Pedaling Away From Anxiety: Cycling and Mental Health

  May is mental health awareness month. In recent years, psychologists and mental health professionals around the world have recognized the extraordinary benefits of physical exercise in beautiful, natural spaces. This is a terrific advance in the treatment of mental health issues, but it’s also one many of us have known for many years. With … Read more

Okay, Trekking Pole Tent—You Won Me Over

  When I was a kid, I used to keep a calendar above my desk that read: “_____ days ‘til camp.” Much to my mom’s dismay, I usually began this countdown the day after I returned from that summer’s session. While I no longer torture myself with that particular ritual, the excitement I feel for … Read more

The Time I Saved a Bear’s Life By Smoking a Spliff

  One of the modest pleasures of my middle-age dad-life is an annual solo backpacking trip that, despite all other responsibilities and interests, I’ve been able to keep sacrosanct. In a good year, I can pull off a five-nighter without the fam. Usually, it’s enough if I can scratch out a three-night, four-day trip. It’s … Read more

Helinox Debuts a Truly New Idea in Tents

  It seems like it’s been a long time since a truly novel idea in tents came along. There are endless amounts of great tents on the market, but not many that make you think, huh, that’s interesting. But now there’s the Helinox Tactical Cot Tent. Basically, it’s a small, one-person tent that uses a … Read more

For the Love of Dirt: Watch ‘From Biocrust With Love’

Dr. Kristina Young, a biocrust expert, teamed up with John Watson at The Radavist to bikepacking in the desert to learn more about biocrust and why it matters, in a short film called “From Biocrust With Love,” directed by good friend of AJ Sinuhe Xavier — check it out above.  If you like the film, … Read more

Why Do We Have So Much Stuff?

Ed note: This story isn’t strictly about adventure. But, it’s about something so many of us deal with — stuff creep. We’re suckers for stories about people simplifying their lives, especially if that means they gain a sense of freedom and lightness. Enjoy.    A few years ago, I turned a carport into a bedroom. … Read more

15 Somewhat Random Books Every Environmentalist Should Read

If you’ve never visited The Revelator, consider making it part of your regular internet travels. It’s a website dedicated to wildlife, nature, and the environment. At times poignant, others enraging, sometimes hilarious, it’s always illuminating. The editor, John Platt, occasionally publishes recommended reading lists and his latest is filled with interesting titles we think you’d … Read more

The Natural Beauty of Natural Bridges National Monument

You’d think Natural Bridges National Monument’s primary draw would be the three natural stone bridges in the monument, and, sure people flock to see those, but it’s the inky black skies that really draw the oohs and ahhs. Natural Bridges was the first International Dark Sky Park and it only takes one moonless night to … Read more