There are many digital tools we use today to help us find our way around the wilderness. However, basic map and compass knowledge can help to navigate confidently in the outdoors and in the event of battery failures. Basic Navigation Steps: Know how to use a topographic (“topo”) map. Topographic lines mark lines of equal…
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Big News! 2022 Hiking Engagement Calendar & Planner is available
Get your hiking inspiration and plan your trips with the Rough It Outdoors Year of Hiking: 2022 Hiking Engagement Calendar and Planner! A Year of Hiking is a monthly and weekly engagement calendar and planner packed with fifty-two weeks of hiking inspiration. The year is filled with guidance for goal setting, trip planning, critical skills and hiking…
Read MorePoisonous Plants
No one wants to come back from a hike covered in itchy, blistery skin simply because they brushed up against a poisonous plant. These plants here are common throughout North America and can be potently irritating year-round. Some basic awareness of what the plants look like goes a long way to steering clear. The Big…
Read MoreHiking during Hunting Season
Fall is often a favorite time of year for hikers: cooler temperatures, glorious foliage, clear air all pull us out the door and into the woods. September, October, November, December, and January are also hunting seasons for deer, elk, and other game in many areas of the United States. Hunters and hikers both enjoy the…
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Summer Trip Dreaming
Looking ahead out of the depths of winter: Summer trip dreaming has me looking for new places to explore and old favorites to revisit.
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Trail Etiquette: Trail Types & Conditions
The beauty of a trail network is that it’s always available, and can be used year-round for different activities. A few conditions are worth noting and planning for.
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Trail Etiquette: Multi-use Trails
The best way to approach trail use is to remember to be kind, use your manners, and communicate verbally. A cheerful “hello” and “thank you” to fellow hikers goes a long way in promoting a positive trail experience.
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Best of Albuquerque Hiking: Part 1
This is a list of favorite Albuquerque area hikes for a variety of hiker types.
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Hiking: What to Wear
Hiking Gear: What’s on your back? Clothing is an important part of planning for your hike. As a hiker, you want to be comfortable, safe, and able to move. The two words you will hear most when considering what to wear hiking are ‘layers’ and ‘wicking’! As you move throughout the day, your body temperature…
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Hiking: How to Pack your Pack
How to keep all the odds and ends in order, and accessible when you need them? When packing your backpack, put the heaviest items closest to your spine.
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