other people, animals and equipment.
5. Pay attention to what your body is telling you. How you are feeling: Tired, thirsty, sick, nervous. Maybe its time to rest or turn back.
6. Don’t take unnecessary risks and know the dangers: What animals might you encounter, and what should you do? What if there is an uncontrolled fire? Am I in a potential flash flood area and what should I do if it starts to rain?
7. Stick to the trails. Don't go off trail unless you are an experienced hiker and know the area.

Some of these may seem like common sense, but you would be surprised at how many times I read about lost hikers/runners and see how many of these were broken. It’s not usually the one mistake that gets you; it’s a series of small mistakes that leads to disaster.

My 15 Essentials For The Outdoors

Some of these are probably familiar to you others may not be. This is just what I carry; let me know how yours differs in the comment section. Always looking to improve and learn!

1. First aid kit- Gauze, rolled gauze, butterfly bandages, emergency blanket, tape etc. Also any prescription medications that you may need if that day hike becomes an oh my gosh I got lost or injured multi-day hike.
2. Filled water bottle- 1 liter a day is recommended for moderate climates. I also recommend carrying water tablets, a filter straw, Sawyer Filter, or a UV light etc. These are smaller, lighter, and maybe more economical than most water filtration devices.
3. Flashlight- I like a hands free option, don’t forget extra batteries and bulb.
4. Food- You’re burning calories and will get hungry, especially if you end up staying longer than expected. Pack food that takes no preparation and can be eaten on the go. Calories are important here, as they are energy.
5. Sunscreen and sun protection- A bad burn can lead not only to skin cancer but to dehydration. Keep some sun screen and a hat in your pack, and don’t forget to use them!
6. Bandanna- Better yet a Shemagh- See post on uses of a Shemagh
7. Whistle- I would couple this with a signal mirror
8. Map and Compass- Also know how to use alternate methods, a sundial etc.
9. Rain gear- A poncho can keep your dry, helping to prevent hypothermia, and it can also be used as an improvised shelter
10. Knife- More than just a Swiss army knife, I like a fixed blade. My go to is SOGs Seal Pup. The sheath even has a place for a Multi-tool…see next.
11. Multi-tool- You know, for doing MacGyver stuff
12. Matches or fire starters- I recommend both. Always have more than one way to start a fire. Fire can be used to sterilize water, cook food, keep you warm and signal for help with.
13. Tender- Dryer lint, cotton balls slathered with petroleum jelly, whatever you like, have some tender to get that fire going even in the worst conditions.
14. 550 Paracord- I lace my boots with paracord, as well as carrying some extra. Paracord can support 550 lbs, individual strands 50lbs. Great for lashing, fishing line, bow cord etc. Don’t leave home without it.
15. Gorilla Tape- Its Duct tape on steroids. There is nothing you can’t do from fixing a ripped tent, to taping up blistered feet. Wrap around an old gift card or wrap a few times around your trekking poles near the top. It will come in handy!

Bottom line: You are responsible for you, be prepared, and have fun!

Hike alone? Check out Yodel to help keep you safe.

Written by Adam Nutting at hikingthetrail.com make sure to check out his blog!

This past weekend I tried a new iPhone app called Yodel. Its a very simple little app that allows you to send information out to people to tell them where you are. I chose to set up 3 friends for my first trip. You can also have it check into Facebook or send out a message to email addresses.  I would typically do this all manually before I went on a hike but the one thing that Yodel provides that I did not have off hand was my coordinates.  Overall the app is very simple to use.  You schedule a notification that transmits your location to your contacts where you are what you are doing and when you will be back. You can set your activity by typing in a short description. Hit save and off you go. A timer keeps track of when you are scheduled to be done and when you reach your completion time a notification pops up that requires you to check in. The program runs in the background to help save battery life.There is also an SOS button to send an emergency message out to your contacts. One of the settings I did not activated  was when you push the SOS button it can  automatically dial 911.    The app is only 99 cents and can be purchased via the Apple app store.

The app was worth the money and worked great. There are only two things I might suggest. The first one is to be able to cancel your scheduled notifications rather than having it notify you your time is up and have to hit cancel before sending the message. The second feature I might suggest is adding integration with a twitter account.

Overall a great little app and it does exactly what they say it will. I would recommend it to anyone who has an iPhone who does any kind of outdoor adventure sports.

To find out more information about the app and the company  please visit their website .

How many of these 40 knots do you know?

Knots are important to know for many different reasons. From tying your shoes to securing something on the roof of your car, to saving your life or the life of a friend.

How many of 40 knots do you know?

Shemagh- Top 10 Uses for this Tactical Scarf

Worn in the Middle East for centuries this piece of cloth became popular in the United States after Special Ops groups realized the benefits that they offer. Pronounced shmog I recommend adding one of these to your day pack or bug out bag.

Sporting goods stores sell the glamorized "Buff" but in my opinion its no Shemagh!!!

Here are my top ten uses for the Shemagh, please comment below any uses you may have below!!!

1. Cooling wrap– Soak it before tying it around your head or placing it under your hat, coupled with convection it will actually make you cooler. Great way to prevent sunburn too.
2. Warm wrap – Wear it under a hat, or around your neck for extra warmth in cold weather.
3. As dust protection – Even if you don’t live in a very sand or dust storm prone region, it makes great protection from sawdust, grass clippings, or other flying particles.
4. As a backpack or shoulder sling – Tie the corners together, put over your head and across your chest, and carry anything in the middle pocket that is formed.
5. As a pillow – Wrap clothes, leaves etc inside to form a pillow to rest your head on if you forgot your camp pillow.
6. As a sling – Much better than a bandanna in my opinion due to its size for slinging broken arms/collar bones.
7. Trauma bandage – Its not a replacement, but in an emergency it can be tied around a gusher to help control bleeding.
8. Filter your water – It wont protect you from microbes but its a first line filter to get the chunky stuff out.
9. Towel– I used mine to wipe sweat off my face, or you can even use it as a towel for those river dips.
10. Bug Protection– I use mine during the day and at night to keep those pesky buzzing flies out of my ears! It does also help to keep mosquito's off your face and neck, although I still use products containing Deet.

Dana Point Cave Hike

Great time today hiking to the sea cave in Dana Point. Easy hike that does require walking over loose rocks and gravel and some maneuvering around large rocks. The entrance shown below is covered during high tide, so check the tide schedules and give yourself plenty of time to hike in, explore, and hike out. If not, you will be swimming.

This is a great hike for families with lots to see.

Distance: 1.5 miles round trip

Time: 40 min round trip not including explore time
Difficulty: Easy

The cave is a through cave 

Cave entrance

This guy was neon

Opening at the other end

Big Starfish

Great time at the tide pools