Adventure Sports Journal // Fall 2023 // Issue #130

Project M Topper

IN THIS ISSUE

Fall 2023, #130

7Editor’s Note The path to the path, a journey to the now

8Inbox & Ear to the Ground Letters, opinions, poetry, and industry news

10Earn Your Beer Kayaking and body surfing Mendocino

12Tulare Lake A sacred lake returns to the Central Valley

14The Gift of a Lift Ten reasons to embrace MTB parks

16Surf Safari Exploring Southern California’s legendary coastline

18Joint Ventures Preserving migratory bird habitats

22Kula Cloth Anastasia Allison and the art of the pee cloth

24Pacific Crest Trail Forging through Oregon’s forever forests

28Rock Climbing Climb your way to fitness at any age

30Yosemite Climbing Association

Celebrating 20 years of climbing advocacy and stewardship

32Events Calendar Upcoming races and events

34Gear We Love Goodies for your active lifestyle

ON THE COVER: Ron Kauk powers through a dicey sequence on Peace, Medlicott Dome, Tuolumne Meadows. This route was established by installing anchors on rappel, a controversial tactic at the time. The route name was ironic given the animosity around climbing ethics. Photo by Chris Falkenstein.

THIS ISSUE IS MADE POSSIBLE BY: A Single Track Mind, Adventure Van Expo, Bear Valley Adventure Company, Big Bear Mountain Resort, Bishop, CAL FIRE, Carson City, Discover Klamath, Dodge Ridge, Eastside Sports, Four Wheel Camper, Granlibakken, Kayak Connection, Kula Cloth, Leki, Mammoth Mountain, O'Neill Yacht Charters, OATBRAN, Onewheel, Mariposa County, Pacific Edge Climbing Gym, Petzl, Rab, Recover, RecPak, Ride the Rim, Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge, Tahoe Keepers, Western Mountaineering, White Pine County Nevada, Yuma Arizona

PUBLISHING + EDITORIAL

PUBLISHER

Cathy Claesson cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Matt Niswonger matt@adventuresportsjournal.com

EDITOR

Michele Lamelin & Krista Houghton

COPY EDITOR

Jennifer Stein

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Matt Johanson, Anthea Raymond, Russ Lowgren, Mick Thompson, Connor Jandreau, Hannah Nikonow, Kim Stark, Daniel Nylen, American Rivers, Anastasia Allison, Mirna Valerio, Chris Van Leuven, Chris Falkenstein, Phil Bard, Mike White, Glen Denny, Karl Luce, Jannette Wing Pazer, Amy Mountjoy, Andrew Altevogt, Michelle Altevogt, James Murren, Chris Neely, China Peak, Sean Evans

COVER DESIGN

Lauren Worth

EVENTS MARKETING & DISTRIBUTION

Krista Houghton krista@adventuresportsjournal.com

Lee Houghton lee@adventuresportsjournal.com

ADVERTISING

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Cathy Claesson I 831.234.0351 cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com

DESTINATION MARKETING MANAGER

Pamela Coffey I 619.887.9937 pamela@adventuresportsjournal.com

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Our office resides in Aulinta (‘place of the Red Abalone’) in the larger region called Popeloutchom (‘paradise’) by the Amah Mutsun Tribe.

ADVENTURE SPORTS JOURNAL

PO BOX 35, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 Phone 831.457.9453 staff@adventuresportsjournal.com

Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Adventure Sports Journal or our advertisers. We usually agree with our articles, but sometimes we don’t. We welcome all contributions.

All content © Adventure Sports Journal 2023. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the editors.

PROUD MEMBER

asj contributors

What personal achievements or moments of surprise have you experienced during your outdoor adventures?

leoniesherman

I just biked 105 miles and climbed 7,000 feet in a single day on a tandem. Unfortunately my riding partner realized he prefers biking downhill! Anyone want to join me on a long tandem ride? Please get in touch!

mattjohanson

That’s a timely question because after 26 years, I just finished hiking the PCT today! Even when I hiked alone, many friends and family made the journey in my heart. Thanks for that!

anthearaymond

I am always ready to be surprised when I go outside — especially in the city. And I am rarely disappointed. The plants and animals always find a way to make it work despite the concrete and pollution.

kristahoughton

My outdoor adventure mantra is “the no fuck up clause is in full effect!” I call upon my body and mind to always be aware and careful. I appreciate the centered feeling it gives me — balancing emotions with the slower time of nature.

timmyo’neill

Over 30 plus years watching, listening and adventuring in the wilderness I’ve realized that life shifts in beauty and brightness depending upon how you hold and view it.

dierdewolownick

There are so many! “Personal achievements”… ”Moments of surprise”…I could write a book about all those! Oh, wait — maybe I will….

jamesmurren

Those moments when you push on and things improve, kind of like creating a second wind versus simply getting one. Many a mountain bike ride has gone that way, along with a 40 km day hike in Prince Albert National Park.

michelelamelin

I started section hiking the PCT four years ago, in my mid-50s. I feel moments of awe that my feet have carried me over 1,130 miles so far, with all I need on my back. More impressively, my dog Ani has done nearly all those miles with me!

A PATH TO THE PATH Contemplating the Tao

One morning a few weeks ago, I got up early to meditate. We were staying at an Airbnb in Eugene, Oregon because our kids are in a band and we were on tour with them. While on the road, we were working on the current issue of Adventure Sports Journal, the issue you now hold in your hands.

Before closing my eyes, I started to read a few passages from a book by Thich Nhat Hanh, as is my custom before I meditate. A few seconds into the reading I realized something was wrong. The words were no longer alive to me. I was not inspired by them anymore. I had read this book too many times.

I went downstairs to check a bookshelf for something new. Sure enough, in a cold basement bedroom, I found a variety of neglected books. I moved a stack of romance novels to the side and there it was, a treasure. Behind the romance novels was an old, warped copy of the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu.

I left my copy of Thich Nhat Hanh’s The Art of Living and took Lao Tzu’s book. It was a good trade. A new master for an old master.

I went back upstairs and read a few poems from the Tao Te Ching. These poems were over 2500 years old, but they penetrated my heart as if they were written yesterday.

“Some say that my teaching is nonsense. Others call it lofty but impractical. But to those who have looked inside themselves, this nonsense makes perfect sense. And to those who put it into practice, this loftiness has roots that go deep.”

Rock climbing is a path to the Tao. A good climbing photo is a path to the Tao. These words are a path to the Tao. Since the word “Tao” roughly translates to “path,” a path to the Tao is a path to a path. Rock climbing is a path to the path. A good climbing photo is a path to the path. Good writing is a path to the path.

After reading Lao Tzu’s words I fell into a deep meditation. I sat cross-legged for about 45 minutes and contemplated the Tao. Feeling serene, I was coming in and out of awareness. It was about 6am and the house was completely dark while everyone slept. At some point, a mental image of the cover photo of Ron Kauk climbing Peace in Tuolumne Meadows popped into my mind. Suddenly, it all made sense.

Rock climbing is a path to the Tao. A good climbing photo is a path to the Tao. These words are a path to the Tao. Since the word “Tao” roughly translates to “path,” a path to the Tao is a path to a path. Rock climbing is a path to the path. A good climbing photo is a path to the path. Good writing is a path to the path.

My realization while meditating in Eugene that morning is that sometimes I get lost. When I am lost, I need a path to the path. The Tao is the path.

If you are reading these words I’m asking you to join me on the path. Life is a mysterious journey and we are on this path together. I can’t tell you much,

but what I can say is at the end of this path we will find death. This may be a bit scary. So, I’m asking you to hold my hand so we can find the path to the path together. This is the way. This is the Tao. Welcome to issue #130, your path to the path. Whether it’s climbing tall cliffs or just staring at photos of other people climbing, you are powerfully inching closer to the now. Whether it’s outdoor adventure, or photography, or music, or meditation, or housework, consider this issue your personal invitation to the now. The Tao is the path. Now is the destination. See you there.

MattNiswonger

matt@adventuresportsjournal.com

THANK YOU!

For supporting ASJ

Adventure Sports Journal depends on the

support of our advertisers and people like you.

ASJ is an important voice for the outdoor community in California, and we are in direct competition with corporate media and online platforms.

Please consider helping us continue our work by becoming a member today.

With your support we can continue to inspire adventure, event participation, exploration and environmental stewardship.

— Matt Niswonger & Cathy Claesson

Chris Falkenstein

INBOX Feedback, Poems, Ideas & Opinions

ASJ MEMBER WINNER

This ticket you can not buy Yet we’re chosen to climb sky high Dates submitted Then two remitted

As life’s constraints pressed day and night

Tragedy struck our luck

Relinquishing became a must…

Casting fears aside

Alone in the dark I started to surmise

Finding my way

With a deer by my side

Confidence started to rise

Too far in to turn back now I must push on Don’t leave me for dead

They stop for a pee

Oh how my heart

Burst with glee

Passing one another

Traversing the course

Cables before us

Leading us forward Higher and higher

Hanging by shear grip

Never thinking we could slip Board to board we climb Conquering one at a time

Hanging tighter

Ignite our might

Never looking down Feet arrive at solid ground Heavens abound all around Can you hear that amazing sound?

Wind whispering

Glorious majesty on display

Whooping and hollering

All scaled the dome today

Mindi Hampton, Camarillo

Congratulations to our recent ASJ member winner! Steve Gemelos has won two tickets for two days at Mammoth Bike Park. Our next drawing will be for a one night stay at Rush Creek Lodge along with two Spa Day Use Passes (rushcreeklodge.com). See the ad on page 17 for details.

READER SURVEY

Question: What’s more intimidating: kayaking down Class V rivers or big wave surfing in the ocean?

Results: 71% said big wave surfing & 29% said Class V kayaking

NEXT Reader Survey: Do you think wildlife officials should relocate animals that venture too close to humans and/or populated areas?

Yes or No? Tell us why for your chance to win a Hex 2.0 Crazy Creek Chair. rs-130@adventuresportsjournal.com

YOU STRUCK A CHORD

Matt’s “Editor’s Note” in the June/July 2023 issue really struck a chord. I was a part-time whitewater raft guide, guide trainer, and trainer-trainer for more than 20 years. Loved guiding, really loved training guides.

Training trainers was very challenging. From that famous movie philosopher: “You must unlearn what you have learned.” Worked both ways. In highwater years, I watched some noncommercial boater tragedies and participated in a bunch of rescues. Rafting is a team sport, and everyone needs to be on their A game this year. Stay safe!

Just subscribed to ASJ after picking up a few issues in Aptos. Great publication, wish you well.

Rex Sanders, Aptos

BUDDHISM-INFUSED INSPIRATION

I’m a big fan of Adventure Sports Journal, and I’m writing to tell YOU how much I appreciate that you and your writers infuse ASJ with a specific philosophy and intent, or intention. I just love that! Your Buddhism-infused “Editor’s Note” helps to set the tone in every issue, but the articles, too, all fit together to provide a meaningful message.

ASJ poets, submit your poetry for a chance to get published and win money and wine. Email poems@ adventuresportsjournal.com

In a world dominated by advertorial that is designed just to sell products, and writing and images that mainly serve to make readers feel inferior and inadequate, Adventure Sports Journal is a real breath of fresh air. I come away from each issue inspired, enlightened, and with action items that I can put into play immediately. Thank you for all of that!

Chris Kostman, Oak Park

Mindi Hampton has won $50 and a gift certificate for a bottle of wine from mantrawines.com

EAR TO THE GROUND News and notes from the outdoor industry

CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK EXPANDS

California State Parks and the Sempervirens Fund have expanded Castle Rock State Park in Los Gatos, California, with the acquisition of six properties for $4.21 million. This marks the first land acquisitions by the state agency in the Santa Cruz Park District since 2011. The newly added 222 acres include the Robert C. Kirkwood entrance, built by Sempervirens Fund in 2019, which led to increased park visitation. The partnership aims to protect and expand this scenic redwood forest for the benefit of future generations. The acquisitions were made possible through donations, including from The Kirkwood Family, The Joseph and Vera Long Foundation, and REI Co-op. Sempervirens Fund has played a crucial role in the establishment and expansion of Castle Rock State Park since 1968, contributing to the conservation of over 4,200 acres. castle-rock. adventuresportsjournal.com

DEB HAALAND CELEBRATES GREAT AMERICAN OUTDOORS ACT

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland traveled to Yosemite National Park (YNP) in August as part of a month-long tour to celebrate the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), a bipartisan investment that improves visitor experiences, bolsters climate resilience and invests in the economy by creating good-paying jobs in our national parks, wildlife refuges, recreation areas and Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded schools.

The GAOA established the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (GAOA LRF) which provides $1.6 billion annually for critical projects such as infrastructure repairs and accessibility improvements. Haaland’s recent visit

to YNP highlighted GAOA’s impact, including a $120 million investment in Yosemite for improved campgrounds and safety upgrades at the Ahwahnee Hotel. gaoa-ynp.adventuresportsjournal.com

NEW GRAY WOLF PACK CONFIRMED IN TULARE COUNTY

A new gray wolf pack has been discovered in California’s Tulare County, marking a significant wildlife milestone in wildlife conservation efforts. The discovery was announced by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). This pack, the southernmost in the state, is located more than 200 air miles away from the nearest known pack. The CDFW’s investigation was initiated after receiving a wolf sighting report from the Sequoia National Forest. Following genetic testing

of collected samples, it was confirmed that the pack consists of at least five individuals, including one adult female descendant of California’s first documented wolf, OR7. The wolves are protected by both state and federal Endangered Species Acts, making it illegal to intentionally harm them. To report sightings or for more information, visit CDFW’s Gray Wolf Program webpage at wildlife.ca.gov graywolf.adventuresportsjournal.com

$44 MILLION TO NATIONAL PARKS

On August 8, the Department of the Interior announced the allocation of over $44 million from the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America Agenda. This funding aims to address crucial needs for ecosystem resilience, restoration, and environmental planning within the National Park Service for fiscal year 2023. This announcement continues to uphold President Biden’s historic conservation agenda and investments to enhance community resilience, restore our nation’s lands and waters, and advance the America the Beautiful initiative—a goal to conserve 30% of lands and waters by 2030. 44-nps.adventuresportsjournal.com

PROTECTING WESTERN JOSHUA TREES

California’s Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, signed by Governor Gavin

Newsom, aims to protect the iconic Joshua tree while facilitating the state’s transition to clean energy and housing expansion. This aligns with California’s ambitious climate goals, including a clean electric grid and carbon neutrality. The law permits controlled removal and trimming of the trees, especially for clean energy and housing projects, with fees directed toward conservation efforts. Collaboration with Native American tribes is emphasized, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife will create a conservation plan by late 2024. Public involvement is encouraged through feedback and meetings. jtca.adventuresportsjournal.com

OTTER 841 AVOIDS CAPTURE

Officials from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife have been addressing reports of a 5-year-old female southern sea otter located in Santa Cruz, California. The otter is known as Otter 841, and her behavior has garnered attention, as she has been approaching people participating in water activities like surfing and kayaking, which is an unusual behavior for sea otters. Otter 841 has been able to avoid capture since mid-July. This situation highlights the importance of responsible wildlife interaction. It’s crucial to remember that wild animals need their space and should not be fed or encouraged to approach humans. otter-psa. adventuresportsjournal.com

Mendocino

Kayaking & Body Surfing

By James Murren

THE EARNING

The beach at Van Damme State Park along the Mendocino County coast is where you’ll find Kayak Mendocino. Their sea caves tour offers an hour and a half paddle adventure that will leave you with a greater sense of awe for planet Earth and a big smile on your face. The stunning rocky coastline, home to oystercatchers, seals, jellyfish, sea stars, and other aquatic life, showcases natural beauty at its finest. Paddling through the rock gardens, you can explore what are known as the Rumbler and Cathedral sea caves, where you’ll witness the raw intersection of water and rock — a testament to the passage of time. On my outing, the gentle ocean, bluebird sky, and soft breeze made for a relaxed experience, with each turn revealing new encounters to appreciate nonhuman life.

After a few hours of kayaking, I strolled along the boardwalk at MacKerricher State Park’s beach. Suiting up in my winter wetsuit at Pudding Creek Beach, I embraced the

chilly 55-degree water and waited for 2-3 foot waves to ride. In the lineup, I bobbed and bodysurfed, catching decent waves from time to time. One perfect wave carried me to knee-deep water near the shoreline, leaving me grinning and chuckling with joy. As I swam back out into the vast blue Pacific Ocean, I eagerly awaited more thrilling sets. kayakmendocino.com

THE BEER

North Coast Brewing Company does not need an introduction. Since 1988, they have been at the forefront of California’s independent craft beer movement. What I was not aware of, though, is that they use non-GMO ingredients and are a Certified B Corporation (a company that has voluntarily met the highest standards for social and environmental performance) brewery. I respect that, as well as their support for marine research. Walk inside the front door on Main Street in Fort Bragg and you will see the array of awards that any

brewery would dream of attaining. Scrimshaw, their classic pilsner, is iconic, so much so that I would put it up there next to Sierra Nevada’s Pale Ale as being a pillar of California and USA beer. Oh — and they have beer cocktails! I had the White Russian for dessert. Three letters sum it up … Y-U-M! northcoastbrewing.com

While in Fort Bragg, stop in and check out Tall Guy Brewing. Pat, the owner/ brewer, worked at North Coast for 30 years and as of July 7th, he has his own brewery. The London Fog English Porter on nitro was as it should be for the style. Maybe check out Overtime Brewing, also in town. I am not much for what I call gimmicky beers (artichoke beer and jasmine green tea beer, anyone?), but their Drinkin’ Beer,

a pilsner-style light beer, was on-point and went down easy. To savor the best of Fort Bragg’s breweries is to embrace the heart of California’s craft beer culture — a delightful journey of flavors and dedication.

Top to bottom: Kayaking Mendocino’s rocky coastline (Liquid Fusion Kayaking); North Coast Brewing Company’s Scrimshaw pilsner (North Coast Brewing Company).

WELCOME BACK PA’ASHI

A sacred lake returns and sparks conversation about a sustainable future in the Central Valley

By Anthea Raymond

It’s just July and some already want more rain in California’s Central Valley. Among them are Kenny Barrios and Carlos “Pops” Garcia of the Tachi Yokut Tribe of the Santa Rosa Rancheria reservation in Lemoore. They say another rainy season would strengthen the Tribe’s call for a natural return of Tulare Lake, which their ancestors called Pa’ashi; it might even lead to a preserve or park there. Says Kenny, a specialist teaching the native language of his tribe, ”I can imagine another hundred years of this lake. We just need to let nature take its course.”

We meet on a hot, muggy day at Cesi’s Cafe in Alpaugh. We order tacos al pastor, enchiladas, and tostadas. Kenny and Pops are the only non-white customers I see. Across the room is a table of very tall locals, some wearing cowboy hats. Kenny says one challenge is to persuade this population that a renewed Tulare Lake benefits everyone, despite the costs. These costs include lost jobs, property, and water rights.

For many centuries the Tulare Lake dominated the landscape of California’s Central Valley. The undammed rivers we today call the Kings, Kaweah, Kern, and Tule fed it. The lake ebbed and flowed with rainfall; one estimate puts its peak size at almost 700 square miles.

The valley was lush with plants, fish, and wildlife, wetlands and wide stretches of open water. A network of Native communities circled the lakeshore, including the Tachi. People sometimes traveled by water, in canoes woven from the native tule grasses. Pops hands me his phone to reveal a 1907 map of the lake. He says there was an island in the middle, sacred to the Tachi. We are eating lunch not far from that spot.

The Tulare Lake and landscape are gone, sucked dry by dams, levees, and irrigation ditches to support industrial-

scale agriculture. It has left places like Alpaugh bone dry. But this past spring, epic snowfall and snowmelt blew up those systems and returned a 110-thousand acre lakebed to the valley floor. Experts say it could linger for several years, sparking continued conversation about whether the lake could and should be permanently restored.

We are done eating, and Kenny asks, “Ready to see it?” And so we drive through shimmering heat up Route 43 through Corcoran, west toward Hanford. We pass stockyards, cattle, tomato and cotton fields, almond and pistachio orchards. We are tracing what may have been the northern edge of the lake.

We turn off Nevada Avenue, leaving behind rows of chicken coops. The land is drying but the levee road still ends in water. We stop next to a “No Trespassing” sign, one of many that dot the landscape. Near it hundreds of egrets and other shorebirds wade in a shimmering vista. The breeze is warm, gentle. Kenny says it too has returned to the valley floor, along with the water.

Pops points out some of the animals that have migrated to the renewed lake – a family of burrowing owls and a baby muskrat. Aquatic life is also thriving, he

says. A veteran fisherman, he has trolled some of the lake in his fishing kayak. He’s especially excited to have seen shrimp and larger-than-ever crayfish.

* * * * *

We head on, to 18th and Manteca Avenues, near the Mussel Slough, a small vestige of the original natural lake system. We stop at a small beach that overlooks another stretch of water so wide I can’t see the other side. A couple from Fresno has also stopped, and the woman says, “Can you imagine the money and power it took to dry this out?”

Kenny and Pops can, along with the rest of the Tachi. So far they have been left out of the conversation about the lake’s future.

And there are complications. The 170acre Tachi reservation and casino is surrounded by industrial farmland, with no direct lakefront access or water rights under California law. Water quality and mosquitos are also an issue, especially with inflows normally blocked by levees and dams.

There are also the farmers, farmworkers, and allied businesses. They too have long histories in the valley and want to remain. Charles Meyer Sr. told the LA Times that the flooding has cost him about a thousand dollars an

This page, top to bottom: Kenny Barrios and Carlos Garcia ponder the shallow lake that has returned to the Central Valley after decades; “No Trespassing” signs throughout the flooded farmlands remind us who is really in charge; After the flooding, fishing is again popular just below Highway 41 on the Kings River. Opposite page, clockwise from top: The Tulare Lake rose to cover major roadways like parts of 18th Avenue; A gnarled sign of the water systems that sustain Central Valley agriculture; Levee gates like this one could control flows into a renewed Tulare Lake; A runaway boat is now drydocked near a levee on the Kings River.

For many centuries the Tulare Lake dominated the landscape of California’s Central Valley. The undammed rivers we today call the Kings, Kaweah, Kern, and Tule fed it. The lake ebbed and flowed with rainfall; one estimate puts its peak size at almost 700 square miles.

acre. He employs ten on his 600-acre family farm. He hasn’t had to let anyone go yet, but there is always that risk.

“There has been tremendous economic benefit that’s resulted from this artificial landscape,” says Todd Bridges, PH.D., Professor of Practice, Resilient and Sustainable Systems, at the University of Georgia. “Yet you have 20 percent of the population living in poverty and others close to it.”

“It’s not sustainable for a number of reasons,” he adds, “including the fact that the ancient ground water stores will soon be tapped out by agriculture.”

Many expect that to happen within 50 years, especially if cycles of flooding and drought rotate without a plan to contain some of the water during surplus years.

The Tachi contend that a return of Tulare Lake will naturally recharge the depleted groundwater supplies.

“It’s worth their being part of the discussion to envision how the economy can be diversified in balance with the landscape and climate change,” says Bridges.

Tourism, of course, is one possibility.

Tachi Palace Casino Resort on the Santa

Rosa Rancheria is part of that; a renewed lake or some preserve system might be another. Some are also floating the idea that Olympic organizers make 2028 the first Olympics held on Native land. More simply, access to the lake for passive recreation and manually-powered boating might also be attractive.

We end our drive at State Route 41 Stratford Kings River Bridge. When the river flooded, the levee below the bridge failed, feeding the renewed lakebed. That has Kenny and Pops feeling optimistic. If levees can come down once, they can again — allowing the river’s runoff and natural water levels to benefit all. One almost gets the impression that nature wants the lake to exist.

The Tachi will be holding an event on Oct 6-7, 2023 to support the return of Tulare Lake. It will take place just upriver from the Kings River levees at Ave 41 in Stratford. As we go to press details are forthcoming. Check Instagram @tularelakepaashi for more information as the time nears.

THE GIFT OF A LIFT

Ten reasons to embrace bike parks

By Krista Houghton

With long days, cooler temperatures, and breathtaking sunsets, fall is a great time for exploring California’s abundant mountain bike parks. Park riding promises an exhilarating and rewarding experience for every rider. After all, who wouldn’t prefer catching a lift instead of climbing? Here are 10 compelling reasons to try park riding.

1 Thrilling Adventure: Mountain bike parks offer an array of challenging trails and obstacles, providing riders with an adrenalinepumping experience, and an opportunity to push their limits.

2 Varied Terrain: Most parks feature diverse terrain like technical single track, jumps, berms, ladders, and more, which gives bikers a great chance to try something new.

3 Safety and Maintenance: The parks will have well-maintained trails and facilities. What’s more, most trails will be directional, reducing the risk of collisions and ensuring a safer environment for all.

4 Community and Social Interaction: Mountain bike parks attract likeminded people who share a passion for biking. Chances are you may make some new friends!

Both pages: China Peak Mountain Resort has 21 miles of lift-served trails (Chris Neely).

5 Family Friendly: Many of the mountain bike parks offer trails suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels, making it a great destination for families to enjoy biking together.

6 Access to Equipment and Gear: Many mountain bike parks offer rental services, allowing riders to try out new bikes and gear without having to make a big purchase. Also, some parks offer lessons, which is a great way to learn techniques to improve your riding.

7 Eco-Tourism and Conservation: Supporting mountain bike parks contributes to eco-tourism and conservation efforts, as they often promote responsible outdoor recreation and environmental awareness. Plus, if you shop and eat locally, you are helping to support mountain communities.

8 Escape from Urban Life: Visiting a mountain bike park allows you to take a break from city life, unwind, and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors while getting some great exercise and improving your riding skills.

9 Events and Competitions: Many bike parks host events, and race competitions, offering bikers a chance to participate, volunteer or spectate and be a part of a larger biking community. Plus, these events are usually a ton of fun.

10 Positive Mental Well-Being: Riding in nature and overcoming new challenges on the trails have positive effects on your mental health. They help reduce stress and promote a sense of accomplishment and happiness. As a bonus, that cold beer always tastes better after a day on the trails.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR FIRST TIMERS

HYDRATE Even though you will be sweating less by not climbing hills, the altitude will dehydrate you very quickly, so drink up.

APPLY SUNSCREEN The thinner atmosphere at higher elevations provides less protection from the sun’s harmful rays, making sunscreen a must. Also, consider a long sleeve shirt for extra sun protection. Your skin will thank you for it.

SAFETY FIRST Always use protective gear: a full face helmet, knee pads, gloves, and glasses or goggles.

TAKE BREAKS Mountain bike parks are often located in picturesque natural settings, providing breathtaking views and a chance to reconnect with nature, which is one of the best reasons to ride. So remember to take breaks, and soak it all in.

STUDY THE ROUTES Become familiar with the trail map before you start riding. If you are a beginner, stick to the beginner trails! Most bike parks have a variety of trails, but they cater to experienced and advanced riders. So, be mindful of the trails you pick and advance your skills slowly for the best and safest experience. Taking a lesson is a great way to familiarize yourself with the park.

SURF SAFARI

Exploring Southern California’s Legendary Coastline

By Krista Houghton

Southern California’s iconic coastline is a haven for surfers, boasting some of the world’s best waves and a vibrant surf culture. While summer tends to steal the spotlight, fall and winter bring their own allure, providing consistent swells and warmer water temperatures. With multiple breaks suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers, Southern California offers an exceptional surfing experience. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip or seeking the next thrilling wave, these five spots are a must-add to any surfer’s itinerary, promising an unforgettable road trip along the coast.

TRESTLES,

located in San Clemente, is a renowned surf spot and a Southern California gem. Its consistent waves and a variety of breaks make it suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. It has four primary breaks: Cottons, Uppers, Lowers, and Church. Each break caters to a variety of surfing levels and styles. It is worth noting that Trestles is a designated State Park, requiring a short walk to access the beach, which can also help keep the lineup down.

MALIBU BEACH,

in Los Angeles County, is known by most surfers. It is famous for its picture-perfect beauty and world-class waves, remaining a staple on any surfer’s bucket list. During the fall and winter months, Malibu experiences solid swells, creating long, gentle waves that are ideal for beginners. First Point, Second Point, and Third Point are the main breaks that grace this iconic spot, offering a variety of waves suitable for all skill levels.

BLACK’S BEACH,

situated near La Jolla, is a captivating surf spot that provides excellent waves for advanced surfers in fall and winter. It is a powerful and fast-breaking wave, so Black’s requires experience and skill to navigate and surf. Its location beneath the stunning cliffs of Torrey Pines adds to its allure, creating awe-inspiring scenery and surfing experiences.

HUNTINGTON BEACH,

otherwise known as “Surf City USA,” boasts an active and vibrant surf culture. During the fall and winter months, Huntington Beach attracts consistent swells, making it a playground for surfers. The notorious Huntington Beach Pier can have a powerful, fast wave that is for advanced surfers only. The surrounding areas, such as Bolsa Chica State Beach, are great for beginners with smaller, more manageable waves.

RINCON,

although technically located just beyond Southern California’s traditional boundaries, cannot be overlooked when discussing the best surf spots in the region. Known as the “Queen of the Coast,” Rincon offers worldclass waves that attract experienced surfers from far and wide. It is definitely one of my favorite waves. This legendary point break comes alive in the fall and winter months, providing large, long-peeling waves that are both challenging and exhilarating to surf. Southern California’s fall and winter season can provide the opportunity for surfers to experience the region’s best breaks with consistent swells, warmer water, and potentially fewer crowds. It should always be noted to respect the locals and leave no trace. These beaches and waves are legendary; from the iconic Malibu Beach to the stunning beauty of Black’s Beach, there is a surf spot for every skill level and desire. Always paddle out with patience, gratitude, and respect, and you’ll set yourself up for a good session. So, wax up your board, hit the waves, and experience the magic of surfing Southern California this fall and winter season!

This page, top to bottom: Riding a wave next to the iconic Huntington Beach Pier (Sean Evans); A quiver of boards and beach chairs set for a day at Trestles (Brandon Hoogenboom).

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Environmental Change Makers

Joint Ventures

Preserving bird habitats amidst a changing landscape

By Leonie Sherman

This autumn, over a billion birds will pass through California, stopping to rest and refuel as they migrate south. Who knows what visual cues, tectonic tremors or internal compass guides their epic expeditions? They are only a fraction of the birds who completed the journey a century ago. In that time, the land they fly over has become a patchwork of parks and pastures, farms and factories, suburbs and superhighways.

Migratory birds don’t know if the wetlands and meadows they rely on are public or private, state, federal, or tribal. But the ownership and management of this complex quilt of property affects their ability to feed and breed. Fortunately, a network of Joint Ventures brings together different organizations to support the survival of these migratory birds.

The Migratory Bird Joint Ventures were created as a way to implement the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, a continental scheme to address waterfowl and wetland conservation. The US and Canada signed on in 1987 and Mexico joined in 1994. Five years later, Joint Ventures expanded their focus to include all birds.

Of 25 Joint Ventures (JVs) that operate across the country, six include California, a testament to the diversity and importance of habitats in the Golden State.

“Joint Ventures are small organizations working across large geographies,” explains Monica Iglecia, the US

Coordinator for Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture. Their service area extends from the redwoods of Northwest California to the barren tundra of coastal Alaska to the tropics of the Pacific Islands. Whether they work on restoration, fundraising, grant writing or research, everyone involved with JVs is challenged to think like a bird.

“Our goal is to understand what is happening at a flyway scale and take action that benefits these highways in the sky,” explains Iglecia. “We basically try to make sure the gas stations are full so that the birds can refuel and also, importantly, that the rest areas are open so they can stop as they make their way along those highways.”

Keeping the gas stations full and the rest areas open relies on coordination between farmers, politicians and conservationists. All JVs involve public private partnerships whose scope can focus beyond that of any individual or group. “JVs are the glue that holds bird conservation together, the connective tissue between organizations,” explains Hannah Nikonow, Communications Coordinator for the Intermountain

This page, top to bottom: In migration, Western Sandpipers join other shorebirds in spectacular concentrations along important staging grounds along the Pacific Coast (Russ Lowgren); Conservation partners are restoring oak and prairie ecosystems throughout the Pacific Northwest. The Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) and about two dozen other bird species are closely associated with oak and prairie habitats (Mick Thompson).

West Joint Venture (IWJV), whose zone covers 11 states. “JVs are like stealth conservationists; people might not even know we’ve been engaged, but we connect many different points of bird conservation.”

“I think of our role as being a matchmaker,” explains Jennie Duberstein, Coordinator for the Sonoran Joint Venture (SJV), which operates in Southern California and Northern Mexico. “We bring people together so we can do conservation planning at a landscape level. It’s

This page, left to right: Pelicans and cormorants at Montaña de Oro State Park in San Luis Obispo. The Central Coast contains some of the most intact coastal habitats in California, occupying an important refugia for biodiversity in the state (Connor Jandreau); Working agricultural lands managed for livestock also provide crucial habitat for birds, pollinators, and many other species (Hannah Nikonow).

not quite the ability to grant wishes, but my job is to help people do their job, so migratory birds have what they need to survive.”

What birds need to survive varies depending on the ecosystems they pass through. California’s grand Central Valley, for example, used to be a vast wetland, but agriculture has restrained all the rivers to create productive farmland. “Only 5% of the natural wetlands remain,” explains Jim Cogswell, Coordinator for the Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV). “But it’s still one of the most productive overwintering areas for waterfowl on the planet, with an estimated five million ducks, geese and swans using the valley every winter.”

So in addition to managing the drought to deluge cycle that may become the state’s new normal, Cogswell works closely with farmers to ensure their fallow fields can support migratory birds. Rice growers used to burn off the stubble in their fields after harvest and leave the land dry for the winter. “If they flood fields after harvest and allow the debris to compost naturally, it preserves all those nutrients in place and provides surrogate wetlands for migrating wildlife,” explains Cogswell. And though an alliance between farmers and conservationists may seem unlikely, Cogswell has found enthusiastic support for his work in the Central Valley. “A lot of agricultural folks deal with birds all the

Migratory birds don’t know if the wetlands and meadows they rely on are public or private, state, federal, or tribal. But the ownership and management of this complex quilt of property affects their ability to feed and breed.

time and are happy to help,” he says. “Farmers in the Central Valley could provide over 300,000 acres of wetlands, which is more than two thirds of the total wetlands available for birds state wide.”

While the CVJV works primarily with private landowners, the IWJV works mostly on public land, which is often leased for livestock grazing. Though they work with different landowners, they find similar results. “It’s not that hard to convince ranchers to work with JVs,” explains Nikonow. “What’s good for wildlife and landscape health is also good for livestock. If you have healthy native plant communities and thriving wildlife populations, that’s also good for cattle.”

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Nikonow has been impressed with the dedication of the cattle farmers she works with in rural states like Montana, Idaho and Wyoming. “A lot of ranchers are invested in keeping the public lands they use healthy so they can continue to graze them,” she says. “The ranchers we work with, they love these lands as much as the next trail runner.”

Whereas the IWJV covers almost a million square miles, the San Francisco Bay Area Joint Venture (SFBJV) covers only 10,000 square miles. Sidewalks and skyscrapers cover tidal mudflats where the sky used to darken with birds while grizzlies roamed the coast eating beached whales.

The affluence of the Bay Area offers potent solutions for migratory birds. “Anyone living in the Bay Area has a vested interest in preserving this place,” says Nikki Roach, SFBJV Policy and Communications Coordinator. “Facebook just built a new facility 15 feet below sea level right across from a South Bay restoration site. It would be great if they could help us out!” Roach oversees partnership between more than 100 different organizations to balance the needs of vulnerable human and wildlife communities in the Bay Area.

The SFBJV covers a tiny area but serves over eight million people. A dense urban population means that dealing with bureaucracy poses a significant challenge to their work. “Tons of permitting needs to happen from multiple agencies, and that slows down projects a lot,” Roach explains.

The SJV, California’s southernmost, faces different bureaucratic challenges posed by the border between the US and Mexico. “Crossing an international border often feels more straightforward

This page, top to bottom: Pacific Birds partners are conserving places that Dunlin (Calidris alpina) need to breed, rest, refuel and overwinter (Kim Stark); Postharvest agricultural fields being flooded to decompose agricultural waste and provide surrogate wetlands for migratory birds in the Sutter Bypass (Daniel Nylen, American Rivers).

for birds than it is for people,” explains Duberstein. “I could get down to Mexico in 45 minutes for a lunch meeting with a colleague, but it can take me two months just to get permission to travel internationally!”

California’s newest Joint Venture, serving the Central Coast, is sandwiched between the SFBJV and the SJV. While they build partnerships, the California Central Coast Joint Venture (C3JV) is seeking formal recognition from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Much of their work involves restoration of endangered monarch butterfly habitat, which will help insectivorous bird populations recover. “Like all JVs, we put humans at the center of our conservation efforts,” says C3JV Coordinator Connor Jandreau.

“For humans to thrive, we need nature, and nature needs us,” explains Roach. “We are a part of nature, we are not apart from it.”

To fully appreciate the magnificence of migratory birds and the significance of JVs, Iglecia recommends taking a moment to slow down. “When you move quickly through the landscape, like on a mountain bike, there’s a lot you miss,” she says. “So take a moment to sit down on the side of a trail, or even even lay down and look up. There are a lot of tiny creatures that are relying on those same spaces where we play to survive.”

“For humans to thrive, we need nature, and nature needs us. We are a part of nature, we are not apart from it.”

— Nikki Roach, San Francisco Bay Area Joint Venture

KulaCloth

Anastasia Allison and the art of the pee cloth

By Leonie Sherman

Almost three quarters of the people on the planet don’t even use toilet paper, so why do Americans leave it under every rock and bush in our most treasured public lands? Former park ranger and backpacking teacher Anastasia Allison noticed this travesty and fantasized about creating a user-friendly pee cloth and spreading the word to reduce the unsightly mess. But it took a near fatal car accident before she conquered her fears and started a company called Kula Cloth.

Five years later, Kula Cloth produces over 100,000 antimicrobial pee cloths every year. Some of the first prototypes were fieldtested in Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Death Valley and California’s Lost Coast. Now Kula Cloth has grown to include hybrid underwear hiking shorts, a potty kit with other wilderness hygiene tools, but most importantly, a community of dancing, wilderness-loving, pee-clothtoting adherents.

But Allison wasn’t always a companystarting, backpacking-instructing force of nature. She signed up for her first backpacking trip in 2006, a climb of Mt. Baker in Washington, with some of her park ranger co-workers. When

Venturing further and further into the wilderness, Allison noticed more and more toilet paper. “I was curious and checked it out, it was not obviously dirty with anything that looked like poop, someone had peed, wiped and just left it there,” she said.

she called the trip organizer and asked what to bring, he told her the same as backpacking, plus a climbing harness, ice axe and crampons.

“I didn’t have the heart to tell him I didn’t know what to bring for backpacking,” she explained. “I didn’t even realize I had to bring toilet paper! I ended up secretly stealing it from my tent mate. I was too embarrassed to ask this older guy about hygiene.“ She survived the backpacking trip with her stolen TP, summited Mt. Baker and fell in love with backpacking.

Venturing further and further into the wilderness, Allison noticed more and more toilet paper. “I was curious and checked it out, it was not obviously dirty with anything that looked like poop. Someone had peed, wiped and just left it there,” she said.

A few years later, she started teaching backpacking classes for Washington Outdoor Women — an organization dedicated to helping women achieve confidence and competence in outdoor skills – and began to get interested in how people can lighten their loads and improve their hygiene in the wild. “I had to talk about poop and pee, and how to have your period in the wilderness,” she said. “I did a quick Google search and found an article about using a pee cloth. The author recommended an old t-shirt or a bandana. I thought, ‘Well, that’s

disgusting, but I’ll try it. If I like it, I can teach it to my students.’”

She brought a blue microfiber towel along on her next expedition and was shocked to find that she loved it. “I didn’t have to carry as much TP, it was more comfortable than drip drying, it totally changed my experience!” she gushed. So she started teaching all her students to use a pee cloth. “But I could tell people were squeamish, I had this ugly blue thing hanging from my backpack.”

One day a friend took a silly photo of her pee cloth hanging from a trekking pole. Allison started taking photos of her pee cloth everywhere she backpacked and sending them to her friend as a joke.

“While I was on the Wind River High Route with my husband, I was enjoying this spectacularly beautiful sunset above 12,000 feet and was setting up my blue scrap of fabric on a trekking pole to take this dramatic photo, when a little bolt of lightning came out of the ether,” she explained. “I thought: why isn’t this a real piece of gear? I bet if I designed it more intentionally more people would be willing to try it.”

But after a little bit of research, she talked herself out of it. “I just thought, there is no way I can start a company, I don’t know how to sew, I can’t afford this, nobody’s going to buy it anyway, I have to be more realistic,” she said.

But four months later, she was driving home from a snowshoeing trip when she lost control of her car on some black ice. “Our truck spun out of control into the path of an oncoming semi. It was surreal, everything happened in slow motion,” she explained. “I realized there were all these areas of my life where I wanted to

This page, top to bottom: Kula Cloth comes in a variety of colorful naturethemed designs – match your Kula Cloth to your vibe; A proud proclamation; Kula Cloth founder Anastasia Allison posing with boxes full of Kula Cloths ready to ship. Opposite page, top to bottom: Ultramarathoner Mirna “the Mirnavator” Valerio is an avid Kula Cloth fan; Unicorns squat to pee, too!

pursue different things but I was afraid of failing or whatever. But I was making up all this fear in my head. And all of the sudden I wasn’t afraid anymore.“

She started an online hiking and backpacking group and the idea of the pee cloth resurfaced.

“I realized I didn’t need to know how to do everything, other people would help me out,” she said. “I just needed to be resourceful. I borrowed a serger, experimented with fabric, figured out where I should put the snaps and figured it out.”

On July 20, 2018 Allison launched a website and announced on her Facebook page that she was going to start making pee cloths. Eight hundred supporters helped her fund the first production run. “That was the start of Kula Cloth, just me cutting fabric on my kitchen table,” Allison said with a laugh.

She struggled to come up with a name. “A lot of products have silly names, but I didn’t want people to think this thing was some sort of a joke,” she explained.

“I’d heard Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, say that hard K sounds were more memorable. For some reason I googled the word Kula Cloth, and one of the meanings is community. I wanted this brand to be about more than just a product, I wanted it to be about community.”

For

“You know how people in Jeeps or on motorcycles wave to each other?” she continued. She had the idea of people with Kula Cloths seeing each other on the trail and sharing a special connection.

“Anytime I see someone with a Kula Cloth I turn into a blubbering fan girl!” she admitted. “I apologize to anyone I’ve ever made uncomfortable on a trail. I just get so excited whenever I see someone with a Kula Cloth!”

With REI ordering almost 40,000 a year, there are a lot of Kula Cloths out there. From a simple initial design, Allison has expanded the brand to include dozens of colorful nature themed pieces of art on the waterproof side of each Kula Cloth.

(The antimicrobial side is plain black.) She holds a design contest each year and winners get a cash prize plus their design featured on a Kula Cloth.

“At first I was very attached to results and success and took everything personally. But I think that will break you down a little bit,” Allison explained.

“Turns out what’s really important is the journey itself, the people you encounter along the way and the legacy of kindness and love that you leave in your wake.“

“The less I chase, the bigger Kula Cloth has become,” Allison continues. “Connecting people, sharing unexpected love and laughter and joy has become our bigger mission.”

“I’d heard Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, say that hard K sounds were more memorable.

some reason I googled the word Kula, and one of the meanings is community. I wanted this brand to be about more than just a product, I wanted it to be about community.”

— Anastasia Allison

FORGING THROUGH OREGON’S FOREVER FORESTS

A Pacific Crest Trail Journey: Part 3

By Matt Johanson

Crater Lake fills the horizon like a giant blue sapphire. As soon as I spotted the mountain-ringed gem from Mazama Village, I gasped and widened my eyes. The deepest lake in America and the prettiest I’ve seen makes an unforgettable impression. Breakfast gave the scenic treasure a run for its money, though.

Among perpetually-famished hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), every mini-mart makes hearts race and restaurants provide cause for celebration. Then there are a few nextlevel eating experiences that we anticipate for weeks. Crater Lake Lodge is one of those. PCT hikers fill its rustic dining room for an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet. Tourists enjoy their hearty meal like normal people. PCT hikers demolish a double portion on their first round, and then revisit the buffet for multiple sequels, before stuffing muffins into their pockets for later. Down 15 pounds since my hike started, I gorged myself for an hour on the best $25 I ever spent. Hikers say that the trail provides. In Oregon, I would find out for myself.

Thick “forever forests” create a green tunnel effect here, concealing mountains far and near. I learned that fire threatens those countless trees just as in my native California.

A “nobo,” or northbound hiker, first enters Oregon near Interstate 5 near Ashland. A shower and bed at Ashland Springs Hotel did me a world of good. So did seeing my brother Dan, who drove up to join me for a few days. To celebrate my birthday, he brought a beautiful card from Nathan and Kaitlyn, my nephew and niece, cookies from his wife Hazel and sumptuous steaks from our friend Felipe. I don’t know which I enjoyed more.

Then we learned a fire broke out in Klamath National Forest through which I had just hiked. The fast-moving McKinney blaze killed four people, scorched 60,000 acres, closed the PCT and forced hikers to evacuate. Luck brought me to town in the nick of time but wildfire season was just beginning.

Dan likes summits as I do, so when we passed volcanic Pilot Rock, we scrambled to its rocky top. Rogue RiverSiskiyou National Forest gave us a perfect day capped off by Felipe’s juicy steaks. My brother’s visit ended much too soon.

Hiking alone again, I returned to eating freeze-dried backpacking meals, which have come a long way since I started the PCT 25 years ago. Pinnacle’s Thai peanut curry, jalapeno cheddar biscuits, and Tuscan chicken fueled me on 20-mile days through Sky Lakes Wilderness. A nightlong thunderstorm struck as I camped beside Freye Lake, testing my new one-man tent. Lightning awoke me often but my Gossamer One shelter held up well; not bad for 17 ounces of pack weight.

Skies cleared by morning so I detoured to climb 9,493foot Mount McLoughlin. From its summit, I viewed distant mountains and hundreds of forested miles. The view was worth its price; that half day of climbing ensured I would reach Mazama Village with no food and even hungrier than usual.

After stuffing myself at Crater Lake Lodge, I faced a quandary to the north. Fire closed multiple trail sections over the next 200 miles. One could try to trek the scattered open portions but that would require long hitchhikes on remote forest roads, and still leave the closed areas uncompleted. The alternative was to skip ahead to the north and return south after fires subside to hike all the missing parts at once. That’s what I chose.

Dozens of nobos held out their thumbs by Highway 97, smiling, waving and even dancing to charm the motorists. Every PCT hiker must learn to hitchhike to get to and from towns and trailheads. I managed to

This page, top to bottom: Wet weather produces a picturesque rainbow over Crater Lake (Karl Luce); Oregon’s trees grow densely, but now and then you get expansive views over the forest (Matt Johanson); A Yeti meter reveals high danger but Bigfoot hides well (Matt Johanson).

complete the journey, without dancing, over two days thanks to five friendly drivers.

On an earlier trip, I relished climbing 11,239-foot Mount Hood. This time, I relished an all-you-can-eat lunch at nearby Timberline Lodge. The host seated me with Monica, an East Coast mom traveling with her son, a competitive skier training on the mountain. We both enjoyed the company and a glimpse into each other’s lives. That night I camped with four hikers from

four different countries. Meeting new and interesting people highlights the PCT experience. Eagle Creek boasts a series of spectacular waterfalls. Most striking of these is stunning Tunnel Falls: the trail leads hikers behind it through a tunnel of solid rock. Nearly all PCT hikers rave about this side trip off the main PCT. In Cascade Locks, I met Afton, an old friend who showed me the scenic Columbia River Gorge and took me to dinner.

Hikers cross the state border on Bridge of the Gods over the Columbia River. But when the trail’s fire closures reopened, many opted to “yoyo,” or switch directions. I also turned “sobo” (southbound) to experience the Oregon portions which I had missed.

More good fortune found me in Warm Springs Reservation, Mount Jefferson Wilderness, Willamette National Forest and elsewhere. Connie, another old friend, sent me homemade cookies. When a food box

Every PCT hiker must learn to hitchhike to get to and from towns and trailheads. I managed to complete the journey over two days thanks to five friendly drivers.

This page, left to right: Mount Hood attracts climbers to its summit, skiers to its slopes and hikers to its lodge restaurant (Matt Johanson); PCT hikers frequently hitchhike to get to and from towns and stores (Matt Johanson).

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This page, top to bottom: Hikers trek toward and then behind the wellnamed Tunnel Falls (Matt Johanson); The Columbia River marks Oregon’s northern border (Matt Johanson); Adventure Sports Journal contributors united at Crater Lake as Michele Lamelin gave Detour a ride to town.

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Crater Lake fills the horizon like a giant blue sapphire. As soon as I spotted the mountain-ringed gem from Mazama Village, I gasped and widened my eyes. The deepest lake in America and the prettiest I’ve seen makes an unforgettable impression. Breakfast gave the scenic treasure a run for its money, though.

Among perpetually-famished hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), every mini-mart makes hearts race and restaurants provide cause for celebration. Then there are a few next-level eating experiences that

we anticipate for weeks.

Crater Lake Lodge is one of those. PCT hikers fill its rustic dining room for an allyou-can-eat breakfast buffet. Tourists enjoy their hearty meal like normal people. PCT hikers demolish a double portion on their first round, and then revisit the buffet for multiple sequels, before stuffing muffins into their pockets for later. Down 15 pounds since my hike started, I gorged myself for an hour on the best $25 I ever spent.

Hikers say that the trail provides. In Oregon, I would find out for myself.

Thick “forever forests” create a green tunnel effect here, concealing mountains far and near. I learned that fire threatens those countless trees just as in my native California.

A “nobo,” or northbound hiker, first enters Oregon near Interstate 5 near Ashland. A shower and bed at Ashland Springs Hotel did me a world of good. So did seeing my brother Dan, who drove Matt

“Detour” Johanson describes his journey on the 2,650-mile PCT in this series. Next time: Striding through SoCal Sun, Storms and Snow

Climbing

THE WALLS TO GET — AND STAY — FIT

Climb your way to health and fitness, both physical and mental

By Dierdre Wolownick

Rock climbing is an exhilarating way to stay fit, physically and mentally, and it’s not reserved for the young. Many climbers have gray hair and pensions, and some of us started late in life (I started at 59). We can climb outdoors because we aren’t bound by work schedules. Often we hike an hour or more to get to a climb surrounded by breathtaking scenery that’s only accessible by hiking. A climbing day gets you out there and moving!

Climbing requires some strength, but not as much as you might expect. I have skinny arms with no visible trace of muscle, yet two months before my 60th birthday, with only a year of climbing experience, I climbed Half Dome — the iconic almost-9,000 foot rock in Yosemite — with my son, Alex Honnold! Six years later, I became the oldest woman to scale El Capitan, the Yosemite monolith that my son climbs (without rope) in the Oscar-winning documentary Free Solo. But I still can’t do pull-ups.

And while it tones the body, climbing is surprisingly cerebral; much of it takes place in the head, as you figure out body position, angle of pull, the right size of gear ... or how to push back on fear. Even if you never get outdoors, indoor rock climbing can also offer substantial health benefits. Keep reading for a glimpse into the benefits of this exciting activity, and some advice about how to get started.

GETTING “HIGH” AND GETTING FIT

Working your way up a rock wall requires some coordination and stamina, and lots of thought. It does not require body-builder muscles (but you will get stronger doing it). The first time I hiked up into the mountains to climb with my new climbing friends, I felt it the next day in my thighs and calves — but no more than after any day of hiking.

Most climbing gyms also have the usual gym equipment and machines, so you can keep in shape to prepare for climbing. Or you can simply get and stay in condition by climbing, which is a wholebody workout. It builds muscle, increases stamina, makes you more confident, builds friendships (although you can climb alone — a style called bouldering — it’s not recommended for older bodies), and if you do it outdoors, gets you out into some of the most beautiful terrain on the planet.

IT’S ALL IN THE HEAD

Confronting your fears can be the biggest hurdle in climbing, for any age. I’d never felt comfortable looking over the edge in high places, so I was delighted to discover that it hasn’t been a factor while climbing. The rock is in front of your face, so even if you find yourself high up on a ledge, following a climb, you can focus on that and never look down. (You’ll want to, though — the views are spectacular!)

When people say “I’m afraid of heights,” what they really mean is that they’re afraid of falling off those heights. That fear goes away when you realize you’re held safely by a rope. Even if you “fall” off the climb, you’ll just dangle there, held in place by your belayer (the person at the other end of your rope) until you decide to continue, or to lower safely back down.

Besides knowing where to place your hands and feet while climbing, you’ll

also need to judge things like angle of pull (body position), hanging or falling weight, and torque. Should you step up to the right, with the right foot, to reach the next hand-hold, or would twisting to the left get you closer? A climb is a continual sequence of decisions and judgments. Your mind is far too busy to allow fear to take hold.

CLIMBING FOR SERENITY

Climbing can be the ultimate relaxation technique. Serenity and relaxation happen when you find yourself “in the zone,” or in “flow,” that state where nothing else exists and all cares and worries are forgotten. Climbing requires an intensity of focus that accomplishes that beautifully. A day of climbing, outdoors or in, can wash away the cares of the week.

LIKE A FINE WINE

Climbing older and wiser can keep you safer. Many climbers injure tendons, joints, fingers. Older ones, though, are often more in touch with their body’s particular frailties, and know how to protect it.

Where a young climber might dyno — leap — to a handhold, a more mature decision might be to down-climb a bit and try it from a different angle. The patience that comes with age can prevent rash decisions that could end in injury. We all eventually get to the top; some of us just get there more slowly. At my age, I’m fine with that.

This page, top to bottom: Dierdre Wolownick on the East Ledges, the fastest way to descend El Capitan in Yosemite (Jannette Wing Pazer). Opposite page, clockwise from top: Wolownick and her son, Alex Honnold, the only person to have scaled El Capitan, Yosemite’s 3,000foot granite wall, without a rope. The National Geographic documentary about that climb, Free Solo, won an Academy Award (Amy Mountjoy); The author training at her local climbing gym, Sacramento Pipeworks (Michelle Altevogt); Wolownick enjoying a beautiful day on Mount Conness in the Sierra Nevada range (Andrew Altevogt).

KNOW YOUR LIMITS, BUT DON’T BE AFRAID TO PUSH THEM

Be realistic about your physical condition. Start small. Do kids’ climbs. Get used to it slowly; it may take time to build up new muscle and to get accustomed to being up high. Eventually you wll be able to do things you didn’t think were possible.

I can’t count the number of times I’ve watched someone do a particular climb, then exclaimed, “I could never do that!” — or the number of times I turned out to be wrong. Learning to climb has taught me to push my limits, within my limits. When my son suggested we climb Half Dome together, I thought he was joking. But after a year of climbing in the gym and on moderate outdoor climbs, I was ready. It turned out to be the most

exhilarating day of my life! (Up until then; I’ve surpassed that many times in the last few years.)

GETTING STARTED, SAFELY

Safety is paramount in climbing. Everyone, young or old, wants to come home from the crag healthy and ready to celebrate the day and climb again. Before you start, read up on safety practices and gear. There are many blogs, forums, videos and books available that can teach you about climbing basics and etiquette. But none of that takes the place of a real, live human being there to “show you the ropes.” Get familiar with the gear by browsing a sports equipment store and asking questions. Your local climbing gym probably has clinics and beginners’ classes to get you started. Some people choose to seek out the help of a personal climbing trainer.

MAKING FRIENDS

Unless you’re one of the very few elite climbers out there, you can’t climb alone. It takes one person at each end of the rope. So how can you go climbing if you don’t know any climbers? That was my first concern. I was 59 and didn’t know a soul at the climbing gym. Luckily, climbers tend to be friendly, encouraging, and inclusive.

The first day, I rented my harness and shoes and wandered around smiling at potential belay partners. “Would you like a belay?” I’d offer whenever I encountered an odd-numbered group. Within a few hours, I had several new friends who asked me to climb with them again. In the past ten years, I’ve made more friends than in the previous thirty.

HITTING THE ROAD

So, you’ve discovered you love it, and you’ve done all the routes at the outdoor climbing areas nearby. Now what? “Dirtbagging” is one option — living out of your van while you visit other areas. After a day of climbing, though, I prefer motels, with a shower and a soft bed. Or a friend’s guest room.

Whichever level of luxury you prefer, you’ll find an endless array of climbing areas scattered around the country, and the globe. My son, a sponsored climber, lives mostly on the road. My road trips are far more limited than his — but just as much fun!

Most climbing gyms have a meeting board, where you can find other climbers to travel with. On-line forums abound. If you decide it’s time to enlarge your climbing horizons, you won’t lack for opportunities or company.

Have fun — stay safe — climb on!

A documentary about the author, Climbing Into Life, will premiere soon. Check out the trailer at adventuresportsjournal.com/climbing-life-trailer.

CELEBRATING TWENTY YEARS OF YCA

Plus five photos we’ll never forget

By Timmy O’Neill

The Yosemite Climbing Association (YCA) is celebrating 20 years of advocating for climbing access and park stewardship in Yosemite National Park. We are committed to preserving and sharing the historical, cultural and global impact of YNP climbing via the Yosemite Climbing Museum based in Mariposa, CA. The YCA also fosters community stewardship and connection through public space clean-ups via our nationwide Facelift events, molded on our annual five day flagship event taking place this year from September 20 - 24 in Yosemite.

As the current director of the YCA, I owe a massive debt to the forefather of this dynamic organization, the beloved keeper of the Yosemite climbing flame, Ken Yager. More than anyone else, Ken laid the foundation for what became the YCA, and helped shift the American climbing center of gravity to where it belongs: Yosemite Valley. After decades of work, Ken still shepherds the YCA with a guiding light to help us grow and achieve our potential.

As Ken says, “By combining history with volunteerism, the YCA is preserving our sport’s past and ensuring a future for climbing by maintaining access to climbing areas. Let’s continue to celebrate John Salathé, Mike Corbett, and all the climbers who have contributed to our rich history and work together to protect the future of our sport.”

As a young urban explorer growing up in a family of seven kids in Philadelphia, I taped pictures of mountains and adventurers on my walls. These were the photos that inspired me to spread my wings and grow into the climber I have become today. Within the original vision, Ken and the other pioneers of YCA have always included history-making artifacts and photography to tell the complete story.

To document the achievements of groundbreaking climbers like Royal Robbins, Lynn Hill, and Alex Honnold, Yosemite photographers had to conjure

a dangerous blend of athleticism and artistry to put themselves in position to get the shot. From Ansel Adams to Glen Denny to Dean Fidelman to Jimmy Chin, part of the YCA’s focus is to finally bring the climber photographers who were always behind the scenes into the limelight where they belong. There are so many iconic photos from Yosemite that it’s nearly impossible to pick our favorites, but we will continue to display as many of these images as possible in our YCA museum, website, and social media feed.

To celebrate 20 years of advocacy and preservation, the YCA has curated ten iconic climbing photos that blew our minds and inspired us to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Thanks for supporting the YCA Museum, Facelift and the greater Yosemite climbing community. Here are five of the climbing photos we’ll never forget and what they brought into focus for the rest of us climbers.

This page, top to bottom: Timmy O’Neill brings his trademark hilarious energy to the annual Yosemite Facelift event (Courtesy of YCA); Ken Yager taking a pause while creating a photo display at the Yosemite Climbing Museum in Mariposa (Chris Van Leuven).

“Peace” 5.13d, photo of Ron Kauk by Chris Falkenstein, 2009: This striking line of orange and black knobs on Tuolumne’s Medlicott Dome was first tried ground-up by John Bachar in the early 90s. But Kauk would eventually rappel the line to place the remaining protection bolts and offer his revolutionary route “Peace” to future climbing generations.

“The Daily Double” photo of John Bachar and Peter Croft by Phil Bard, 1986: The uber-talented free climbing pioneers Peter Croft and John Bachar after climbing El Capitan and Half Dome in a day. Phil Bard snapped this “finish line” summit image after a powerful thunderstorm threatened the pair on the Northwest Face route. They made the summit ... and history.

“The Stonemasters” photo by Mike White, circa 1975: This was the pose that started it all. Photographer Mike White’s leg was originally cut out of this photo, but we have brought him back in with a full telling of his hugely classic, costumed and staged shot of Billy Westbay, Jim Bridwell and John Long following their history making a sub-24 hour ascent of El Capitan.

“Circle of Pitons” Yvon Chouinard by Glen Denny, 1969: This Camp IV image of Yvon Chouinard and his “Circle of Pitons” set the standard for all future climbing gear shots. Glen was the vertical Ansel Adams (having briefly studied under him) and captured climbers of the late 50s and early 60s in Yosemite. We lost Glen in October of 2022 after a long life of exploring his beloved Sierra.

“Liz and Royal Robbins” by unknown, 1967: The summit bystander who captured this candid portrait of the exhausted and elated Royal and Liz Robbins probably had no idea that history had just been made. This picture was taken right after the pair’s multi-day, and first female ascent of a Grade VI via the Regular NW Face in 1967. The legendary married couple tied the knot in many ways, eventually starting a successful clothing brand.

RACE & EVENT CALENDAR

Go to the EVENTS page on our website for more information and direct links to events. DATES AND DETAILS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK WITH EVENT PRODUCERS.

BIKING

AUGUST

19 — Cool Breeze Century / Ventura / CoolBreezeCentury.com

19 — Pedalpalooza / Mammoth / sembabike.org/pedalpalooza

19 – 20 — Northstar Enduro / Truckee / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com

26 — Crush Challenge / Yountville / CrushChallenge.net

SEPTEMBER

2 — Tour de Fuzz / Santa Rosa / TourDeFuzz.org

2 — China Peak Enduro / Lakeshore / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com

9 — Mammoth Gran Fondo / Mammoth Lakes / MammothGranFondo.com

9 — Race the Rails / Ely, NV / ElyNevada.net/Race-The-Rails

9 — Ride the Rim / Crater Lake National Park / 25 miles and 3,500 feet of climbing / RideTheRimOregon.com

9 — Lassen Gravel Adventure / Susanville / BizzRunningCompany.com

9 — Waves to Wine / San Francisco –Rohnert Park / BikeMS.org

11 — Rock Cobbler & Pebble Cobbler / Bakersfield / RockCobbler.com

16 — Tour of the Unknown Coast / Ferndale / TUCcycle.org

16 — Mammoth TUFF / Mammoth Lakes / Tuff.ventures

16 — Eroica California / Cambria / Eroica.cc/en/nova-california

16 — Ride the Rim / Crater Lake National Park / 25 miles and 3,500 feet of climbing / RideTheRimOregon.com

22 - 24 — Silver State 508 / Reno, NV / the508.net

23 — Coyote Classic XC Series #1 / Boulder City, NV / BootlegCanyonRacing.com

24 - 30 — OATBRAN / Bike Across Nevada / America’s Loneliest Bike Tour / BikeTheWest.com

30 — Ashland Mountain Challenge / Ashland, OR / CaliforniaEnduroSeries.com

30 — Sacramento Century / Sacramento / SacramentoCentury.com

30 — CF Cycle for Life / Sacramento / FightCF.cff.org

OCTOBER

1 — Tour De Cure / Sonoma State University / Tour.Diabetes.org

7 — Usal Hopper / Whitethorn / GrassHopperAdventureSeries.com

7 — Heart of Gold Gravel / Nevada City / HeartOfGoldGravel.com

14 — Biketoberfest / Fairfax / MarinBike.org/biketoberfest

14 - 15 — Bike MS / Irvine / BikeMS.org

21 — Tour De Lincoln / Lincoln / TourDeLincoln.org

21 — Hammer Road Rally / Shaver Lake / HammerRoadRally.com

28 — Bovine Classic/ Atascadero / TheBovineClassic.com

NOVEMBER

10 - 12 — Singlespeed Cyclocross World Championships / Santa Cruz / sscxwc23sc.com

11 — Tour de Foothills / Upland / TourDeFoothills.com/

DECEMBER

2 & 3 — Dirty 30 & Dirty Cross / Lakeside / QuicknDirtyMTB.com

RUNNING

AUGUST

26 — Trail Run at Sly Park / Pollock Pines / tctruns.com

27 — Good Dog - Dirty Dog 5K/10K / Folsom SRA / TotalBodyFitness.com

RACE & EVENT

SEPTEMBER

2 — She Rocks the Trails / Auburn / SheRocksTheTrails.com

3 — The Giant Race San Francisco / San Francisco / Race-SFGiants.com/

4 — Mt. Baldy Run-to-the-Top / Los Angeles / Run2Top.com

10 — Buffalo Stampede / Sacramento / BuffaloStampedeRun.com

10 — Aloha Run / San Diego / TheAlohaRun.com/San-Diego

16 — Berkeley Trail Adventure / Berkeley / InsideTrail.com

17 — Mermaid Run San Francisco / Golden Gate Bridge / MermaidSeries.com

23 — Homeboy 5K / Los Angeles / HomeboyIndustries.org

23 — Gold Rush Growler 10 Mile & 5K Trail Runs / Granite Beach / TotalBodyFitness.com

24 — The Honey Badger / San Rafael / SasquatchRacing.com

24 — Aloha Run / Long Beach / TheAlohaRun.com/Long-Beach

30 - Oct 1 — United Airlines Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose / San Jose / RunRocknRoll.com/san-jose

30 — Double Peak Challenge / San Marcos / DoublePeakChallenge.com

OCTOBER

1 — Griffith Park Trail Run / Los Angeles / GriffithParkTrailRun.com

7 — Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K / San Diego / SanDiegoRunningco. com

7 - 8 — Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon / Susanville / BizzRunningCompany.com

8 — Humboldt Redwoods Marathon / Redcrest / RedwoodsMarathon.com

13 - 15 — Kodiak Ultra Marathons / Big Bear Lake / Kodiak.utmb.world

21 — Diablo Summit Stomp / Walnut Creek / BrazenRacing.com/

SWIMMING

SEPTEMBER

30 — San Francisco Bay Area Open Water Swim / San Francisco / SwimAcrossAmerica.org

TRIATHLON AUGUST

26 — Granite Bay Triathlon / Folsom Lake / TotalBodyFitness.com

26 – 27 — Lake Tahoe Triathlon / Lake Tahoe / BigBlueAdventure.com

SEPTEMBER

10 — Ironman 70.3 Santa Cruz / Santa Cruz / Ironman.com

17 — Pacific Coast Triathlon & Duathlon / Crystal Cove State Park / OCTriSeries.com

17 — Shaver Lake Tri / Camp Edison / SierraCascades.com

24 — Santa Cruz Triathlon / Santa Cruz / SantaCruzTriathlon.org

30 - Oct 1 — Malibu Triathlon / Malibu / MalibuTri.com

OCTOBER

20 - 22 — San Diego Triathlon Challenge / San Diego / ChallengedAthletes.org

VAN EXPO

Adventure Van Expo / Various Locations / Sept. 2-3, Ogden, UT / Sept. 16-17, North Lake Tahoe / Sept. 30-Oct.1, Bend, OR / Oct. 14-15, Big Bear / AdventureVanExpo.com

Gear We Love

Goodies for your active lifestyle

1RECPAK ULTRALIGHT MEAL REPLACEMENT SHAKE

“Just add water. Shake. Drink. Go.” Yep, it’s that easy - no mess, no fuss. This is the meal replacement shake many outdoor adventurers have been waiting for. Delicious and nutritious, RecPak shakes are designed to fuel an intensely active lifestyle. They are carefully crafted with high-quality ingredients and deliver an ideal blend of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins to support your body’s needs during long-duration physical activities. What a refreshing and satisfying way to refuel when out in the wilds! Available in various flavors, RecPak shakes cater to different taste preferences. The individual pouches are small, light and easy to pack, making them an ideal choice for backpacking, bikepacking, climbing, and paddling adventures.

Founded by a military veteran/first responder team, RecPak donates one pouch to Ukraine for every pouch sold on-line, and also supports conservation causes as a member of 1% For The Planet. Sold individually or in multi-packs. Subscriptions also available.

MSRP: $12.99+ • recpak.co

2 GRAYL TITANIUM ULTRAPRESS® - COVERT EDITION

Hang on, let us get this straight. It’s a water bottle. That you can purify water with. That you can heat said water in and can even cook with, on a camp stove or even alongside hot coals. Okay, Grayl, you got our attention. Toss in the fact that it’s lightweight and durable, it’s clear that the Grayl Titanium Ultrapress (Grayl Ti) is just the ticket for rugged wilderness adventures.

This innovative all-in-one vessel features a highly efficient filter that removes bacteria, protozoa, viruses, chemicals, and heavy metals from untreated water sources. Its drink cap is designed with a wide contoured spout that delivers a fast flow of water, while its handle rotates 90 degrees for an easy carry and smooth separation of the inner press from the outer cup. The outer cup itself is equipped with folding “butterfly handles” and a paracord D-Ring loop for filling in tricky situations.

The Grayl Ti holds 16.9 fluid ounces (500 milliliters), weighs 14.1 ounces (400 grams), and is 9.5 inches (240 mm) high. Made of CP4 Grade 1 titanium, it boasts an extraordinary strength to weight ratio, withstanding six-foot drops (full of water) onto concrete. Now that’s what we call badass!

MSRP: $199.95 • grayl.com

3 GRAND TRUNK COMPASS 360° STOOL

When it comes to the perfect blend of portability, comfort, and versatility, look no further than the remarkable Compass 360° Stool. Weighing a mere 1.0 lbs, this lightweight wonder packs a powerful punch in the realm of outdoor seating. Crafted for those who seek both convenience and relaxation, this portable stool boasts a quick and easy setup paired with a thoughtfully designed foam-padded seat.

Its stable, low-to-the-ground design offers an impressive weight capacity of 330 lbs, providing you with a steadfast and trustworthy seating option. Folded at 11 x 3 x 3 inches, it effortlessly integrates into your backpack; when unfolded to 15 x 12.5 x 12.5 inches, it offers a generously comfortable space for you to unwind.

A standout feature is its 360° rotating swivel action, granting you the freedom to embrace your surroundings from any perspective. Whether you’re gathered around the campfire, waiting for the big catch at your favorite fishing spot, or catching the excitement of a soccer game, this stool adapts to your needs.

Adding to its allure, the Compass 360° Stool arrives complete with a carry bag featuring an integrated shoulder/ hip sling, making transportation a breeze. Backed by a lifetime warranty, this stool isn’t just a purchase – it’s a

lasting investment in your outdoor comfort. Prepare to redefine your outdoor seating experience with the unparalleled convenience of the Compass 360° Stool.

MSRP: $59.95 • grandtrunk.com

3 DOWN DOG BAGS SLEEPING BAGS AND QUILTS FOR DOGS

Is your canine adventure companion a shameless tent hog? Do you wake up to find your sleeping space invaded by furry legs? It’s time to give your faithful friend their own sleep haven, and that’s where Down Dog Bags steps in (pun intended!).

What sets Down Dog Bags apart is their commitment to tailor-made comfort. These handmade creations are customized to fit your pup perfectly. For our ASJ canine reviewer, a shepherd/husky mix tackling the PCT, an ultralight quilt was the choice. While Down Dog Bags offers complete sleeping bags, we found that a quilt served as a cozy buffer between our furry friend and the tent floor. The ultralight fabric surprised us with its durability and compressibility. We’re confident the bag will pack down just as impressively. Their standard sleeping bags and quilts are filled with 700fp RDS certified down, with the option to upgrade to 850-1,000fp HyperDry. Enhancements like a closed cell foam sleeping pad with 3M snap attachments, a sleeping pad sleeve, extra fill, or 10D fabric are available. This woman-owned business in southern Oregon embraces sustainability, using upcycled materials to minimize waste. You can even opt for a bag or quilt crafted from scrap materials, saving resources while snagging a discount.

Given the handcrafted nature, anticipate a lead time of up to 8 weeks for in-stock colors. Secure your order now for cozy camping nights with your furry companion this shoulder season. Down Dog Bags ensures you and your pup rest easy in the great outdoors.

MSRP: $120.00+

• downdogbags.com

5 JETBOIL MINIMO COOKING SYSTEM

Looking for a versatile cooking solution that’s perfect for backpacking, river trips, and camping? Look no further than the MiniMo cooking system by Jetboil.

The MiniMo is purpose-built for backpackers, offering a winning combination of efficiency, versatility, and a convenient form factor. Powered by FluxRing technology, this cooking system impressively reaches a rolling boil in just over two minutes while using half the fuel consumption of traditional systems.

What stands out is Jetboil’s proprietary regulator technology, which allows for precise heat adjustments from a light simmer to a full boil – perfect for everything from sautéing greens to simmering sauces.

The MiniMo’s metal handles and FluxRing cooking cup are thoughtfully designed for personal cooking and eating. The system’s compact size and clever sideways burner storage design minimize pack space, making it a convenient choice for your outdoor adventures. Weighing only 14.6 ounces, it’s easy to carry along.

The MiniMo cooking system is not just about boiling water; it’s equipped for a variety of culinary tasks. It comes with a fuel canister stabilizer and pot support, and even the bottom cover doubles as a measuring cup and bowl. You can expand its capabilities further with compatible accessories such as the Grande Coffee Press, Hanging Kit, Utensils, Skillet, and FluxRing Cooking Pot.

The MiniMo is ideal for solo or duo outings, boasting a compact design, precise heat control, and ease of use. With its durability and efficient performance, the MiniMo is a reliable partner for your outdoor cooking needs. Whether you’re whipping up a quick trail meal or enjoying a leisurely campsite feast, the MiniMo has you covered.

MSRP: $164.95 • jetboil.com

We are the Mountain People.

Where some see rock, we see lines. Where some see peaks, we see possibility. Where some see rain lashed ridgelines or impenetrable fog, we see an opportunity to challenge our skills.

PHOTOGRAPHER: JEREMIAH WATT ATHLETE: NATHAN HADLEY LOCATION: WASHINGTON PASS