The Robin’s Nest – How to Identify Bird Nests: When we hike in nature, we only see the things we consider important. When I was studying to be a naturalist, each week’s guest lecturer would take us out … Continue Reading →
Bushcraft Knife Skills – Practice with the Masters (Video)
. Did you know I played drums in a Hollywood rock band? I needed a creative outlet from my very intense and cerebral job as an engineer. And being a drummer … Continue Reading →
Feral Apples – A Snack for the Sharp-eyed Hiker
I inhale deeply as I saunter along the trail. The smells of the forest permeate my being. Fallen tanoak leaves mix with earthy humus and the sweet smell of … Continue Reading →
Win an Exos-Gear Bravo Backpack!
This month I reviewed the Exos-Gear Bravo daypack. The Exos-Gear Bravo is a “tactical style” daypack. This class of daypacks is characterized by: Rugged nylon materials Many compartments for … Continue Reading →
Backpack Review: Exos-Gear Bravo
Can an inexpensive “military style” daypack deliver value in the field? This is the question I set out to answer when Exos-Gear, a manufacturer of outdoor and urban backpacks … Continue Reading →
Trees Talk! (To each other)
Have you ever heard something shocking? Startling? A revelation? But then you pause a moment to think. And suddenly it makes perfect sense. In a flash of insight you … Continue Reading →
Pine Sap Glue (Video)
Pine resin (also called pine pitch) is an amazing substance. It is hardened sap that pine trees secrete when they are cut or damaged. In another article, I explain … Continue Reading →
Rattlesnake Dance!
HOLY @$%*&! I freeze like a marble statue. Are my eyes deceiving me? Less than 20 feet to my front are the largest rattlesnakes I’ve ever seen. Two of … Continue Reading →
Rattlesnake Safety for Hikers
I won’t lie, I feel lucky to be typing this. I nearly stepped between two enormous, hormone-crazed, Northern Pacific Rattlesnakes. The male snakes were engaged in a combat dance. … Continue Reading →
Bushcraft Knife Safety – 9 Tips to Avoid Accidents
It’s so shiny! The smooth grip feels like it was made for your hand. The lustrous blade playfully reflects trees and sky. You heft it gently, gauging its weight … Continue Reading →
16 Tips to Stay Cool on the Trail
Most of the United States is in the midst of a summer heat wave. These broiling temperatures are no joke! When you’re out on the trail, it’s very important … Continue Reading →