NAC Newsletter 101 - 200

It's that time of year, when hikers are plentiful and provide a smorgasbord for many insects. The most apparent, and most annoying are the hordes of mosquitoes buzzing about the forest just waiting for the unprepared hiker to wander in and supply them with a tasty dinner. This week, we will look at the best ways to defend yourself from these relentless parasites!. Few things can ruin an outdoor adventure quicker than swarms of hungry mosquitoes, leaving you with itchy red wel

When transitioning from hiking to backpacking, the first thing you have to consider is shelter. Unless you plan on living in caves or under other rock formations, you're going to have to start looking into tents, bivy sacks, hammocks or a simple tarp. The world of backpacking shelters can become a little overwhelming, but hopefully, this week's article will help you sift through all the excess mumbo jumbo and help you pinpoint your perfect shelter. Because it has a big effect

The World is changing at the hands of humans. As these changes happen, we will be forced to also make many changes and learn new behaviors. But more importantly, we will have to learn how to survive these changes while still continuing on with our day to day lives. For hikers and backpackers, this could be terrifying. This week we are looking into a skill, that it seems, will be necessity on all future adventures. "Wildfires are going to become bigger and more frequent in the

Last week, we looked at how to navigate the backcountry and what to do if you get off trail and completely lost. But what if you're not the lost one? What if it's your hiking partner or a member of your group? This week, let's look at the best way to reconnect with your hiking pal and how to prevent losing them in the first place. Let's get into it! "Where the hell are they?"   This is a scenario we all dread: you’re on a group hike and one of the hikers in your group disappe

One of the most common things I find along the trail; Lost Hikers! No one should be heading out into the backcountry without at least the minimal navigational knowledge. Simple things like Google Maps or a hiking app can keep you safe and are very easy to use. Those who plan to venture off a little deeper into the rabbit hole need to learn how to obtain proper topo maps and use a compass to navigate. With that said, let's dive into the world of Navigation.   You’re miles into

Over the last decade or so, more and more hikers have been getting bitten by Lyme infected ticks. Although that the odds of contracting Lyme Disease from ticks are very low, and there is progress being made on a vaccine, but in the meantime, I am a firm believer that knowledge is your best defense. And with that, enjoy this week's very educational article. Blacklegged ticks are spreading across Canada — and they’re bringing Lyme disease with them Blacklegged ticks are unable

Keeping clean on the trail usually isn't a big issue. If you're only hiking for a day or two, it's not even something you really think of. But what if you're going to be out there for 3, 4 or maybe even 7 days. Now you really have to start thinking about hygiene, and planning carefully. A huge misconception, "I can lather up with biodegradable soap and jump in the river." But, biodegradable soap is not biodegradable when placed directly in rivers and streams or any open body

Even as an experienced hiker and guide, one of my least favorite tasks is buying new hiking boots. Over the years, I have used more than 14 different pairs and 6 different brands, but the fact is, you really never know what you are going to get. You try them on in-store, and wear them around a bit and everything feels great. But then you get them out in the backcountry only to find they weren't all that you hoped they would be, or worse, they chew your feet up. Buying boots i

Although I personally don't do it often, as I am usually leading a group, many have asked me about hiking alone. My personal opinion, it is nice to have solitude from time to time, but on those long difficult sections, nothing is better than having someone to help distract you from your agony. But, is hiking alone safe? Let's delve into this week's article and find the answer... We’ve all been there – maybe you’re new in town or have found yourself with an empty weekend and h

Spring is here, and with spring, comes rain! Lots and lots of rain. Even while you are sitting there reading this, Niagara Adventure Club and 6 awesome hikers are out on their 3rd day braving the rain. Rain in the Summer is nice and refreshing. But with Spring's cool temperatures, rain can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous. So let's take a look at some of the best ways to stay dry and safe in the rain. Are you headed out for a hike and worried about the weather? It’s i

Experiencing the backcountry responsibly and safely is absolutely life changing, and I feel everyone should try it at least once. However, for our female hikers, it can be more challenging. As a guide, I regularly have to have discussions with first time female hikers about how to manage their menstrual cycles in the back country. Luckily, it's not that hard. It only requires a bit of planning and a few extra items. But I am no expert on the subject, so let's dive into this w

On almost every hike, on every single multi-day hike, and every expedition, you will find a set of hiking poles strapped to my backpack. But, are they necessary? Yes, in my opinion, they are! I will not use them every time, but they are there when I need them. Some hikes are nearly impossible without hiking poles, and without them, you would be eating mud much more than you like. Other times, poles are a hindrance, but, that's why your backpack has a nice little system for ha

n just a few short weeks, NAC will be hosting our first backpacking trip of the season. One of the most difficult things to do when first starting out as a backpacker, falling asleep in an unknown environment. Hard surfaces, small sleeping area, things falling onto your tent and so many other factors can make it very difficult to fall asleep until you get used to it all. However, once you do, nothing is as relaxing as sleeping in the backcountry. That is, when the raccoons ar

When setting out on a Winter hike, you dress warm, you pack warm, and you stay warm. Planning a Summer hike? You plan to wear shorts and a t-shirt, pack light and you're good to go. But what about that Spring hike. The weather can change drastically in just a few hours. It may pour, it may be bright and sunny, it will probably do both. One moment it can be freezing cold, and a few hours later, you're sweating. Not too mention, you may be traversing deep mud one minute and int

Last week we went through some pointers for hiking in the mud. But truthfully, mud is just one of many challenges you are very likely to face during a Spring hike in Canada. Sudden rain, snow, ice patches and more all pose threats to hikers on the trail. Let's dive in and go through a few more tips for hiking in the Spring. You don’t have to wait until summer to go hiking. Spring is a great season to explore the trails, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Check out so

Seeing that winter is just about done and we did get quite a bit of snow over the last while, we could look forward to a very muddy Spring as the snow melts. Hiking in mud can be treacherous, dangerous and scary. It must be be done with caution and care. So, read on and learn how to traverse those muddy trails with confidence. Spring hiking in Colorado Springs, or just about anywhere in Colorado, is synonymous with mud hiking. Many of us ask the question, can you hike in the

While guiding day hikes and multi-day hikes, I would say that the most common question asked of me is, "Do I need hiking poles?" The short answer is, "Yes, you absolutely do need hiking poles!" Although you won't use them on every hike, it's best to have them and not need them. In my years of hiking and guiding, I have traversed many trails that just aren't possible without poles. Ok, maybe they are 'possible without poles', but they would be much more difficult. On the West

So, we have reviewed rock climbing lingo, contemplated the various types of climbing holds and learned of rock climbing gear and it's proper use. So, in keeping with the theme, this week we will delve into the realm of climbing technique. It's not always about strength. The proper use of technique will get you up the wall quicker, and with less effort! If you are wondering how to get into rock climbing, there is no wrong way to go about it. You can take a class at your local

For the past few weeks, we have been learning about Rock Climbing. You learned a few new climbing terms, you learned about the various types of rock climbing holds and despite all that, you still have a bit more to learn. Therefore, this week , we will dive into the wonderful world of Rock Climbing Gear! Rock climbing has had an explosion of growth over the last couple of decades. The unique sport offers excitement, a challenge for all abilities, and different ways to explore

If you've been reading along the past few weeks, you should now be well versed in many different hiking terms, and a few climbing terms. This week, we will continue with your vocabulary training. In particular, we will be looking at some of the different names for climbing holds, and some of the various types of climbing moves. Take notes, these terms and phrases will be very helpful at the crag! (You should remember that word from last week's article!) When you are just gett