Author: Amie
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Gear Review: Dutchware Cinch Strap Buckles for Hammocks
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Finding the perfect suspension system for my Hennesy Hammock has been a journey. I have used everything from the standard knot setup to the beetle buckles. Nothing worked as well as I had hoped. The search continued until this year when I discovered the Dutchware cinch strap buckles.
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Homemade Wax Firestarters
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Firestarters can make the process of building a fire faster and require less work overall. While the basic principles of fire building still apply, these tools can have a big impact on how easy your ideal fire starts.
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Let’s Talk Trail Etiquette
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If you’re going to be using the trails for any type of recreation, it is important to understand and respect the unwritten (and written) rules that govern the trail. By learning and practicing these policies, like trail etiquette, you’re not only being a responsible trail user but also respectful to…
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A Muddy Adventure to Rock River Falls
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Hidden within the Rock River Wilderness Area in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a beautiful, secluded waterfall. Narrow roads and a trail thick with mud make getting to Rock River Falls an adventure in itself. A journey that is well worth it.
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Camp Tahquamenon Falls State Park
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Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a well-known gem in the state of Michigan. However, what most people don’t know is that the park offers so much more than just this famous waterfall. Consisting of nearly 50,000 acres, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to multiple campgrounds and miles of scenic…
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My First Ultra: The Two Hearted 50K Trail Run
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It was almost 7 in the morning. I stood on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by 49 other runners. The race director was explaining what to expect on the course. Then, for a brief moment, silence. Ready. Set. Go.
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Camp Petoskey: Dune Campground
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Petoskey State Park is located in the charming town of Petoskey, Michigan. It contains 303 acres of forested land and includes 1 mile of sandy beach shoreline. Offering camping and hiking opportunities, Petoskey State Park is a pleasant place for a weekend getaway.
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Sweet Potato, Spinach & Feta Muffins
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This tasty snack is packed full of goodness. A great source of fuel for those long hikes or to re-energize after a long run. Pre-make at home and enjoy.
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Catching the Northern Lights
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Each year people travel north to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in hopes of catching a glimpse of the mystical Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). We were lucky enough to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right conditions.
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Gear Review: HydraPak Velocity 1.5L Hydration Bladder
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Have you ever been on a hike or run and discovered that your hydration pack is leaking? Having a hydration system that is reliable and durable is important. Whether you’re on a day hike or a long run, the HydraPak Velocity can fulfil all your hydration needs.
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Exploring The Pigeon: Pigeon River State Forest Campground
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By now, it should be no surprise that Steve and I love Pigeon River State Forest. It remains our favorite location in Michigan’s lower peninsula. This trip we decided to hang our hammocks at Pigeon River State Forest Campground.
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Exploring the North Country Trail, Fallasburg to Lowell
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There is something special about running or hiking on secluded trail. With no people, it is easy to lose yourself in thought and reconnect to the natural world. The North Country Trail (NCT) offers that outlet for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.
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Delicious Campfire Kebobs
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I love making meals for camping that allow everyone to choose their own ingredients. Kebobs are perfect for that very reason. The flexibility of ingredients to the marinades ensures that everyone can have the flavors and food that they enjoy.
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Camping with Black Bears
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There are 2 common viewpoints when it comes to bears. Cute and cuddling or aggressive and mean. The reality is Black Bears can be both. They are curious, playful creatures but can be dangerous in certain situations.
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A Great Hike at Lincoln Brick Park
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During Michigan’s Trail Week, I was attempting to hike or run different trail systems every day. This led me to Lincoln Brick Park. Often overshadowed by the neighboring Fitzgerald Park, this small historic place has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts.
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Running Comfort: My Favorite Running Apparel
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Running is hard. It requires physical and mental endurance, determination and a bit of stubbornness. One way to make it a little bit easier is finding the right clothes to provide you comfort and help prevent injury.
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A Family-Friendly Waterfall: Horseshoe Falls
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Privately owned, Horseshoe Falls is one of the many beautiful waterfalls in the city of Munising. Surrounded by ferns and moss, this picturesque waterfall is worth stopping to visit, at least once.
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Gear Review: Warbonnet Thunderfly
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I decided to upgrade my Hennessy Hammock Rainfly to something with more versatility. I wanted it to provide a covered spot outside of the hammock and better protection from weather. I was impressed with how well Steve’s Warbonnet Superfly worked and wanted something similar. This led me to the smaller…
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Running Trails at Fitzgerald Park
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What it lacks for in mileage, Fitzgerald Park makes up for in beauty. Commonly referred to as “The Ledges”, Fitzgerald Park offers diverse terrain for all levels of runners and hikers.
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A Mini Waterfall: Chatham Falls
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Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is well known for small, hidden waterfalls that few people know about. Chatham Falls is known to locals but not frequently visited by those passing through the village of Chatham.
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A Lighthouse in the Shadows: Mackinac Point
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The Mackinac Bridge is an iconic symbol of Michigan. It is the gateway that connects two peninsula over miles of water. Nestled on its southern shore is a lighthouse that has been a beacon for ships long before the bridge began to shine.
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Campfire Teriyaki Stir Fry
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The best part about a stir fry is that everyone can make their own. An easily customized meal with little effort that tastes great.
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A Fun Run at Anderson Park
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Anderson Park is a secluded gem with pretty views of the Grand River. It offers runners a fun experience with little traffic and some technical challenges.
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Off the Beaten Path: Camping at Perkins Park
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Big Bay is a small village north-west of Marquette, Michigan. Nestled in the wilds of the north, it offers plenty for those seeking isolation and outdoor adventure. Perkins Park is one of the many recreational opportunities in this area.
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A Lake Side Attraction: Elliot Falls
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A small waterfall tucked away on one of Pictured Rock’s most beautiful beaches. Elliot Falls, also known as Miners Beach Falls, is an iconic waterfall of the area.