James E. Ratzloff
I am an avid backpacker who understands that the best of this life is found by following a rocky trail up high into Colorado and Wyoming Rockies, to set up camp in a glacial basin at the edge of timberline, with a cirque of mountain peaks above me and a trout-filled blue lake before me.
When down in the city I spend Saturday nights at a country western dance hall, keeping the two-step beat and twirling as many beautiful and smiling ladies as I can.
Beyond that I take walks with my two border collies, or ride in my truck with my two border collies, pretty much planning and dreaming about our next trip to the mountains.
I have backpacked for many years, and have lots to say about destinations and gear, and the spirit-renewing nature of wilderness travel.
I also volunteer for two nature centers, leading nature walks for schoolchildren and their teachers, which gives me an opportunity to share my love and passion for nature and the outdoors. I might actually make this world a little better for having walked through it, by teaching young people about how wonderful nature and wilderness is, and how we must care for this earth.
Latest Articles
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What To Do In The Offseason
The winter months are a good time to repair any broken gear, organize your gear so you don't misplace anything, go over photos and dream of next season.
Oct 9, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Hiking Socks
Dry, comfortable, socks which keep your feet from blistering rates up there with a warm, dry, sleeping bag, as far as essential gear.
Sep 28, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Fall High Country Backpacking
Bring a heavier sleeping bag, a wool cap and neck protector, and googles to shield against strong, cold wind.
Sep 21, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Safe Water for Drinking
There are several methods for getting safe water for drinking in the backcountry. Water filtering is the most popular, and is effective in the North American Wilderness.
Sep 14, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Internal and External Frame Packs
Internal Frame packs hold the weight closer to your body, and allow more agility than external frame packs. External frames carry the weight higher, and are cooler.
Sep 1, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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A Simple Meal Idea
Good trail meals can be found at grocery stores. It is not necessary to buy prepackaged backpacking meals.
Aug 23, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Avoid Dehydration
Make sure you drink three to four quarts of water while backpacking in hot weather. Add a quart if you are traveling above 8,000 feet.
Aug 8, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Protect Camping Food From Bears
Don't get sloppy about protecting your food from nightime visitors. Bears can and will enter your camp to steal your food stash.
Aug 1, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Handling Tough Uphill Hikes
There are several things you can do to make a difficult uphill hike easier - train, use trekking poles, and start early.
Jul 20, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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Making a Backpacking Gear List
Forgetting an essential item can cast a negative cloud over a backpacking trip. Make sure this does not happen by consulting a backpacking gear list before you leave.
Jul 13, 2006
- James E. Ratzloff
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