Merino Wool OUT... Dog Fur Fiber IN at Ibex.

In an announcement that is sure to rock the outdoor apparel world.  Ibex is ditching it's Merino wool line for a fabric they say is far superior.  The company, which has been an industry leader in outdoor wool garments, plans to hold a press conference today, April 1, to announce this new revolutionary fabric.  It's a strategic move, in an industry where more and more synthetic items seem to come onto the market every season.  

Through my contacts I was able to obtain an embargoed copy of the press release announcing the change over to DFF, which will make a debut at the Summer 2015 Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City.  So what exactly is DFF and why is Ibex dumping the foundation of their company to retool for this new fabric?  

DFF stands for Dog Fur Fiber and it has evidently been in research and development for some time at Ibex's Vermont headquarters.  The company has always made it clear they are a dog friendly work place... even encouraging employees to bring their K9 counterparts into the office; now realizing those dogs hold the key to one of the most reusable fabric sources on the planet, their fur.  

"One of the strengths of DFF is that it is very easy to clean," explains Dave Maslen, Animal Fiber Specialist.  "You can clean it with your own saliva or that of someone else.  It holds odor very well and the product will continue to give long after it is sheered from the dog."

Ibex, which in the past has partnered with New Zealand Merino sheep farmers, for the highest quality wool for its garments is now soliciting individuals to send in their dog's excess hair to be spun into these new garments.  There are three different styles the company plans to introduce with this inaugural line of DFF apparel.  

Shiloh – This blend of 75-percent German Shepard and 25-percent Husky is the perfect blend for high performance winter pieces. Huskies are great cold weather performing dogs and that performance is passed on to this technical fabric. The German Shepard helps to keep the user focused and alert during winter activity.

MiniShnauz – This is 100-percent Miniture Schnauzer fabric. Like the Miniature Schnauzer, this textured fabric is wiry and durable. These characteristics make it perfect for Ibex’s high performance alpine warmth layers keeping you ready to go at any time.

BS115 – Great for casual performance wear, BS115 is a blend of 50-percent Bull Dog and 50-percent Shih Tzu. The laziness of a Bull Dog and the elegance of a Shih Tzu combine perfectly to form the backbone fabric for Ibex’s Live collection. While still being able to perform when asked, this fabric is for clothing that you wear on a lazy Sunday or after a hard trail run.

Ibex's CEO, Ted Manning says this new fiber changes the game for outdoor garments.

"Ibex is proud to introduce such an innovative new fabric to the outdoor industry," said Manning.  "We have searched the globe for natural, sustainable fibers to make performance apparel and realized that the best fabric was right under our desks all along." 

You can watch Ibex's announcement LIVE on Periscope on Wednesday April 1 starting at noon (EST), 9:00am (PST).  

So what are your thoughts about this announcement and this new line of Ibex wool... er... dog fur?  Join the discussion!  

Outdoor Adventure Becoming Mainstream?

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For those of us who live the outdoor lifestyle - rock climbing, backpacking, kayaking, etc. - we're used to opening up our favorite niche' publications and reading about the latest happenings in our enthusiast communities.  When I open up an issue of BACKPACKER magazine... I fully expect to read about trends, great trips and great people doing none other than... backpacking.  The same goes for Climbing, Rock & Ice, Outside, Blue Ridge Outdoors and the list goes on.  

However, as Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson near the end of an 18-day enduro-fest up the never-been-climbed Dawn Wall on El Capitan we're seeing a new trending topic.  What Caldwell and Jorgeson are doing in Yosemite is historic.  A first ascent with 32 pitches of hard climbing up a 3,000 ft granite wall is awesome.  I'd expect to see those kinds of feats covered in the likes of outdoor-focused publications.  Still, I'm waking up in the morning and turning on the local and national news and seeing this epic climb covered by national media outlets.  It's not the type of sports these outlets are used to covering.  In fact, as I sit here writing this I'm watching a live stream of the final four pitches.  It's being streamed on climbing.com but you can also find the same stream on nbcnews.com with a banner reading "Breaking News - Watch Live".    

Brands like the New York Times, CBS News, CNN and others around the world are following Caldwell and Jorgeson's every move up the rock.  I'm seeing a trend toward outdoor adventure becoming more mainstream.  Not only in news media but in advertising.  SquareSpace doing a national TV ad with Alex Honnold, commercials for both Marmot and the North Face appearing during NFL games.  

I for one am excited to see the increased interest in these sports and brands.  What are your thoughts... is this just a one time thing or are we trending toward increased exposure to outdoor activities?  Do you think it's a good thing or is the growth in popularity going to hurt the wild places we all hold close to our hearts?  

As someone who writes for outdoor oriented magazines and has shot videos dealing with climbing my goal has always been to inspire as many people to get outside and explore their world as possible.  This is an exciting time for climbing and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere.  Maybe people will start to see how cool these activities are instead of asking - "Why in the world would anyone want to do fill in the blank?".    

Tech, nature, and real moments

I just wrapped up watching the replay of Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference keynote. Embedded throughout the tech giant's rollout of new operating systems and features is this thread of nature and all things outside.  Not only does OS X Yosemite just sound super cool but it's extremely exciting to hear things like hiking and climbing talked about in the mainstream as cool and popular activities to do.  It wasn't long ago that if you told someone your hobby was not showering, sleeping on the ground outside and walking in the woods that you might have someone referring you to a good homeless shelter or worse a doctor.  Now it seems through inspiring photography, videos, technology like apps and even Apple's techie developer's conference people are getting more and more exposure to the outdoors... and liking it.

Watching Craig Federighi, Apple's senior VP of software engineering, talk about hikes up Half Dome and sending emails about camping trips just puts a smile on my face.  It tells me that as much as technology changes, the essence of beauty doesn't lie with our devices but with these natural, real experiences we enjoy.  

Part of my job as a writer and producer is working on articles and projects about outdoor adventures and issues.  I'm blessed enough to write for magazines that focus on unplugging and having real experiences instead of artificial interaction.  Granted do these outdoor focused companies use technology... absolutely!  That being said, there's an interesting blend our lives take with a mixture of technology and adventure.  Our devices should help us have a better experience but should not be the experience altogether.  When I open up maps on my phone or search for a great local place to eat, with Yelp or Google, while on a road trip in California I should use that technology to enable me to have a more rich, real moment.  Pictures taken and posted should be as a means to inspire and share with others.  I think in an essence that's why Apple gravitates toward nature and outside activities during presentations instead of video games, movies and other activities that involve sitting in front of a piece of tech.  

At the end of the day it's a blending of technology and real moments that shapes each of us. That's the world we live in and that's the balance each of us has to make.  Still, it feels good to see that hopefully, maybe society isn't gravitating toward just being a group of people sitting in front of a screen, brain dead, instead of interacting with the world around them and the people around them.

Now stop reading this and get outside.  

6 quick and dirty tips for producing a nature documentary

By no means do I claim to be the expert at all (or at any) about producing documentaries.  I'm sure many documentarians with vastly more experience than myself would roll their eyes at these suggestions.  However, if you're like me and just trying to get your feet wet... in a creek someplace, while shooting a video; hopefully you'll find these tips to be helpful or at least comical.  My experience with documentaries is small.  I was lucky enough to be able to produce a video about a privately owned climbing area in eastern Kentucky called Muir Valley.  The video is in the post production phase and will be released shortly. You can however watch a behind-the-scenes short about the project.  Most of my production work has been in commercials and corporate videos... most of which take place indoors.  Part of my passion (and most of my income) is in video production.  While I love what I do professionally, I'd love even more to travel to exotic places and shoot video... I know... keep dreaming right? The Muir Valley Project allowed me to marry both of those passions together.    

So if I haven't lost you by now (your cursor is probably hovering over the "x" right now) lets dive into these tips... before my page bounce rate goes through the roof.

1) Plan on throwing all your planning right off the cliff you're shooting on.

Ok, don't literally throw your production book off the mountain.  It could quite literally kill somebody and that wouldn't be nice at all now would it?  A lot of preproduction planning goes into any project.  It's part of what makes videos so expensive to create.  When you're shooting a documentary about an outdoor activity just know that things aren't going to go completely according to plan.  I spent hours prior to ever stepping into the field planning locations, writing scripts and scheduling crew and nearly everything changed by the time we started shooting. The director didn't like the look of a location, scripts didn't match the feeling and crew wasn't available. It's all part of shooting in the outdoors and telling a story that's true to life and always unpredictable.  In a studio or controlled space you know what you're going to get and you are in control.  It goes without saying that you're not so much in control when your studio is in the wild.  Oh yes and I put together production books for the shoot... didn't use them... it did look nice in my back pocket though.  

2) Pack only the most essential camera and lighting gear... then trim it down. 

When we first started planning for the Muir Valley Project I thought you needed a three ton grip package to make the shots look amazing.  I wanted every light available and every Cine' Slider and jib crane we could get. This tainted view came from all my commercial work where you can pull the truck up to the back door and unload. That's not the case outside.  We had to travel down into steep ravines (with 4WD vehicles) and hike gear up thigh burning inclines that had crew cursing my name.  Thankfully the director and DP were smart and said no to all the gear and threatened to quit.  I got my way with a few pieces of gear and the time to get them to the "set" outweighed the value of having that shot.  Go light so you can move efficiently.  Let nature give you amazing shots... not some fancy light or a jib.  Oh and the one essential piece of gear (some will disagree) two-way radios. Yes, you will get lost and separated from your crew, you will have a shot on top of a cliff and need to talk to them, you will not want to have to yell.  They're cheap... buy some or rent some for your project.  

3) Know where your light is coming from and where it will be in an hour.

Shooting the sunrise is an absolute must if you're creating a video about something... anything outdoors.  Get up early, brew some coffee and make some magic.

Studio lights don't move... the sun does. This goes along nicely with the point two.  We only packed in one light for shooting interviews. Reflectors and the clouds became our best friend.  Just having the one light meant we needed a generator, extension cords and of course the light.  That meant at least two members of our crew were tied up carrying those items.  Track your sun when you scout and visit the areas where you plan to shoot at the time of day you plan to shoot there.  Keep close tabs on cloud cover and tree cover.  Lighting will changes all the time and a location will be lit completely different in Summer than it will in Winter.  On shoot day, plan ahead and factor in hiking time and set up.  If you're trying to catch magic hour for that final climbing sequence or use natural light for an interview you can't be getting to your location at 4:00 p.m. when the sun sets at 5:45p.  Your light will change constantly.  You need to be set up and waiting for the sun to be at just the right angle... then work fast.  

4) Sound is a beast in the woods... and that beast in the woods will pick up on your microphone. 

Go with the flow when you're recording sound in a natural setting.  Birds, bugs, wind, people screaming while take big whippers - you'll hear it all when you're silent and listening through a high quality mic.  You'll have to roll with it and make sure the audio on your subject is crystal clear.  Those noises will fade off into the background if you can hear what's being said and the content is powerful.  Once you add in music it'll sound like part of the track.  Well except for the F-bomb from the climber... you'll want to take that out.    

5) Choose your crew wisely

You need people who are willing to put in long hours and jump into various roles.  There aren't production assistants, grips, electricians, wardrobe or assistant camera people in the woods.  You've got people who do it all and people who don't... well they aren't there because you didn't hire those folks.

When you're shooting a documentary, everyone on your team will need to be ready to step in at a moments notice.  We had an amazing crew for the Muir Valley Project and most of them had never worked on a documentary before.  Find people that you trust and that are willing to work hard.  Most of what you'll do during production is managing logistics and moving from one location to the next.  You'd be surprised how much time it takes to get 10 people and equipment from point A to point B in a valley.  Plan accordingly and don't try and do it all yourself.  If you can, have more than enough help on hand to keep things flowing smoothly; but if that's not feasible communicate with your crew what you'll need.  Everyone on the MV Project was so exhausted at the end of our production weekends that often times they didn't want to even climb.  Now that's a whole different level of work!  

6) Aerial b-roll is worth its weight in gold

I know not everyone will have the budget to include a drone in their documentary but if you can, rent one.  Even if the camera quality isn't what you're shooting for, having the amazing angles can make up for the slight granulation.  For low budget projects I recommend the DJI Phantom Quadcopter.  They're exploding in popularity and really aren't all that cost prohibitive.  You'll be glad you added that tool to your tool box when you get into a spot where getting your camera just isn't happening.  We were lucky enough to have a pilot from Chicago join us for one weekend while shooting for the Muir Valley Project.  He had a Phantom equipped with a GoPro and the footage is some of the most awe-inspiring in the video.  Beg, borrow or steal... ok don't steal... someone's helicopter if you can.  

Beyond these tips, the best piece of advice I can give you is: 'Make your own way'.  If you're just starting out no one is going to come to you and ask you to shoot a documentary about some really cool thing in some really cool place and give you $100,000 to work with.  Not gonna happen.  What you can do is find something that you're passionate about and work with a group (most likely a nonprofit) who needs your services.  It'll be pro-bono but it'll be your project and your passion and you won't even mind all the lugging of equipment.  Have fun!  

Buy something that matters: Ibex's ethics and quality make these items the gifts to give (and receive)!

This gear review may be a little unorthodox but frankly I'm sure, by this point, you're tired of reading blogs titled "The top 10 gifts this holiday season" and "5 things to get that special someone who has everything".

So I debated whether this was really a gear review or a general opinion of mine and I came to the conclusion... it's a little of both.  Anyways, so yeah... this is the time of year we go out and buy things for other people... sometimes ourselves... but it's the season of giving right?  If you're looking for cheap clothing you can find a dozen places that'll give you deals out your eyeballs.  Five t-shirts and a pair of socks for $10... sure why not?  Doorbuster sales... say no more!  These plain cotton shirts were made in Asia by people being paid pennies, possibly working in a building that could be at risk of collapsing because it hasn't been inspected in a decade and is in violation of at least a half dozen codes.  Unfortunately 2013 will include this story: Report on Deadly Factory Collapse in Bangladesh Finds Widespread Blame.  Our quest for consumerism and more stuff can come at a price and often times the people caught in the cross fire and left holding the bill are those who have the least.    

Still, it's not fair for me to paint a picture of "look how awful we all are" because I honestly believe things are being done and conversations are being had to help improve the working situations in other countries for people who make garments, gadgets, doohickies and whatsits for us westerners to consume.  Stories like this one are definitely signs of progress being made: Retailers Agree On Safety Standards for Bangladesh Factories.  However not all of America's clothing brands are cut from the same cloth.  All over the country their are companies using responsible techniques and materials to make high quality products for their customers.  Ibex is one of those brands.  Instead of Asia, their garments are made in the USA and Canada.  The source of their wool is New Zealand and the ranchers who raise the sheep know where their product is going.    

If you've ever put on one of Ibex's Woolies - made with 18.5 micron New Zealand Merino Wool - you instantly know you've got a shirt that's going to be around for awhile. Every wool garment Ibex makes is crafted with the same attention to detail and skill, quality that you don't see a lot of anymore when it comes to clothing.  

The Woolies 150 is my go to base layer for pretty much anything I'm doing outside. Hiking, rock climbing, working on a video shoot in 20 degree temps it's a soft, warm garment that hugs my body and feels like skin after only wearing it for a short while.  I'll say my favorite thing about this shirt is how it seems to get softer with every washing. Ibex's Woolies definitely don't have that scratchy wool feeling that you would expect to find from a base layer made of 100% wool.

Add to a Woolies with a Shak Spire Hoody or a Hooded Indie and you've got the makings of an awesome, all natural layering system that'll keep you toasty without the need to keep throwing more and more layers on.  I own both the Shak Spire and the Indie and I really have a hard time deciding which I like more. Traditionally I've reached for my Indie for high exertion activities like my backpacking trips.  It's an absolute must have for me when I'm in the backcountry on a crisp night after the sun sets.  The warmth to weight ratio for this garment is worth it.  When you're not wearing your Indie (I'm almost always wearing mine on hikes in early Spring, Fall and Winter) it can be crammed into just about any pocket on your pack.  The Shak Spire Hoody has become my piece for around town and when I'm out on a commercial video production.  The Shak feels a lot heavier to me and wouldn't be a piece I'd necessarily bring along when I'm counting ounces on the trail.  However this is a great piece to throw on if you're just going out for coffee or something casual like that.  I think it looks great and I love the chest pocket!  I don't realize how often I use that pocket until I'm wearing a sweater that doesn't have one and then I'm missing my Shak Hoody.  This full zip hoody can almost be a stand alone jacket by itself on cool days.  With a solid base layer you're set for even temps down in the 30's in my opinion.  

Lastly, for those days that the wind chill is brutal and you need to pull out all the shots to keep warm I've relied on the Ibex Wool Aire Hoody and haven't been let down yet. Puffy jackets seem to have become the token clothing piece of the outdoors in winter. There's a battle going on between outdoor brands to produce lighter, warmer, water resistant puffy jackets.  Ibex is ahead of the curve and has taken their all natural wool approach and applied it to tech garment.  I'm sort of addicted to jackets... eh... ok I've probably got a clinically diagnosable obsession with jackets so I've owned more than a few over my adult life time.  The Wool Aire is by far my favorite... by far.  My struggle has always been finding the balance between warmth and bulk.  I want a puffy jacket that'll keep me warm no matter what I come up against... but without looking like the Staypuff Marshmallow Man (there's your 80's reference).  This jacket combines both of these things, taking a different approach, filling the compartments with merino wool instead of goose or duck down like most jackets in this line.  The 100 g/m2 fill fits nicely in the recycled nylon shell and this jacket is just the right blend of technical yet traditional.  

So, I can be a frugal person.  I don't like spending money.  However there's a difference between being careful with your money and being cheap.  I'm done buying cheap clothes that'll fall apart after a couple wears.  I want something that's going to last me a lifetime and hold up when I put it through the ringer.  I want something that I feel good wearing... not just because it's comfortable (although that matters a lot) but because I know where the materials are coming from and that it was made someplace where people are paid a living wage and are proud and stand behind the product they build. I've never had an Ibex product I didn't like and I've purchased several pieces of clothing from them and never regretted a single one.  Do yourself a favor, do your family, friends and anyone you're wrapping up a present for this year, buy something that makes a difference... buy something that matters. 

Woolies 150 Crew

Hooded Indie & Shak Spire Hoody

Hooded Indie

Shak Spire Hoody

Wool Aire Hoody

Yonder: New version… same mission, inspire people to get outdoors.

Yonder isn’t your mother’s social media or outdoors app (although she does have very good taste in apps).  Since version 1.0 was released in June 2013 it has been the mission of Yonder’s staff (known as Yonderers) to connect people with outdoor experiences, hopefully inspiring them to get outside.  On November 21 the Woodstock, Vermont based company released version 2.0; updated for Apple’s iOS 7.  Recently I got a chance to chat with David Tyler, chief yonderer about the app, their mission and what’s in store for the future at Yonder.  

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David Tyler goes by the title Chief Yonderer at Yonder.  He and all the staff are passionate about the outdoors and are working to bring this passion and inspiration to the Yonder app.

Stu: What is Yonder and how did it get started?

David: We at the company want to inspire people to get outdoors.  Yonder is a community for people with a passion for the outdoors to share and discover inspiration with one another.  Secondary to that is, once a user has been inspired, we want to create a tool and provide information that enables them to get outdoors.  Yonder has a database of about 20,000 outdoor destinations that we’re expanding everyday.  These places consist of content and data that has been collected from various public entities like the National Park Service or Bureau of Land Management (BLM).  The app also has user generated content such as pictures and videos and our goal is to connect users with similar interests so they can inspire each other through the places they visit.  

Stu: In an already crowded field of social media and outdoor related apps, how is Yonder different?

David: We’re not trying to compete with the Instagram’s of the world - the more broad based networks.  Those social networks like Twitter and Facebook, they’re built on connecting people with other people.  If you don’t follow or friend anybody there’s zero value for you in the network or the app.  Because our product is built specifically for the outdoor enthusiast we think we’re creating an interest based network.  We bring content to you based on what you’re interested in. We don’t stop at just sharing content like social media apps.  User generated content is the inspiration piece and about 50% but what Yonder is trying to do is bridge that gap between seeing a photo of a cool place online and getting outside and visiting that place.

Stu: Tell me about the staff at Yonder… the “Yonderers” as they’re called.

David: We all have this passion for getting outside and engaging with the natural world. You know, it’s surprisingly difficult to find useful information about a lot of outdoor places and that’s what our staff discovered.  If you want to find a coffee shop in your town you can go to apps like Yelp and find one.  We wanted to take our passion for the outdoors and make information available so we could hopefully inspire others as well.  

Stu: You listened to users and made changes to the app’s UI.  What were the biggest changes made to v2.0?

David: One of the biggest things was the focus on content.  Our users wanted to see more content about things that they love.  We were finding that the content in the user streams was getting stale, you’d often see the same thing at the top of the stream time after time when you opened the app.  We wanted to making content on feeds more dynamic. People really wanted to see stuff surrounding the activities that interest them. So we focused on the idea of activities.  Say you’re into rock climbing; Yonder would show you activities near you that might involve that passion.  It could be a climbing event or an opportunity to volunteer building a trail.  

Stu: One of the largest challenges with sharing outdoor experiences is being able to do so in the field with no cell phone connectivity.  Has Yonder found a way to make sharing those experience work in those types of situations?

David: You’d be surprised at how many outdoor places have connectivity these days. The connectivity in outdoor spaces has improved immensely.  The one thing you can rely on even if you don’t have access to the internet is the GPS in your phone.  Yonder can place media where it was taken and originated based on the GPS data that’s embedded within the picture or content.  Naturally for some of these features you have to allow your location to be shared.  Yonder also lets users take pictures or post content, from the app, even without an internet connection.  The content gets queued up and posted the next time you reach some place with connectivity.    

Stu: Where do the developers of Yonder hope to take the app in the future?

David: We really want to enhance the ability for people to get outdoors.  We want to get more specific information such as trailheads for hiking, put-ins if you’re into kayaking, things like that.  We want Yonder to be this indispensable resource that will give users a deepening relationship with the outdoors.  At Yonder we’re striving to go beyond apps like Yelp where a user has to seek out the information.  We want to connect a user with information even before they ask for it.  That drives value to the service and allows users to interact with each other and inspire through pictures and posts instead of having to dig for information.  Ultimately we think about Yonder as a recommendation engine, recommending things you’re passionate about.

Stu: Some of the activities you mentioned that Yonder might recommend include volunteerism is that a goal at Yonder?  

David: We work closely with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Outdoors Colorado.  What’s really important about some of the groups we have relationships with is they are philanthropic organizations.  That’s something which is really an important part of what we’re doing.  We want people to appreciate what’s available to them and beyond that not only getting people to go outside but also getting them to preserve areas they use so these areas are there for their children to use.

Stu: Any plans to release an Android version of the app?

David: Yes.  We’re actively looking for a developer that can build an Android version for us.  Ultimately we want to serve everyone and we’re working toward that.

Yonder is a product of Green Mountain Digital, creator of other outdoor apps such as Orvis Fly Fishing and Sailing World Knots and Splices.  You can find more information about Yonder online at yonder.it.  The app is available through the Apple iTunes store.  The company has 10 on staff one of which Tyler tells me is based in Colorado to help cultivate the valuable relationships with outdoor organizations that Yonder uses for the app.  You can also read a blog I wrote earlier this year which included Yonder here: 4 Outdoor apps worth downloading.   

The making of the Muir Valley Project.

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Bryan Lemon & Clinton Lewis work their way to the top of the Shawnee Shelter wall during weekend three of production.  Great vantage points gave us stellar video that'll make the final cut of the video.  

After four weekends of production spread out over two month, we've wrapped up the field work for the Muir Valley Project.  All the logistics, planning, and shooting has come to an end; however, the project is far from over.  Now it's on to editing all of the content to get the final video ready for its debut in early 2014.  Dozens of volunteers, the Friends of Muir Valley board of directors and Rick and Liz Weber are really what made this production possible and for that a huge round of thanks goes to them all!  Hours of prep work were put in by the creative team which included numerous status call and meetings with FOMV board members to hash out details and plans for shooting.  It has been a fun ride up to this point and I just wanted to share some of the pictures and video we've shot from behind-the-scenes on this project so far.  

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Collecting footage during the last weekend of production for the Muir Valley Project.  

Our shooting schedule was tight and often included early mornings and 10 to 12 hour long days lugging heavy, bulky camera and lighting equipment up to the crags we were planning to shoot.  Weekend three included a 4:30a start and a predawn shot for the documentary. We did however have the weather on our side.  Out of four weekends, zero had rain and although it was chilly during some shooting and sweltering during other weekends none of the production schedule had to be postponed because of the forecast.  Weekend one was spent focusing on the interviews for the video, while the third weekend consisted entirely of climbing and hiking video.  Weekend's two and four were used for collecting much needed extra b-roll around the valley.  Quite a bit of video equipment was also essential to making the production a success.  We had three Canon DSLR cameras, a DJI Phantom Helicopter equipped with a GoPro Hero 3 camera, audio equipment, lighting equipment, generator, jib crane and camera slider among other gear.  If you'd like a full equipment list, shoot me a message and I'll be glad to hook you up. 

Also, a big thanks to the companies that helped out by providing product for the video: Teton Sports provided packs and ENO provided hammocks.  In addition props goes to Land of the Arches campground which provided the crew free camping during every weekend of production.  It was super nice to have a home base only minutes away from the valley. Land of the Arches is in a primo spot close to all the action in the Red!  The Access Fund has also played a large role in this video.  Joe Sambataro provided awesome insight into the preservation projects that are taking place in Muir Valley.      

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Bryan Lemon, a DP on the documentary, fights his way up to shoot from a vantage point high on the wall during one of the production days.

To put on any production of this size it takes a small army of people and with very little prodding required we were able to get a lot of great people to join the ranks to make this video possible. THANK YOU to all who were involved in some way with the project! And of course... thanks to Rick and Liz Weber for inviting all of us into their backyard during this fall's production.  The goal of the Muir Valley Project is to inspire climbers and outdoor enthusiasts to give back to the areas they use and frequent. It was so encouraging and rewarding to see volunteers really step up and dedicate entire weekends to helping make this project a success.  Over and over again I heard the crew (all of which were volunteers) say they wanted to help because Rick and Liz Weber are amazing people.  They have given so much to the climbing community and this was our crew's way of giving a little something back to them.  It's that spirit of volunteerism, dedication and responsibility that I'm hoping this video will inspire.  That's the thing about it, Muir Valley isn't the only place like this in the world.  There are other crags that need support and need climbers to step up and take responsibility for upkeep and donations.  Lets make every "Muir Valley" a project.  Ok... I'll get off my soapbox now.

Look for much more as we start editing the final documentary and of course be watching for its release sometime early next year. 

Crew:
Director - Dave Docimo 
Producer/ Writer - Stuart Peck
1st Director of Photography - Clinton Lewis
2nd Director of Photography - Bryan Lemon
Helicopter Pilot - Tom Donalek 
Rigging - JJ Jones, Zachary Davis, Erik Kloeker, John Seymer, Anne Altor, Roger VanDamme
On-Camera Talent - Peter Schmalzried, JJ Jones, Melanie Hobgood, Bill Ellis
Interviews - Rick Weber, Liz Weber, Joe Sambataro, Roger VanDamme, Jared Hancock, Karla Hancock
Production Assistants - Mike Jerstad, Sandra Samman, Ross Kasner
Volunteer Wrangler - Matt Howell

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Fall Travel Series Part 2: The road less traveled

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There are a lot of cool places to see nature without seeing the crowds.  Ditch the glossy maps and dig around on the internet for those hidden treasures you'll be bragging about to your family during the holidays.

In September I started a three-part series diving into traveling this fall.  Part 1 took a look at what not to pack when planning that big trip... or that weekend getaway.  This month I want to dive into where you should go.  So that's a pretty broad subject.  Where should you go this Fall?  Like you, many MANY people are taking to the road and getting out of town now that leaves are changing and temperatures are dropping.  This is arguably the premiere time of year to head to national parks and popular leaf peeping destinations.  I live in Indiana... we have a little state park called Brown County State Park (which sits... surprise surprise in Brown County).  I wouldn't touch that park with a 10 foot pole duct taped to a 20 foot pole.  It's swarming with people stopping to peep at orange, red and yellow leaves and buying woodcarvings of Elvis and flapjacks (translation: pancakes).  If you don't find being hussled to purchase chainsaw carvings or two pounds of rocky road fudge by Jim Bob and his brothers Joe, John Boy and Sheldon relaxing what is one to do?  Easy, take the road less traveled... literally and figuratively.   

Recently during the government shutdown (don't get me started) I shook my head just a little at stories of people sneaking into national parks to hike.  I know some of it was out of defiance for the man but there were sob stories of people whose vacations were ruined by the shutdown.  There are cases that were a major bummer.  Not being able to raft through the Grand Canyon stinks, or missing out on a once in lifetime trip to climb El Cap is a major downer but if your plans consisted of going to these places to hike and see the leaves... you have other options.    

Nature Preserves: Many states have a whole slew of small, often times not advertised nature preserves.  These areas exist for the purpose of... well... preserving natural habitats.  They also make awesome day trips and come without the hoards.   

 Long Trails: Many of us have heard of the Appalachian Trail but have you heard of the Benton-Mackaye Trail, Knobstone Trail or the Foothills Trail?  There's a long Long Trails list (find it here: Long Trails courtesy of Wikipedia) and many of them have great views and even great isolation.  Lets face it.  People want to enjoy nature from the comfort of their automobile or the hot tub on the deck of their cabin... hike a few miles on one of the trails and you're bound to leave all the light weights behind.  

National Forests: I've talked about visiting these areas before.  I'm a huge proponent of national forests.  Usually they're close to identical to their national park counterpart right next door and have an intricate network of trails and camping facilities without the hoopla of the more popular and overcrowded national parks.  This isn't always a give me as people are catching onto these areas or in some cases a national forest counterpart to the park doesn't exist.  Still most states have a plethora of public land and opportunities to get out and stop and admire the changing seasons.  This is a great map that shows many of the national forests and grasslands.  

I know this post doesn't really get into other activities besides those of the outdoor genre but really the same concept holds true.  Do things that will avoid standing in line and upping the stress level.  Plan less and make sites and stops more spontaneous. Think like a tourist and act like a local.     

The Muir Valley Project: Absolutely, positively not just another climbing video

Weekend #2 is in the bag for the Muir Valley Project and that means we're to our halfway point in production. Clinton Lewis, the project's DP, and myself spent most of Saturday roaming around the valley picking up a variety of shots for b-roll for the video.  One thing that became very apparent was this isn't going to just be another climbing video.  Of the 36 gb of video we collected (yes, I know it's odd to measure video in gigabytes instead of minutes) we probably had less than 500 kb of actual video of climbers on the wall.  I'm referring to this as our National Geographic video as a lot of it was nature intensive.      

Now we're gearing up for a busy November with two very exciting weekends planned! There will be plenty of video on the wall shot those weekends and hopefully we'll be able to put together an inspiring, beautiful documentary once we're done!   

A huge thanks goes out to the Weber's and FoMV board of directors for their hospitality and help these past couple weekends.  Also, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention our wonderful sponsors for the project.  Camping for our entire crew is being provided by Land of the Arches campground.  We've also got a couple great product sponsors in Teton Sports and Eagle Nest Outfitters (ENO).  The Access Fund has also been a HUGE help with this project and I'm confident they'll continue to be as we move forward.     

Lastly, if you're interested in volunteering... you're in luck because we could totally use your help in November!  The weekends are the 9 & 10 and 16 & 17.  TRUST ME... you'll have a blast.  If you're interested send me a message through my website and I'll get back with you.   

Enjoy these behind the scenes photos and screen shots from this past weekend!  More updates to come.  

Water droplets

Hiking in the valley

Shooting sunrise

Breakfast out of the trunk

Peak-a-boo!

Sunrise over the valley

Hauling gear

Grabbing shots

The Muir Valley Project: Behind-the-scenes from weekend one

Weekend one of production on the Muir Valley Project, a mini-documentary about the history of Muir Valley and the importance of the climbing community to give back to the places they use, is in the history books!  A HUGE thanks goes out to everyone who helped our crew lug equipment uphill (seemingly both ways) and make the interviews look stunning. However, this is not the end... we're only getting started.  We've got three more weekends of production and the best (and most fun) is yet to come!  Inquire for details if you're interested in helping out.   

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Clinton Lewis, the project's director of photography packs it up after getting some shots of the sunrise over Muir Valley.  The man... the legend.

I truly was living the dream over the weekend.  Waking up on an air mattress in the middle of what used to be an old flea market, skipping the shower and heading straight into the woods.  It all felt very 'Ken Burns-esk' without the massive budget.  I recently heard Corey Rich, a director/producer specializing in outdoor photography and video, say during an interview that a good story will always find a home.  I feel like we're telling a great story and I'm having a hard time containing myself, I just want to share it with everybody.       

More coming soon as we progress further into this powerful story this fall.  To see more behind the scenes photos from this past weekend's shoot visit my Flickr page.   

This is Abby...

Sometimes we just need a little dog video in our lives.  Here's my latest project... it had a low budget... but I think the storyline is strong.  

Fall Travel Series Part 1: What not to pack.

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The less you pack the less you have to drag through security and lug through an airport.  Less really can be better.

Death, that’s the way you can sum up this time of year.  Leaves are dying, the nights are getting colder, shadows make the woods look spooky and all that is pretty much why this is an awesome time of year to get outdoors and take a trip!  There are a dozen and one blogs out there about what to pack when planning your next adventure but it’s also important to leave a few things at home.

Limit your clothes: Obviously you don’t need to pack eight t-shirts for a five day trip.  I know sometimes picking out the right shirt can be a game-time decision but use some discretion when choosing your threads.  Even better, get clothes that’ll go the distance and can be worn over and over again further cutting down on your need to pack extra clothes.  I have three t-shirts that pretty much could carry me on a weeklong trek. If you've read my reviews, you've heard me preach wool. It'll take up less space in your bag and get you further, dry quicker and won’t start to stink after one or two wears.  Check out brands like Exofficio for awesome travel clothes and Ibex for some hip yet versatile shirts that’ll keep you going without needing to stop and change.  

Shoes: Just like clothes limit your shoe intake to a minimum.  As your activities start to get more diverse… so does your shoe collection on a trip.  This sounds kind of feminine but guys can be just as big a culprit as their female companions.  Go for a pair of hiking shoes, like the Merrell Moab Ventilator which are great for the trail or the town. My one exception to the one pair rule is a comfy pair of sandals.  Go for something like the Sanuk Fraid So which come in real handy if you’re getting a lot of windshield time on a road trip or when you’re staying at a hostel or roadside campground.    

Technology:  Make a choice.  Do you really need a laptop, tablet, mobile phone, ipod, camera and that fancy PSWhatever game console?  Don’t even think about cramming $2,000 worth of tech into your carry on or checked bag.  First, you’re a walking Radio Shack and are just asking to get something lifted from you.  Second, when are you honestly going to use all those devices?   For most their phone is an obvious must.  Of course that doubles as your camera and your music, probably means you don’t need your tablet and really, are you going to bust out your laptop while on vacation? Chances are you won’t need any of your gizmos outside your phone.  I’ve taken many trips where I brought my laptop, phone, multiple cameras and ipod… not using any of them save my phone.  Save your weight and your homeowners or renters insurance policy and leave the expensive toys at home.

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This image was shot on my phone.  Time of day, location and composition make a picture wall worthy... not carrying 10 pounds of pro gear.  

The pro camera: I touched on this one above but trust me… you won’t use your DSLR as much as you think you will.  Take it from a guy who used to hike and travel with his Canon 40D and 20mm, 50mm, and 70-200mm lenses.  I snapped a hand full of photos with that camera before realizing that my Canon point and shoot worked just as well and wasn’t as much of a hassle to take out and put together for one shot.  I don’t consider myself to be a professional photographer but I like great photography.  I can get results without needing to pack the big guns. Try the Canon Powershot G1 X or if you’re a Nikon fan the Cool Pix line is a versatile option for whatever expedition you’re going on.  

I’ve learned about what not to pack the hard way.  Overstuffed bags, unneeded items and wasted space all can weigh you down and be a nuisance on your trip.  Be smart and be simple.  Test yourself this way... if you were told you were leaving for another country in 30 minutes and you had five minutes to pack what would your essentials be? Chances are that's probably all you need.    

What do you think should be on this list?  I know there are a lot of other things that can stay at home like a brick, three cans of baked beans, your socket wrench set...  I want to hear from you!  

4 Outdoor apps worth downloading

All Trails

A great resource of day hikes and backpacking trips.  Search trails near your location, see pictures and even reviews of the trail.

Mountain Project

This app is the best source of climbing beta complete with route descriptions, pictures and a user rated system that tells you if the line is worth climbing or just a choss pile.

Yonder

Find experiences others have shared through Yonder.  You can map the activities or filter them from a list.  

BACKPACKER GPS Trails

This app has extremely high quality maps and meters to show you just far you've gone and how high you've climbed. 

Trimble Outdoors Navigator

Much like BACKPACKER this app has maps, charts and allows you to store trips for future hikes.

1. All Trails: Looking for a good weekend day hike or a 5-day backpacking trip in the mountains, this app provides a nice library of trails right in your pocket.  A five star system rates the quality of the hike as rated by other users and there's even a place to leave feedback about the trail to help the next person planning their trip.  This app doesn't just focus on the hiking crowd it also has destinations for rock climbers, mountain bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.    

Pros: Easy to use, full of great destinations.  Map is an excellent feature. 
Cons: Needs more user feedback and more detail in the description of some areas.

Cost: Free

Website: www.alltrails.com 

2. Mountain Project: Like All Trails but with the emphasis on climbing, this app lists destinations all over the world for sport, trad, and ice climbing as well as mountaineering.  This app works in conjunction with mountainproject.com and allows for users to take beta with them on the go, downloading route lists and maps to take to the crag!  Some of the more popular routes and destinations are accompanied with photos and lots of user feedback about the climbs.    

Pros: Very well organized and the popular climbing areas have lots of beta and comments from other climbers. 
Cons: Sometimes the app has issues loading larger data sets.

Cost: $7.99

Website: www.mountainproject.com 

3. Yonder: This app is a new player in the outdoor tech game but definitely has the potential to hit a home run with it's user interface and functionality.  A cross between Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare this hybrid allows users to upload photos and post on their own profile about an outdoor & travel experience.  The post is uploaded to a map where other users can find treks near them complete with photos and comments about the destination.  While it's still a new app with few users, it's gaining traction and made a big splash at this year's Outdoor Retailer Show in Utah. 

Pros: Unique app not like any other travel and outdoor apps available.  Allows for a very social element to hikes, climbs, rides, etc. 
Cons: New app so relatively few users right now.  Not available for the Android platform.

Cost: Free

Website: www.yonder.it

4. Backpacker GPS Trails/ Trimble Outdoors Navigator: These two apps are pretty much one in the same when it comes to features and user interface.  Trimble's software powers the Backpacker app and in exchange Backpacker brings the brand power of being one of the most recognized names in outdoor sports media.  Both apps offer both a 'Lite' (free) and 'Pro' (paid) version.  These apps will be as close as you come to an actual GPS unit on the trail and can be really great for shorter trips.  The topo maps have extreme detail and multiple layers give you the ability to even input the National Weather Service radar over your hike to see when it's time to put on the rain gear. 

Pros: Excellent for trip planning and full of bells and whistles for the avid adventurer and the weekend warrior.
Cons:  Unfortunately cellphone battery technology has not caught up with these apps and it truly would suck juice to run these for many hours on end using the GPS function on your phone.

Price:  
Free & 4.99 (Backpacker GPS Trails) 
Free & 4.99 (Trimble Outdoors Navigator)

Website: www.backpacker.com & www.trimbleoutdoors.com

Fine dining: 5 foods great for hiking

If you've read my blog before or follow me on Twitter (ahem... you really should follow me on Twitter) you may know I'm all about the creature comforts.  While I do believe in efficient packing, I don't adhere to the ultra-light mantra.  Because of that I like to bring some tasty foods along on any trip.  To me one of the things that keeps me going while on the trail is knowing I'm going to pitch my tent someplace with a great view and be rewarded with a hot meal at dinner time or wake up with the sun and enjoy a nice hot cup of coffee.  I've compiled a list of five foods great for taking along on your next hiking trip.    

1. Coffee Creamer  
I know some prefer to drink their coffee like Fess Parker as Daniel Boone but for the rest of us who prefer a little added sweet taste, individual creamer packets are the ticket.  They're light and don't need to be refrigerated and come in a variety of flavors.  Add one or two to your coffee and it's like you're at a mountaintop Starbucks and there's a 600 pound black bear sitting at the table next to yours instead of that guy talking business on his cell phone real loud.  You can find a box of 20 at most grocery stores.  My preference is the liquid creamer over the powder.  Powder tends to get clumpy when mixed in and just doesn't taste the same.  

2. Tuna or Chicken
I know cans of tuna are nothing new but with the invention of the tuna or chicken packets it has opened up a whole new world for the dinner table of a backpacker.  You will pay a little more in the weight department for carrying meat but in my opinion it's worth it.  I've cooked tuna into my ramen noodles, made a tuna melt and stuffed it in a tortilla (see above) and made a burrito out of it.  And if you're feeling real tired at the end of the day, crack one of those packets open, throw in a little hot sauce and eat it by itself.   

3. Cheese
High in fat and a refreshing change from all the freeze dried and salty foods, cheese is a great snack during a rest stop on the trail or as a side dish with dinner.  You'll be surprised just how long cheese will keep without being refrigerated.  My personal favorite, goat cheese medallions.  You can also buy a small block of cheddar or get cheese sticks.  The nice things about the medallions and sticks is they're usually individually wrapped which means you're only opening what you're going to eat and that keeps the shelf life even longer.  Still my moto with meats and cheese on the trail... if it looks questionable don't eat it.      

4. Tortillas 
Man should not live by bread alone... tortillas are very versatile and keep very well in a tightly packed backpack.  In addition you can throw just about anything inside a tortilla shell and boom goes the dynamite, you've got an instant burrito.  I've seen people pack in tuna, ramen noodles and even smear peanut butter all over them.  I prefer to get the smaller shells as they tend to fit better than the larger ones do.  Tortillas are also great because you can get them in a variety of "flavors" such as corn, flour, wheat even spinach shells.

5. Oil
This isn't really a food (please don't try and eat this straight unless you're on day 23 of being lost in the wilderness and this all you've got) but adding a little oil can really take a dry stale meal and make it moist and taste more like something you cooked at home.  I've used oil in ramen, when making pancakes and tuna melts over my camping stove.  Get a little squeeze bottle and fill it with a few ounces of vegetable or olive oil and use it liberally.  Just don't use it in your coffee...    

What foods do you take with you on a hike?  Any cooking secrets from the trail you're willing to share?  I'm a backpacker... not a chef so I'm game for trying something new! 

Life lessons in backpacking: 4 things I've learned from the trail

I've come a long long way in my "trail smarts" from the first bushwhacking, backpacking trip (if you can call it that) my brother and I took to the Land Between the Lakes in southwestern Kentucky.  Sitting on the banks of Kentucky Lake with our campfire two feet from my brother's Walmart tent, we thought it didn't get much better than that.  We were hikers, no better than that, we were backpackers.  Along the way I've learned just how clueless I was then and I've picked up some valuable life lessons and morsels of advice since.  Here are four things I've learned from the trail.    

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My brother preps to start a hike in Great Smoky Mountain National Park in 2007.  We hiked the Big Creek Loop in the western portion of the park.  Some of the steep trail has since been abandoned due to erosion and mud slides from heavy rainfall. 

1. Take it one step at a time: It might sound cliche' and predictable but it's one of the most important things I've learned from the trail.  In our lives often times we make a habit of looking way up the road, squinting, even straining to see what's around the bend when really what we should be focusing on is that root right in front of us that we're about to trip over.  I've been on several trips where you get so exhausted you can't do anything but think about putting one foot in front of the other.  Twenty one miles, in one day, on the Buffalo River Trail in Northern Arkansas was excruciating but I had to take it just one step at a time, because each step got me closer to camp that night.    

2. Say hello to every hiker you come in contact with: You never know when you might call upon that fellow hiker to save your butt way out in the backcountry.  I can remember doing a 22 mile loop in the western part of Great Smoky Mountain National Park.  My brother and I, still green horns in the backpacking scene, each one of us carrying about 50 pounds of gear on that overnight trek... to a shelter.  Almost none of the gear essential and we had the grand idea that we were going to boil our water over an open camp fire... it had rained hard the night before and everything was doused.  If it hadn't been for the kindness of a small group of hikers we had met earlier that day we would have been very thirsty or sick.  Instead they let us filter water with their pump and even offered us some amazing dinner they cooked up that night at camp.  Hiking and backpacking is a community and we're all at different stages of the journey.  I only hope I can return the favor to some newbie one day.

3.  Get up to watch the sunrise: It's a must do for me on every trip.  It doesn't matter if I'm in the densely wooded mountains or the wide open desert I want to be up to greet the sun and enjoy the awe inspiring view.  Too often in our lives we don't stop to take in the little things, the formalities that occur around us everyday.  We're too plugged in, too unaware to realize that we're just a small cog in this big blue spaceship orbiting the sun.  

4. Don't shower while on the trail: There are few better pleasures in life than that first shower after five days and four nights hiking in the hot desert.  Endure the smell, disregard the stickiness and dirt caked in your hair until you hit the hotel room and it's all worth the wait.  In addition, few things taste better than that first big, greasy burger once getting off the trail.  It's the small things... 

What are some things you've learned from your backpacking and hiking experiences?   

Meet Kentucky's Outdoorsman

I know often times on this blog I like to give my opinion on the great outdoors and the adventures that can be found in the natural world around us... but for once I want to shut my trap and hear someone else's perspective on what makes the outdoors so great.  Bowling Green, Kentucky resident - Cory Ramsey has hiked his way into local stardom with TV segments, radio interviews and recently a cover story in Kentucky Living magazine.  A good friend of mine, I recently caught up with Cory to chat about his new found fame and take a look inside his passion for Kentucky's natural wonders. 

How did you get started in hiking and the outdoors?

 I didn't come from a hiking family as much as I came from a hunting family. My granddad was a fisherman and my dad was a duck hunter in his teenage years until he discovered deer hunting about the time I was born. So I grew up around antlers on the wall and November meant deer season every year. We were in the woods ad nauseam. So much, that when I went off to college, I left off of the woods. But something kept calling me back, especially after I got out of college and out into the workplace. Something was missing. I never left the city or the confines of my apartment or job. Picked up John Eldridge's Wild At Heart in 2006 and that's when the outdoors came back to me. I remember buying a fishing pole and license for the first time in years and going to the boat landing on the Barren River just outside of Bowling Green. Felt the ruggedness and have been hooked ever since. From 2006 onward, the hiking became a pastime, and really took hold with a layoff from my job in 2009. The rest is cool history.

What is it about the outdoors and nature that you are so passionate about?

“Those first steps in the woods, any woods, are like seeing an old friend from across the room. We simply pick back up from where we left off.”

— Cory Ramsey

Take Shanty Hollow for example, my favorite spot just north of Bowling Green. It's as if we are emotionally connected. I follow her through her seasons like a parent watches a child grow up. I see the bareness and browness of the late winter turn to a proud flowery spring, a dominating summer, then a vulnerable yet colorful fall give way to bareness again. It's like watching a child go off to college and remembering what it was like as a youngster. In the fall, I still remember her flowers from the past spring.  Those first steps in the woods, any woods, are like seeing an old friend from across the room. We simply pick back up from where we left off.

What do you hope people will gain from your experiences and discoveries as an outdoorsman?

That's easy. Way too many publications over emphasize long distance hiking or gear. While all that is fine and good, all that stuff is not necessary to get the feel of ruggedness we are looking for in the first place. Our culture is a "lifestyle" culture. We want a certain look to define us. It trickles into our car, our house, our relationships, and our hobbies. Clothiers and boot suppliers and gear makers try to capitalize on that side of it, whereas I say, "Just get out there." Prepare, yes, but don't stress if you never get around to climbing a mountain or hiking the AT. The important thing for the lifestyle is to just live it.

You recently saw your "hobby" take on a new life with radio and TV interviews and a cover story in Kentucky Living, how is that changing the scope of your travels?

I had the background in broadcasting, having been a radio and TV host from 1999-2002, so it became a natural fit when I began to use those connections and opportunities in 2009. What is evident is the enthusiasm for Kentucky and the outdoors that effortlessly trickles over into the media appearances. I try to keep things fun personally and never want my travels to seem more like a job. If it ever got to that point, I would stop going on the air. The simplicity of the outdoors alone has been enough to keep me happy. All the other is a bonus and pleasure. All in all, the media has helped me to bring attention to our state.

While you have become known as the outdoorsman, part of your travels take the readers into small town Kentucky, talk about some interesting things you've discovered in the Bluegrass?

Ha ha. I need to change that name to Roadtripper. What I discovered as I began traveling to hiking spots in 2009 was that I enjoyed the roadtrip just as much as the hiking itself. I've always loved little town squares like the ones in Boulder, Colorado or Keystone, South Dakota. And everyone loves Gatlinburg. What do we like about those places? The architecture? The people? Knowing we are that close to ruggedness? I think it's a combination of a those things. Kentucky has towns like that, where you can walk around and "feel" like you're out west. And that's a big psychological boost if you can "feel" like you're on vacation if only just an hour or so from home. Maysville, Pikeville, Bardstown, Elkton, those places and a hundred more in Kentucky all feel like you're "out west." Dawson Springs has it right in being the first Trail Town and trying to replicate the AT town of Damascus, Virginia. We're all looking for a cast iron table on a tree lined sidewalk in the shadow of century year old buildings to drink coffee and talk about nothing.

Where do you want to see this passion go in the future?

Sometimes I feel like I should just cash out and quit while I'm ahead. I've been beyond blessed by just going out in the woods and walking around. Honestly, as long as I can visit new places, new dots on the map, and see something there that might have been missed, I'll be happy. I've been fortunate to do some media work, and if that took hold into something more, I'd be excited. I love to write and I love to write about Kentucky. So as long as I can keep doing that while traveling, I'll be happy.

You can pick up a copy of Cory's article which is on news stands now.  (I'm not sure if news stands still exist?)  You can also visit Cory's blog at www.coryramseyoutdoors.com. 

REI reevaluates its return policy

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REI revises return policy.  You can no longer return your 10 year old pair of underwear because you don't like the style.  

Ok, so we all have that old piece of gear which we've worn to death for the better part of five, 10, maybe 15+ years.  Maybe it's an old puffy down vest that served us well as a mid layer on many winter hikes.  Perhaps a stove, charred black on the burner from years of flames and use.  Maybe even a pair of tattered hiking boots with a missing shoe lace from when you had to strangle a bear with your bare hands because it tried to steal one of your kids.  Whatever the gear, It has seen better days and for whatever the reason REI, arguably the largest and most popular outdoor retailer in the world has taken it back.  That's because until recently REI's return policy has been return any merchandise, anytime, no questions asked.  However now the retailer is calling foul on the more than generous policy.    

Really?  You can take in a five year old pair of gaiters because you no longer like the style and some green vested kid behind the counter will give you store credit (which is worth its weight in gold to the avid gear junkie)?  Recently I popped into my local REI during one of their garage sales they do semi-frequently and watched the feeding frenzy.  This sale is member exclusive and offers patrons the chance to buy returned merchandise at deeply discounted prices.  What I saw reinforced why REI has changed its policy.  Boots from circa 1995 that looked like they had hiked around the world several times, jackets and shirts with stains (from your camping trip dinner... not from the factory) and underwear... yes... underwear.  Reading some of the tags with descriptions on why these items were returned was rather amusing.    

"Customer didn't like the color" 

 "Not the right style"

And my favorite...  

"Nothing wrong with the item" 

Now I understand that sometimes you get something home, pull it out of the box, try it on and think... this isn't what I had in mind.  That's when it goes back to the store, NOT FIVE YEARS LATER!  How do you buy a jacket in 2010 and in 2013 decide you don't like the color?  Sure that pair of whitey tightey technical underpants was in style... in 1995... what'd you expect 10 years later and who wants your decade old briefs anyway?  

Talking to one of the employees he said there have been several people upset by REI's decision to be more conservative about the policy change.  I for one think it's disappointing that some people would take advantage of this policy and ruin it for the masses.  This is a store which already strives to treat customers (and its members especially) pretty awesome with deals throughout the year.  Its new more "conservative" return policy is one year.  Compare that time limit to most stores which vary from 30 to 90 days. Why getting sweet gear at competitive prices isn't enough... I don't know.  I for one like to see how long I can keep my gear before it absolutely disintegrates.    

What are your thoughts?  Are you ok with REI's new return policy?   

Living the Dream

Last night, I had a great opportunity to be a guest speaker on BACKPACKER magazine's Gear & Go Tour.  The tour is designed to give locals advice about gear to use for trips in their area and then give them local trail ideas and beta so they can get out their and do the hikes.  Me giving advice... wow... that's a scary thought.  I met a lot of awesome people who are at different stages of their hiking and backpacking lives.  Some were planning their first outing while others had been backpacking longer than I had even been breathing.   

I also met Justin and Patrice La Vigne.  They are the ambassadors for BACKPACKER traveling around the country in a decked out Sprinter van, hiking trails and talking about the gear they used and the experiences they had.  Man that's gotta be a cool job.  Before Justin and Patrice started this tour they ran a backpacker hostel on the Appalachian Trail.  Yeah... also up there on the really cool jobs list in my book.  While talking to them I mentioned

"You all are living the dream" and Patrice repied, "We wake up and pinch ourselves everyday to make sure this is real".  

They are living the dream and they didn't hesitate to make a change in their lives when an opportunity presents itself.  I think we all need to seize on these opportunities, no matter how big or small they might seem.  Talking to another friend of mine yesterday, he was at a crossroads.  Does he keep working at a factory making a steady income punching a clock or does he start writing and take an opportunity as radio DJ to pursue his passion?  

My response was telling him he will never look back and say "man I wish I had kept that job at the factory".  Most likely he'll think "whoa what an epic journey my life is taking".  

We all need to live our dreams and take advantage of doors that may be opening in our lives.  If the doors aren't opening for your passion.  Pull out the crowbar and start prying it open!   

No sport climbing in 2020

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​This looks cool... yet not cool enough to be in the olympics.  

Climbing lost out to baseball, wrestling and... wait for it... squash for inclusion in the 2020 olympic games.  Baseball is cool, I can deal with that, it's an American past time and all that.  You know... Puerto Rico is going to destroy us all in baseball... just hand them the gold now... done, NEXT!​

My two hang ups are squash and wrestling.  Is there going to be a certain brand of metal folding chairs approved by the International Olympic Committee?  Man, I'd love to have that pro deal.  C'mon, really?  In searching for pictures across the world wide web for this blog I had to look at a lot of men in tight leather underpants with tassels... THEY HAD TASSELS!  I will not soon recover from that experience.  Now I don't want to get into a back and forth over my professional athlete could break your athlete's face with a chair and all that non-sense but have you ever been to a WWF Monster Rally... whatever it is they call those "sporting events"?  It's pretty much the most ridiculous thing I've ever observed (no I have never been to one... my experience, with these events, comes from the 1.4 seconds it takes me to hit the channel up button on the remote when surfing for something to watch on a Tuesday night).  Oh well... you win my leather clad, over developed... acquaintances.  THEY HAD TASSELS... GROSS!

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​This is what squash (not the vegetable) looks like when it's played.  Wait... this might be a picture of the vegetable... I get them confused.

Oh and squash... no not the vegetable... climbing didn't lose to a vegetable it wasn't quite that disgraceful but squash the sport is still a pretty odd game.  It's played in a plexiglass box of sorts and you hit a ball against a wall over and over until someone misses and then the other person gets a point.  Don't we have enough sports that involve a ball going back and forth over and over until someone misses? ​ A las the OIC found this more intriguing than men and women at the top of their athleticism; climbing amazingly steep walls through a combination of balance, technique and strength.  Honestly who would want to watch that anyway... at least we have our dignity... and no tassels.   

​What are your thoughts?  C'mon I know I have some wrestling fans that read my blog!  Really... none?  I'm quite surprised by this.

Five things every backpacker needs that they don’t know they need.

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The greatest backpacking book of all time.  ​

Every trek I take, into the woods, usually begins with me remembering that one item I left off my pre-hike check list.  That one item I wish I was carrying.  That one item I’m going to think about the entire trip.  Gear lists can be thorough but I’ve compiled a few things often overlooked on most lists.  I hope this helps as you plan your next backpacking trip.    

1. Two tents, three sleeping bags or five jackets

When hiking you can only use one tent and one sleeping bag at a time, but multiple jackets (see layering), so it only makes sense to have a couple spare laying around.  You’ll be glad you did... especially as you get into camp and decide you want to use the green sleeping bag with the yellow tent.  Having color coordinated gear in the middle of no where is like having many leather bound books.    

2. Those little clippy things climbers use

I would recommend carrying at least five or six to be on the safe side.  They only add a couple pounds to your pack weight and you just never know when you’ll need to clip something to the outside of your pack or climb a cliff face on your trip.  Actually bring closer to 10...

3. A hand gun

Only the most serious of backpackers carry one of these when they go into the woods for a weekend outing or a two week expedition.  The space and extra weight it takes up in your pack will be well worth it when you need it to kill your dinner or a questionable “hiker” in the shelter during the night.  Carry one when you complete your through hike of the Appalachian Trail because it only takes two clips of direct hits to take down an 800 pound grizzly.  

4. Camping chair

After a long day of hiking in the wilderness, you want to be comfortable at night... right?  The more extravagant the better.  Honestly, if it doesn’t have an extendable foot rest what’s the point of bringing it.  One of those chairs with a little roof over it to keep you dry during a driving rain is also convenient.  

5. War and Peace (first edition)

After dinner but before bed there is usually a little time to get in some reading inside one of your many tents.  No one just wants to stare at the stars or watch the sunset before going to bed.  If War and Peace isn’t your thing a brick is just as interesting.      

If I’ve left off any vital items, please list them below... I want everyone to have the most extensive list possible.