I Gave a Coyote the Yips!: Being alert counts, whether crossing a four-lane avenue or hiking in wilderness. I didn’t set out to learn about coyotes on this dreary November afternoon. But by paying attention … Continue Reading →
Quiroste Revisited (Video)
I’m happy to share this hopeful story. There are more than 150,000 people in California who can trace their origins back to the state’s original Native American inhabitants1. … Continue Reading →
Touch This Frog and You’ll Croak!
We are lucky in California. There are few venomous species that can kill a person. Sure there are rattlesnakes, but they are not aggressive and tend to avoid people. … Continue Reading →
How to Use a Firesteel
Firesteels are one of the most important inventions in outdoor gear in the last 50 years. And once you get to know them, you will appreciate the advantages of … Continue Reading →
New Animal Tracking Class for Beginners!
My friend Garth Harwood is an amazing animal tracker. He is also a skilled and patient teacher. Garth is offering a beginner-level animal tracking class in Palo Alto, … Continue Reading →
Moths – Amazing Creatures of the Night!
The natural world comes in all shapes and sizes. Not long ago, I described my insect safari and how you can have one too. It made me appreciate … Continue Reading →
Bushcraft Dessert – Make a Lavender Dip for Strawberries
Identifying wild edibles can be intimidating. It’s natural (and reasonable) to feel apprehensive when you’re starting out. So I want to give you an easy project to try. Something comfortable … Continue Reading →
Walking in Nature Changes Your Brain!
Do you feel different after hiking in nature? Then you’re not alone! Studies show that people who walk in nature have fewer psychological problems than people who don’t. And hikers … Continue Reading →
The Refrigerator Tree
“What’s with the naked tree?” My hiking partner turned to follow my gaze. His eyes landed on a most peculiar tree. About 40 feet high with wide branches, … Continue Reading →
Win a Madrone Firesteel!
It’s time for another giveaway! Why? Because it’s fun! When I do a giveaway, I try to link it to articles appearing on the site. This month we … Continue Reading →
10 Traditional Skills You Should Learn
If you spend time outdoors you develop a profound respect for our ancient ancestors. How did we survive before electricity, indoor plumbing, and air conditioning? Before supermarkets, big … Continue Reading →