How to Choose a Backpacking Stove

Jess LaPolla • Jul 26, 2024

Let’s face it, there is nothing better than sitting down at the end of a long day of hiking and being able to enjoy a warm meal, or waking up to watch the sunrise with a steaming cup of coffee in your hand. That is why selecting a backpacking stove is essential for any multi-day excursion. There are a handful of different options on the market, and which type of stove you decide to purchase depends on a few different factors:


-How long is your trip?

Some stove and fuel options are heavier than others, making them less desirable for longer treks. 

-What is the anticipated weather/climate?

Wind and rain can be a deterrent for certain types of stoves. 

-Where is your trip? (the United States or abroad?)

Some types of fuel are difficult to find outside of the United States. 

-Are there restrictions or regulations regarding fires or kindling collection in your destination? 

National Parks and Forests may restrict or forbid certain practices. 

-Are you cooking for yourself or multiple people? 

If cooking for a group of people, you may want to go with a stove that can accommodate that. 


The answers to these questions will help you decide which type of stove is appropriate for your needs. Now, let’s go over the different types of stoves. 


Canister Stove: 


Canister stoves are user-friendly stoves that require very little maintenance and are known for their durability and easy upkeep. These stoves can weigh as little as a few ounces (oz) and some fold up small enough to fit in your pocket, making them a desirable choice for backpackers and thru-hikers. They screw onto the top of self-sealing fuel canisters containing isobutane and propane, which are typically sold separately. No priming is required, and some even have a piezo ignitor (all you have to do is turn the valve to open and press the ignitor button) below the burner. Others require you to light them with a match or a lighter after opening the fuel valve. The flame control is quite good and is generally easy to adjust on canister stoves, making them ideal for both cooking food and boiling water. Some canister stoves even have a built-in pressure regulator, which can improve performance at high elevations and in colder temperatures. 


A couple of downsides to canister stoves: They can be difficult to balance on uneven surfaces and are typically too small to hold larger pots and pans, making them preferable for solo-hikers. Though the stoves themselves are lightweight, fuel can be heavy depending on how much you have to carry, and it is difficult to tell how much fuel you have left at any given time. The fuel is also more expensive than other types and can be difficult to find outside of the U.S. They should not be used with a windscreen, as it can lead to the fuel exploding. This may make canister stoves difficult to use in windy conditions. 


Integrated Canister Stove: 


Similar to the regular folding canister stove, these stove systems screw onto a separate fuel bottle or canister. They are taller, featuring an integrated cooking pot and lid with a built-in windscreen.  They offer more stability than a folding canister stove though they are not as compact. They have a fast boil time and though some models are not ideal for cooking, many designs offer more versatility. These stoves are a great choice but do tend to be a bit heavier than their folding stove counterpart. 


Remote Canister Stove: 


This type of canister stove sits on its own base, which might make it more stable than other models. It also has a fuel hose that attaches to the canister. This stove packs down easily but weighs slightly more than a folding canister stove. However, some are designed to be used in cold weather and high altitudes and can support larger pots.

Liquid Fuel Stove: 


Liquid fuel stoves run on white gas, which is preferable to other types of gas for several reasons. The efficient fuel burns very hot, performing well in alpine conditions, and is much less expensive compared to the fuel you would use for a canister stove. Some can even be used with multiple fuel types, such as kerosene, diesel, or in desperate circumstances, unleaded gasoline, making them an excellent choice for international trips, when you are unsure of what will be available. These stoves tend to do well on uneven surfaces and are overall easy to use. They tend to be heavier than canister stoves and do require periodic maintenance, due to the stove having many different little pieces. Most liquid fuel stoves also require priming, by igniting a few drops of fuel to preheat the fuel line. They can also run on the expensive side. 


Wood Burning Stove: 


Wood-burning stoves are pretty self-explanatory. They function by burning sticks and leaves that you gather in the backcountry. This makes them a nice option for longer trips because you don’t have to carry extra fuel and don’t have to worry about running out of fuel (depending on your location). There are a variety of models, including lightweight titanium and easily packable stoves. Other models boast the ability to generate enough electricity to charge your phone, making it multi-functional. The downsides to this type of stove are fairly obvious. If you are in a wet or rainy climate, it may be difficult to find dry fuel. If you are hiking in alpine environments, you may not have access to fuel. Some protected areas also prohibit the use of wood-burning or solid fuel stoves or the collection of wood/fuel. 

Alcohol Stove and Tablet Stove: 


Alcohol stoves and tablet stoves are very popular stoves amongst ultralight backpackers, only weighing an ounce or two. They are ideal for any length trip because you only have to carry the amount of alcohol or the number of tablets needed. These stoves also burn super quietly. Denatured alcohol is easy to find in the United States but can be difficult to find abroad and you almost always have to use a windscreen, as alcohol does not burn as hot as other types of fuel. This also means it may take longer to boil water and cook food. Some tablets may produce an odor as well. These stoves are inexpensive, and some can even be constructed at home using materials you already have. 


Stove Safety Tips: No matter which type of stove you end up purchasing, there are a few things to consider when you are in the backcountry and decide to break out your stove.


-Never use your stove inside your tent or an enclosed space, as there is a risk of fire, smoke, and carbon monoxide poisoning. 

-Try to find a flat surface to cook on, as you don’t want your boiling water or food spilling over. 

-If your stove has a fuel line or hose, check for leaks and perform required maintenance as needed. 

-If your stove has a piezo igniter or automatic ignitor, bring matches or a lighter in case it fails. 

-If you’re not sure how much fuel you will need, try experimenting at home first. This will ensure you carry enough fuel with you, while not carrying unnecessary weight.


There are plenty of great options out there when it comes to choosing a backpacking or camp stove. Make sure to research the areas you’ll be hiking and traveling in before deciding on which stove is right for you and always do a test run before hitting the trail with a new piece of gear. You may find that you need more than one type of stove, depending on your goals.  If you need help deciding, reach out to one of our experts here at Curated! We will happily guide you through the process of selecting the best backpacking stove for you, along with any other gear you may need.

Happy hiking!

Making Appalachian Trail Highway Crossings Safer

By Jody Lannen Brady • 18 Jul, 2024
Senator Tim Kaine joined a group of Appalachian Trail (AT) advocates at Bluemont’s Bears Den Trail Center on July 13 th to talk about the perilous state of AT road crossings in Northern Virginia. AT hikers must routinely run across lanes of speeding traffic on Routes 50, 7 and 9 (Ashby, Snickers and Keys gaps) to continue on the trail. Though yellow crossing signs were installed recently, serious concern about the safety of pedestrians remains. Senator Kaine met with Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) President Jim Fetig, PATC District Manager Chris Brunton, Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) President Sandi Marra, Clarke County Administrator Chris Boies, Clarke Board of Supervisors Vice-Chair Terri Catlett, Commonwealth Transportation Board Member Scott Kasprowicz and AT Community ambassadors from Round Hill, Hillsboro and Bluemont. Following a roundtable discussion of the issues hikers face at each of the crossings, the group gathered at the site of the Route 7/Harry Byrd Highway crossing to look at the hazards faced by hikers trying to safely cross there. Clarke County supervisors have worked with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to approve tentative designs for a pedestrian bridge over the highway. The AT stakeholders meeting with Senator Kaine agreed that the Route 7 pedestrian bridge should be the first priority, and Kaine offered advice for securing federal funding for the proposed triple-span, steel bridge. The project would require a modest realignment of the AT, and both ATC and the PATC support this. Scott Kasprowicz made suggestions about safety improvements that could be made at Rte. 50 and Rte. 9, including solar-powered, motion-sensitive warning lights and clearly defined crosswalks. Kaine, who documented his 544-mile completion of Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Trail in his recent book, Walk Ride Paddle: A Life Outside, expressed a commitment to stay involved with work to improve AT safety in Northern Virginia.

Fall TrailFest Announces a Jam-Packed Schedule

By Chris MacKenzie • 18 Jul, 2024
Event to feature a dozen hikes plus campfires, hands-on workshops, and live music

PATC @ the Virginia Black Bear Festival

By Ruth Walkup • 17 Jun, 2024
PATC Collaborates with the Virginia Black Bear Festival (VBBF) On Saturday June 1, the town of Stanardsville, Virginia hosted the first Virginia Black Bear Festival (VBBF), “a one-day event designed as "a celebration of nature and mountain exploration in Shenandoah National Park and the Appalachian Trail”. PATC was asked by the Greene County Department of Economic Development and Tourism to partner with them at the Festival. 12 members of the PATC Southern Shenandoah Valley and Charlottesville chapters volunteered at the large and very busy booth right in the center of Festival activities. Several more PATC members stopped by to give their support. Volunteers led two afternoon hikes for Festival attendees on nearby Greene County trails that are maintained by the PATC. Through talking with people who stopped by the booth and by directing them to key websites, volunteers helped: · showcase the Club’s work – including land conservation, trail maintenance, led hikes, cabin offerings · generate greater interest in PATC · get new hikers onto local trails · sign up new members · enlist new volunteers for upcoming projects Various organizations that honor nature, promote outside activities and adventures, and celebrate the emergence of black bears were on hand to celebrate the Shenandoah National Park, the Appalachian Trail, and Virginia’s wild spaces. All things BEARS were going on – from led-hikes and professional storytellers, to bear- and honey-themed food at area food trucks, appearances by Sasquatch and Smokey the Bear, BEARd and porridge-eating competition, live music, and demonstrations (a master falconer and a pro-bird watcher were present, as well a live bee display, for example). Next year’s Virginia Black Bear Festival will be celebrated on National Black Bear and National Trails Day – the first Saturday in June 7 th 2025. 

Navigating my fear of heights on the mountains

By Umar Farooq • 20 May, 2024
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.

Are you ready to be a PATC Volunteer Leader?

By Michael Brown • 10 May, 2024
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 

Plan your next PATC Cabin Getaway

By Ben Danforth • 03 May, 2024
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!

Join PATC at the VA Black Bear Festival June 1st

By Ruth Walkup • 15 Apr, 2024
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 https://www.vablackbearfestival.com/

Keep Calm and Read on: A Life Outside

By Wayne Limberg • 13 Apr, 2024
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. 

Breaking Barriers: Christine Reed on her Upcoming Book Blood Sweat Tears

By Emily Rehr • 19 Mar, 2024
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 .

The Importance of Trail Maintenance: Understanding Blowdowns in Hiking

By Emily Rehr • 12 Mar, 2024
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.
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