Archive: August 2014

Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus Review

ProLite Plus Delivers Year Round Warmth and Comfort Therm-a-Rest weren’t kidding when they claim that a well-cared for mattress should last years. Only in the last few months has my 18 year old Therm-a-Rest finally been retired more due to...

Yatsugatake 八ヶ岳

Hiked on Aug 19, 2014    Aug 24, 2023 . Mt. Akadake 赤岳 – Mt. Yokodake 横岳 – Mt. Ioudake 硫黄岳   Duration: 3 days   Distance: 26.1 km   Elevation change: 1409 metres   Highest point: 2899 metres   Start: Minoto Kogen...

Suunto A-30L Compass Review

Enjoy Precision Navigation with the Suunto A-30L Compass Along with a detailed topographic map an accurate compass is a must have for any backcountry adventure. In a previous post I offered a summary of what to look for when choosing an outdoor...

Erinji Temple

The Erinji Temple Pays Homage to a Pre-eminent Daimyo Nestled in the mountain foothills surrounding Koshu City, a wine and grape growing area, finds the Erinji Temple 恵林寺 which is well-known throughout Japan. The temple was founded in 1330 and later...

Nishizawa Gorge 西沢渓谷

Hiked on Aug 12, 2014    Aug 23, 2023 . Nishizawa Keikoku Bus Stop 西沢渓谷入口 – Nanatsugama Godan Falls 七ツ釜五段の滝 The Nishizawa Gorge hiking trail closes during winter (December 1st-April 28th subject to change depending on snowfall) for the...

Hiking First Aid Kit Essentials

First Aid Kit Essentials to Keep you Healthy and Safe out on the Trail When it comes to choosing a first aid kit for backcountry outings you have basically one of two options; make up your own kit or buy one ready-made off the shelf. While there are...

10 Best Outdoor and Adventure Blogs

Updating my Outdoor Allies blogroll recently made me think about which blogs not only have the most engaging content but also genuinely seek to inspire our outdoor adventures. Whilst the following list is not meant to be all-encompassing and...

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