The Complete Hiker's Guide to Tick Behavior, Biology, and Field-Tested Protection Field Intelligence Report | Trail & Terrain Outdoor Pursuits --- You're deep in the woods, moving well, when you brush a low branch along the trail's edge. You don't think much of it. But something small, no bigger than a poppy seed, has just grabbed hold of your pant leg and started its slow, deliberate crawl toward warm skin. You won't feel it. You won't know it's there. And by the time you do, it may have be...
A Quiet Season of Opportunity March sits in the quiet space between winter and spring—when campgrounds are empty, bugs are blissfully absent, and the weather can’t quite make up its mind. For campers willing to plan ahead, it’s one of the most rewarding times to be outdoors. Fewer crowds, fresh landscapes, and a slower pace make this month ideal for intentional, low-stress adventures. Expect the Unexpected The biggest challenge of March camping is variability. One weekend feels like spring, the ...
March Break is a great time to get kids outside and enjoy early spring adventures. Shorter days and unpredictable weather make preparation key. Here are ten quick tips to keep your family safe, warm, and having fun: Layer Up – Dress kids in moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Don’t forget hats, mittens, and extra socks. Warm Sleeping Gear – Use sleeping bags rated for cool temperatures and insulated pads to keep everyone cozy at night. Choose Kid-Friendly ...
Winter camping invites us into a quieter, more intimate version of the outdoors. Snow-covered landscapes reveal tracks, patterns, and moments we rarely notice in warmer months. But winter is also a demanding season for wildlife, and traveling thoughtfully helps keep both people and animals safe. Know Who’s Still Active Many animals reduce their activity during winter, but they don’t disappear. Deer, elk, foxes, and coyotes continue to forage, while smaller mammals often become more visible again...
With a friend in town it was time to explore some trails that offered great views, and a variety of trail options to choose from based on time/distance, and weather. Nestled just north of Boulder, the Corral Trailhead at Heil Valley Ranch is a standout gateway into one of the region’s most beloved trail networks for both hikers and mountain bikers. This trailhead delivers a quintessential Colorado hiking experience — a blend of shady ponderosa forests, open grassland meadows, rocky ridge lines, ...
Staying warm is one of the biggest challenges of cold-weather camping—but it doesn’t mean you have to haul a mountain of gear. With smart planning, layering, and efficient use of equipment, you can stay comfortable in winter or off-season conditions without overpacking. Layer Smartly Layering is the key to regulating body temperature. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin. Add an insulating mid-layer, such as fleece or down, and finish with a waterproof, windproof ...
Winter camping has a way of slowing everything down. Quiet trails, long nights, and snow-muted landscapes invite a more intentional pace. For many campers, the appeal isn’t about pushing limits—it’s about simplicity and solitude. But winter doesn’t forgive autopilot. Most mistakes happen when we bring three-season habits into a season that plays by different rules. Thinking Cold Is Just “Cooler” Cold isn’t just a lower number on the thermometer—it’s a constant presence that affects energy, decis...
A Slower Season, A Different Approach Off-season camping offers quieter campsites, lower costs, and a slower pace—but it also asks us to travel a little differently. Many of the challenges campers face outside peak season come from treating fall or winter trips like summer outings. With a few thoughtful adjustments and some advance planning, these common missteps are easy to avoid. Be Prepared for Changing Weather One of the most frequent mistakes is underestimating the weather. Off-season condi...
Winter driving is part of the off-season reality for many campers, RVers, and outdoor travelers—whether you’re heading toward a quiet campground, a snowy trailhead, or simply making your way home. Cold temperatures, ice, and limited visibility ask a little more of us behind the wheel. With the right preparation and steady habits, winter travel can feel more confident, predictable, and even rewarding. Start with your vehicle—your foundation for the journey. Proper tires are essential. Winter or a...
When camping season slows down, it’s tempting to store your gear and forget about it until spring. But the off-season is actually the perfect time to take care of your equipment—and make smart upgrades that will improve your next trip. A little attention now can extend the life of your gear, save money, and help you start the next camping season fully prepared. Start with cleaning and maintenance. Tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks should always be cleaned before long-term storage. Dirt, sweat,...
The Complete Hiker's Guide to Tick Behavior, Biology, and Field-Tested Protection Field Intelligence Report | Trail & Terrain Outdoor Pursuits --- You're deep in the woods, moving well, when you brush a low branch along the trail's edge. You don't think much of it. But something small, no bigger than a poppy seed, has just grabbed hold of your pant leg and started its slow, deliberate crawl toward warm skin. You won't feel it. You won't know it's there. And by the time you do, it may have be...
A Quiet Season of Opportunity March sits in the quiet space between winter and spring—when campgrounds are empty, bugs are blissfully absent, and the weather can’t quite make up its mind. For campers willing to plan ahead, it’s one of the most rewarding times to be outdoors. Fewer crowds, fresh landscapes, and a slower pace make this month ideal for intentional, low-stress adventures. Expect the Unexpected The biggest challenge of March camping is variability. One weekend feels like spring, the ...
March Break is a great time to get kids outside and enjoy early spring adventures. Shorter days and unpredictable weather make preparation key. Here are ten quick tips to keep your family safe, warm, and having fun: Layer Up – Dress kids in moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Don’t forget hats, mittens, and extra socks. Warm Sleeping Gear – Use sleeping bags rated for cool temperatures and insulated pads to keep everyone cozy at night. Choose Kid-Friendly ...
Winter camping invites us into a quieter, more intimate version of the outdoors. Snow-covered landscapes reveal tracks, patterns, and moments we rarely notice in warmer months. But winter is also a demanding season for wildlife, and traveling thoughtfully helps keep both people and animals safe. Know Who’s Still Active Many animals reduce their activity during winter, but they don’t disappear. Deer, elk, foxes, and coyotes continue to forage, while smaller mammals often become more visible again...
With a friend in town it was time to explore some trails that offered great views, and a variety of trail options to choose from based on time/distance, and weather. Nestled just north of Boulder, the Corral Trailhead at Heil Valley Ranch is a standout gateway into one of the region’s most beloved trail networks for both hikers and mountain bikers. This trailhead delivers a quintessential Colorado hiking experience — a blend of shady ponderosa forests, open grassland meadows, rocky ridge lines, ...
