Articles written by James E. Ratzloff

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

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

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

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

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

Good trail meals can be found at grocery stores. It is not necessary to buy prepackaged backpacking meals.

Aug 23, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

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

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

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

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

A summary of backpacking in Colorado with my 21-year-old daughter. Despite complaints about the rain and mosquitos and hard climb, we had a memorable time.

Jul 6, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

A person has more to give after getting away for a few days in the wilderness.

Jun 15, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

As we move into summer, a struggle develops between domestic responsibilities and the freedom of high mountains and blue green evergreen forests.

Jun 6, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Read my article to find about my latest backpacking mistake. Has anyone else ever done something like this?

Jun 2, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Selecting a tent site with dry, level spot with a good view nearby ensures a good backpack trip. Try to get an early start to find a campsite well before dark.

May 17, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Time to think about getting in shape for the hiking season. Here are some quick tips.

May 10, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Trip planning is one of the most enjoyable parts of backpacking - studying guide books and maps, to find a place where the adventure and beauty excites you.

May 10, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Backpackers often possess a restlessness and adventurous spirit, to carry all they need on their back, and trudge through mud, storms, snow, and streams.

May 2, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Children who spend more time in nature playing and exploring and getting dirty are healthier physically and mentally.

Apr 26, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Lightning season is starting, and it helps to be reminded of how to stay safe from strikes. Here is a quick primer of lightning safety tips.

Apr 21, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Backpack very much and you may find what you considered important in life can begin to change.

Apr 12, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Getting an early start allows you to take your time hiking - and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Apr 4, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Bargains on Backpacking gear can be found online if your are patient. Backpacking gear is a good investment. It is very durable, and few things offer as much pleasure.

Mar 27, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

The warmth of a campfire takes the edge off a winter or early spring backcountry trip. In the summer season a campfire should be avoided.

Mar 10, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Is early season backpacking safe? Should it be done? Here are my experiences below freezing and above 8800 feet, with some important tips for your spring season backpack

Mar 7, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff

Loading your pack is not as exciting as starting up the trail, but the success of the backpack trip often hinges on it. Take enough gear and food that you are safe.

Mar 6, 2006 - James E. Ratzloff