The Best Boots for Snowshoeing? Five Key Features to...
Do you need a specific type of footwear for snowshoeing? Yes and no. The reality is that you can strap in virtually any pair of shoes or boots and hit the snowy trails. But to…
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Conservation Advocacy Toolkit
November 12, 2024 After last Tuesday’s election, a change of U.S. leadership is underway that will influence environmental policy for years to come. Just as we have done with every administration, the Appalachian Mountain Club...
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Wind Resistant vs. Wind Proof: A Simple Trick to...
A cold wind can steal body heat fast, so it’s important to have a layer at hand to block wind’s chilling effect. But what’s the difference between a wind-proof and wind-resistant fabric? And what are…
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Hikes in the 100-Mile Wilderness
I recently visited the 100-Mile Wilderness in Maine and was able to discover many of the nearby trails. Although I didn’t have the best weather I was still able to get some great views! The pictures above and below are from…
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Three Myths (and Facts) About Poison Ivy Rash
Part 3 in a series on avoiding, preventing, and treating poison ivy rash. FACT: Scratching a poison ivy rash WILL NOT cause it to spread. Busting the Myth: Poison ivy rashes often seem to spread…
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How to Recognize and Avoid Poison Ivy: Three Sayings...
Part 1 in a series on avoiding, preventing, and treating poison ivy rash. An estimated 70 to 90 percent of people are allergic to urushiol oil, the culprit that causes the maddening rash when your…
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Exploring Maine’s 100-Mile Wilderness
Afoot and afloat in Maine’s most beguiling backcountry My introduction to Maine’s famed 100-Mile Wilderness region came in early July of 1974, when a junior high school friend and I concocted a plan to hike…
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Hiking Boots vs Trail Runners: Best Footwear for the...
Ever hear that an extra pound on your feet is equivalent to 5 pounds on your back? Whether or not that oft-quoted piece of backcountry wisdom is exactly right, one thing is definitely true: Hiking…
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11 Great Family Hikes near Waterfalls, Rivers, and Lakes
When hiking with kids, it’s always good to have a payoff to reward their effort, whether you’re offering a mountain view or a chocolate bar from your backpack—or maybe both. One of the best attractions…
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How Many Calories Do You Burn Backpacking?
Short answer: A lot. Long answer: It depends on a multitude of factors, including body weight, pack weight, elevation gain/loss, terrain, and more. Here’s a quick round-up of a few online estimates (and guesstimates), plus…
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