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Cabin Column: September 2023
Ben Danforth • Sep 01, 2023
“It’s hard to go wrong on a porch worth writing about.”
People rarely have a bad time on a porch. I know I never have. Even the most redundantly crammed balcony on a decaying urban block is better than no porch at all! No matter the circumstance, a porch is a setting for fun, relaxation, reflection and fresh air.
PATC has an amazing and unique collection of some of the best patios and porches in the Central Atlantic United States.
Being in nature with the simple comforts of a sturdy chair and a solid floor is inspiring. Relaxing in the remote elements that come with a secluded mountain cabin is a luxury. For a true lover of nature, a secluded porch may be tame, perhaps the perimeter of the scale measuring your connection to the wild. But tame is good. Especially as the sun sets on a magnificent view in the cheerful company of good friends or rejuvenating seclusion of a solo retreat.
Below are some of PATC’s best cabin porches. You might just see your favorite cabin porch listed here, but you might not. This list is not a ranking, and the wonderment and beauty of your club’s collection of quality porches goes far beyond this list.
Stay tuned for a monthly update on some of our Cabin’s most exciting features. The next Cabin columns will highlight our cabins, their history, their charm and their main attractions. Your only job will be to decide which one to visit next.
- Horwitz Cabin
Horwitz is a magnificently secluded cabin with a private winding driveway and all the amenities and comforts of home tidily and proportionally shrunken to backwoods simplicity. Two large glass sliding doors separate the covered, screened-in porch from the interior of the cabin. In comfortable conditions the doors can remain open to give the entire pad an open-air extension. A beautiful southeast view of Virginia’s Piedmont presents itself when you step onto the porch and among the trees. The porch comes equipped with a table and chairs suitable for an intimate dinner or a lively discussion over morning coffee. In early spring vibrant Redbud trees sprinkle the property making the place easy to love and hard to leave.
- Vining Cabin
Welcome to the stately farm home of Rutledge Vining and the Vining family. The 660+ acre estate is a textbook example of 19th century Appalachian lifestyle with a taste of sophisticated charm. The handsome cabin with stone and log features sits perched among massive oaks on beautiful landscape. Sprawling views of the property’s meadow give the setting endless depth. The porch hugs the home from front to back with two large covered sections protecting the chairs and tables, cleverly arranged to accommodate your friends. The feel of Vining Cabin is a touch of old-world class you just don’t get at your local Walmart!
- Mutton Top
Despite the incredible view atop grassy bald, just high enough to see over the tree line to the east, Mutton Top’s porch is so carefully and uniquely crafted that the view is really just a cherry on top. The sprawling porch has several built-in features that ease you out of the surrounding nature and into some creature comforts. The large raised stone grille is a centerpiece to the outdoor covered kitchen with a built-in wood countertop for preparing and serving a meal. For after dinner there is a wide uncovered section of the porch outfitted with Adirondack chairs not only angled for proper stargazing but complete with flat armrests to balance your beverage.
- Doyles River
A trip to Doyles River starts with a scenic approach on Skyline drive. The short hike to the cabin along the Doyles River Trail brings you to an intersection with the cabin’s own footpath where the primitive home rests nearby quietly out of sight. The simple cabin offers bunks and a wood stove kitchen. The stone floor porch serves as the main hub for cabin relaxation. In addition to a sizable picnic table to organize your gear or prep your meals, the porch’s top attraction, a covered outdoor fireplace to light the night and warm your soul. Views fill the backdrop as you reflect on a refreshing day of mountain recreation.
- Argow
The wonderful view from Argow Cabin looks northwest towards the farms, villages and towns of the Shenandoah Valley with peaks rising left, right and straight ahead. The large covered porch flanks both sides of the front door and connects to the cold, north wind protected south corner of the cabin. The cleverly planned side porch captivates all who enjoy it. Large tables, hand crafted rocking chairs and natural wood railings are your setting to sprawl out and enjoy your meals, sip your coffee, read your book, socialize with your adventure companions and even dance into the night, all in a day’s work. Simply stated, Argow has a porch you don’t want to miss.
Navigating my fear of heights on the mountains By Umar Farooq You might think that having a crippling fear of heights is an obstacle to hiking high up in the mountains. While there may be some truth to that, I have learned that you can also grow to respect and embrace your fear of heights while continuing to enjoy the beauty of nature up close. I learned this the hard way when I hiked the famous, for me infamous, Old Rag trail for the first time in my life. The trip began on a Saturday morning in late autumn. I was on my way to Shenandoah National Park to complete this hike I had always wanted to do since I was about 11 or 12 years old. I arrived at the trailhead a few minutes before 7 am and grabbed my backpack in which I packed everything I could need, except for bear spray, which I later learned is a helpful accessory for a solo hiker. The trail started off simply enough, but I quickly realized why people from all over the country travel to hike this trail. After a lengthy uphill walk, the traversable path seemed to disappear, and I came face to face with a fat slab of rock. I stared at the slab curiously, wondering where the trail went. Then, a man came up from behind and stopped a few feet behind me. He was from Michigan and had traveled all the way to visit Shenandoah and hike this trail. It wasn’t his first time. He told me this was the trail, and that I’d need to scale the rock formation in order to continue. He also told me if I was afraid of this, there were far greater things to be afraid of ahead of me. After the brief rock climbing stint, more trail continued before I found myself perched up on an open-faced ledge, staring out into an abyss. The weather was overcast that day, and that high up on the mountain I was walking in and among the clouds themselves. It also meant that while on this ledge, I could not see how high up I was. The unknown height was even scarier to me, and I stayed squatted down with my back leaned against the mountain for a good 15 minutes. My heart rate increased by probably an additional 20 beats a minute, and my body seemed unable to move from its position no matter how much I tried. Passersby came and went, asking if I needed any help. I told them I was fine, and just needed a moment to get my bearings straight. On top of my fears, I was incredibly frustrated, even angry at myself. Part of the reason I chose to do this hike was that I wanted to vanquish my fear of heights once and for all. It was a fear that only I seemed to have in my social circles, and it’s something my wife playfully teases me about. I envied those who could just walk up to the edge of a ledge and stare down at what was below them. But as I sat there motionless and unable to continue the trek, a realization struck. What I thought was a “crippling” fear that hindered me was actually an important and potentially life-saving instinct. After all, I was doing this hike by myself, and there were no harnesses or ropes that would keep me from falling off this mountain if I wasn’t careful. With that realization, I slowly got up, hugged the side of the mountain, and carefully finished the hike. I then reached the summit, where I saw many people perched up on the ledges enjoying their time. I sat myself down far from them, next to a large rock that I could lean back on. I sat there for a while, eating my lunch and observing those around me. A different version of me would have seen me as lesser-than, but I completed the same hike as them. And it was my fears that helped me to do so. All in all, I was able to complete it in about eight hours. And as I headed back to the parking lot, I walked away from my sojourn on Old Rag with a newfound respect for my fear of heights, and a recognition that that fear is not my adversary, but an ominous guide just trying to help.
Dear PATC Members, Would you like to give back to the community, connect people to the outdoors, and help preserve and protect your favorite trails? The Potomac Appalachian Trial Club (PATC) is looking for dynamic and motivated leaders to fill our upcoming election for club officers. PATC is a non-profit organization with over 8,000 members, of which about 1,000 are also dedicated volunteers. PATC volunteers help maintain and preserve over 1200 miles of trails, 50 cabins, and 39 shelters. We are a complex organization with a lot of moving parts, always trying to improve efficiency and continue growing to better serve the public. Positions we are looking for to lead our Executive Committee: · President: Club leader · VP of Operations: Coordinate trails, facilities, and lands · VP of Volunteerism: Supports 1000 volunteers and attracts new volunteers · Supervisor of Trails: Manages 1200 miles of trails over 40 districts · Supervisor of Facilities: Manages cabins, shelters and campgrounds · Supervisor of Lands: Manages 100+ parcels of PATC properties, right of ways and easements · Treasurer: Oversees budget and accounting · Secretary: Manages club records · Supervisor of Membership: Supports 8000+ members and recruits new members · Supervisor of Communications: Manages media and messaging · Supervisor of Outreach: Manages education and outreach events · Supervisor of Marketing: Manages sales and marketing of the PATC online store If you are interested in a leadership position, like to develop organizations, and you have about 10 hours a week to volunteer, we’d like to know more about you. To apply or to recommend a candidate, you can email nominations@patc.net or fill out and online application , which can be found at www.patc.net/volunteer. We will contact you to learn more about your interests and provide additional information. If you cannot help now but know of potential candidates, please tell us, and we’ll contact them. Sincerely, The PATC Nominating Committee
Want to get away? Looking for a last-minute getaway to the Appalachian Mountains? PATC cabins have had you covered since 1937, However the process just got a little bit easier. For decades a last minute rental at one of our illustrious cabins included the logistics limbo of getting a key to you by mail or requiring pickup. We now have lockboxes at 9 cabins allowing all your rental necessities to arrive by email. The lockboxes are unique --since we do not always have electricity and never WiFi at these locations. Instead they have preset one time use codes that last only the duration of your stay. These devices are installed at Cliff’s House, Dunlodge, Glass House, Little Cove, Morris, Old Rag, Silberman Trail Center, and Vining Cabin. By the end of the year, 10 additional lockboxes will be installed growing your remote access to some of the best hiking properties in the region. Cliff’s House is a lofted cabin with eye catching architecture. It is one of our modern-cabins, with all the comforts of home the second story main level is like a studio apartment among the trees with spacious railed decks on both sides. The cabin is located just west of Shenandoah National Park on the outskirts of Elkton. Dunlodge is another modern beauty, and it’s located in Charlottesville, VA. The Cabin was originally constructed as a model home by a team of builders and therefore showcases many charming and unique building elements. The property is a short walk from UVA sports and performance venues and a short trek or quick drive into Charlottesville city center. The perfect cabin for urban explorers doesn’t feel so urban when you are there. The estate entrance is off of a small wooded dirt road tucked into a hill side. The fenced in property is wooded and far from any neighboring property. Outside the charm of the house itself is a comfortable porch, a beer garden style patio, and an outdoor fireplace. Glass House is another cabin with the familiar comforts of indoor plumbing, electricity, and a full kitchen. Glass house is a popular pick among PATC faithful. The cabin is located in northern Fort Valley, VA, with easy access to the Massanutten Trail, Signal Knob, and the Tuscarora Trail. The cabin is perched steeply above a private winding driveway off Fort Valley Road with a beautiful view looking South over the valley. The beautiful scene is best observed from the cabins wonderful screened in porch. Hikers will be happy to know that trails abound near this cabin as well, thanks to the nearby Elizabeth Furnace trail system. Little Cove is a modern cabin with 4 bedrooms making it a great option for 2-4 couples, or 2 families with kids. Located in the Tuscarora Mountain valley 10 minutes from the quaint colonial town of Mercersburg PA, the spacious main level connects to a grand, covered, wrap around porch for lounging and dining. Hikers can access the Tuscarora Trail via a short connector trail to the cabin. Morris is one of our two primitive cabins on the list with a lock box. Morris is located just East of Swift Run Gap. The historic cabin gives a true sense of Appalachian living and has a nice view of Virginia’s Piedmont District. Hikers can enjoy the winding trails of the Vining Tract or easy access to Shenandoah National Park. Old Rag is another modern cabin and includes a ramp and handicap accessible shower with first and second level sleeping accommodations. This cabin is just steps away from the Old Rag parking area with first class access to the famous Old Rag circuit hike. Enjoy your hard earned beverage and dinner on the screened in porch after a day well spent on one of Virginia’s favorite mountains. Silberman Trail Center is a tidy 2 level cabin on a large private piece of land with drive in access. Our second primitive cabin on the list, near Cowan’s Gap State Park is a popular destination for hikers in PATC’s north district in Pennsylvania. The Tuscarora Trail, just 100 yards away gives hikers access to “Cowans” and Buchanan State Forest. Vining Cabin, The final modern cabin on the list is a wonderful destination on PATC’s 600 acre Mutton Hollow tract. The long private drive traverses two creeks giving renters a true sense of wilderness and adventure. The picturesque chestnut wood and stone exterior give this cabin a handsome Shenandoah charm. For last minute rentals call the Cabin’s desk at PATC Head Quarters. The desk is open for reservations MWF from 11:00-1:00 (703) 242-0315 Ext. 1 If you can’t pick up a key, these 9 cabins are your best bet for spur of the moment access!
Virginia Black Bear Festival Announcement What: Virginia Black Bear Festival When: June 1, 2024 from 10am – 4pm Where: Downtown Stanardsville, VA Cost: Free! On June 1 st , Stanardsville will host the Virginia Black Bear Festival on National Black Bear Day. Various organizations that honor nature, promote outside activities and adventures, and celebrate the emergence of black bears will be on hand to celebrate the Shenandoah National Park, the Appalachian Trail, and Virginia’s wild spaces. All things BEARS will be going on, from led-hikes and professional storytellers, to bear- and honey-themed food from area food trucks, appearances by Sasquatch and Smokey the Bear, BEARd and porridge-eating competition, live music, and opportunities to watch demonstrations (a master falconer and a pro-bird watcher will be present, as will a live bee display) or learn a new skill (fly-fishing or archery, anyone? And there’s so much more. The PATC, a partner in the festival, will host an information table and will lead several local hikes. Members of the PATC Southern Shenandoah Valley and Charlottesville chapters will be present. Come join us! The final schedule and a map will be published May first, but in the meantime, look to www.vablackbearfestival.org .
Keep Calm and Read On: A Life Outside A his 60th birthday neared, Virginia Senator Tim Kaine decided it was time to make good on a promise he had made to himself years earlier: hike all 559 miles of the AT in VA, bike the Blue Ridge Parkway's 321 miles and paddle the James River's 348. From 2019 to 2021 he did just that, keeping a daily journal on each trip. The result is “Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside.” Kaine's love for the outdoors dates to his days in Boy Scouts and family camping trips in Missouri, a passion that continued through his college years at University of Missouri and Harvard Law. Even after he moved to Richmond and began his political career, he found time for hiking, biking and paddling both at home and abroad. Trips with family and friends more often than not had an outdoor element. In deciding to embark on “Virginia Nature Triathlon,” he realized he was upping the ante. As he notes in the book, some of his congressional colleagues thought he had lost it. Undeterred, he set out, patching together days and weeks to fit his busy official schedule. Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside is the work of a storyteller with a keen eye for nature and human foibles. A proud Virginian, he is quick to point out the Commonwealth's natural beauty and history. PATC members will recognize a good deal. One of Kaine’s favorite hikes is the AT south of Thornton Gap. He is also quick to credit those responsible for making his triathlon possible with shout outs to park rangers, PATC trail maintainers, and others he encountered. Along the way, readers find out the senator has a thing about spiders and a taste for bourbon. One of the book's joys is the author's ever-present optimism and self-deprecating humor and humility; his trail name became Dogbowl. It's a long story. The Roller Coaster on the AT in Northern Virginia or a badly burned foot on the James did not stop him but they did make him think twice about the wisdom of his decision—and in the case of the Roller Coaster, come up with some songs to take his mind off the aching knees and record heat. Another strength of the book is Kaine's readiness to share his inner thoughts, often through lines of poetry from the likes of Roethke and Whitman. Despite its subtitle, Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside is as much about a life inside as outside. A self-confessed introvert, Kaine values time alone. His triathlon became something of an extended meditation as he sought to recharge his batteries and re-examine his life and values, in the wake of the bruising 2016 presidential race. A practicing Catholic, he turned to his faith, most importantly the ethos of service, self-examination and discernment instilled by the Jesuits when he was in high school and when he took a year off from law school to work with Jesuit missionaries in Honduras. He also looked to other faith traditions. One of his favorite pieces of advice comes from George Fox, the founder of Quakerism, "Walk cheerfully over the earth, answering that of God in everyone.” Early on, Kaine promises that Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside is not going to be about politics. That's a bit, however, like trying to write a book about the Titanic without mentioning ice. As he left Harpers Ferry, the impeachment process was starting. 2020 saw the global pandemic and Kaine's own COVID experiences. His paddle of the James came just months after January 6. Some will look at the calendar and argue that it was no coincidence that Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside appeared on the eve of Kaine's 2024 re-election bid but this is one of those times to heed Teddy Roosevelt’s advice that those not in the arena are best ignored. Kaine does not dwell on politics but neither does he ignore them, offering insights into most of the salient events that coincided with his travels. He proudly identifies as a progressive Democrat, invoking the Old Testament prophet Micah's injunction to do kindness, seek justice and walk humbly. One of his heroes is his father-in-law, Linwood Holton, the first Republican governor of Virginia since the Civil War. Kaine credits his election as re-establishing a two-party system in Virginia and for his support for de-segregation even though he knew it could cost him his political career. At end of the book, Kaine admits that over the intervening three years he has regained some of the 26 pounds he lost on the trail. Looking back, he sees his experiences as grounding, not humbling. To the degree that Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside was response to his turning 60, readers can only hope to get so lucky when he turns 70. Do you have a good read you would like to recommend or review? Send it along to wplimberg@aol.com . Meanwhile, keep calm and read on. See you on the trail.
In the world of outdoor sports and literature, the voices of women have often been sidelined or overlooked. However, Christine Reed emerges as a beacon of inspiration, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers with her work. Christine is a long-distance backpacker and the author of the highly acclaimed memoir, Alone in Wonderland . She offers a raw and unfiltered perspective on women's experiences in the wilderness. In a recent interview with the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, she discussed the process of collecting stories and perspectives for her second upcoming book Blood Sweat Tears , alongside speaking about being a woman in the outdoors space. Christine's journey in outdoor spaces as a woman with POTS has been one of resilience and self-discovery. Despite struggling with her body for years and feeling like she was always "out of shape," she persevered and pushed herself to the limits. However, it wasn't until her diagnosis with POTS/dysautonomia in 2020 that she realized her struggles were not her fault. Instead of battling against her body, she learned to tune in and listen to its needs, leading to newfound limits and heights in her outdoor adventures. Instead of pushing through the pain Christine now focuses on asking “what does my body need?” This has allowed her to “find new limits, new distances, new heights—because the body is far more capable when it is cared for.” The narratives in Blood Sweat Tears contribute significantly to the broader conversation about women's experiences in the outdoors, particularly addressing the taboo topic of menstruation. Christine noticed a lack of discussion around periods in outdoor adventure memoirs and sought to change that with her book. By sharing stories of managing the female body in outdoor spaces, she aims to normalize these conversations and empower women to embrace their truths fully. One of the most resonant aspects of Blood Sweat Tears is its inclusivity and diversity of experiences. Christine curated a collection of stories that span a variety of female experiences, from motherhood and infertility to reproductive health challenges. She states that the “power of representation in storytelling cannot be overstated— when we see people we can relate to doing things we don’t think we can do, we start to see the possibility we once didn’t believe in.” Through sharing these stories, Christine has created something truly special that all women can deeply connect with, highlighting the universal themes of resilience and strength. For aspiring female writers who may feel intimidated by the traditionally male-dominated outdoor literary space, Christine offers valuable advice: your story matters. She encourages women to reach out to others for support and guidance, emphasizing the importance of representation in storytelling. Not only is she sharing her own story, but she's also creating a platform for others to do the same. With Blood Sweat Tears , she is launching Rugged Outdoorswoman Publishing, which aims to amplify the narratives of women and gender expansive individuals in outdoor spaces. If you have a story to share, you can submit your manuscript and join the movement to elevate women's voices in the wilderness. In terms of the outdoor community's evolution towards inclusivity and representation for women, Christine acknowledges progress but also recognizes the work that still needs to be done. She hopes to contribute to this movement through her book and future endeavors, striving for true equality and transparency. Looking forward, Christine envisions a future where women's voices are elevated without shame or secrecy. She hopes to see more space made available for women's stories in outdoor sports and literature, fostering a culture of empowerment and solidarity. As readers engage with the stories in Blood Sweat Tears , they are invited to connect with the universal theme of the relationship to their body. Christine reminds us that despite our differences, we share common thoughts and ideas about our bodies, making these stories deeply personal and relatable. Christine Reed's journey and her upcoming book Blood Sweat Tears not only challenge societal norms but also pave the way for a more inclusive and empowering narrative surrounding women in the outdoors. Through her courage, resilience, and dedication, Christine inspires us to embrace our bodies and experiences fully, breaking barriers one story at a time. Pre-order Blood Sweat Tears through Rugged Outdoorswoman (releasing May 1st) and check out Christine’s sneak peak preview on her blog. Follow Christine and her adventures on Instagram , Facebook , and Linkedin .
Hiking is a great way to connect with nature, admire beautiful landscapes, and challenge ourselves physically and mentally. However, hikers often face obstacles that can make their journey difficult. One of the obstacles that can make hiking tricky is a blowdown. A blowdown is when a tree or a big branch falls across a trail. While a blowdown might not seem like a big deal, it's actually quite important for trail maintenance and your overall hiking experience. What Is A Blowdown? Blowdowns can occur due to various reasons, including strong winds, heavy snowfall, and natural decay. They can pose hazards to hikers, blocking paths and creating obstacles that require careful navigation. Blowdowns can disrupt ecosystems, affecting habitats and changing the landscape. Therefore, it's important for hikers to understand the significance of addressing blowdowns and contributing to trail care efforts. Maintaining trails is essential for preserving hiking routes and ensuring the safety of outdoor enthusiasts. When blowdowns obstruct paths, hikers tend to walk around or leave the established trails. This disrupts the vegetation in the surrounding area, as people trample over flora and create more wear and tear on the environment. Fallen trees and branches can create tripping hazards, especially in areas with dense vegetation or uneven terrain, which can increase the risk of getting lost or injured. By clearing blowdowns and keeping trails clear, hikers can enhance their safety and enjoy a better outdoor experience. Addressing blowdowns is also crucial for promoting environmental stewardship and preserving natural landscapes. Fallen trees can hinder the growth of vegetation, disrupt ecosystems, and affect the biodiversity of the area. Additionally, blowdowns can obstruct waterways and contribute to soil erosion, causing further ecological damage. By promptly addressing blowdowns and maintaining trails, hikers can minimize their environmental impact and contribute to the conservation of natural habitats. Why We Should Care About Trail Maintenance Trail care is a collective responsibility that involves hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and conservation organizations. Volunteer groups such as the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, play a crucial role in addressing blowdowns and ensuring the accessibility of hiking routes. PATC organizes regular clean-up events where volunteers work together to remove debris, clear trails, and mitigate environmental damage caused by blowdowns. By volunteering for PATC and involving themselves in trail maintenance activities, hikers can actively contribute to the preservation of wilderness areas and foster a sense of community among outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can also practice responsible outdoor ethics to minimize their impact on trails and natural environments. This includes staying on designated trails, avoiding cutting switchbacks, and respecting wildlife and vegetation. By following these principles, hikers can reduce the likelihood of blowdowns occurring and help maintain the integrity of hiking routes for future generations. Encountering blowdowns during a hike can be a common hurdle, but it's something that we can all help with. These obstacles can have a significant impact on the environment and the trails we love to hike on. By taking part in trail maintenance and being mindful of the impact we have on the environment, we can help preserve the natural beauty of the landscapes we enjoy so much. Let's work together to ensure that hiking routes remain safe and accessible for all, while also protecting the wilderness for future generations to experience and cherish. Want to help maintain our trails? Volunteer with PATC! Check out our Volunteer Page to learn more.
Photo of Jennifer Schmid
Spring is almost here and if you’re anything like us, you’re itching to get outside. Have you thought about embarking on a day hike, but you’re not sure where to start? Day hiking is accessible, fun, and can be a rewarding experience, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and revive your spirit. Regardless of your skill level, planning is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. In this guide, we'll provide you with some essential tips for planning your hike and discuss the ten hiking essentials that you should always have with you. Planning Your Day Hike 1. Choose the Right Trail: Choose a trail that matches your fitness level, abilities, and experience. You can consider factors such as distance, elevation gain, terrain, and difficulty rating. You can check out online resources and hiking guidebooks to help you make an informed decision. You can also use apps, such as AllTrails , to see hikes near you. 2. Check the Weather: Weather can significantly affect your hike, so it's important to check the forecast for the trail area and plan accordingly. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially in mountainous areas. 3. Notify Someone: Before you head out, let a friend or family member know about your hiking plans, including your intended route and estimated return time. In case of emergencies, this information can be crucial for search and rescue efforts. 4. Pack Light, but be Prepared: Carry essential items while keeping your backpack lightweight. Pack snacks, water, a first aid kit, navigation tools (map, compass, or GPS device), sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and extra clothing layers for changing weather conditions. 5. Wear Appropriate Clothing and Footwear: Dress in layers suitable for the weather and wear sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good traction. Avoid cotton clothing, as it retains moisture and can lead to discomfort or hypothermia. Stick to wicking fabrics, such as wool or polyester. 6. Start Early: Begin your hike early in the day to allow ample time for exploration and to avoid hiking in the hottest part of the day. Starting early also reduces the risk of getting caught in inclement weather or darkness. 7. Stay Hydrated and Energized: Bring an adequate supply of water and high-energy snacks to fuel your body throughout the hike. Hydration packs or water bottles with built-in filters are convenient options for staying hydrated on the trail. 8. Pace Yourself: Maintain a steady pace that suits your fitness level, and take breaks as needed to rest and refuel. Listen to your body and be mindful of signs of fatigue or dehydration. 9. Leave No Trace: Respect nature and minimize your impact on the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles . Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife. 10. Enjoy the Journey: Take time to appreciate the natural beauty around you and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. Remember to capture memories responsibly by taking photos without disturbing the environment. The 10 Hiking Essentials Navigation: Carry a map and compass, or a GPS device, to help you find your way on the trail. Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Bug Spray: Don’t forget to bring bug spray! It protects you from insect bites, ensuring a more enjoyable and safer outdoor experience. Insulation: Pack extra clothing layers to stay warm in cooler temperatures or during unexpected weather changes. Illumination: Carry a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for visibility in low-light conditions or emergencies. First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries with a basic first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essentials. Pro-tip: Bring a multi-tool to be extra prepared. It ensures you're equipped to handle various unexpected situations or emergencies with ease and versatility. Nutrition: Bring high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or jerky to fuel your body during the hike. Hydration: Carry an ample supply of water or a water filtration system to stay hydrated throughout the day. Emergency bathroom bag: Carrying a pack out bag with toilet paper while hiking ensures you're prepared for any nature's call with comfort and hygiene. Check out this article about how to make packing out your TP less gross. By following these planning tips and carrying the ten hiking essentials, you'll be well-prepared for a memorable and safe day hike. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect nature, and most importantly, enjoy the adventure!
"Indeed, a journey through this park and the Sierra Forest Reserve to the Mount Whitney country will convince even the least thoughtful man of the needfulness of preserving these mountains just as they are, with their clothing of trees, shrubs, rocks, and vines, and of their importance to the valleys below as reservoirs for storage of water for agricultural and domestic purposes. In this, lies the necessity of forest preservation." -Captain Charles Young in Report of the Acting Superintendent of Sequoia and General Grant National Parks, California, October 15, 1903 As we dive into Black History Month, let's take a moment to explore a side of environmentalism that is often overlooked within the outdoor community: Black environmentalism. Throughout history, Black communities have carried an incredible bond with the land. From ancient African cultures practicing sustainable agriculture to enslaved folks finding solace and strength in nature, there's a deep-rooted connection from which environmentalism and conservation found its legs. In the United States, the emergence of Black environmentalism gained momentum during the Civil Rights era. Many individuals took a stand against environmental injustices in Black communities. Fannie Lou Hamer, Dr. Robert Bullard, and Colonel Charles Young are three notable conservationists and environmentalists. They worked towards providing Black communities access to clean air, water, and safe living conditions. As Bullard points out in his book, Dumping in Dixie: Race, Class, and Environmental Quality, Black communities and other marginalized communities have been “subjected to a disproportionately large amount of pollution and other environmental stressors in their neighborhoods as well as in their workplaces. However, these groups have only been marginally involved in the nation's environmental movement.” Dr. Robert Bullard, also known as the "father of conservation," has focused on bringing attention to communities of color that have been impacted by environmental racism. Through his studies, he has shown that toxic facilities such as landfills, chemical plants, and incinerators are more likely to be placed in lower-income areas and areas based on race. At the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice, he works to bring attention to these issues and provides resources that address environmental justice, environmental racism, sustainability, and how we can work towards changing these situations. Environmental justice began with the Civil Rights Movement and in turn, the people who were at the forefront of that movement, including Fannie Lou Hamer. Hamer was a pioneer of grassroots farming cooperatives that inspired current urban agriculture collectives. She believed in communal farming as a solution to economic justice and formed the Freedom Farm Cooperative (FFC) in 1969. This organization provided food for low-income families in the area and land that helped create jobs for those in need. Without any funding from the government, this project was supported by the co-op members and grew to support over 1,500 families. As documented by the National Women’s History Museum, Hamer began “buying up land that Blacks could own and farm collectively. With the assistance of donors (including famed singer Harry Belafonte), she purchased 640 acres and launched a coop store, boutique, and sewing enterprise. She single-handedly ensured that 200 units of low-income housing were built—many still exist in Ruleville today.” Her dedication to social justice and the furthering of racial equality was an integral piece in the advancement of both civil rights and environmental justice. Another important figure during the Civil Rights Movement was Charles Young. Colonel Charles Young, born in Kentucky in 1864, was the first African American military attaché and colonel, and the first African American national park Superintendent. He broke barriers throughout his career and played a vital role in shaping the National Parks Service along with his Buffalo Soldiers. Despite facing discrimination, his work ethic and commitment to duty propelled him to remarkable achievements, making him a trailblazer for Black environmentalists whose legacy endures. Corinne Wetzel for Audubon Magazine detailed Young’s life as a young Superintendent, saying “His mission was simple: protect the parks and make them accessible to visitors. This meant keeping local livestock like sheep from grazing inside the parks’ boundaries, defending the trees from illegal loggers, and protecting wildlife from hunters.” The legacies of Young and Hamer live on to this day through the continuing work of Bullard, and the work of organizations such as Outdoor Afro and Greening Youth Foundation, which strive to reconnect Black communities with nature. These organizations offer a range of programs, including education, advocacy, and outdoor activities to promote a love for the outdoors. We are currently facing some major challenges as a planet, such as climate change and biodiversity loss. To effectively tackle these issues, we need to draw on all the knowledge and experiences available to us. By focusing on Black history in our discussions about conservation, we not only pay tribute to the past but also establish a foundation for a more comprehensive and successful approach to safeguarding our planet. As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s take a moment to recognize the significant contributions of Black environmentalists, both past and present. They have made a significant impact through their activism, education, and passion for equality and justice. We must continue their work and fight to make a difference in the world by following their example. When we unite and learn from each other, there is no limit to what we can achieve. Learn more about the history of Black environmentalism by clicking the links below. Cited Sources https://www.greenpeace.org.uk/news/black-history-month-how-fannie-lou-hamer-inspires-the-modern-climate-movement/ https://greenamerica.org/green-living/interview-father-environmental-justice-robert-bullard#:~:text=Robert%20Bullard%20is%20Ware%20professor,been%20victims%20of%20environmental%20racism . https://dogwoodalliance.org/2022/02/10-black-environmentalists-to-know-about-in-2022/ https://www.bullardcenter.org/about/our-founder https://outdoorafro.org/ https://gyfoundation.org/ https://www.audubon.org/news/meet-charles-young-first-black-national-park-superintendent https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/fannie-lou-hamer https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9780429495274/dumping-dixie-robert-bullard https://home.nps.gov/seki/learn/historyculture/young.htm