By: Nick Tortajada You are wonderful. You are so smart and witty. I love the way you laugh. Thanks for being you. Doesn’t that feel nice? Compliments are golden and are better in abundance. In keeping with this positivity, let’s talk about the perfect complement to a fall camping adventure: a delicious backcountry cocktail that…
Author & Photographer: Nick Tortajada Adaptability and preparedness are two of the most important factors to a successful and enjoyable backpacking experience. In the wilderness, you have control over yourself, your perspective, and your actions. Mother nature controls everything else, and sometimes, she may not be so agreeable with your adventure plans. Being flexible and…
When it comes to outdoor gear, everyone has a favorite. Whether it’s the unassuming loyal parts (like that trusty titanium spork) or big-ticket items (like that well-worn pack, but which can boast thousands of trail miles and dust from no less than six continents stitched in its seams). Here, we’re polling a few folks from…
Big ideas take big vision—and sometimes big mountains, too. Since 1989, Big City Mountaineers has envisioned a world where young people from all walks of life have access to, and enthusiasm for, the great outdoors. Their mission is to make this vision a reality—to provide free, fully-outfitted, and professionally-led backcountry trips for youth from disinvested…
Blueberry Crisp This recipe shines during foraging season, but you can use freeze-dried blueberries to enjoy it year-round. Makes 2 servings 1 Tbsp. melted butter 1 Tbsp. sugar ½ tsp. cinnamon ½ cup oats 1 cup blueberries (fresh or freeze-dried) 1 Tbsp. brown sugar 1 tsp. flour Pinch salt ¼ cup water At home: Preheat…
We were coming down the final stretch of a grueling two-day backpacking trip, debating whether we should knock off early. It was a situation I’ve been in before—weighing the effort to summit one last peak against tired legs, blistered feet, and a shorter route back to the trailhead. Only this time, it wasn’t a mountain…
“Difficulties are meant to rouse, not discourage. The human spirit is to grow strong by conflict.” “Climbing for a Dream-7 Summits” has been my personal project and journey since 2017 in where I have been in pursuit of becoming the 1st Female, Latina & Professional Boxer from Queens, New York City to successfully summit the…
So, we hear you are new to hiking! Hiking is one of the most rewarding activities. You don’t need to be a pro, nor do you have to spend a ton of money on gear. The best part of hiking is anyone can do it. The benefits of getting outdoors and exploring the world by…
I’m a goal-oriented lover of structure, at my best when working toward something. I love to hike and in an average year, I’ll summit ten to fifteen peaks, often revisiting local favorites. When spring of 2020 came around, I was off to a usual start having already hiked several peaks that year. As COVID-19 became…
To help you plan your visit, we’ve highlighted three backpacking loops that give you the Appalachian Trail, streamside and ridgeline campsites, killer views, and enough distance and elevation to satisfy your inner weekend warrior.