Beginner’s Guides

Beginner’s Trail Guide: West side of Rocky Mountain National Park

Seeing some meese (yes, I know that’s not actually the plural of moose) has been on my outdoorsy bucket list for well over a year. It first started when I was working in Vermont and realized that was prime meesey habitat. After leaving without seeing so much as a squirrel, I shelved my moose ambitions Read more
How to pack for your first camping trip

Going camping for the first time is exciting, but also a little intimidating. Learn what to pack and what to leave at home for your first camping trip. Read more
What to wear the first time you go hiking

Editor’s Note: Most of you get here by Googling some form of “Can I wear sweatpants to go hiking?” The answer is absolutely yes. Despite what Pinterest will tell you, if you want to try out hiking, you don’t need much. If you’re on a well-maintained trail and go on a day with mild temperatures, Read more
The best socks for hiking and running

For a long time, I lived life completely unaware of the glorious world of sock options. I thought that white cotton ankle socks were as good as it got. But during my first-ever trip to REI, I was informed in no uncertain terms that cotton socks were not going to cut it. Cotton doesn’t wick Read more
Gear Guide: How to pick out your first pair of hiking boots

I define hiking as walking outside on an unpaved surface. Which could be why I have an unpopular opinion about hiking footwear. My hot take on hiking boots: 90% of people getting outside probably don’t need hiking boots in the first place. They’re expensive. And most hikes the average Outdoor Beginner goes on don’t require Read more
Who Am I?

I’m a beginner, just like you. Until a few years ago, I never even owned a pair of hiking boots. I grew up in Maryland running around in the woods like a wild child, either on foot with my dog or on the back of a pony that I’m sure was wondering why the @#$* it Read more