The first time I’d heard of the 10 essentials was in our son’s Scout Handbook. It was this succinct list of survival items that every Scout should have on outdoor adventures in case of an emergency. Both of our boys assembled their items, and stowed them in their packs (just in case). Eventually, I would … Continue reading What’s in My Pack? The 10 Essentials!
It’s a great time of year to get outside and brush up on those hiking skills whether you’re headed out on a day hike or multi day trip. This week I’m cracking open the archives and kicking off a trail tips series. This page is under construction, and will be updated with each post. Thanks for joining!
Ready to hike to one of Minnesota’s most iconic North Shore views? This rugged section of trail boasts steep climbs, expansive views of Lake Superior’s north shore, two hidden lakes, thick forest, roaring waterfalls and plenty of rocks and roots to keep your ankles busy. Whether you are backpacking overnight, or day hiking the loop, … Continue reading Hiking and Backpacking Bean + Bear Lakes!
This trip report will cover our overnight trip to the historic remote cabins at Tettegouche State Park, a glimpse at the northern lights, some new backpacking gear I’m testing out and absolutely zero bigfoot sightings This is the time of year when we get a little itchy and want to get a Winter camping trip … Continue reading Weekend at Tettegouche State Park Remote Cabins
“We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly.” -Anne Marie Bonneau, Zero Waste Chef It’s easy to get overwhelmed and feel like “none of it really matters” but like the quote states above, we don’t have to wait to get get it perfect to … Continue reading Zero (and near-o) Waste Tips for the Trail!
Happy New Year! I just came back from an extended holiday break with family and hiked in two new parks to kick off 2023! I am also embarking on my 5th 52 Hike Challenge and was selected to be part of the 52 Hike Challenge Over 50 Outside Cohort. Super stoked to continue representing a … Continue reading Hiking in Texas, Arkansas + 52 Hike Challenge!
Spring is the time of year when everything returns to life (and gets real muddy). Even though I like to hike year round, I need a little reboot when the snow thaws. This post covers some of the ways I physically and mentally prepare myself for hiking and backpacking. Be sure you get the green … Continue reading 5 Training Tips for Your Next Hiking or Backpacking Trip!
Read about how I trimmed my pack weight back down to 25 lbs after hovering at +/- 30 lbs for a few of years. I also share what’s in my 5 day Ultralight Backpacking Gear List. List includes weights in ounces, weather considerations and links to gear.
Continued from Part 1 We’re back from our 5 day backpacking trip to Grand Canyon National Park! This is a two part post since there is so much to share! Check out our new trip video on Youtube and be check back or hit subscribe to see our upcoming gear post and video. LETS GO! … Continue reading Backpacking in Grand Canyon National Park | Part 2
Our Grand Canyon trip report just published, so let’s talk about GEAR! This post features my detailed 5 day packing list, including weights in oz and the weather and water conditions that we needed to consider on this shoulder season trip. Be sure to check out the gear video from our last night of the … Continue reading What’s In My Pack? 5 Day Lightweight Gear List | Grand Canyon Edition!
This week, a friend asked “what’s the difference between a walk and a hike?” I’ve heard this question before, but even now…when things seem to be changing on the daily…the answer is still the same “Well, that’s up to you…” When I signed up for my first 52 Hike Challenge, in 2017, my personal definition … Continue reading How to Plan a Hike…and what is a hike anyway?
The Isle Royale trip report is up, so let’s talk about gear next! This post covers my 5 day packing list, weights (according to my scale) and some of the conditions I prepared for on this trip. Be sure to also check out the accompanying gear video I shot on our last night of the … Continue reading Whats In My Pack? 5 Day Comfort Light Gear List!
I remember hearing the term “S24O” from a biking friend and mentor years ago. He described a Sub-24 hour overnight is a down n dirty quick overnight trip on a bike, where riders just strap stuff on their rigs wherever they can, and ride somewhere and back within a 24 hour timeframe. This concept fascinated … Continue reading S24what?! First Bikepacking Trip, Route + Gear List
Welcome to part 1 of our trip to 4 more Southern Minnesota State Parks! It was great to be back on the trail with my first hiking buddy, and visit 4 new parks – painting and capturing my favorite things along the way. Find out how long Big Stone Lake really is, and stay tuned for part 2, where we visit Upper Sioux Agency and Camden State Parks. Happy Trails!
We’re back from our last family camping trip of the year and the camper has been a great way to spend time together, extend the season and have some of the comforts of home. Our dog eats tents, so it’s also been nice to have a way to bring her along! Temperance River State Park … Continue reading Fall Camping and Hiking at Temperance River State Park
We’re back from an refreshing Thanksgiving weekend trip to William O’Brien State Park! It’s been a while since I’ve had a cold weather overnight and it was great to dust off the skills and gear to extend the camping season. This 3 in 1 post covers: Our Free Park Friday/Opt Outside group hike on the … Continue reading Campsgiving at William O’Brien State Park
Welcome to the Wandering Pine Outdoor Gift Guide! Featuring gifting options for your favorite outdoorsy peeps (or treat yourself!) at under $25, under $50 and even gently used gear! Note: this guide was originally published in 2020, but has been edited and refreshed for this year’s gift giving season- like your Christmas tree….this post is … Continue reading Wandering Pine Outdoor Gift Guide!
Happy 4th Birthday to Wandering Pine! It’s always fun to look back to see how things have changed and recap the highlights of the year. The Saturday mornings that I used to dedicate to writing have been spent walking outside, working in the garden and quietly wedged into my reading chair with the dog. I … Continue reading 2020 Year in Review
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” Mr. Rogers Hi. Everybody doing ok? I feel like I’ve gotten an email from every company I’ve ever given my email to this … Continue reading Staying Grounded and Focused in Uncertain Times
Adventuring in Ely MN with the International Wolf Center and Northern Tier High Adventure Base
