December 30th, 2008 | by Pam | published in BWCAW, Nature, Quetico
Paddling in the Boundary Waters, I’ve taken for granted how easy it is to pass between lake and portage with the aid of well-marked maps and a compass. Nature’s job is reduced to providing the scenery.
In the early years Native guides helped trappers and Voyageurs, without a single waterproof MacKenzie among ‘em. But with all [...]
December 30th, 2008 | by Andy | published in Camping, Winter Sports
Organizing a group to go winter camping is a serious matter. Every camper *must* carry their own weight and have gear that’s up to snuff. But perhaps most importantly, you’ve gotta have the right chemistry as a group, or someone will get voted off the island.
So it’s no wonder that the ‘unofficial winter camping application’ [...]
December 17th, 2008 | by Andy | published in BWCAW
We were deeply saddened to hear that the man accused of starting the Ham Lake Fire, has reportedly committed suicide.
The May 2007 blaze burned 118 square miles and destroyed 150 buildings, but until yesterday, the tragic event had claimed no human lives. Our prayers go out on behalf of Mr. Posniak’s family and loved ones.
December 16th, 2008 | by Andy | published in Camping, Gear, Survival Skills
Nothing says “I care” more than bettering their odds against losing toes to frostbite or having to burn their clothes for warmth when firewood is short. So before they pack for that winter camping trip, stuff their stockings with these fine survival gift items recommended by Backpacker.
December 15th, 2008 | by Andy | published in Outdoor Living, Resources
You heard me right — here’s how to cut your own for one little five-spot, baby. Even better is the where: the lovely Superior National Forest.
Our family has done this several times, hiking into the woods with a camera and the Sven-Saw for our own Christmas tree. We’ll even make a weekend of it, staying [...]
December 12th, 2008 | by Andy | published in Camping, Winter Sports
We’ve got your excuse to cancel all your weekend holiday shopping errands: Pack up your pitons and head up north for the Sandstone Ice Festival.
Sandstone? What for, you ask? How’s about ice-climbing in the rock quarry, for starters? Add to that, clinics on skijoring and winter camping, and a presentation by climber Dean Einerson on [...]
December 11th, 2008 | by Andy | published in North Shore, Outdoor Living
When surfers emerge from the lake, icicles dangle from their suits. And out on the water they have to pump their shoulders every so often to break apart sheets of ice that form on their backs. If it’s too cold, ice chunks the size of Mini Coopers roll through the waves, making it impossible to [...]
December 3rd, 2008 | by Andy | published in Food, Outdoor Living
Listen up, Outdoorsmen: Ever discover that your only trailside snack option is one of the wife’s “specially formulated for women” granola bars? With flavors like Lemon Zest and Chai? A situation as disgusting as it is, embarrassing. Don’t settle with living that way – you’re your own man, so why not design your own energy [...]