Venturing into unknown territory is always a scary prospect. Whether it’s starting a new job, moving to a new city, or learning a technical outdoor pursuit, the new and unknown is intimidating. The new can challenge us both physically and…
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I’ve been on more than 65 expeditions and over 20 of them have been solo missions. I’ve learned that when I’m climbing and adventuring many days and miles in the backcountry where a rescue may not be an option, preparation…
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It’s 7:54 a.m. A vibrant red and orange dawn is breaking in the east; the sun’s rays are straining to tip-toe across the high wall of Glacier Gorge to our left. We watch the earth wake up around us from…
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Blake Herrington first honed his climbing skills on a massive Douglas Fir rising out of his neighbor’s yard in the North Cascade Mountains. The evergreen tree—an iconic Pacific Northwest native—proved to be the perfect training apparatus. Herrington took to the…
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A Long way from LaLaLand It started when I was 18 years old—the dream of climbing in the Cirque of the Unclimbables in Canada’s Northwest Territories. It wasn’t until I was 35 that I made it happen with Brian, a…
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This time of year, it’s easy to slow down, stay in doors, and generally miss out on time you could otherwise be spending outside. Fewer people, no bugs, crisp mornings and warm days are just some of the reasons to…
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We often view trips—and especially outdoor exploits—as a chance to “get away.” Traffic, people, cell phones, computers, laundry, grocery lists, etc: a trip to the mountains can be a great reset button when life in society is feeling overwhelming. Kim…
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Ever wish you could do what you love for a living? What if backpacking, road-tripping or paddling paid the bills? Meet Mike Morin and Amanda Peterson, aka the Access Fund Conservation Team. Sponsored in-part by Therm-a-Rest, this dynamic duo has…
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