Thrive Outside

Matanuska Peak aka Byers Peak The fair brings hordes of people to Palmer, but it also brings a temporary job with the amazing Alaska Chicks .  Seeing the beautiful weather (best in years), made my hiking feet cry for the mountains that call for me.  However, we had set September 10th for the ascent. Like other large mountains, this one has rewards all the way you climb it.  On the day we hiked, we saw people with toddlers who didn't summit, but enjoyed the tundra meadow! My husband is a fair weather hiker, and thankfully it was a STUNNING day.  We got a later start instead of 7am, we launched at 9 am. Many Routes to the same Peak. 1)   McRoberts Creeks approach Trailhead:  Smith Road 2) Matanuska Peak Trail Trailhead: Smith Road but after 3) Summit Lazy then go down the backside of Lazy toward the valley and connect with the Mat Peak trail. (Matanuska Peak Race) Trailhead:  Huntley Road Lazy Mountain Trailhead 4) Lazy-Matanuska ...

A few tips for keep your Fall hiking at it's maximum enjoyment! BY JULIE MILLER 1. LAYERS! - It is that time of year where I want the heat on in the house in the morning and the windows open in the afternoon. That same idea applies to your hiking clothing. Our temps this time of year can swing a good 20-30 degrees. Keep in mind that elevation also effects temperatures, higher means colder. Rain gear is a must. 2. Be mindful of hunters - For sportsmen Fall is the most anticipated time of the year. Moose season is in full swing and hikers should take precautions. Wear bright colored clothing so that you are visible. If you happen upon hunters be sure  they are aware of your presence. If you hear gunshots, judge the distance, keep your eyes open, and remain visible.   3. Shorter daylight - Toss a headlamp into your pack just incase you're out a wee bit later than you planned.  4. Trust your gut - If the weather turns on you 1/2 way through a hike there is NO shame in turni...

  Okay, three weeks of rain and a few 40 mph windy days.  Is it that miserable everywhere?  Actually, we live in a huge state.   I am blessed to live in Palmer between two large rivers (Knik and Matanuska) that are fed by huge glaciers and two major mountain ranges (Chugach and Talkeetna).   The cool thing about living among the mountains is that the weather can be quite different just a few miles away.   I am going to explain how to use Weather Underground to find out where it is not windy and where the current temperatures are more desirable. Weather Underground is a sweet webpage and free app that I can use on my desktop or cell phone.  I have even arranged our hiking guide to be in distinct  areas so you can easily see the conditions (towards Hatcher Pass, Butte, Anchorage) Now, as I have encouraged you in the past, regardless of the weather, Thrive Outside.  However, sometimes I do want to get away from the wind.  I love...

             Since school started, it might be trickier to get your exercise and hikes in.  Why not try this fun RunMatSu Thursday night race series?  Go at your own pace and enjoy run/walking these trails that you might of avoided because you were scared of being lost or having no-one to go out with you.  For  only $10 for the entire family (no dogs), it is an affordable way to get in shape. If you are single adult $5, youth $2 if you want to pay separately.  Races begin at 6:00pm.  Parking pass/fee will apply.  Register online at  Valley Mountain Bikers and Hikers  or at  Active Soles Performance Footwear  one week before the event.   9/15 The first one is at Crevasse Moraine off of Loma Prieta Drive around mile 2 off Palmer/Wasilla Hwy in Palmer, AK  9/22 Matanuska Lakes State Recreation Park  off of the Glenn Hwy near the Parks  9/29   Government Peak Rec...

So, it is wet.  So what! I am a huge advocate of the saying, "there is no bad weather, (in Alaska) only bad clothing."  That saying originated in Norway.  But, I learned a few quick and easy tips to enjoy the outdoors even if it looks like Eeyore weather. 1) Waterproof hiking shoes/boots. Nothing says warm like a good dry foot. Not only does it prevent blisters from rubbing, your whole body is warm. Don't get water resistant but, waterproof. *my thermal lined Xtratuf makes camping in the rain fun as well.  Don't get water resistant but, waterproof. 2) Rain pants.  These are a must for blueberry picking and hiking in brush that is wet. I just slip these into my pack and pull them out if I need the extra protection.  I also like to use them as an extra layer to keep warm in windy conditions or after I arrive at a backpacking place. 3) Frog Toggs.  After a 6 hour hike in the constant rain, my "water resistance" rain jacket was a soggy mess. I was ...

Christy Marvin Wins Mount Marathon in Seward July 4, 2016!   No one, I mean NO ONE wins a race, breaks a record, or has success in running all on their own.  In every race, every record, every win, there is a long trail of support that brought them there.  For me, that trail includes God, my family, and my friends. Before God even said, “Let there be light,” he knew that he was going to make me.  Humbling as it is, God has had a plan for my life from the very beginning of time.  He knew he was going to give me a talent in running.  It was a part of His plan to reach a crowd of people that might not otherwise hear about the saving love of Jesus Christ. My faith is the core of my running success.  I could have faith without running, but not running without faith.  God is my inspiration.  When Satan rears his ugly head and plants seeds of doubt or fear, it is through Christ that I find my strength.  Strength to be my very bes...

Gunsight Mountain:  Elevation 6,441 feet Time to the top: hiking fast uphill : 2 1/2 hours with lunch break Total time Roundtrip:  3:52 minutes Miles Round Trip 8.2 Okay, after trying to find the trail backpacking, we went back for a day hike.  Thankfully, it was easy. There is a pull off mile 118.5 on the Glen Hwy just past Sheep Mountain Lodge if coming from Palmer with a nice outhouse and no parking fee. Head down the old road and turn right up the trail.  For the first 2ish miles you will be on a well marked four wheel trail.  It can be a bit muddy in places, but we stayed dry for walking around. Major crossroad:  Take a left on the first decision right when you see the pond. The road to the right takes you into the back woods around the mountain not to Gunsight. See James point to the left the "correct" way to go There is a small creek crossing that was easily jumpable. Then when you start getting to a flatish part, you will see ...