Sunday, 10 September 2017
Wednesday, 16 August 2017
How To Backpack With A Toddler
How to Backpack with a Toddler
Backpacking is not an easy task by ourselves or with another adult and adding a toddler to the mix can make life even more difficult. Luckily, there is no need to get stressed! Bringing a toddler is completely doable and will even be a lasting lifelong memory that you can share with your child.
The Problem
A toddler is around the age of one to three. With this age range, a lot of problems can arise. For example, temper tantrums may arise, diapers must be changed, and the child will get bored. These are all potential problems that anyone must plan for when brining a toddler along for the hike. Toddlers are going to bring up problems along the ride but it’s all about expecting the unexpected with them and figuring out ways to keep them interested.
Bring a Carrier
One of the best things you can do for yourself when bringing a toddler is to bring a carrier. There is no way that a child in the age range of one to three is going to be able to walk alongside you nor can you carry them a mile nevertheless for a five-mile backpacking trip. To avoid this problem, bring a carrier so that the child can sit in the carrier. You can choose to get a front carrier that would attach to the front of you or a back carrier that attaches to your back and you can still carry your pack as well. By simply bringing a carrier, you will see that you will decrease potential problems arising majorly.
To keep your toddler interested, it is always a great idea to bring snacks that they love. Snacks are something that can keep your toddler distracted and keep them full. A hungry toddler is an angry toddler, so make sure you give them snacks often. Also keep in mind to bring snacks that can hold without refrigeration because they will most likely not stay good for the duration of your hike. Good snacks to bring would be dry cereals, bananas, cookies, and trail mixes.
Take Breaks
Having a carrier that your toddler can sit in through the backpacking trip is a major asset but they will not want to sit in there the whole time. Just like adults don’t like to sit in the car for five hours straight, neither do toddlers. Toddlers also have a lower threshold so they will most likely fuss around more often than we would for a long trip. To avoid tantrums, stop here and there to let your toddler out. You can sit in a safe enough area with you toddler to look and show them flowers, the wildlife, or any streams. Stopping to smell the roses will keep you toddler in good graces and facilitate fewer tantrums.
Start Small
When you are going on your first hike with your toddler, it is important to start small. Do not go on a two-night backpacking trip for the child’s first hike. Just like when training for anything you start with maybe thirty minutes a day to get adjusted and used to the feeling. With toddlers, you must do the same thing. Go on thirty minute hikes on a trail a couple times. See how the toddler reacts and if you could bring anything to help them through the trip. This is a good trial run that will help you and your toddler get adjusted. The next step would be to go on a backpacking trip, only spending a day overnight. Once you have done this a couple of times, guaranteed your toddler will get used to it. You are basically training your toddler to be patient, tolerant, and to be adjusted to doing long backpacking trips.
Keep them Entertained
Along the hike it is important to remember that you actually have your toddler with you. By this I mean to acknowledge them and get them really involved along the hike. Talk to them constantly and point out anything along the trail that may interest them. Things like colorful flowers or streams can really amaze a toddler and keep them distracted for the next thirty minutes. Also, just talk to them now and then. By doing this you will keep them distracted and not cause them to spaz due to epic boredom.
Bring Anything Important
A major step that is important to take when hiking with a toddler is to bring everything they (and you) need. You will want to bring wipes, diapers, a bottle or sippy cup, juice/powdered milk, extra clothing, a footy to keep them warm, blankets for sleeping, and food. You also do not need to pack a whole week’s supply of all this gear or else you will have a huge pack, so only bring what you need for the designated length of the trip.
Stay Safe
When going on a hike with a toddler it is also vital to stay safe. You not only have to care for your life but also your precious toddler. Choose a trail that is very safe and does not have any potential hazards. Stay away from trails that require you to cross bodies of water or go down steep hills. Luckily there are lots of trails to choose from and most of them are very safe. If any situations that are dangerous do arrive, because life is unpredictable, just keep in mind to make the safest choice possible. If you have to just go back another day or choose a different trail, then do so. Don’t risk it!
By following all of these tips, you are sure to have a great time with you toddler! Also keep in mind to take care of you along the trip as well. You are not only going to be carrying your pack but also your child as well so it is important to keep hydrated. You are also going to be burning a lot of calories, so bring high calorie food for you as well to keep up. Good luck and happy backpacking!
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https://montemlife.com/how-to-backpack-with-a-toddler/
Thursday, 20 July 2017
How to Build a Permanent Shelter in the Woods
How to Build a Permanent Shelter in the Woods
Having a shelter to be able to go to whenever needed is an amazing asset that anyone can have. Having a shelter located in the woods is an even better asset as the woods harbors food, which you can hunt, and other additional resources that can be utilized. By creating a permanent shelter, you will see the benefits of doing so in having a reliable location outside your home to hunt in or stay hidden when needed, especially in a doomsday situation. In building a permanent shelter in the woods, there is steps needed to be taken to have the best shelter in the best location.
1. Choosing a Location (As they say, location, location, location!)
The very first step in building a permanent shelter is choosing the location. Location is important in that you want to pick an area that has all the resources you are looking for. Some important aspects to look for in choosing a location is access to a water source, local predators, accessibility, location dangers (like flash floods), and exposure.
When picking a location, a water source is import so that you can have access to water whenever needed without having to rely on the water you can get from your house or the store. Any water source that can be used for safe drinking after filtration is a huge asset to the permanent shelter you choose to build there.
Considering local predators is very important, as well. When choosing the location for your shelter look for signs of what animals are nearby. Look at tracks or droppings to find out what animals are living in the immediate area. If you find superfluous amounts of bear droppings, for example, you may want to choose a different location so that you are not in risk for being attacked or the shelter being destroyed.
Accessibility is also important in that you need to be able to get your shelter easily and with little trouble when you really need it. If there was an SHTF moment, then it would be important that you choose a location where there are little obstacles to get to your safety spot before there is mass hysteria across the globe.
Other dangers you may want to look out for are areas prone to flash floods, flooding, avalanches, or other potential location dangers. You do not want your shelter to get damaged or for yourself to get hurt so choose a spot that is safe and free of environmental hazards.
Lastly, exposure is another important aspect of choosing a location for your permanent shelter. By exposure I mean finding a spot that doesn’t let the whole world know that your shelter is where it is. You want to pick a spot that not many people can see and that only you and your family know about. This will keep from you shelter being destroyed by looters or menacing individuals.
2. Choosing the Best Permanent Shelter
After you have found just the right spot for your permanent shelter then it is time to decide on what shelter you want. When choosing to build a shelter, especially a permanent one, then you want to pick a shelter that can withstand your local elements. You also want to choose a shelter that is in your price range. In the end, you can only build what you can afford but luckily there are many shelters that do not require a lot of money and many even use some of nature’s materials. Shelters that can be utilized permanently include lean-tos, wickiups, and cabins. These three permanent shelters are all great choices and anyone can use at least one of these shelters for their climate.
The first shelter that you can build is a lean-to shelter. A lean-to shelter is a great option as it is low cost and is not hard to build. The basic materials you need are branches for the frame, something to lean the frame upon such as two trees or a wall, and a tarp or coverage to cover your frame. This shelter is perfect even for rainy conditions, windy conditions, or sunny conditions by positioning the shelter against the sun or wind.
A wickiup shelter is a shelter that many have never heard of but is a great option for a long-term shelter. It is a shelter similar to that of a teepee and is made with materials from the forest. That being said, this shelter is definitely great for individuals looking to not spend so much on a shelter. To build this shelter is also very easy! Another benefit of this shelter is its ability to have a fire built within it without burning the shelter down. Once you have chosen your location for your shelter make sure the area is clear of debris. Then build the tripod with three long strong branches which will bear the bulk of the weight. Then start to add more branches to the shelter as you see fit. All the spaces do not need to be filled yet as it will be filled with insulation later on. Lastly, it is now time to add the insulation. The insulation you are going to use is any forest debris you can find like leaves, pine needles, or debris such as this. When installing the debris begin at the bottom and then work your way to the top. By putting the debris in from bottom to top it does not allow the rain to get in the shelter. After the insulation is all put in, then you are all done!
A cabin is definitely the costliest out of the three shelters mentioned, but it is also the most permanent shelter you can make. If choosing to go the most cost-efficient way, you can make the cabin with your own two hands and lots of time. Most likely if you are building a cabin you will have lots of tress around your chosen location and you can use the tress around you to build the cabin. It will take time and patience to build the cabin but when finished is something that you can be really proud of and you can be sure that the cabin will be around for a while. When picking the design or direct instructions for a cabin there is plans that you can purchase online or you can enlist the help of someone who has successfully made a cabin themselves.
A cabin is also great for cold climates especially since you can install a woods stove. The cabin would also be able to keep in the heat and block out wind.
If looking to build a permanent shelter a cabin, wickiup, and lean-to are all great choices. Remember to choose a good location first and pick a spot that encompasses all the features mentioned. Once you got the perfect location you are ready to build your permanent shelter!
The post How to Build a Permanent Shelter in the Woods appeared first on Montem Outdoor Gear.
from
https://montemlife.com/how-to-build-a-permanent-shelter-in-the-woods/
Wednesday, 24 May 2017
Friday, 21 April 2017
How Many 14ers Are There in Colorado?
Ok, so don’t kill the messenger. This long-debated question of “How many 14ers are there in Colorado?” can get heated, but let’s go by the ones that exceed 14,000 feet in elevation and have at least 300 ft. of topographic prominence.
Putting aside the debates on the final count, our research shows 53 of these mountains that can crush the average hiker. Only the brave will take on the toughest, but luckily most people can find one that will be on their level. Starting with Bierstadt, this can be hiked in as little as 4 hours or up to 2 days depending on your route.
According to many hikers, they say the hardest 14er is one of the following.
- Capitol Peak
- Little Bear Peak
- Longs Peak
- Mount Wilson
- Pyramid Peak
Now, these hardest 14ers take a serious climber to reach the peak. Don’t try these mountains unless you have the experience to take them on.
The 53 can be found all over Colorado and give hikers and climbers the difficulty level you need. This is the list, according to wonderful Wikipedia.
You will find upwards of 140 routes on these mountains, so customizing the ultimate hike or climb is up to you! Choosing a leisurely hike or a couple days’ worth of climbing while making memories is your choice. Just be prepared and bring the gear you need to complete your expedition.
When you’re taking on any of these 14ers, pack at least these essentials.
- Water
- Food
- Watch
- Hat and sun screen
- Flash light/head lamp
- Pocket Knife
- Cell Phone
- Maps and Compass
- First Aid
- Lighter
While hiking, wear layers of clothing, so you can take off or put on layers to keep from sweating. Hiking shoes or proper footwear is paramount to keep your feet from blistering, your ankles from twisting, and help to relieve fatigue.
Another consideration is AMS- Acute Mountain Sickness. You will be in a low-oxygen situation that can make you really sick. AMS can be as minimal as fatigue or as bad as Cerebral Edema. Training slowly in these high elevations is key to be able to take on higher climbs. If you don’t have experience in dealing with these elevations, bring an experienced hiker/climber with you until you build up your conditioning.
Most importantly, when you go out hiking or climbing, you should have a plan and share it with someone trustworthy. Make 2 sets of plans documenting when you plan to start to climb and when you plan to be back. Map out the route and go over it with someone back home (parent, friend, wife or husband).
The post How Many 14ers Are There in Colorado? appeared first on Montem Outdoor Gear.
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https://montemlife.com/how-many-14ers-are-there-in-colorado/
Tuesday, 21 February 2017
Thursday, 9 February 2017
7 Ways To Get Fit For Your Weekend Hike
Alright, so you’ve decided you want to go hike a mountain, eh? Even the most fit person needs to be sure they’re prepared to start hiking — as climbing that big hill takes a lot more endurance than your average 45-minute gym session.
Your first hike requires you to not only be physically fit, but also mentally fit and prepared. Just the other day one of my friends came to me and said “I did it — I bought myself some hiking gear — let’s go!”
Well friend, I said, that really is fantastic, but get prepared because having the right gear is just one of the eight most important steps to getting fit for your first weekend hike!
Since hiking your first mountain can be a daunting task in itself (I mean, seriously, it will singlehandedly be one of the most physically and mentally enduring tasks you’ve ever done — but don’t worry, it gets easier by the mountain!), we’ve compiled this list of the top 7 Ways to Get Fit for Your Weekend Hike.
1. Get those legs in shape! … Or you’ll resent having to use the toilet and stairs (and even walking for that matter) for days.
You think the day after leg day at the gym is bad? Then trust me… you don’t want to know what it feels like to grab onto the walls for dear life as you lower down onto the toilet after climbing that mountain. I once went on a five-hour hike after taking a good bit of time off from my fitness routine — I cried when I saw stairs and walked like Bambi for a week.
To get those legs in shape, squats and lunges are best, as they work the same muscles as hiking. Find an open space, whether it’s your backyard, driveway, the gym, or even your office at lunchtime, and get lunging! Add a few jump squats in-between and you’re golden. To help even more, stop by your local sports shop and buy a kettle bell to hold during the lunges and swing with your squats. Your legs will burn, but that’s just their way of saying ‘Thank You’ for getting them ready for your hike.
2. Keep those muscles moving. Leg day is great — but cardio is critical too. You don’t want be dragging the pace down!
Walking at a brisk pace straight uphill can leave even a cardio beast both mentally and physically exhausted. If your group is moving quicker than you are on the hike, you’ll do anything you can to ensure you keep the pace. This is where strong legs, strong lungs, and a strong mind come into play.
When preparing for your hike, it’s dire that you fit in time for your cardio. If your thing is the gym, then ramp up that treadmill to a quick pace on the hill function. Alternate between that and the elliptical, but the rowing machine is also great to break up the monotony of the treadmill. If the gym isn’t your cup of tea, find some trails near you or a neighborhood with hills — essentially, anywhere with several inclines!
3. Strengthen those ankles! No one looks forward to a helicopter rescue in their future.
Walking down a mountain is more strenuous on your ankles and knees than going up. The thought of twisting your ankle in the wilderness abyss is enough to make anyone want to strengthen up. You can either go all out and join your local bootcamp fitness classes — high knees between tires anyone? — or just work on running up and down stairs at a quick pace and jump roping. Whatever you’re able to do to work on ankle strength — do it.
4. Head to your local outdoor store for a proper boot fitting.
Getting fit for your weekend hike doesn’t just involve physical fitness — it’s also being prepared. I had the same pair of hiking boots for years too long, but then I lost one… if you see a tattered Columbia boot on it’s lonesome, let me know?
Anyway, I decided it was most likely a sign that it was time for new boots. I headed into my local outdoor store, 53 Degrees North, to have someone with hiking boot expertise guide me in the right direction. Choosing the right boot can be a big decision, so take your time, because honestly, if your boots are too big, too small, or just not the right fit for you, your magical hiking experience can quickly turn rotten. The last thing you want is to miss out on the peacefulness of the hike because all you can think of is whipping off your boots and never hiking again.
5. Put down that donut and choose a piece of fruit instead!
We all know the benefits of healthy eating, but it’s a seriously solid piece of advice when you’re trying to get fit for your hike. Try your best to stay away from the artificial sugars, sodas, and sweets. Eat more fruit, load up on the veg, keep your carbs to only two per day, and drink plenty of H2O! Replace your evening beer or wine with a herbal tea, and try yogurt or nuts for an evening snack. Also remember that it’s essential to kickstart your metabolism every day — so eat a solid food like pear or kiwi within 30 minutes of getting up in the morning.
6. Be one with the zen — join the local Pilates studio.
Ever tried Pilates? If not, planning to get fit for hiking is the perfect excuse to give it a go. Since Pilates is a low stress method of physical and mental conditioning, you may not feel like you’re working out during the class itself, but you will definitely feel it the day afterward. Aside from the increased muscle strength and toning for all of your core muscles, you’ll also see an improvement in your flexibility, balance, and enhanced muscular control of your back and limbs — literally heaven to a hiker’s ears. Well maybe not literally, but you get the idea!
7. Finally, do your research!
If you can find any handy maps of the mountain you’re hiking online, print them off or save them to your phone. It’s also a great idea to read reviews from fellow hikers who might have some insight on trails, certain routes, or cool things to lookout for on the mountain.
And remember.. the reward at the top isn’t only the view — it’s the sheer fact that you will be beaming with pride for having reached the summit. And don’t forget to do one of the most important things when you reach the bottom again. Turn around, look up, and say to yourself — Shit, I just did that.
The post 7 Ways To Get Fit For Your Weekend Hike appeared first on Montem Outdoor Gear.
from
https://montemlife.com/7-ways-to-get-fit-for-your-weekend-hike/