Thrive Outside

MUST HAVE and Secret Advantages It was a strange day at my son's new friend birthday party that I talked with Natalie.  Being "new" to Alaska after 10 years in Africa, this pivotal conversation changed my hiking world forever. Kahtoolas (red) I can't remember how we got to the topic of hiking & trail running, but we did. I think I was complaining about the slippery trails.  She introduced me to my best friend, the MICROSPIKES.   Hillsound trail crampon Microspikes allow you to extending hiking all year round.  They are essential if you love to get outside with terrible trail conditions.  They provide the traction for icy trails to slick muddy trails. They allow me to even RUN down the mountains with less fear of falling.  I am more confident with them on in the winter than my rugged trail shoes in the summer when the trails are dry.  The two that I have experience with is Kahtoola microspikes and Hillsound trail crampon.  I personally had so

   As the weather continues to grow colder it's time to think about gearing up to THRIVE OUTSIDE in the snow! Some of you may already be set up to enjoy downhill, backcountry or XC skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, ice climbing, or sledding. But for those of you who are looking to replace worn out gear or are venturing into a new winter sport a "gear swap" can be the perfect place to find good deals on what you need. Swaps are not limited to just skis, boots, and poles, you'll also find used winter clothing.     Most swaps are run on a consignment basis and some resemble a giant garage sale where individuals are responsible for their own items. Payment option usually include cash or credit card. You will definitely want to arrive early and stand in line to get in as the sales are first come first serve. Read the swap info thoroughly as some swaps offer early entrance for a fee.    Late Fall early winter is historically when swaps have been happening in the Valley and A

After viewing some stunning photos on Facebook, I was eager to get to this newly opened trail. This is a short kid friendly trail that can handle a small stroller. However, after coming home and looking again at the map, we only captured the one part of the trail.  It has not been connected to the other phase that is nearer the school.  (it still is not connected)  small parking lot (no facilities) There is no signs but, if you go to the  4800 E Nelson Rd, Wasilla, AK 99654 or click on the  google map it will give you directions (thanks Google).  However, it is right past the Wasilla Creek and take an immediate left to a small parking lot. this is us finding a marsh that is not walkable even with a little bridge :) Once you find that place (hardest part), you walk towards the woods at about 1:00 is the trail head.  I was on it and it was perfect but short.  At the end of the wooden boardwalk, I ventured with my friends a little farther, but all the trails seem to