Lottery and permit applications for popular wilderness areas in Washington open as early as February, which makes it a great time to start planning! Here’s a guide with important dates and details for the most coveted spots in the State.

Ticks, mosquitos, and flies can unfortunately turn a beautiful outdoor adventure into a nightmare. Don’t want to bathe in DEET? Read about Permethrin and Picaridin, non-toxic repellants that actually work, and get tips and tricks for preventing bites.

Make a year-end donation to one of the following 18 national and local organizations that support trails, promote stewardship, and conserve our wild places. As outdoor adventurers it’s our duty to support these groups!

The 10 essentials get a lot of press, but what about safety gear for your vehicle? Lots of scenarios can leave you stranded unexpectedly—a blown tire, inclement weather, challenging terrain, or simply bad directions. Check out this list of vehicle safety items that can make a big difference when the unexpected happens.

Is backcountry skiing or snowboarding on your list of things to do? Not sure how to get started or make the transition from inbounds? As a new backcountry snowboarder, I’ve learned a lot that can help others with backcountry aspirations or who are new to the sport.

What would happen if you were stranded overnight on your next hike or trail run? Would you be adequately prepared? Carrying essential gear, even on a short outing, increases your safety margin and can even make the difference between life and death.

There’s nothing quite like spending the night outdoors, just you and your pooch. Backpacking with Jake dog has a special place in my heart and we’re here to share our tips and tricks for making sure you and your dog have a fantastic backpacking experience!

Waterproof boots are a myth. If you spend time on the trail, especially in the PNW, your feet are getting wet, plain and simple. Here are tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to manage wet feet and keep them happy!

If you were caught outside in a lightning storm, would you know what to do? In my past Indiana life I volunteered as a SkyWarn Storm Spotter and my training came in handy this week when I made two big mistakes and got myself stuck on an exposed ridge near Alpine Lookout during a thunderstorm. Read how to reduce your lightning risks while adventuring outdoors.

Want to make awesome lightweight backcountry meals and preserve fruit and veggies? Learn the art of food dehydration! It’s simple, easy, and fairly low cost to get started. Check out these tips to learn everything you need!