Courtesy of Upshur County Visitor Center If you’re looking for a relaxed slice of nature — trails that wind through woods, rivers that invite quiet reflection, and a friendly community with an inviting “go ahead and get outside” attitude — Upshur County in West Virginia is a gem. Here’s a look at what the outdoors offer around the area, what trails to hit, and what makes the experience of hiking and exploring here so comfortable. Trail systems & forested loops One of the standout spots is the Upshur County Trails system, located at the Recreation Park near Buckhannon. The network has grown steadily over the years and offers opportunities for hiking, trail-running, and mountain biking in wooded terrain and gently rolling hills. Audra State Park If you prefer something flatter and more relaxed, the Buckhannon River Loop Trail is a great option. It spans about 2.3 km, is rated easy, and is ideal for a short stroll, gentle run, or walking with friends or family. Then there’s Audra State Park , straddling Barbour and Upshur counties, with well-marked hiking trails and riverside paths that let you soak in forest and water views. Why it feels relaxed & accessible Because the trails here vary in difficulty, you’ll find options whether you’re up for a moderate hike or just a calm walk. The River Loop offers easy terrain and gentle elevation. The setting is quiet — you’re more likely to hear birds than cars — and the infrastructure, like parking and signage, is thoughtful. The region’s natural assets add to the appeal: wooded ridges, streams and smaller rivers, open vistas among hills. With less crowding than major parks, you’ll often get a sense of being “in nature” rather than side-by-side with other hikers. Handy tips for your visit Footwear & trail info : Wear suitable shoes, especially if you plan to tackle trails with singletrack or rolling hills. Map your route : Know your trailhead locations and distances before heading out. Combine trail + town : Since trails are near Buckhannon, you could plan a half-day: morning hike, lunch in town, then a river-side stroll. Leave no trace : Respect the woods, stay on marked trails, and pack out your trash. Bottom line Upshur County offers a genuine, approachable outdoor experience. Whether you’re hiking woodsy trails, strolling along the river, or simply finding a quiet spot in the woods, the outdoors here feel comfortable, inviting, and unhurried. For someone who wants nature without overwhelm, this is a smart choice. For more, visit https://visitbuckhannon.org/

Greater Zion has partnered with outdoor brand Coalatree to launch a limited-edition, destination-inspired collection of sustainable outdoor gear designed for adventure in all its forms. Outdoor lovers, listen up: Greater Zion just dropped a new collab with Utah-based gear brand Coalatree, and it’s all about sustainable adventures. The limited-edition collection turns Coalatree’s eco-friendly staples into destination-inspired gear that screams Zion vibes — from the red-rock cliffs to the azure rivers. This isn’t just about looking good on the trail. 20% of proceeds go straight to the Zion Forever Project, the official nonprofit of Zion National Park, helping keep these landscapes protected for future explorers. It’s adventure with purpose The collection hits all the must-have bases for the modern adventurer: Puffy Kachula Adventure Blanket ($129) – This isn’t just a blanket. It transforms into a poncho or pillow and features the signature red rocks and rivers of Greater Zion. Ideal for stargazing, concerts, or camping. Mirage Sun Shirt ($79) – Lightweight, breathable, UV-protective, and decked out with a topographic design mirroring Zion’s hills and valleys. Perfect for the 300+ days of sun in the area. Java Socks ($20) – Made from recycled coffee grounds and plastic bottles, these moisture-wicking socks show off Watchman Tower, keeping your feet comfy whether you’re hiking, golfing, or exploring downtown. Quest Duffel Bag ($139) – A duffel that converts into a backpack, made from upcycled materials, with colors and topography inspired by the region’s dramatic landscapes. Tough enough for slot canyons, sleek enough for the airport. The Coalatree Java Socks “This collab is about connecting people with places that spark adventure,” stated in a recent press release John Michael Fabrizi, President of Coalatree. “Greater Zion has always matched the outdoor spirit we champion, and these products are built for trips and everyday adventures alike.” Natalie Britt, CEO of Zion Forever Project, stated in a recent press release, “We’re thrilled to see this partnership support our mission to conserve and enhance public lands for everyone — now and in the future.” The Greater Zion Coalatree Collection is available now exclusively at Coalatree.com. Whether you’re hitting the trails, the canyons, or just want a daily reminder of those red-rock adventures, this gear has you covered — and gives back while you do it. Puffy Kachula - Greater Zion Edition About Greater Zion Covering 2,400 square miles in southwest Utah, Greater Zion includes Zion National Park, four state parks, 14 golf courses, and endless outdoor adventures. Learn more at GreaterZion.com. About Coalatree Utah-based Coalatree makes sustainable gear and apparel for adventurers everywhere. Using recycled materials and giveback initiatives, they design functional, stylish products for the outdoors and everyday life. Learn more at Coalatree.com. About Zion Forever Project The official nonprofit partner of Zion National Park, the Zion Forever Project funds conservation, education, and sustainability projects to protect the park’s landscapes and inspire stewardship. Visit ZionPark.org. For more, visit https://coalatree.com/

Submitted photo When Kevin Leurquin boarded a plane bound for Nepal, he thought his adventure would be about mountains, mission work, and maybe a few cups of ginger tea. He didn’t know it would also lead to the wagging tail and boundless energy of a three-legged dog who would change his life forever. It’s a daily reminder of how much we’re capable of when we don’t give up Kevin, a Wisconsin native and lifelong adventurer, was traveling with Save One Life, a nonprofit that supports people with bleeding disorders in under-resourced countries. For Kevin, this cause is deeply personal—he has hemophilia, a condition that affects the blood’s ability to clot. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity “I wanted to meet others living with the same challenges I have and see how they navigate life in such different circumstances," Kevin says. The trip was part humanitarian mission, part bucket-list trek: a 10-day, 80-mile journey to Everest Base Camp. For a self-described “flatlander from Green Bay,” the route’s steep inclines, suspension bridges, and thin air were challenging—but also breathtaking. Days were spent hiking through remote villages, nights filled with camaraderie over card games, tea, and laughter. “The people were so warm, the views were surreal, and every step felt like it meant something,” Kevin recalls. This wasn’t a small feat for someone who once faced the prospect of living with a permanent limp. Years earlier, severe ankle arthritis had threatened to end his active lifestyle. Doctors told him to accept his limitations, but Kevin refused. Instead, he found a custom orthotic brace that changed everything—allowing him to hike, run, and push further than ever before. The Everest trek also carried deep personal meaning. Kevin carried his father’s memory on his pack and the ashes of his beloved dog, Driver, in a small container. At a glacial stream, he scattered Driver’s ashes, a quiet tribute in one of the most spectacular places on Earth. On his final day in Kathmandu, Kevin visited a local animal shelter. That’s where he met her—Summit. A tiny, three-month-old pup, missing a leg after being hit by a car, bounded right up to him. "She was the first one to greet me,” Kevin says. The connection was instant, but bringing her home took seven months of coordination with rescue groups and the CDC. Eventually, with the help of Temple Dog Rescue, Summit made the journey to Wisconsin. Now, Summit is Kevin’s constant hiking buddy. Whether it’s a 10-mile trail run or a casual stroll, she keeps pace with effortless joy—and still has energy to dig holes in the backyard afterward. Her resilience mirrors Kevin’s own. “She doesn’t let anything slow her down,” he says. “It’s a daily reminder of how much we’re capable of when we don’t give up.” From the mountains of Nepal to the forests of Wisconsin, Kevin and Summit continue their adventures together. What began as a mission to help others became a personal story of perseverance, healing, and an unlikely friendship forged halfway around the world. You can follow Kevin’s ongoing adventures (and plenty of Summit’s trail antics) on Instagram at @Kevin_Leurquin.

Winter camping isn’t just about braving the cold — it’s about comfort, reliability, and smart gear choices. UNPLUG.’s editors have curated a selection of essential gear for winter 2025, from high-performance sleeping systems to tents that can handle the toughest conditions. Whether you’re backpacking in the backcountry or car-camping near home, these picks keep you warm, safe, and adventure-ready. Shelter & Tents The North Face Mountain 25 Tent: Built for 4-season use, this tent can handle snow and strong winds. Reinforced poles and a snow-shedding shape make it ideal for serious winter conditions. Crua Culla Maxx Insulated Inner Tent: Enhance any existing tent with this insulated inner layer. Keeps warmth inside and improves comfort for cold nights. KingCamp Winter Camping Bundle: Includes a quilted tent and compatible stove system. Perfect for stationary winter setups and car camping with extra comfort. TURINO Hot Tent and Stove SOLO Camping Bundle $379.99 Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad- High R-value pad providing excellent insulation from snow and cold ground. Lightweight yet durable for backcountry winter trips. NEMO Switchback Sleeping Pad- Closed-cell foam and reflective layers provide extra insulation. Great for moderately loaded winter hikes. Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 Sleeping Bag - Synthetic insulation retains warmth even in damp conditions. Ideal for winter backpacking in variable weather. Therm-a-Rest Boost 650 Sleeping Bag- Premium insulation and ergonomic design keep you warm in the coldest nights. Perfect for serious winter adventurers. Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 Sleeping Bag $169.00 L.L.Bean Flannel-Lined Camp Sleeping Bag- Soft and cozy, suitable for family winter camping or casual outdoor trips. The North Face Wasatch Pro 20 Sleeping Bag- Versatile synthetic bag rated for cooler nights. Balanced performance for general winter camping. REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag- Budget-friendly, reliable sleeping bag for winter camping without breaking the bank. Big Agnes Echo Park Sleeping Bag- Roomy and comfortable, ideal for relaxed winter campsites. REI Co-op Radiant 20 Sleeping Bag- Mid-tier option with zonal insulation and versatile fit, stepping up from three-season gear. Tips for Winter Camping Gear Sleeping System:  Combine a high R-value pad with a warm sleeping bag for maximum comfort. Tents:  Look for 4-season, snow-rated tents with reinforced poles. Insulation:  Synthetic is preferable in damp or snowy conditions. Ventilation:  Proper airflow prevents condensation from freezing inside your tent. Budgeting:  Mix high-end and value items to fit your style and price range. Editorial Note: UNPLUG.’s staff independently curate these gear recommendations based on performance, reliability, and winter-suitability. Prices and availability are current as of November 2025.

Madison Blagden isn’t just walking across America — she’s rewriting the map for women in the world of long-distance hiking. At just 28, Madison is attempting something that no woman has ever done before: the calendar-year border-to-border Triple Crown. Translation? She’s hiking the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail — all in one calendar year — plus the connecting miles that make it a true border-to-border journey, stretching from Key West, Florida, to the Canadian border, by Houghton, Maine. That’s nearly 8,500 miles, on foot. In one year. People think it’s this massive soul-searching journey, but for me it’s just about seeing what I’m capable of. Pushing my body and mind to places I never thought possible Madison’s journey began with a spontaneous backpacking trip on the PCT in 2017 — no experience, no plan, just a mid-college crisis and a desire to do something different. Fast forward to 2022: she completed the Pacific Crest Trail. In 2023, she hiked the Eastern Continental Trail, from Florida to Newfoundland, over 10.5 months and 5,600 miles. And this year? She’s nearly done with her most audacious adventure yet. “I started January 1 in Key West,” she says. “I’ve walked to New Hampshire, battled waist-deep snow in Vermont, and now I’m back on the PCT in California while I wait for the snow to melt out East.” Madison’s life is minimal on gear but full of purpose. She camps most nights, eats backpacker meals or grocery-store snacks and keeps a relentless pace — sometimes hiking 30 or 40 miles a day. “Some people average 10 to 15. I’m averaging 28,” she says. “You just get stronger.” But don’t let the chill attitude fool you — this woman is tough as trail grit. Alone for long stretches, she navigates rugged terrain, shifting weather and total exhaustion, with only her pack, her thoughts and maybe a podcast to keep her company. You meet people all the time. Sometimes you hike with someone for weeks. Other times, it’s just you and the trail And while Madison isn’t doing this hike to prove anything to anyone, the fact that she’s the first woman to ever attempt this feat is powerful. “There’s still this idea that these things are too intense for women,” she says. “But honestly, anyone can do this. Whatever limits you think you have? They’re usually just in your head.” Now about 3,500 miles in, Madison hopes to complete her journey by Thanksgiving. And though she’s not quite there yet, her journey is already inspiring others. “I’ve had a few women reach out saying they want to try it in 2026,” she says. “That’s what it’s all about — showing people that if you can dream it up, you can make it happen.” So, the next time you think a long walk sounds like a lot — imagine 8,500 miles of it. Madison Blagden did. And she just kept going. Follow Madison’s journey on Instagram and Facebook and her daily blog as she journeys toward the Canadian border and a place in hiking history. Instagram: @madisonblagden Facebook: Madison Blagden (Peg Leg)

Photo credit: Steven Smith from My Life Outdoors If you’ve ever searched for the perfect hiking backpack or wondered why one tent handles wind better than another, there’s a good chance you’ve stumbled upon My Life Outdoors, the popular YouTube channel run by Steven Smith. Known for his clear explanations, engaging style and knack for blending outdoor passion with scientific detail, Steven has become a trusted voice for hikers and backpackers across the country. His journey into the outdoors started in an unexpected way. Growing up in Texas, where Friday night football reigns supreme, Steven never played organized sports. Instead, his parents took him on camping trips, whitewater rafting in the Texas Hill Country and skiing in Colorado. I fell in love with the outdoors early Kayaking became his first real outdoor obsession, and the need to pack compact overnight gear for river trips eventually led him to backpacking. From his first trip on foot into the backcountry, Steven was hooked. “Backpacking is about simplicity,” he says. “You only worry about three things—what you’ll eat, where you’ll sleep and putting one foot in front of the other. Everything you need is with you at all times.” Photo credit: Steven Smith from My Life Outdoors That philosophy, combined with a love of storytelling, eventually turned into My Life Outdoors. Steven first launched it as a blog in 2009. A friend encouraged him to move into video, knowing Steven had a background in radio, television and film. In 2019, he posted his first YouTube video. By 2021, after committing to weekly uploads, the channel began to grow rapidly. What sets My Life Outdoors apart isn’t just gear reviews—it’s how Steven approaches them. He digs into the science of outdoor equipment: why it works, how it fails and how it keeps hikers safe. “Vacation photos are nice, but gear is something people can see themselves using,” he explains. “They can decide, ‘That would work for me’ or ‘No way.’” Today, Steven creates content full-time, with YouTube as his main platform. His approachable delivery and passion for the outdoors have even led some fans to call him “the Steve Irwin of backpacking gear.” Beyond reviewing gear, Steven spends as much time as possible in wild places—often avoiding heavily trafficked trails in favor of pristine wilderness. Whether navigating the rugged Olympic Coast, trekking through Glacier National Park’s jagged peaks or wandering Colorado’s Holy Cross Wilderness, he finds peace in the solitude and clarity the backcountry offers. Backpacking strips life down to the essentials. It’s not for everyone, but everyone should try it once. You disconnect from the noise, connect with nature and carry everything you need on your back. There’s nothing like it Photo credit: Steven Smith from My Life Outdoors Steven Smith’s Top 5 Hikes in the U.S. Holy Cross Wilderness, Colorado – Remote, pristine and less crowded than other Colorado hot spots, with stunning alpine lakes. Olympic Coast, Washington – Rugged shoreline, sea stacks, rope climbs and tide-timed routes make this a challenging but unforgettable adventure. Glacier National Park, Montana – Jagged peaks, turquoise glacier-fed lakes and scenery unlike anywhere else in the country. Sierra Nevada, California – Home to the John Muir Trail and Yosemite’s granite giants; wild, high-elevation beauty. Missouri Lakes Trail, Colorado – Accessible alpine gem in the Holy Cross Wilderness with crystal lakes and wildflower-filled meadows. Stay Tuned Coming in our Summer issue: Steven Smith dives deep into the science behind his Top 10 gear recommendations—from the physics of ultralight backpacks to the engineering that keeps your tent standing in a storm. Whether you’re a weekend hiker or a seasoned thru-trekker, you’ll see exactly why the right gear works. You can watch Steven’s in-depth gear reviews and backpacking advice on his YouTube channel My Life Outdoors, and follow his adventures on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook at @MyLifeOutdoors.

Photo credit: The Rugged Outdoorsmen A simple message from adventure writer and pilot Ney Grant set the stage for an unforgettable journey for John Belanger and his son Michael, known collectively as The Rugged Outdoorsmen. The invitation was clear: meet in a remote corner of Arizona for an adventure few ever experience. Belanger, a military veteran with an extensive background in special operations, didn’t hesitate. Grant, a whitewater kayaker, mountaineer, rock climber and award-winning photographer, has spent decades exploring North America’s wildest landscapes, often piloting himself into remote locations. The plan: meet at dawn at a small airport in Kanab, Utah, load gear into Grant’s vintage 1963 Cessna 182 and fly over the Grand Canyon at sunrise. After landing on a remote dirt airstrip, the team would descend into Soap Creek Canyon for a challenging hike to the Colorado River, then return to the skies for a scenic flight over Escalante National Monument. The final leg included camping near an old ghost town on public lands in southern Utah. The flight delivered an immediate thrill. “Sunrise over the Grand Canyon in a vintage Cessna was a great way to start the trip,” Belanger said. Landing on the remote airstrip shortly after sunrise was a thrill From there, the physical challenge began. The descent into Soap Creek Canyon required navigating massive boulders, climbing under and over rock formations and using ropes for particularly steep drops. Round-trip, the hike spanned about eight miles. “Certain sections of the canyon required us to rope down, and on the ascent we had to climb back up using the ropes as well,” Belanger said. “It required agility and was an extreme adrenaline rush.” The reward came at the Colorado River, where the group paused for a riverside lunch and took in panoramic views. “The sun was high, the views were spectacular and the weather was perfect,” Belanger said. After completing the hike, Grant piloted the team on a flight across Escalante, offering aerial views of the Vermilion Cliffs, a region frequently captured in Western films. The adventure concluded with a campfire under the stars near a ghost town used in the TV show Gunsmoke. The group shared stories of their day before packing up the next morning. What started as a simple message became a story of flight, exploration and the enduring bond between father and son — proving some adventures truly are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Belanger grew up in New York’s Adirondack Mountains and has been an outdoorsman since age nine. He and his son Michael run The Rugged Outdoorsmen, a business that tests outdoor clothing and equipment. They also serve as the field marketing team for TimberTote Adventure Campfires, known for their popular single-log campfires. The Belanger's invite others to follow their adventures on Instagram at @theruggedoutdoorsmen and @realtimbertote, on Facebook as The Rugged Outdoorsmen LLC, and at www.theruggedoutdoorsmen.com.

By Robert Lundberg Two years have passed since my travels in-country. Thus, I write “Eleven Nights in Belize” as a reflection. Still, the sights, sounds, experiences, and people of Belize are as vivid as ever. May 08th 2023: The Toyota pick-up sped southward on the George Price Highway weaving around lethargic motorists and oncoming traffic-more of a one-lane road than a highway. My guide and driver Virgil picked me up in Belize City an hour earlier, his foot never leaving the accelerator since. Navigating the road with local expertise, he maneuvered us with a zen calmness, albeit with a few close encounters. In contrast, my right hand never left the truck’s interior grab handle, my heart jumping with every swerve and kilometer per hour. I was alive again. The first leg of my journey had begun: the pine forests called, adventure awaited. This was more than a vacation; it was a personal quest. Belize had been on my mind since 2017, the year everything changed. Brooklyn Nov 2016-Jun 2017 Transition: Flashback A leap of faith or the risks we take: Fall-Nov (Winter 2016) The city called to me for years. Lured me in like Sirens of lore. My hometown. Boston squeezed my soul. Too familiar, too small. 2013, the year Steven passed. The weight of losing my best friend propelled my inner voice to go and experience a larger spectrum of life. What better microcosm of the world than New York City. After a few start and stop attempts, I finally took the risk and moved to Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Into a windowless room with three other roommates, just off of Nostrand Avenue. A neighborhood in-flux, an eclectic stew of diversity and change. The local West Indian population jammed into a mix with the gentrifying young people seeking city life. My natural disposition to discover and explore the neighborhood led me to befriending the local shopkeepers and business owners with fervor. There was “A” the owner of a Latin American restaurant, “F” the owner of a West Indian cafe and restaurant, the Filipino couple who owned the furniture shop in which I purchased my bed. A few blocks down, I opened the glass doors to a clean geometric space, the white walls consuming the natural light streaming in from a well placed skylight. To my delight, an art gallery lived a few blocks up from my apartment. This is where I met and swiftly became friends with “T” the gallery assistant. An encounter that would spur my adventures in Belize years later. Springtime in Brooklyn 2017 The smell of grilling jerk chicken wafting through the thick city air into my nostrils flowing downwards into my empty stomach, caused a slight gurgling sound to emit from below. It was late springtime in Brooklyn. After a harsh winter one in which I found myself standing in line for a free meal on Thanksgiving Day and in December mourning the loss of my last living grandfather. The city seemed to sense my need for light and color. Coming alive with food, music, movement, and color. My heart danced back to life with excitement. Enamored with the gallery space and excited to have a friend in the neighborhood, “T” and I frequently engaged in vibrant discussions about art, culture, and the city. I learned that she, like myself, transplanted from her home state of Georgia to Brooklyn seeking a creative or shall I say an artist's life. After a few weeks, “T” mentioned that her family was rooted in Belize. Both her mother and brother lived in-country, and she frequently traveled down to the small Central American nation that was slightly larger than Massachusetts.

Photo credit: Los Angeles Times Q: What role has the outdoors played in your life, and how did that relationship influence the creation of Surviving the Trail? A: Off trail life is hectic for many of us. Mine includes the responsibility and intensity of finding ways to reverse the real-time process of a dying person in front of me, being the physician that other doctors go to when their patients’ lives are in jeopardy and needing to focus on the task at hand while simultaneously bombarded by the needs of dozens of other sick patients. Mental gymnastics is a phrase I use to describe it. When I hit the trails it’s a stark departure from my work life. I can choose to think without interruption, or to remain thoughtless amongst the relatively quiet surroundings. As serene as the outdoors is, I am keenly aware that I am merely a visitor in an intrinsically dangerous place, and respect that enough to ready myself for what may come. Writing Surviving the Trail felt like a moral obligation to share what I know and do so that anyone can control their safe return home. I feel calm and free when out in nature, so it has become my refuge Q: Was there a particular trail, wilderness experience, or moment outdoors that planted the seed for this book? A: There was no specific experience or place that planted the seed, but as a physician I am more in tune with what happens to us when things go awry. I began becoming interested in Wilderness Medicine around 2006, more as a curiosity at first, but this grew into what would ultimately drive me toward writing this book. I read an article (A Dozen Ways to Die – Backpacker Mag 2008) which really raised my awareness of the repetitive ways amateur adventurers perish and require rescue. After this, I kept seeing the same themes on virtual repeat while scrolling through national headlines. I joined the Wilderness Medical Society and during their conference's lectures would cover treatment of these and other mishaps in the field and in the Emergency Department, but I became frustrated by the lack of outreach to the adventurer community on how to spare themselves from these circumstances. Being on trail gives me a sense of what our ancestors experienced for hundreds of thousands of years Q: For you, what is it about being on the trail—physically and mentally—that strips life down to what truly matters? A: Modern society has evolved way faster than our minds have had the chance to adapt to, providing constant stimulation from all angles, and when we leave that behind for the backcountry one realizes what little stimulation we were meant to experience. Q: If Surviving the Trail were a trail itself, embodied by one, which would it be? Why? A: Of the trails I have been on, the one trail that closely embodies the book would be Lawn Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain N.P... This trail courses parallel with a river, through both overlying canopy and open country, up countless switchbacks, passes a lake, has mountains in the distance, crosses water and a cliff along the way while delivering soul-crushing elevation gain. There is so much that we can learn, if we choose, from trekking on this route. All the skills that are described in the book can be utilized and mastered along the way. Q: In Surviving the Trail, the natural world feels more like a teacher than a backdrop. What lessons has the wilderness taught you that modern life often obscures? A: Modern life distracts us from knowing that the outdoors once used to be home for our predecessors and how they had to think to find their way around and survive. They looked at wildlife, plants and water sources very differently than we do, they used the sun and other visual cues to guide them. Nature will gladly exploit every deficiency in readiness we arrive with, so it teaches hard lessons, which our ancestors needed to learn. They did not have the luxury of calling for rescue. Q: How does time spent outdoors shape resilience differently than challenges faced in everyday, structured environments? In what ways has this informed your own medical expertise? A: Traversing the unknown comes with many challenges, including unexpected weather, hunger, thirst, pain, never-ending uphill and coping with the realization that we’re not “almost there.” Meeting and exceeding them requires digging deeper to muster the fortitude to go past where we would have stopped in society. We cannot simply stop and move on with our day out there, so we have little choice but to forge ahead. Overcoming these challenges adds to our experience, making us more resilient and more capable of facing societal issues. Q: Many outdoor experiences involve discomfort—weather, fatigue, fear. Why do you think discomfort is such a powerful catalyst for growth? How can preparing for discomfort help inspire that? A: Marcus Aurelius taught about growth through discomfort, strength through adversity and that the pursuit of comfort dulls the spirit. All hurdles that we must pass in life, especially the difficult ones, teach us something about ourselves. They force hard looks inward, re-evaluation of our beliefs and cause change within ourselves. We evolve into stronger, more resilient people through hardship in general. The discomforts we experience in the outdoors are no exception. Q: From your perspective, what does true survival on the trail require beyond gear and physical endurance? A: True survival on trail requires the proper mindset. Survival to me means staying alive. In the scenario when someone is forced into a situation where they must stay alive, they must avoid panic. That leads to irrational decision-making and brings them further from their goal. Staying calm allows us to figure out what we need (shelter, fire, food) and what we can do to serve those needs. Surviving the Trail also begins with mindset – we become in tune with our will to live ahead of the adventure, figure out what knowns lie ahead (weather, hydration needs, etc.) and come ready for them, while focused on the return to the trailhead as the primary objective – as opposed to the summit or vista point. The point of the book is survival through planning ahead of the hike and coming ready for the variables that will challenge our return to the trailhead and minimizing our chances of falling into a stay-alive scenario. Q: How important is mental preparedness when facing uncertainty outdoors, and how do you cultivate that mindset? A: As suggested above, cultivating the preparedness mindset comes through being in touch with our will to live. Mentally putting ourselves into the shoes of others who have had to endure the survival scenario helps, while asking ourselves important questions. How would I handle that? Would I have survived it? What things could have been done to avoid it? What can I do to make sure I don’t fall into that same trap? We must also realize that we cannot prepare for every possibility and have a plan for if the unexpected were to happen. Q: Are there common mistakes or assumptions people make about outdoor survival that you wanted to challenge through this book? A: This book approaches survival from a preparedness aspect. Most hikers do not want to find out how facile they are in a stay-alive scenario. We must admit that to ourselves and be willing to do the simple things it takes to make certain that we avoid it. The common mistakes are spontaneous hikes without pre-hike thoughts about what impact the specific elements will have on us and taking shortcuts in prep without acknowledging that the backcountry is an intrinsically dangerous place. Improper mindset is another misstep, with focus on the trophy (summit, etc.) instead of the return to the trailhead. Q: Do you believe spending time in the outdoors deepens our responsibility to protect them? How does Surviving the Trail speak to that connection? A: We explore the outdoors for many reasons, but we can all agree its beauty cannot be replicated by human hands. Nature has assembled itself in such a way that it defies belief. It takes humility on our part to realize that any alteration of nature by human hands only takes away from what everyone else appreciates about it. We enjoy it in its current form because others have not interfered with the integrity of that natural beauty, and hikers 100 years from now should benefit from our respect of nature today. Surviving the Trail does not specifically address this but works off the notion of respecting nature’s darker side. I hope that hikers will read this book and gain an appreciation of how to preserve themselves for their expected future and assure years of exploring to come, while knowing to preserve the outdoors for future hikers who have yet to be born to one day enjoy as we have. To order Surviving the Trail, click the link below. To learn more, follow Dr. Robert Scanlon @dr_robscanlon

Photo Credit: Shruti Sinha I often feel like falling upward. Like I need to hang my hands up, hold hard rock, and heave against my gravity forever, ever tense, taut, trembling muscles spent. I find my way to some unending climb, confront the cliff face, pray against the rain, fight grace, and crave the higher ground. But not today. Today I let my body lay along the lowlands like a thing, like flotsam, follow no plans, feel the flowers with my fingers, linger down into the river- swallowed sunset bit by bit. Nothing, no place more glorious than nowhere to get. An outdoor short poem written by Stephanie Ruth Roston BFA