Summer is made for time on the trail. Whether we’re biking, hiking or riding, here are some of the summer essentials we can’t live without. Osprey Raven 10 Hydration Pack Before you take it to the trails, you need a good day pack. For a well-designed lightweight women’s specific hydration pack, I don’t think you […]
Hiking
Costa Rica Rainforest Hiking: An Experience in Sight, Sound and Touch
I should have anticipated rain, especially as we were hiking in a rainforest during the official rainy season in Costa Rica. Still, the sheer volume of water falling from the sky and roiling down the trail was daunting. “I think we should go back,” our younger son appealed, looking at me with worried eyes. A child […]
Paddling Pleasures: Getting Out In Minnesota
Minnesotans are an active bunch. Despite living in state known for ridiculously cold winters, these hardy folk spend their winters outdoors: skiing, skating, sledding and, of course, ice fishing. When summer comes, they stay outside, delighting in mostly moderate temperatures and waterborne activities. Last July we visited my brother and his family. They relocated to […]
Spring Escapes: Tropical Hiking On Maui, Snow-Filled Family Time at Alta
This was originally an Adventure Moms column for Women’s Adventure. When I wrote it in January 2013, we were enjoying our 24th consecutive day of temperatures under 24 degrees (yes, this is Fahrenheit and yes, I was counting and yes, the cold streak continued). While I love to write about skiing, it was a welcome […]
Our Family Tradition: The Grand Canyon In Autumn
As shocking as it may sound, our family’s favorite outdoor tradition has nothing, but nothing, to do with skiing. Instead, it has a lot to do with hiking and backpacking and spending time together, bonded and awed by the majesty of Grand Canyon National Park. Seven years ago we gave up on Thanksgiving Day. It’s […]