I recently had a hard problem to solve. My best friend is getting married and I'm the best man. Problem? How do I plan an awesome bachelor party for someone who loves the outdoors and would hate (as I) the typical bachelor party.

This winter has been hard on us all. With hardly a flake of snow on the ground to be found within driving distance, we are chained to the couches every weekend. Normally we would all be out snowshoeing, skiing, ice climbing, and generally wreaking havoc, but this winter has not been easy on the outdoor enthusiast.

Most people would think that hiking through the backwoods sweaty and tired with 40lbs on your back would be some weird nightmare. Not us. We love backpacking and all the beautiful misery that comes with it. What could be better? We live for the open trail before us, winding ever on. How does the saying go? "Not all who wander are lost." Doesn't that just stir you up inside?

This is for all you arm chair adventurers, just like me. There are a few age old questions that seems to boil up to the surface every once in awhile, questions that leave people divided. The culture and social aspects of professional outdoor adventure of all kinds has given rise to a new generation of super athletes, and average folk, looking for the next mountain to climb.

I'm pretty sure you and I both need one. Don't we? Slaving away all week in that cubicle putting up with those same people, "didn't you get the memo?" It's enough to drive you crazy, literally. And we all have those same dreams don't we? We dream about going up to our boss and saying, in no uncertain terms, "Forget You."

Who doesn't love a good camping trip? Even when the rain is pouring down on you it's still better then being stuck in a cubicle or on your couch, wouldn't you agree? Camping trips are supposed to bring us back down to earth, make our lives simpler, and rejuvenate our souls. There is only one problem, all the stuff and gear. All the things you always forget

Everyone is being cheap these days, it's pretty much the new way of life. People trying to get bottom dollar on everything from camping gear to selling their own children, well ok, maybe not that far, but close to it. So, who isn't looking for three easy ways to save money on that next big outdoor adventure?

There are a lot of adventures and adventurers out there today doing this and that. But, when is the last time you talked to someone who wanted to ride their bike around the world? Yeah, that's what I thought, me either. Dreaming big is something that we all do, but Sean Conway had a little bit bigger dream then most of us. Riding his bicycle around the world, and do it so fast he sets a world record.

Yup, another one of those weekends, evenings, or days off that you end up sitting around on the couch dreaming about adventure and romping around in the great outdoors. Don't pretend like you don't have those days and evenings. Luckily we have the wonderful world wide web to escape to, that is until you reach the end. Then what?

What would be Part 1 (Longs Peak), 2 (Mount Sherman), or 3 (Mt. Bierstadt) without a Part four (Pikes Peak)? The saga continues, for better or worse. We’ve talked about the famous, the easy, and now we have to talk about the in-betweeners when it comes to the fourteeners. Did that rhyme? Pikes Peak is probably one of the most well known 14ers in Colorado, sure it may not be pure adventure, but it is on the list none the less. This wonderful mountain towers over Colorado Springs at 14,115 feet, another great reason to visit the area.

Who would have guessed we would have lived to see the day? Christmas without snow? Going for long walks in mid-January with nothing more then a sweater on? I'm not really sure if I should be really or really sad. I think my snowshoes are lonely and sad, my car...happy. What is up with the weather? For the most part it has turned about to be a very mild winter, putting it lightly

Do you like large open bodies of water, big waves, storms? Well, I would take a rain check, but the professional adventurers on the TransAtlantic Slovenian-British Ocean Rowing Expedition must not mind it so much. If you have not heard already, this ocean rowing expedition is made up of 4 professional adventurers, including Alastair Humphreys (who we interviewed here), Marin Medak, Simon Osborne, and Stephen Bowens. These brave souls plan to row their way 2500 nautical miles from the Canary Islands to Barbados, quite a long Atlantic ocean expedition.

So, do you know the answer? Do you know what makes you different? I mean, who knows you better then you? Hmmm. What am I talking about? Have you ever wondered why you and me love the great outdoors and all those fresh air adventures and many people don't?

Wondering what the best piece of backpacking gear is? Hmmm...me too. Guess what, I got it for Christmas, lucky me uh? Oh, well you’re probably wondering what is the best and coolest piece of backpacking gear is, at least for right now, it’s the GSI Bugaboo Backpacker “cooking and eating solution.”

We’ve talked about the Apostle Islands before, this place is one of the Seven Wonders of the known world. Anyone looking for and outdoor adventure that is a little bit different then the normal has to check out the Apostle Islands. Does this famous outdoor destination offer any activities and fun in the winter?

Brrr...it’s cold out there. The winter snow and that cold wind blowing from the north is enough to shiver Sasquatch to his bones. Being cold is no fun and not being prepared is even worse. Being able to keep yourself alive in a cold environment is important for any outdoor adventuresome person. We have come up with the five best winter survival trips that could be the key to your next outdoor winter and cold environment excursion. You never know when that vehicle won’t start or when you get turned around and lost. Even though that stuff never happens to us, right?

Even though we all like to have the best and brightest colored camping equipment money can buy, money doesnt grow on money trees. At least not anywhere but our dreams. Money is hard to come by these days, it takes sweat, blood, and precious tears to get some of that green stuff. It can be vary painful going to Patagonia.com or NorthFace.com and handing over buckets full of greenbacks for that shiny piece of outdoor gear; tent, sleeping bag, cooking ware. We think we need that new gear, but don't like spending to get it.

What man doesn't like a good knife? Ever since I was a kid, and probably you also, being the guy on the block with the biggest knife was what it was all about. Knifes are..well.. knifes, need I say more? I'm not sure what us guys like so much about knifes, I mean it probably goes all the way back to caveman running around with rock knifes killing mammoths and what not. Well, you may not have to defend against saber tooth tigers with your knife, but if you still think you need a blade, I have the coolest one out there right now.

You ever wish you were a kid again? Do you ever dream about those snow days when you got school off and played outside with your friends all day? Those glorious snow forts, sledding down that huge hill, those were the days. In today's cubicle world it's easy to forget about the simple and fun things in life. Life is short, what's the point in being a grump the whole time? If you're looking to blow off a little steam, we've got a list of 5 things you have to do for fun this winter. Don't think about it, just go outside and do it. You will feel better, we promise.

Tis' the time of year for shoveling snow and being generally cold and miserable. Right? Well, I guess the right winter gear goes a long ways to keep you from turning into the abominable snowman. We have talked about boots, snow shoes, and other winter topics, but what about our poor fingers that always seem to turn into icicles? I don't know about you, but when having outdoor winter adventures there is nothing worse then fumbling around with boot laces or snowshoe straps because your hands are just a big block of ice.

The cold arctic weather has come to rest above us, temperatures are dropping and it seems the wind has a extra cold bite these days. Alas, it will be a few months before the robins are chirping again. With snow coming that will soon be up to our knees and trips planned for snow shoeing and winter adventures, having the best pair of winter snow boots in your closet is a must.

Ever wonder when you are sitting around on the couch surfing the internet, what makes a great adventurer so great? What is it like to do all those things you only dream about when day dreaming in your cubicle? Well, Alastair Humphreys probalby doesnt, because he is one of those people you read about, watch online, hear about, and wonder how they do it. What better way to find out then ask?

Yes, that time of year is upon us again. Usually there is a certain point where it becomes uncomfortable to go out in the morning and start your car, because it's freezing! Winter has arrived and with it the cold weather and snow are here, or on its way here. How can a person possibly keep in shape and exercise during the winter without killing the budget on a huge gym membership that none of ever uses?

Knowledge is the key to life. How do we get knowledge? What about the old fashioned way? What happened to getting under a blanket on the couch on a cold winter evening with a good book? Books make us cultured and broaden our horizons. Books let us be arm chair adventurers from the comfort of our home.

Roaming the hills and setting off into the sunset, isn’t that what life is really about? Breaking free of that sea of cubicles that traps most of use five days a week. There is something to be said for leaving that smart phone and laptop behind and breathing the fresh air and feeling that wind in your hair. What better way to get some sanity back in your life then to head out onto the trail?

It seems a new era has dawned. The outdoor and adventure world has been over run by changing times and new ideas and gear it seems almost every few months. From barefoot running and Vibram Fiver Fingers to Stand Up Paddle Boards, our world is changing forever. Another one of those ideas that seems to be rising to the top in popularity is the Adventure Race.

I'm not really sure, but what is all the fuss about? Why is it that some Colorado 14er's have risen above the rest for being the most well known peak? Longs Peak in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park has become one of the most well known and coveted 14ers for peak baggers from far and wide. Is it the beauty of the mountain? Is it because of the ease of location? Is it because people everywhere have heard of Longs Peak? Is it just because it's there? What is the reason that Longs Peak in Colorado draws so much attention to itself?

The cold is here, the wind is blowing, I’m sure the snow is not far behind. I’m not sure that there is too much worse then the cold biting wind cutting down to my poor bones. On average it probably takes me two days to thaw out. The more time I spend outdoors the more things I learn about staying warm, about what works and what doesn't. One thing is for sure, if you don’t have a good base layer on when you’re out and about, you might as well throw in the towel.

Do you know what “sweat equity” means? Some people would argue that it is a shame not to know, others would say who cares. I would have to admit that until I was confronted with this term I really had no idea, I got the concept now because I do have conscience, as I’m sure you do.

Do you like rock climbing? Let’s introduce you to someone who does, Nicolas Favresse. Every once in awhile there is someone who comes around that was born for adventurer, Nicolas is one of those people. Nicolas Favresse is a rock climber, Patagonia Ambassador, hails from Belgium, and has been climbing from a very young age. He has accomplished some amazing feats and climbs in his career so far and is a pioneer in his sport. Placing in the Junior World Championship and the World Cup are just a few of the places Nicolas has claimed on the world stage of rock climbing.

Unfortunately for all the men out there, the Christmas season is coming quickly upon us. Not that many men have even thought about it right now, I mean come on, it’s not even December yet. If there are any ladies out there, I’m sure you are done already, but if you’re looking for a few more ideas, look no further.

Sometimes you just have to wonder, is anything sacred anymore? It seems like everyday you hear about expanded drilling here and there, off this coast and that coast, on federal land and parks. Can you imagine the day where there is no wilderness left? I don’t know about you, but if I was going on back-country trip in Alaska in the so called wilderness and hiked pass a pipeline, that would be depressing.

Is there any place left untouched? Can you really go anywhere these days where you won’t run into people, or where not very many people have set foot before? I suppose the days of real frontier are long gone in the past, but mankind is always looking for the next adventure. Even Everest has attracted adventurers from every corner of the earth these days. There must be a few places left over?

Have you ever had cold feet? Is there anything worse then cold feet? I’m pretty sure there is not. Cold feet can can ruin about any good winter outdoor adventure before you can say brrrr. I don’t know about you but I like my toes, and I usually don’t feel like getting them frozen off. Besides, have you ever tried to warm up cold feet? It takes forever and mine seem to take about 3 days. Of course this begs the question, what are the best winter snow boots? I set out on this quest, and found the holy grail.

When is the last time you said bring on the cold or bring on the snow? Why not? The weather is changing and the sun is leaving us this time of year whether you like it or not, might as well get some fun out of the whole deal! Have you ever put on snowshoes and headed out into the Great White North? Snowshoeing is the best way to get back at winter and have a great time in the outdoors during the cold months

Is it just me? Am I the only one? Why is it that whenever camping it seems that the food served up is literally the best tasting, most fun, and the all around most amazing food, ever? I guess it could be the hard ground, the cold mornings, the campfire smell, or all of the above that makes campfire food so awesome and delicious.

Have you ever dreamed of hiking off into the sunset? Just like the western movies your parents used to watch back in the day, with the music in all. Whistling a tune and poking the ground with your walking stick, never to return. Well...ok, maybe we would all return. The National Scenic Ice Age Trail is a thousand mile wonder in the Midwest.

I’m still convinced that the Apostle Islands National Park located in Northern Wisconsin is a diamond in the rough. A hidden gem among jewels. A secret Eden hidden in the Great White North. We have posted about the Apostle Islands in the past, and discussed the great many activities and beauties that this great national treasure holds for us all. This is Part 1 in a series to look at the many different ways we can explore the Apostle Islands, today is about taking this National Park on in a kayak.

What better way to blow off some steam then tip the trail on a mountain bike, smashing through the corners? Mountain biking only a few years ago seemed to be a seceret sport with a small cult following. With the rise of the bike, mountain biking as a popular outdoor pass-time seems to have really gone main stream. Every State and National Park in North America seems to sport a mountain biking trail or two. So this begs the question, what are some of the top mountain biking destinations?

The stand up paddle boarding phenomenon is sweeping the outdoor world. It’s the newest and coolest thing out there in the industry today. If you want to read the basics on paddle boarding check out my previous blog post about the topic. Paddle boarding has grabbed a little of the mass media’s attention of late with the adventures being undertaken by some outdoor enthusiast. One trip that has landed paddle boarding in the news is the Mississippi River adventure

Is there anything worse then being cold? What about being warm? Hmm... I’m pretty sure being cold is the worst in my book anyways. With fall upon us and winter knocking on the door, the temperatures are dropping and the campfires are getting bigger. It’s time to break out the jackets and hats, fluff up the mummy bag and turn up the heat. Getting cold can ruin any good outdoor adventure, so how do you keep warm in the outdoors?

You don’t get out enough. Neither do I. We all need to get out of those cubicles once in awhile and stretch our bodies and brains. What better then to talk about the three best ways to spend time outdoors. Being couped up inside all week and all day will take a toll on your emotions and your body, getting some fresh air and exercise is pretty much priceless.

So, I’ve already written about easy Colorado 14er’s in Part 1 and Part 2, it’s time to get rolling on Part 3. Another easy Colorado 14er for all you ameature mountain climbers out there, and this one is reported to be closest to Denver. You know what that means? Get ready for the crowds. But hey, if your a beginner hitting up your first 14er there is nothing better then seeing another face, I’m telling you that from experience!

Hmm...to down or not to down, that it is the question. Jackets, sleeping bags, outdoor gear, if you are familiar with any of they above then you have been faced with that immortal question. What is the meaning of life? Well, that too, but I’m talking about whether you should care if your gear is down or synthetic filled.

The eternal quest to be cool and impress those around you...I know, that you know what I’m talking about. From 16 - 50 and everywhere in between, we all have that desire to impress the people we spend time with. Finally, we have found you the one thing that your friends and family probably doesn't do, you finally get to be the cool one! So get ready for that next gathering, are your ready to impress the rest?

One day I was walking along the water, and then I said, "What the heck IS that?" If you have not heard of the newest paddling term, stand up paddle boarding (SUP), it is only a matter of time. After observing someone standing on what I thought was a surfboard and paddling around like a madman, I thought that I had drank a little too much river water. What is a Stand Up Paddle Board? What is SUP? What is paddle boarding? Let us take a look at this up and coming sport. Paddle boarding will soon take over the world and snatch the reign of the Vibram FiveFingers.

No one can live without the Passport. You can go here and there and everywhere, but without the Passport it never happened. Don’t get caught without one. Don’t leave the house for that next vacation without it. This is the most well known, yet not well known passport. Just imagine showing you friends this passport and all the adventures and courage that would be stamped on every page. What types of backpacking backpacks are there? …

Say that ten times fast. Backpacking backpacks, yeah, that's right, not going to happen. So what do you need to know about backpacks? What kind of backpacks are out there? Which backpacks are the best for the outdoors? Lets take a look at backpacks and see if we can't solve the mystery a little bit, see what we can learn.. What types of backpacking backpacks are there? …

So you think your not a mouse? You want to tackle something that will make you feel like a mountaineer and adventurer, you just don't want to lose any limbs in the process. Well, never fear we bring you Part 2 in the quest to discover what the famed Colorado 14ers hold for us on their mighty peaks. There something about taking to the unknown, into the wild to find some adventure, besides, we can't all waste our lives away on Facebook and Google. We have a desire to accomplish something, what better way to celebrate then to "bag" a Colorado 14er (about 14,000 foot summit.)? You are a beginner aye? Never fear, we've got one for you that has no crevasses or death zone. What is the most easy Colorado 14er? What is the best Colorado 14er for a beginner. What about Mount Sherman …

So you haven't heard of the Apostle Islands, the great and wonderful National Lakeshore of Wisconsin? Well, that's probably a good thing for one of the best kept National Park secrets of our great country. On the beautiful shores of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin, yes I said Wisconsin, is a outdoors and adventure persons Promise Land. The famed Apostle Islands are a series of 21 islands along with 21 miles of mainland shoreline to be explored, and it is a National Park. This place will blow your mind, see, the Midwest is not that bad after all.

Is there a trip more classic and original then the Canadian fishing trip? Can you think of a tradition and adventure that has been going on longer then the friends and family yearly trip to some remote cabin in Canada, to wet that line and catch fish? I can't. This has been going on for decades, masses of boats, vans, trailers moving in a great migration due North, like a mass Exodus. What is it about the Great White North that has been calling people away for a week at a time for so many years? The remoteness, relaxation, fun, family, friends, fish, wildlife, adventure? Probably all of the above.

Hydration..is anything more important? Anyone who spends time in the outdoors, especially participating in any kind of outdoor sport or activity knows the importance of hydration. It can make or break a trip, a hike, a run, a climb, or anything else you can think of. It can ruin you or lead you to glory and victory, water hydration is arguably the most essential part of any outdoor adventure or sport. Running hydration is key for any trail or general runner, staying hydrated should always be on your mind. So, the questions is, what is it, what can you do about it, and what do I need to know about it. …

Say that ten times fast. Backpacking backpacks, yeah, that's right, not going to happen. So what do you need to know about backpacks? What kind of backpacks are out there? Which backpacks are the best for the outdoors? Lets take a look at backpacks and see if we can't solve the mystery a little bit, see what we can learn.. What types of backpacking backpacks are there? …

Is there any great races on the weekends anymore? Where did all the marathons, paddles, trail runs, and bike races go? Can the average outdoors adventurer find any place to just have a good time in race where they don't have to worry about getting knocked over or yelled at for just not knowing what they are doing? What can you do to just get your feelers in the water and test things out. I mean you have to start somewhere right? The small time races are what you need, the little weekend outings put on by local shops. They do exist and they do happen, you just have to look around, get off of google and get in your car …