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....

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 lit...

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 ...