Desert Turkey
Historically Thanksgiving has not been my favorite holiday. The ritualistic over-consumption of turkey, the viewing of football, the canned cranberry paired with the inevitable trip to visit relatives largely soured my pallet. For years I shunned the holiday and stuck to my routine whenever I could. I spent some memorable Thanksgivings climbing, usually in the desert, but skipped the fluff of fancy meals. Eating Tasty Bites was ok, but decidedly un-festive. Read More …
Desert Smarts
The upcoming release of 127 Hours, a film about Aron Ralston and his cutting-off-his-own-arm ordeal, got us thinking about the desert. When you’re miles away from any possible rescue, desolate sandy roads are all you see of civilization, and a single set of footprints is all you notice along the day’s path, it’s essential to keep things in perspective.
What is the weather forecast? Does everyone have enough water to make it back to base camp? Who has a detailed map and the skills to use it? Is this pace OK for everyone? Does someone have water treatment capabilities and if so, is there potable water along the route? Where? Do you have enough food in case of fringe possibilities? Does your group? Can you exit the canyon you’re about to enter without backtracking? Read More …
Every spring, for the past four years, a special event has been taking place in the otherworldly expanse of southern Utah, near the town of Escalante. Outdoor industry retail representatives from across the country are brought together to explore a land defined by geological wonders, scattered with Native American ruins, and full of wisdom-laden locals. Sprinkle in some canyoneering, hiking, and fly fishing expeditions followed by interactive sessions with the employees and gear designers, and you get the ultimate feedback environment for a line of outdoor products— Mountain Hardwear Basecamp 2010. Read More …
Charlie giving the slot canyon a boost
I recently had the honor of attending a weekend gear-testing session in Escalante, Utah, that was sponsored by Mountain Hardwear. Mingling with the reps and designers in between 8-hour hiking and canyoneering sessions opened my eyes to a few things. Among them: Escalante is quite possibly the coolest place in the world, and the people who make Mountain Hardwear tick care deeply about everything they do. Read More …