All posts in Outdoors

MILE…MILE & A HALF

A collective of multi-media artists ventured out for 25 days to hike 230 miles and record their adventure on the John Muir Trail.

The crew departed from Yosemite Valley on July 10th, 2011 and completed the trail at the summit of Mount Whitney on August 3rd. Along the way, they were joined by musicians, painters, teachers and other adventure-seekers, who all became part of the story.

Join us as we relive stories from on the trail and embark on our next journey – to bring the trail to you – in the form of a gallery exhibit including photographs, video installations and hands-on displays that allow visitors to truly get a feeling for the beauty and majesty of the trail (without the burning lungs and blisters.)

Come walk with us … JMT: The Muir Project

“Leave No Trace” When Outdoors

Ever see those obnoxious hikers or campers, you know the ones who bring really loud radios into the woods, and spew their fast food wrappers and used chewing gum all over the place? Actually, I’ve never seen people like that hiking in the woods, because most outdoor enthusiasts follow a “Leave No Trace” philosophy, whether they know it by name or not!

Leave No Trace is a program to assist outdoor enthusiasts about how to reduce their impact when they spend time outdoors hiking, camping, picnicking, running or anything. The” Leave No Trace” concept is over 40 years old, and was originally formally conceived by the U.S.D.A. Forest Service.

There are Seven Principles of “Leave No Trace.” Here is a sample of tips for each principle:

  • Plan Ahead and Prepare: Use maps and compasses. Be prepared for the weather. Go in smaller groups as opposed to large ones.
  • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Keep your campsite small. Walk single file in the middle of trails.
  • Dispose of Waste Properly: If you brought it in, bring it out. Wash dishes away from water sources using biodegradable soap.
  • Leave What You Find: Simple enough. No free souvenirs.
  • Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a lightweight stove for cooking and a candle lantern for light.
  • Respect Wildlife: Don’t feed the animals. Keep your trash and food well-contained to avoid attracting wildlife.
  • Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Yield to other people on trails. Speak quietly, and “let nature’s sounds prevail.”

Source obtained from GreenDaily