RON STORK / KAUA‘I / BACKCOUNTRY TIPS / EARN YOUR BEER / GEAR
MARCH/APRIL 2021 ISSUE #117
LOOKING BACK
20 Years of ASJ
REFLECTIONS
Notes to ASJ
TIMELINE
Our Partners
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2 ASJ—April/May 2013
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IN THIS ISSUE
March/April 2021, #117
departments 6
Editor’s Note Viva la zine!
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Inbox Letters to the editor
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12 20 9 10
features 8
Backcountry Tips Lessons learned over the years
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Kalalau Trail Trip report from Kaua‘i’s majestic Nāpali Coast
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Destination Kaua‘i
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Earn Your Beer Yosemite and South Gate Brewing Co.
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EPiC River advocate: Ron Stork
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Gear We Love Favorite gear
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Looking Back at 20 Years Two decades’ worth of summaries
Reflections from Contributors Letters from 26 some of ASJ’s Past, Present, past and present Future writers Timeline of core partners
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Ear to the Ground News & notes
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ON THE COVER A whimsical Yosemite illustration with some of ASJ’s contributors and people who have inspired us over the past twenty years. Art by Alexandria Smith @alsmithart
asj contributors how have you kept your adventure stoke up throughout the challenging past year? PUBLISHING + EDITORIAL PUBLISHER Cathy Claesson cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com
leoniesherman
Climbing old growth redwoods, surfing small waves, SUPing near otters and biking local backroads have helped me through shelter in place. I’m stoked to adventure further afield whenever it’s safe.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Matt Niswonger matt@adventuresportsjournal.com EDITOR Michele Lamelin michele@adventuresportsjournal.com
mattjohanson
Highlights included summiting Mount Diablo with my mom, hiking the PCT for three days with my goddaughter and running the virtual Boston Marathon in my hometown of Castro Valley.
COPY EDITOR Jennifer Stein jen@adventuresportsjournal.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Taylor Luckenbach taylor@asjmag.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Leonie Sherman, Matt Johanson, Krista Houghton, James Murren
kristahoughton
I’ve kept my adventure stoke up by taking long four hour mountain bike rides, exploring every trail available in the Santa Cruz mountains and along the coast. The beauty of this area never ceases to amaze me.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS James Murren, Don Briggs, Krista Houghton, Cathy Claesson LAYOUT Cathy Claesson
jamesmurren
I body surfed a lot, checking out new spots, to me, in the area. More remote trails on a mountain bike gets me away from the increased trail traffic and the Borrego desert has been my go-to spot during the winter.
COVER DESIGN Lauren Worth ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Cathy Claesson I 831.234.0351 cathy@adventuresportsjournal.com
mattniswonger
I started thinking about finding ways to connect mountain biking to social justice and climate activism.
EVENTS & DISTRIBUTION Matt Niswonger matt@adventuresportsjournal.com EVENTS MARKETING Michele Lamelin michele@adventuresportsjournal.com Jennifer Stein jen@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.
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I participated in the Riders Against Racism virtual event, challenging me to to climb 50k feet in 50 days by bike. This put me on new trails and out in nature almost every day, with a sense of purpose and community.
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jenniferstein
The mountains are my playground where I live just over the CA border in Ashland, OR. The Ashland & Shasta areas offer some of the best mountain biking around, and I can hit the PCT from several trailheads for backpacking & day hikes! I’m lucky in that there are so many great hiking trails in the Las Vegas area. The desert never fails to deliver inspiring adventures!
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Editor’s Note //
VIVA LA ZINE
Resist the Digital Empire Looking back on 20 years of running an independent print publication, we are humbled and inspired to keep Adventure Sports Journal alive for the foreseeable future. That’s why we need your help.
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fter twenty years in print, ASJ is the story of how publisher Cathy Claesson kept the flame alive and worked her butt off through thick and thin. As her husband and business partner I’m still in awe of how hard she has worked these past two decades. Since the beginning I have always had a second job besides ASJ, to bring some health benefits, and hopefully a small retirement fund to our household. In 2011 we hit a low point. Having weathered the Great Recession, I lost my second job, and we made a bad real estate investment that was hurting our finances. Luckily ASJ was expanding at the time, with national and regional companies jumping on board to support our vision of a California free outdoor magazine. Still, with the loss of my other job, we were raising three kids in financial uncertainty. Cathy kept us afloat by grinding hard at advertising sales, print production, distribution, and being a good mom. My steadfast wife inspired me to keep the ASJ dream alive and meanwhile I got a better job doing electrical work to keep the family health benefits going. Freshly inspired to help Cathy carry the ASJ torch, I realized that to be a good editor
for ASJ I needed to compartmentalize the business stress and focus more on quality storytelling across print and digital channels. We began making some key changes to our editorial focus. I also began to go deeper down the rabbit hole of why we started ASJ in the first place. Sometime before we formally launched ASJ as a free magazine in 2001, we were heavily influenced by climbing authors Doug Robinson, Lynn Hill, Royal Robbins, Yvon Chouinard and a few others. Their message was simple: “Find your best self seeking adventure in the Sierra. Take calculated risks and let nature be your teacher. That’s how to heal yourself, have fun, and save our planet at the same time.” We expanded this climbing philosophy to include skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, surfing, and other human powered outdoor pursuits. At the time, Doug Robinson was living in Aptos. We met in downtown Santa Cruz and he told me starting a magazine while raising a family was riskier than climbing a V8 highball boulder problem without ropes. “Don’t quit your day job,” he said in the nicest way possible (see note from Robinson on page 16). Fast-forward fifteen years and we were at a
crossroads. After getting help from talented partners like Christa Fraser, Pete Gauvin, Michele Lamelin, Jen Stein and others on the production side, we also had some of the best outdoor writers in the country on the editorial side. We were putting out a kick-ass product and we had a growing readership. We traveled throughout the state and connected with the ASJ tribe at bike races, outdoor festivals, and trade shows. People told us that reading ASJ actually changed their lives for the better. One guy in Tahoe told me he launched a successful SUP brand after reading an early issue of ASJ. That put wind in our sails, but there was a problem. Around 2016 we noticed that the more popular ASJ became, conversely the harder it was to sell ads. Google, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram had unleashed an ocean of digital content promising hypertargeted advertising opportunities for companies who were willing to commit to the smartphone paradigm. This put pressure on our ad sales. Some companies stayed loyal to ASJ, but others committed all of their marketing budgets to the digital empire. Later we all questioned the increasingly toxic atmosphere of smartphone driven social media platforms, but by then it was too
late. By 2019 our issues were getting thinner as some potential advertisers gave their marketing dollars to PR firms who dress fancy and perpetuate the myth that print media is obsolete. These same PR firms want “earned media” (free press) in the pages of ASJ. It’s a David vs. Goliath story that we are taking straight to our readers. If you are tired of being the subject of smartphone data mining and believe in the value of independent media, we need your help. Please support us by going to our website and becoming a member — it includes a subscription. If you have friends in the industry, or work in the outdoor industry yourself, please tell outdoor companies to advertise in our print magazine. Ask your favorite outdoor retailer or bike shop to support us. From the bottom of our hearts we ask you to resist the digital empire and support the print resistance. Viva la Zine!
— Matt Niswonger
matt@adventuresportsjournal.com
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ASJ—April/May 2013 6 ASJ — March/April 2021
Campfire memories from Sea Otter, 2017. ASJ editor, Matt Niswonger on the plasitc horn.
Fanmail, Feedback, Ideas & Opinions In response to the article California’s Map Makeover, Fall 2020 #115
In response to the Ed Note Stop the Siren, Winter 2020/2021 #116
CHANGING NAMES I have followed your magazine for as long as it has been published and have lived in Santa Cruz County for 48 years. I am in touch with the older crowd. Thankfully the article on changing names in Yosemite and elsewhere had a caveat — observing that every name can’t be changed. I would plead to your higher self to understand it’s just a bad name or names ... just like you can’t change the Ahwahnee to the Majestic. Get a grip, please, for us old guys!
STOP THE SIREN Thanks for all of the coverage of the Minden Siren. I never would have known about it otherwise, and it deserves a lot of attention. I have no problem with removing the siren altogether, but I’d also like to suggest an alternative: to mollify concerns about honoring first responders, have something in the same spot ring at noon and add a historical sign indicating the racist history of what used to be/happen there. I’m not sure if replacing the siren altogether or leaving it and changing the time would be more educational/healing. On the one hand, it’s a traumatic artifact that some people may not wish to be confronted by visually; on the other hand, it could be a stark reminder of the very real and lasting damage. San Francisco recently went through a similar debate over a mural ... simply deleting it (the mural) from the landscape and writing about it in remembrance seems like a wasted opportunity to preserve the memory of our sins and learn from them while honoring the present. I think commissioning something from a native Washoe artist to take its place or revamp it and honor victims of racism as well as first responders, or something like that, would be taking advantage of a teachable moment. — Jeffery Blumenthal, Albany
— Boyd Lee Benson, Santa Cruz
In response to the guest Editor’s Note by Justin Cummings, Fall 2020 #115 WHITE AND PRIVILEGED I want to thank you for publishing Mayor Justin Cummingham’s letter. As crazy as it still seems to me, I expect that you’ve gotten a range of negative responses, as well as those claiming that any discussion of racism is out of place in a publication like ASJ. Please include my response as a counterpoint to these. Like most of us “outdoor adventure” types, my experience has been overwhelmingly white and privileged. That applies to me as well. Though I’ve thought of myself as more aware than most, it’s only recently that the issue of unequal representation in the outdoors has even occurred to me. Please continue your efforts to educate us all, including the less-than-willing! If I have ideas, I’ll let you know. Above all, know that you’re doing the right thing. — Pete Nelson, Santa Cruz
We love hearing from our readers. Drop us a line at staff@ adventuresportsjournal.com
Ear to the Ground
News & notes from the outdoor industry
The Trails Master Plan for Connected Communities
Perhaps most well known for their trail building around the Lost Sierra and hosting world class events like the Downieville Classic, Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) is creating a Trails Master Plan (TMP) for Connected Communities — a world-class multiple-use trail system that will cover 300 miles of breathtaking views and link 15 disadvantaged mountain communities across Plumas, Sierra, Butte and Lassen counties. This new trans-Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range route allows for all dirt trail travelers including hikers, mountain bikers, moto riders, equestrians, trail runners, hunters, fishermen, wildlife, grandmothers and babies in backpacks. Small towns located along The Lost Sierra Route will feel the direct economic benefit, as the proposed trail will bring travelers directly into town. Fiscal support for these rural communities and small businesses is the backbone of the TMP, creating a deeper connection with the land and communities surrounding the Lost Sierra region. To learn more, visit asjmag.com/connected-communities
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Big Blue Adventure events still on
Big Blue Adventure has been hosting human powered adventures in the Tahoe Basin since 2002. ASJ caught up with race producer Todd Jackson at press time and he said this about the upcoming summer event schedule: “Big Blue Adventure is planning for the 2021 event season starting in June with the Olympic Valley Half Marathon and 8 Miler. A full schedule of triathlon, trail running, mountain biking, paddling, open water swimming and adventure racing is available for the Tahoe and Truckee area.” asjmag.com/big-blue-adventure-2021
California Enduro Series announces 2021 schedule
California Enduro Series has announced the 2021 race schedule with three popular events currently lined up: China Peak Enduro, June 26; Mt. Shasta Enduro, July 10-11; and the Ashland Mountain Challenge, date TBD. Naturally, CES and race organizers anticipate adhering to special COVID-19 protocol again this season to keep everyone safe and healthy. Additional events may be included in the line-up. asjmag.com/ces-2021.
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50 LESSONS IN 50 YEARS // PART 1
TIPS FOR THE BACKCOUNTRY WI S DOM LEA RNED THROUGH WI NTER A DVENTURES By Matt Johanson
“Once I could not fathom turning 50. But as I did recently, I’m grateful to still enjoy outdoor activities that I started in my youth. Following are lessons I’ve learned (often the hard way) over the years. This installment focuses on snow activities, especially in spring.” My first visit to Sonora Pass arrived on a beautiful May day. Long after the downhill resorts had closed, I borrowed skis and tramped around in the snow delightfully. But the next morning, my beet-red face made clear my mistake, and I’ve never forgotten to guard against sunburn again.
THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE BAG For the bikers and hikers on your shopping list!
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Try snowshoeing. You’ll have whole snow-covered mountain ranges to yourself. Then try cross country skiing for more speed and fun. Best conditions for both usually arrive in March and April.
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Dress in layers, avoiding cotton. Fabrics like wool or polypropylene insulate your body temperature even when wet.
USE CODE ASJ5 FOR $5 OFF ANY BAG!
A modular, insulated cooler bag that keeps food and drinks hot or cold for 4-6+ hours. Add in STASHERS ice packs and coozies to extend chill time. Keeps water from freezing in low temps. Also works great for other tools and gear. Attaches to bikes, ATVs, roll bars, and more! Add the carry strap and take it on a hike. Modular design attaches to each other and anywhere on the bike—handlebars, top tube, down tube, saddle, forks, etc. Comes in various sizes, patterns, and colors.
GETSTASHERS.COM —— March/April 2021 8 12ASJ ASJ—April/May ASJ March /2013 April 2021
Carry skins (sticky fabric strips) and wax for cross country skis. Skins helps climb steep hills. Wax increases your glide, speed and efficiency.
4 5 days.
Time your outings wisely. Early spring provides better snow and longer and warmer
Beware the sun. Its ultraviolet light burns skin quickly at high elevation, even in cloudy skies. Sunscreen and lip balm help. Covering your skin helps more.
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Avoid stormy weather. Deep powder can slow one’s pace to a crawl. You don’t have to be there when snow falls to appreciate it.
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Drive smart. If you think you need chains, you need chains. Put them on, even if it’s stormy outside. Carry emergency supplies,
like food, water, blankets and flashlights. Taking a day off to avoid weekend traffic increases safety and makes a better trip.
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Try snow camping. Read up about winter gear: choose a good tent, stove, and sleeping bag. Carry a snow shovel to flatten your camp site. Try this close to a road and your car on your first time.
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Camp comfortably. An inflatable mattress insulates your body temperature from the snowpack beneath you, providing warmer rest than a foam pad. Check for leaks before you go! Heat water, fill your bottle and take it into your sleeping bag with you. Make sure the bottle is closed securely!
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Start your outing early in the day. Stories abound about skiers and snowshoers caught after dark and forced to spend a night in the snow. Yosemite’s Ostrander Ski Hut has “benighted” scores of would-be visitors on its ten-mile trek from Badger Pass, including yours truly, twice! At least I was prepared to “bivvy” comfortably the second time. A related point: carry emergency overnight gear on long day trips. Don’t let these words of caution give you the wrong idea. Four transSierra treks and many shorter snow outings rate among my favorite outdoor memories. Millions live within a few hours of California’s snow country, but just a few enjoy public lands in winter and spring. If you join us, I think you will be glad you did.
EARN YOUR BEER Sentinel Dom e / Taf t Po in t L oop an d Sou th G at e Brew in g C om p a n y By James Murren
THE EARNING The Sentinel Dome / Taft Point Loop is a well-trafficked hike. Nevertheless, it is a spectacular 5+ miles of not-too-strenuous walking in Yosemite that provides countless vistas of some of the national park’s iconic sites. With no need to watch the clock, I set out from the parking area on a glorious late-morning blue sky day and made way to the top of Sentinel Dome, reveling, like always, in the majesty of the 360 degree viewscape. For a moment, when voices dissipated, silence prevailed, and I held on to the quietude. Back down, I went, turning left and working my way across to Taft Point. Along the way, the valley’s songs rose up from the floor, while El Cap stood mighty and tall. The
songs floated around inside my head but were abruptly turned off when I inwardly joked about the newer notion of “forest bathing.” What will the human mind come up with next? Amidst the trees, I felt the breeze, softly passing over pine needles and my smiling face. Taft Point was crawling with masked and unmasked humans. Here, there, everywhere, the creatures, myself included, stepped and poled our way around the rock and dirt surfaces. So many selfies were taken that surely social media sites crashed, or so I wished. How do we focus on the here and now? Does it exist, for some humans, if it is not documented and shared? I do not know the answer. It was a passing thought, thank goodness, then drifted away into the autumnal air.
On back up the trail, and on some more in the direction of the parking lot, I traipsed. The sky was still glorious. Warm sunshine shone. An achy knee ached more than before I started and my legs were a little worked. Somehow, despite the seeming annoyances of the day’s hiking experience, I felt refreshed. Oh, wait?! Is that what a forest bath is?! All Trails can help you map the hike; search Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Loop.
THE BEER South Gate Brewing Company in Oakhurst, CA is a great spot to grab a beer and grub if you are using the southern gate to or from Yosemite National Park. They’ve been racking up medals at various regional/state competitions for the past five years. Their
beers are on-point and the food is a bit on the side of being a welcomed oasis in the area. From what I gathered, locals frequent the place more so than travelers/tourists. I had their standard pale ale while I waited for my order to arrive. It was straw bale in color and clean on the palate, perfect for a post-hike refresher. The fish and shrimp tacos were delicious, as good as any tacos I’ve had elsewhere. I’m an IPA fool, so I had to taste the double hazy Hop Punch. Indeed, all the citrus you’d expect was there. Porters, too, are a favorite beer style, as long as they are not too sweet. A taster of the Deadwood had me wishing I had ordered a full pint. It was super smooth with subtle chocolate notes and more on the roasted side. Next time, I will immediately order the porter. southgatebrewco.com
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RON STORK P ro t ect in g C al if o r n ia’s W i l d a nd S c e n ic Ri vers fo r 5 0 Years By Leonie Sherman
When January’s atmospheric river barreled into California, it helped replenish our actual rivers. The next time you enjoy roaring whitewater or the silvery notes of a placid tributary, take a moment to appreciate the work and policies that protect the place. That watercourse could have been transformed into one of the state’s 1,500 reservoirs, a storage tank with rings of dead trees crawling up its sides. The fact that it still echoes with life is due to the work of a small group of thoughtful committed individuals. Ron Stork is one of them.
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tork has devoted over 50 years to preserving California’s wild rivers for future generations. He’s worked on flood management plans, urban conservation efforts, and drainage issues. He’s testified against dam construction, served on advisory boards and received an award from the governor on behalf of a community water forum he helped found twice. He’s participated in Congressional campaigns to designate wild and scenic rivers and helped create their management plans. If you’ve kayaked, canoed, swum, canyoneered or stood on the banks of a wild rushing river in California, chances are Stork had something to do with protecting it. Stork grew up in Southern California, playing in ephemeral water courses before they were channelized and choking on polluted air that pre-dated catalytic converters. “At that time Southern California was, in retrospect, unlivable from smog,” Stork reflects. He moved away to attend UC Davis in Northern California, and was thrilled to breathe air that didn’t hurt his lungs. “I never went back to Southern California, the land of my youth, where nature was being warred upon by the Army Corps of Engineers.” In 1975 he graduated from UC Davis with highest honors. “I was this freshly minted UC Davis Plant Science major with an understanding that the mission of civilization was to go and make the desert bloom by taming the waters and putting them to beneficial use,” Stork says. “But then I
“How can you not fall in love with these Sierra river canyons, strewn with wild flowers on these beautiful spring days with blue skies and puffy white clouds?” — Ron Stork 10 — March/April 2021 10 ASJ ASJ—April/May 2013
fell in love with this river, El Rio de Nuestra Señora Merced, the River of Our Lady of Mercy, the Merced.” “When that river became threatened by a number of hydro projects and a large dam and reservoir, something switched in my head and I no longer had the mission to make the desert bloom,” explains Stork. “I felt a responsibility to take care of this river.” Traveling around the state, he soon recognized other rivers that deserved protection. “How can you not fall in love with these Sierra river canyons, strewn with wild flowers on these beautiful spring days with blue skies and puffy white clouds?” Stork rhapsodizes. “The sparkling sounds and smells and feel of a living river, it just moves you in ways that are beyond intellectual understanding.” In 1977 he joined the Sierra Club where he met a group of people who felt a responsibility to steward the lands and rivers of Sierra National Forest. Some of them worked with Friends of the River (FOR), an organization that had coalesced over the fight to keep the Stanislaus River flowing free. Though their efforts failed – New Melones Dam created a lifeless reservoir that buried a beloved section of whitewater – the gang of river lovers kept fighting to protect other wild water throughout the state. Stork began volunteering with FOR in the early 1980s and joined the staff in 1987. Through this coalition, Stork met mountaineer and conservationist George Whitmore, a member of the first team to climb El Cap. Whitmore, who died of COVID-19 complications on New Year’s Day this year, became Stork’s mentor. “George was a gentle, sweet, soft-spoken man of fierce convictions,” says Stork. “I helped him work on wilderness additions and dam fighting; it was the beginning of forest planning that involved wild and scenic rivers.” The National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, passed by Congress in 1968, recognized that sections of the nation’s rivers contained “outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural or other similar values.” According to the act, those sections
of rivers “shall be preserved in free-flowing condition, and ... their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.” The National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act recognized the inherent value of a free flowing river; it was like establishing a National Park system for water, though protected waterways may still be impacted by other land and water uses like dams and diversions. As of 2019, over 13,000 miles of 226 rivers are protected in 41 states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. This is less than one half of one percent of the nations rivers. By contrast, over 75,000 dams have altered the course of 600,000 miles of rivers, or about 20% of the total river miles in the country. After a hard battle, California passed its own Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 1972. Initial passage protected the North Coast rivers: the Smith River and all of its tributaries; the Klamath River and major tributaries, including the Scott, Salmon, and Trinity Rivers; the Eel River and major tributaries; and segments of the American River. “Creating the state Wild and Scenic Rivers System was radical because it essentially cut off half of the yield for Governor Pat Brown’s water project, which was expected to deliver 4.2 million acre feet of water from Northern to Southern California,” explains Stork. “California may be considered part of the left coast, but water interests are very powerful here, and they’ve never really forgotten that initial setback.”
This summer. Who’s in?
OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: A POPPY-STREWN HILLSIDE AT THE CONFLUENCE OF THE SOUTH FORK AND MAIN STEM OF THE MERCED (FRIENDS OF THE RIVER PHOTO FILES); 2015 INTERVIEW ON THE BANKS OF THE SACRAMENTO RIVER WITH SPENCER MICHAELS, PBS REPORTER, ON THE THEN PROPOSED CALIFORNIA WATER BOND TO SET ASIDE $2.7 BILLION FOR WATER STORAGE PROJECTS, DEADBEAT DAMS (FOR’S PHOTO FILES); STORK WAITING TO TESTIFY AT THE MERCED & TUOLUMNE RIVER WILD & SCENIC RIVERS HEARINGS OF THE HOUSE INTERIOR COMMITTEE IN 1984. STORK IS IN THE FIRST ROW OF SEATS, IMMEDIATELY BEHIND ACTOR RICHARD CHAMBERLAIN, STAR OF THE TV SHOW DR. KILDARE (DON BRIGGS); THIS PAGE: STORK IN 2007 ON FORESTER PASS, THE SECOND HIGHEST PASS ON THE JOHN MUIR TRAIL (JMT). PHOTO WAS TAKEN TWO YEARS AFTER STORK HIKED THE JMT (ANONYMOUS FELLOW HIKER).
FOR hasn’t forgotten that initial victory or any of the ones that followed. Their library is stuffed with files and documents detailing defeated dam proposals. “We maintain that library, at considerable expense because river conservation battles never really end.” A case in point is the US Bureau of Reclamation’s attempt to raise the 600-foot tall Shasta Dam. Adding 18.5 feet to the dam would increase the storage capacity of Shasta Lake – already California’s largest reservoir – by about 200 billion gallons. It would also inundate fish habitat and culturally significant indigenous sites on about two thirds of a mile of the McCloud River, which has a special protection under the state’s Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The Bureau of Reclamation needs a nonfederal cost-sharing partner to cover 50% of the cost, but California’s Wild and Scenic Rivers Act prohibits state or local agencies from working on any project that negatively impacts protected rivers. So while Fresno-based Westlands Water District was happy to support the project initially, thanks to litigation brought by
FOR, they’ve been barred from doing so. Now the feds are scrambling to find a nonfederal, non-state agency that can cover half of the projected $1.4 billion price tag of raising the Shasta Dam. “Legislation we had worked on and passed in relative obscurity decades ago was pivotal in handing the dam builders another setback in 2019 and 2020,” explains Stork. “The daily in the trenches work to stop dams, to help protect, restore or recover rivers pays off,” Stork says. “It may not pay off immediately. It may take decades. But the ground work that we lay is the groundwork that another generation can build upon.”
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Stork is proud of his long career and the free flowing rivers he has helped protect, but he is also concerned about the future. “One of the things I learned early on is the truth of that Margaret Mead quotation: ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has,’” explains Stork. “But if there aren’t a few thoughtful committed individuals, the work goes undone.”
FRIENDS OF THE RIVER (FOR) Some say John Muir died of a broken heart after failing to protect his beloved Hetch Hetchy Valley from the O’Shaughnessy Dam. But when a rag tag group of rafting guides, river lovers and budding lobbyists failed in their efforts to protect the Stanislaus River from the New Melones Dam, they reorganized to one of the strongest river advocacy groups in the nation. Friends of the River (FOR) works in boardrooms and backwoods to protect the wild rivers of California, and there hasn’t been another major river dam built in the state since New Melones. “We’ve effectively ended the era of big dam building in California,” says Eric Wesselman, Executive Director of FOR. “New Melones was the poster child for why that ended; dams don’t pencil out economically, they destroy the environment and they don’t deliver the water supply they promised.” FOR has helped protect over 2,000 miles of wild and scenic rivers in California over the past 48 years. As FOR approaches their 50th anniversary, they recognize that their job will only get harder as climate change increases pressure on already strained river systems. “To keep protecting rivers we need to revolutionize California water,” explains Wesselman. “Over our next 50 years, we will advance climate resilient and sustainable solutions for California that allow us to meet our water needs without destroying more rivers.” Towards that end, FOR will devote more resources to water conservation and water efficiency measures. “We will need to start recycling water, capturing and reusing storm water,” says Wesselman. “Reduce, reuse, recycle can be applied to water as well. Sure there’s an ‘ick factor,’ but nature has been recycling water forever, we are already drinking treated waste water!”
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KAUA‘I’S NĀPALI COAST Hi k in g t he Kalal a u Trai l By Krista Houghton We lucked out, the weather was perfect for the start of our 22-mile journey. The day was January 31 and it was my husband’s birthday. The sky was slightly overcast, keeping the sun from beating on our shoulders, but by mile 2, I was already drenched with sweat. I sweat a lot anyway, but the humidity tipped the scales and this being my fifth year as a resident of the North Shore, I thought I’d be more acclimated. But nothing can really prepare you for the Kalalau trail on the Nāpali Coast of Kaua‘i. It is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Mountain peaks above, sheer cliffs below with crashing turquoise blue surf. It is rocky, muddy, slippery and at times yes, dangerous.
12 ASJ — March/April 2021 ASJ—April/May 2013
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he Nāpali Coast in Kaua‘i is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I am one of those people and after hiking the famed Kalalau Trail, I believe it to be even more so. This trail holds the history of ancient Hawaiian civilization and every step embeds you in Kaua‘i history and its red dirt. If you’re craving a real Kaua‘i adventure, here are some tips to get you started and stoked.
Things have radically changed on the North Shore of Kaua‘i in recent years. The April flood of 2018 caused numerous land slides that cut off the entire North Shore past Hanalei for over a year. Only residents that lived in the affected area could gain entry. It became the North Shore of 40 years ago. Then COVID-19 hit and the entire island became the Kaua‘i of days gone past. Despite the financial hardships the pandemic brought, many locals and residents loved it. It was uncrowded and
even the reefs and wildlife benefited from Cathy Claesson the lack of tourists. So, the first bit of advice is to please Mālama ‘Āina which is the Hawaiian way of saying “take care of the land.” This basic saying should be instinctive: don’t litter, pick up trash, and recycle. But it’s not just for the land, it’s also for the people. Aloha will flow to you if you embrace this attitude. You will need planning and reservations. Planning is key, as this trail is no joke. It’s 11 miles each way and if you are afraid
The Nāpali Coast in Kaua’i is considered by
many to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I am one of those people and after hiking the famed Kalalau Trail, I believe it to be even more so.
of heights or not in good shape, skip this one. Even though the trail starts and ends at sea level, it crosses numerous valleys and ridges for a one-way total elevation gain of almost 5,000 feet. Plan for at least two nights, three is better. The time of year isn’t much of a problem, but check the weather as heavy rain will make the hike not advisable and at times the state will even close it for safety. The trail has numerous river crossings that become dangerous to pass every year. Dozens of hikers get stranded and worse. Getting washed away, never to be found, is a rare but real danger. The Kalalau Trail is listed as one of the world’s most dangerous hikes for a reason, but with risk comes reward. Once you get your permits, your next step will be packing. There are no provisions past Hanalei so you will need to pack all your fuel and food. The good news is there are plenty of water sources along the way, but you’ll need a purification pump or tablets. Depending on your comfort level, plan on carrying a pack that weighs 10% to 20% of your body weight. For example, my weight is 140 pounds and I carried the max, a 28-pound pack. This may sound like a lot, but I like to eat and drink, so the extra weight was worth it. My husband, at 200 pounds, donned a 40-pounder for our four-day trip. I like comfort, so we brought our full adventure kit, which consists of a tent, air pads and pillows, mini stove, fuel, pan and pot, utensils and a couple of nice
cups. We ate like kings, carrying avocados, bread, and even potatoes and onions to sauté with bits of peppered salami. We also brought surprisingly delicious MREs to complement our warm whiskey cocktails. As for the trail, be prepared to be sunned and stunned by vistas and mountain ridges at every turn. I recommend a pair of hiking poles. Although I’d never used them before this trip, they saved me more than once from a fall and this is not a place to twist an ankle. There is a camping area at mile 6 in Hanakoa Valley, with a great waterfall hike just half a mile from the camp. We happily camped there our first night and enjoyed the company of a few other fellow hikers who were on their return leg. They swapped stories of their trip and the impending “Crawler’s Ledge” section at mile 7. I’m glad we had the night to recover, allowing us to tackle this most dangerous section of the trail on fresh legs. And it was a very good decision for us, as we watched a group ahead of us attempt to cross and return wide eyed from the ledge, saying it was “too dangerous to pass.” I looked at my husband and then down at the ledge and ocean below. The wind was whipping pretty good with a slight drizzle. Then my husband pointed to a perfect rainbow stretched across the sea; it was all I needed to continue. As I approached the ledge, I could clearly see the key steps carved out in the mountain, the same steps ancient Hawaiians took for hundreds of years along this trail. It was as if they illuminated before me. Once safely passed, we stopped for a moment and just took it all in. The adventure gods were smiling and so were we. Damn thrilling it was! The rest of the hike was a dream. Wild goats roam the trails, offering a bleat or two along the way. Then Kalalau Valley lays out before you with a single palm tree guiding you to the beach. Taking my boots off and hitting the sand was like a hot shower, just deliciously good! We decided to spend our last two nights at the beach enjoying the sun and solitude and tackle the entire 11-mile return in one day. We made it back tired and elated and vowed to make an effort to hike it every year for as long as we can. It’s just that good.
For permits, go to camping.ehawaii.gov and follow the instructions for making a reservation in Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park. You can make reservations up to 30 days in advance and it is $35/per person per night. Yes, there is a park ranger at the parking lot gate who will verify your name and reservations. You will also need to reserve parking after you confirm your reservations at gohaena.com. The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) posts a red banner for any closures and also provides great safety and trail descriptions on their website, dlnr. hawaii.gov – just search Kalalau Trail. If you want to get a taste of the trail without the overnight commitment, you can hike the first two miles without a permit. You will need a parking reservation made in advance at gohaena.com, and be back at your car by sunset. For the latest travel quarantine regulations go to kauai.gov.
VENTILATED BACKPACKING PACKS
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WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT! Adventure Sports Journal can’t offer likes, comments, or shares — but we can help you get stoked on outdoor recreation and stewardship in California and Nevada. Sure, we enjoy connecting with people on Facebook and Instagram, but the clickbait articles and divisive comments can be exhausting.
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That’s when we like to set our phones down and read an article printed in the latest issue of ASJ. The experience of reading words and seeing pictures on a printed page is more relaxing, more serene, more authentic, and unlike any experience you can find online. That’s what keeps us going. Facebook and Instagram raked in over $70 billion in advertising revenue last year, to the detriment of independent magazines like ASJ. That’s why we depend on support from companies and individuals like you. Please support our advertisers and become a member today.
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DESTINATION
HIGHLIGHTS KAUA‘I By Cathy Claesson
Clockwise from far left: View of Waipoo Falls in Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific; Ocean view bedroom at the magical Hanalei Colony Resort on the North Shore; Sacred Falls tour with Kayak Kaua‘i; Tropical flowers abound; View of Kalapakī Beach from the Kaua‘i Marriott Resort in Līhu‘e.
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t just over 550 square miles, Kaua‘i is one of the smaller Hawaiian islands, making it easy to explore. For the list-checker tourist, the major highlights can be seen in a busy one-week itinerary. However, the true beauty is found in Kaua‘i’s aloha spirit. So take time to slow down and connect with the people and environment around you. Kaua‘i’s majestic terrain offers something for every type of traveler. Opportunities to hike and surf abound and vary from beginner friendly beaches and trails to hard core adventures for experts only. The Kalalau Trail along the Nāpali Coast is a world famous odyssey that should not be taken lightly. The full 22-mile out-and-back trip is a bucket list item for many advanced backpackers. (Read Krista Houghton’s article on page 12.) For those who aren’t up for the full challenge, or simply don’t have the time or the permits, the two-mile hike to Hanakapi‘ai Beach is a good option. And for those who prefer the beach over steep and possibly slippery hiking trails, the adjacent Kalalau Beach is a great place to spend the day. The diversity of experiences, from mild to wild, is what makes Kaua‘i a perfect destination for just about anyone.
COVID-19 Restrictions Travel rules and quarantine requirements are ever-changing with COVID-19. Because of its remoteness and rural nature, Kaua‘i has the strictest requirements of all the islands. Make sure you are fully aware of what those are and might be, as the rules can change between the time you plan your trip and when you actually depart – so be flexible. For more info visit gohawaii.com/ travel-requirements.
Mālama Hawai‘i Program Industry partners and volunteer organizations across the state have come together with an initiative that encourages visitors to give back to Hawai’i — volunteer projects range from reforestation and tree planting to self-directed
beach cleanups, ocean reef preservation, and even creating Hawaiian quilts for the kūpuna (elders). By making a positive impact, you can have a more enriching travel experience and can even enjoy a free extra night from participating hotels. For more info visit gohawaii.com/malama.
Book a Direct Flight Why start your vacation with the stress of changing planes? Get your vacation started right by booking a direct flight into Līhu‘e.
Choosing Seats Try to get a seat on the left hand side (when looking forward). We were treated with spectacular views of the Nāpali Coast and the Nāwiliwili Harbor as we flew into the Līhu‘e Airport.
Rent a Car Unless you are bike touring or planning on hunkering down in one town the whole time, I recommend renting a car. The fickle weather can make you change plans on a dime; having a car to get you to the sunny shore or surf break that is calling you that day will be key. For families and those traveling with surf gear, don’t count on a free rental car upgrade — reserve your mini van or truck early as the larger vehicles do sell out.
Pack Light & Support Locals Leave your down jackets at home. Even if it rains, the warm temps will keep you in your sundress or boardshorts. Bring a light sweater and a rain jacket. Keep in mind that tourism is what keeps the economy going here, so don’t stress out
ACTIVITIES FOR WHEN YOU AREN’T SURFING, HIKING OR SNORKELING
EAST SHORE — Walk or ride the Ke Ala Hele Makālae Path, e-bike rentals are available at Eco eBikes Kaua‘i. The Sacred Falls Guided Paddle & Hike Tour is a great family adventure and provides some cultural and natural history along the way, Kayak Kaua‘i. // NORTH SHORE — Take a horseback adventure and enjoy breathtaking views of the Makaleha Mountains, ride through a dense Hawaiian rainforest and enjoy a private 80 foot waterfall, Princeville Ranch. // SOUTH SHORE — Treat yourself to an unforgetable view of the Nāpali Coast from the water. We saw dolphins, whales and turtles on our snorkeling tour, cave tours also available, Kaua‘i Sea Tours. Take a free walking tour of the largest coffee farm in the U.S., Kaua‘i Coffee Company. // WEST SHORE — Make the drive to Waimea Canyon and enjoy the many vistas as you make your way up the steep and winding Koke‘e Road. Visit the Koke‘e Natural History Museum at mile 15 and get a refreshment at the nearby lodge. There are many hikes in this area. For a short hike to be added to your driving tour, I recommend the Canyon Trail hike to Waipoo Falls.
about packing everything you need. Buy some reef-safe sunscreen when you arrive instead of bringing your half opened bottle from your medicine cabinet — it will probably explode in your suit case anyway. Unless you are attached to your snorkeling gear, wait until you get to the island to pick up fins and goggles. The shops, and even the grocery stores, have snorkeling gear to rent or buy at a fair price. You might even get lucky and be gifted a pair like I was at the beach. Oftentimes you’ll find a set waiting for you in the closet of your rental.
Hikers Bring extra socks for muddy conditions or stream crossings. If you’re sure-footed and you prefer air (and possibly mud) between your toes, you might choose
closed toe sandals with a secure sole such as Keens. Trekking poles are super helpful for steep and slippery trails. Forgot your poles? Grab a stick at the trailhead. Pack your swimsuit and small travel towel. Don’t forget to brush your shoes after your hike to help prevent the spread of disease and invasive plant seeds. Cleaning stations are available at major trailheads.
What About Surfboards? For some, bringing their own board is the only option. I won’t change their minds. My son insisted on having his with us. Keep in mind though that there are plenty of boards to rent on the island, saving you the headache and fees that come with traveling with a board.
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Pete Gauvin
Doug Robinson Christa Fraser
SERENDIPITY BROUGHT US TOGETHER
Letters to ASJ from some past and present contributors who helped shape our voice DOUG ROBINSON
BUCKING THE ODDS The editor leaned expectantly across our lunch table. Lower Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz. Except he wasn’t really an editor yet. A wannabe. Starry-eyed, yet brimming with energy. Had a day job at PG&E. I’m not sure what he did exactly, but it involved wearing a hard hat. Worse yet, a family to support. Oh man … Matt’s a nice guy, and ASJ is a good idea. How am I gonna tell him? And now, 20 years later (congrats and all – you guys rock!) I get to eat possum for being such a curmudgeon. Serves me right. But at the time I had to play the magazine sophisticate. “Well, you know …” I cringe now to replay myself being important. I had facts, and thought they sealed the deal. Over 20 years before that lunch with Matt I had helped start Outside magazine. It was as unlikely a story as it was interesting. At least to me. The publisher (you’d recognize his name) asked me to write for them. I came
down from my cabin in Rock Creek to San Francisco to check it out – and ended up staying a year. Jann Wenner was behind it. He had started Rolling Stone, and a decade later, in 1976, he was juggling big changes. Moving Rolling Stone to New York where he could hang out with celebrities like Caroline Kennedy. And founding Outside. Jann knew nothing about the outdoors, and didn’t care either. We inherited the old Rolling Stone offices on Third Street, and I got to party with fine writers like Tim Cahill and Rob Schultheis. Under cushions in the reception area couch I found an aspirin tin full of Owsley LSD. Ghosts of the rock star past. I remember an editorial meeting when we presented Wenner with a cover mock-up featuring the headline “Yvon Chouinard on Ice.” Jann responded, “What – is he dead?” Those stories are the fun part. Champagne and cocaine and beautiful editorial assistants
in a flat on Russian Hill. But the cold core of what I told Matt was dreary business things I had overheard. About it taking a million dollars to start a magazine. Just to get the first issue out the door. Stuff that made Matt’s enthusiasm seem hopelessly naïve. I am glad to eat my words. Matt and Cathy have done a beautiful thing. And it’s not just the publishing success. It’s their passion. A few months ago I saw Matt speak at a political rally on the shore of Lake Tahoe. He never knew I was there. Matt had fierce passion about an affront to the local Washoe people by the townspeople of Minden, Nevada. Arrogant and stubborn and lying about it. Twenty-five miles from my front door, but it took a guy from Santa Cruz to alert me to the injustice. So here’s to you, Matt and Cathy. Not only did you pull off an unlikely magazine success, but you continue to keep alive a passion for justice.
PETE GAUVIN
KUDOS TO 20 YEARS OF ASJ One thing the pandemic has reinforced is that adventure can be local. You need not travel far. Board a plane. Drive for hours. Spend a dime. It often starts mundanely. Out your front door. Swing a leg over a bike. Paddle out from the beach. Push the pace on a favorite trail, as Matt Johanson illustrates in his recent piece, Love the Park You’re Near. You know? Daily nourishment. Fresh-air therapy. Mini escapes. ASJ has always celebrated that spirit, not just the fodder of “epics.” Adventure is a broad canopy. Not just experiences on knife-edge ridges, on the sharp-end of a rope, deep in the backcountry. It encompasses myriad forms of outdoor immersion, movement, toil and leisure. Places to go. Things to do. Community and inspiration. Lonely pursuits and shared experiences. Public access and environmental awareness. Good gear and craft beer, too. Remarkably, for 20 years, ASJ has delivered that from a local, regional, California perspective to an audience of the same, making the content all the more relevant, accessible, relatable. Cathy Claesson has consistently, unflappably, undoubtedly carried the most water to keep this vessel of devotion and duct tape afloat for two decades. Matt Niswonger, her husband, co-founder and editor (“Director of Mischief”), has provided zeal and content (and supplemental income), along with fellow founding partner Christa Fraser, who smartly left to get her master’s and now is a writing professor at UC Merced. For years, Brooklyn Taylor, ace graphic artist, did wonders with copy and photos, delivered under and beyond deadline. A recovering newspaper journalist and professional outdoor dabbler, I dropped in for a good stretch as editor and strategic non-planner. Somehow we grew into a true regional California magazine and thickened up a bit with content and advertisers. We got stellar contributions from writers and photographers willing to write for peanuts and exposure, such as Seth Lightcap, Bruce Willey and Doug Robinson. And it’s good to see many writers I worked with continue to contribute, including Leonie Sherman, Haven Livingston, Chuck Graham, Matt Johanson and others. The overarching reason ASJ is still here, still available in print as well as online, is the conviction that its reason for being here is sound. A publication covering California’s mother lode of outdoor riches, vast and diverse, its athletes and explorers, has its place. For 20 years, ASJ has earned its beer. Here’s to another ... 16 ASJ — March/April 2021 ASJ—April/May 2013
CHRISTA FRASER CRACKING OPEN OUR FIRST ISSUE Here’s to twenty years of Adventure Sports Journal! Matt and Cathy are the best people to follow into any adventure. Matt’s booming energy, ebullient humor, and ability to spin a good tale convinced me to join him and Cathy as they started a new magazine they had dreamed up on a climbing trip. Meeting Cathy, the warmhearted, hard-working, stealth superhero of ASJ, sealed the deal. In the beginning, we had a vision: focus on California’s adventure sports lifestyle while avoiding words like “extreme” to describe it, and spread ASJ far and wide across Northern California, building a community along the way. Our early motto, “the magazine of adventure culture,” encapsulated our ethos. Twenty years ago, the outdoor adventure lifestyle was seen as too niche for mainstream media coverage. As a result, few publications were reaching out to California’s dedicated and dynamic community of adventurers and athletes. ASJ became a hub for that community, fostering it as the outdoor industry grew and grew. My memories of working with Matt and Cathy on ASJ are surprisingly physical, even though I was mostly writing and editing. I remember the excitement of cracking open our first issue; hiding copies in backpacks to pass out at the Sea Otter Classic; the heft of fifty-copy bundles; driving our succession of vehicles (many old and sputtering) all over the Central Coast until our legs grew numb; the event booths where we spent all day on our feet meeting so many great people; and the countless unforgettable adventures we had together. In reflecting on these past twenty years of ASJ, I am most appreciative to have worked with Matt, Cathy, Audrey, Pete, Brooklyn, and our many contributors deep in the digital trenches of each issue. We are thankful for every reader who cracked open ASJ’s pages and joined us along the way.
Leonie Sherman
Bruce Willey
Krista Houghton
LEONIE SHERMAN DOUG ROBINSON SET US UP In 2011, I was air lifted out of the back country with a scorching fever and blood pressure verging on comatose; two and a half weeks later I was confined to a hospital bed when Doug came to visit. “I’m losing an entire Sierra season,” I whined, still unable to stand unsupported. “What am I gonna do?” “Write about it, of course.” He smiled and sent an email introducing me to the editors of Adventure Sports Journal. I wrote my first piece, High Sierra Fever, before I left the hospital. I think I’ve written at least one piece for every issue since then. Over the past decade, ASJ has helped me grow as a writer, a wilderness athlete and a person. Cathy, Matt and Pete have allowed me the freedom to explore my passions and the guidance to tackle unfamiliar topics. Together we have influenced legislation, broken environmental stories and amplified BIPOC voices, stitching together a love of human-powered adventure in wild nature with a commitment to environmental and social justice. I started out writing about my ridiculous adventures in the backcountry, and having a monthly assignment forced me to explore deeper and engage in ever wilder adventures. As a female wilderness rat, I rarely felt respected for my exploits until I started broadcasting about them in ASJ’s pages.
Readers’ responses and recognition gave me confidence in my own abilities and helped me move beyond self-centered stories. My curiosity blossomed with ASJ’s encouragement and I started including natural history and native perspectives in stories, seeking to expand the voices ASJ represents and the topics we cover. Matt and Cathy were with me every step of the way, even paying me to drive to South Dakota and write about the Standing Rock encampment. My articles began to incorporate the spiritual dimension of our connection to, love for, and adventures in wild places. Each issue I profile the work of people and organizations who are working to preserve and protect what we all love. Now as I write about the wild lands I love and the activities that have brought me solace and excitement there, I explore what I can do to give back to these places that have given me so much. I hope to inspire readers to do the same. If you’ve found a fraction of the inspiration and growth from ASJ that I have, please take a moment at their 20th birthday and ponder the fragility and value of the printed word in this age of Instagram influencers. Consider making a donation or encouraging your favorite outdoor business to advertise. Together we can continue to enjoy ASJ.
BRUCE WILLEY A CALIFORNIA TREASURE There’s a lot to be said for a spirited outdoor journal that began a little bit before print media tanked in the mid-aughts and continues to this day to print – in real ink and in even more real dire times – something tangible, something free and wild, something you can hold in your hands and in a pinch, start a campfire with. There is not, last time I checked, an app for starting a fire. Twenty years later, Adventure Sports Journal is a California institution – even treasure. Part of ASJ’s success is that it doesn’t specialize in one sport or pursuit. It brings everyone into the fold with wide-open arms. Its diversity is its strength and relevance. As a regular reader of the Journal, I was one of those people that surfed in the winter but when summer came, found myself driving into the Sierra for climbing. The stories spoke to and inspired me. So naturally when I was just beginning to find my outdoor writing voice I pitched them some stories. What I discovered in the process was how great the people that ran ASJ were and are. People like publisher Cathy Claesson, editors Matt Niswonger and Pete Gauvin, all of whom became my friends over the years. Of all the publications I’ve worked for, I grew and was nurtured the most under these fine folks. And I always felt honored to huddle in the masthead with great outdoor writers like Chris Van Leuven, Leonie Sherman, Christa Fraser, Matt Johanson, and Doug Robinson to name a few off the top of my head. Adventure sports are passions that connect us deeply to nature. The only way to save the planet is to play in and appreciate what we have left of this Earth. ASJ knows this; we all know this. But to have it all in one place in the pages of this Journal is something very special.
Matt Johanson
KRISTA HOUGHTON
MATT JOHANSON
DISTRIBUTION, WRITING, RED BULL AND JACK O’NEILL 20 years! Wow has it really been that long? Feels like yesterday that I was loading up stacks of the latest ASJ edition in my blue Dodge Caravan. It was my first assignment at the magazine, to drive from Santa Cruz to Pacifica delivering ASJ to every bike, surf, coffee spot and adventure store along the coast. It was fun! I liked seeing people stoked to get the latest edition. That’s when I decided I wanted to really be a part of the ASJ team and write. I recall my first article was about kiteboarding and the latest trend of Red Bull and vodka! That led to more articles, and a home invite with a one on one interview with our local legend, Jack O’Neill. We drank tea at his home along the water of Pleasure Point and he let me slide down the fireman’s pole he installed. Only my involvement with ASJ could have afforded me such gifts. I took a long hiatus from writing to pursue other avenues, but asked to return in 2019 and was greeted with open arms. Matt, Cathy and Christa have always treated me with kindness and a willingness to allow me to explore my latest crazy thought or adventure with the world of ASJ. It has pushed me as a writer and an athlete, to walk my path, wherever that may lead. Mahalo and here’s to another 20 years of inspiration, education and adventure.
ADVENTURES INSPIRED BY ASJ I like to think that I know Yosemite well, but hiking down the steep and treacherous Tenaya Canyon was one adventure I hadn’t experienced, until I read about it in ASJ. Soon after I did, I made the technical Tenaya Canyon Descent, a ten-mile off-trail trek with long stretches of downclimbing steep granite slopes and several rappels, including one straight into a pool of icy water! That’s just one of many outings that ASJ has inspired me to do. I’ve also been fortunate to contribute to the magazine since the early 2000s. In that time Matt and Cathy published dozens of my articles about hiking, climbing, cycling and skiing. That’s been rewarding for me, but more importantly, I hope it’s inspired readers to discover their own adventures. In a time when print publications are struggling and shutting down, kudos to Matt and Cathy for keeping theirs going strong. More than ever, the public needs the release of outdoor recreation and informed writing about pursuing it responsibly. I’m also proud that the magazine has expanded its focus to include social justice as a core value. Happy 20th anniversary to Matt, Cathy and ASJ. Twenty more! Read more on next page.
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Kurt Gensheimer
Haven Livingston
Chris Van Leuvan Chris Van Leuven CHRIS VAN LEUVEN
WRITING, CLIMBING & PARTNERSHIP Like climbing partnerships, the editorwriter relationship is about intuition, anticipation and teamwork. When up a thousand feet on a golden plate of stone in Yosemite, I know my partner and how I got there through smooth transitions (i.e., belay changeovers), clear communication and dedication to our craft. The climbing – beautiful in itself – is merely the background of our friendship. That’s how I describe my five-year and continuing tenure with ASJ. My connection with editor Matt Niswonger started over a beer in a dark pub during the biannual Outdoor Retailer show (then in Salt Lake City), where we talked about our love of climbing El Capitan. I told him how I moved to Yosemite right after high school to climb every day, learn the trade, and to one day ascend the Big Stone. That passion led me to write about the people, culture and history of the area. Today, 25 years later, the Yosemite area remains my home and I’ve penned more than 100 articles on athletes, routes and gear. A dozen of these pieces appear in ASJ, each one dear to my heart. And just like what it takes to make it up a long route – with grace – Matt and his wife Cathy Claesson, publisher of ASJ, and I work together. For my pieces on Alex Honnold, Brad Gobright and Tom Frost, Matt and I shared a vision of what these stories should feel and look like. Where Matt inspired me to follow my passion, Cathy pushed me through tough spots (climbers call these cruxes), helped me through transitions, and improved delivery. Most importantly, Matt and Cathy are like family. I’ve been a guest in their home, joined Matt on a bike ride up California’s steepest road, Priest Grade near Groveland, and led them through my old neighborhood in Yosemite Valley. I look forward to working with them for many years to come.
KURT GENSHEIMER
PEOPLE STILL CARE ABOUT PRINT In the modern digitized world, the printed word is a dying form of communication, nevermind the fact that humans have been communicating this way since the beginning of communication itself. It would be easy for ASJ to just cave in and go digital like almost every other publication out 18 ASJ — March/April 2021 18 ASJ—April/May 2013
there, but Cathy, Matt and the dedicated ASJ staff don’t take the easy road and have committed themselves to keeping the print magazine alive. This is a truly grassroots publication, driven by a family with jobs besides this magazine. We as readers and advertisers have to do everything to keep ASJ alive in print and in circulation, because ASJ is all of us; a physical representation of our community. The internet is vapor, it can disappear. Print is tangible, you hold it in your hands. Despite what you read on the internet, people still care about print. To me there’s no better reading experience than the printed word, and I don’t believe print is dead. It’s what humans have been doing for thousands of years, and after we tire of our fancy new digital devices, I’m confident we’ll be reading print for thousands more. Congratulations ASJ on 20 years of keeping the printing press turning and the adventure stoke alive in our hearts, minds and souls. We’re with you all the way.
HAVEN LIVINGSTON
WE NEED PUBLICATIONS LIKE ASJ I applaud ASJ for their work over the past 20 years. The stories told within their pages have been significant and subtle. It has brought the big outdoor activities and industries into our living rooms at a scale that is both entertaining and relatable. Being able to share some of my own stories, and the stories of those who may not have been otherwise recognized, has been a fun way to connect with my own community. ASJ is always open to getting the conversation started, seeing the importance in discussion. They realize that without user input, our outdoors can be run by big business, industry and governments that don’t necessarily have in mind the best interest of stakeholders or the natural environment. We need publications like ASJ. They tell our stories, they keep us inspired, they help us find goals and celebrate with us when we reach them. Cheers ASJ to another decade of adventure!
SETH LIGHTCAP
A BEACON OF MOTIVATION What a MASSIVE milestone! Succeeding for twenty years in any business is remarkable. Surviving two decades in the media industry is like onsiting 5.14!
But it’s no surprise ASJ has stood the test of time. Every issue has been a beacon of motivation and stoke for getting out there and getting after it in the most magnificent natural playgrounds California has to offer. Cathy, Matt, and all the past and present ASJ editors have curated an incredibly positive and inclusive vibe with ASJ’s content throughout the years. No matter your adventure skills or preference, there’s been an inspiring story in every issue. I am honored to have contributed to ASJ’s legacy in the early years of the magazine and forever grateful for the opportunity to share my adventures with ASJ readers. Here’s to seeing ASJ on the rack in front of my favorite gear shops for many more years to come!
BRENNAN LAGASSE
A LOCAL’S PERSPECTIVE When I think of ASJ, I think about many cherished years of my go-to post-surf routine in Santa Cruz. After an outdoor shower, I’d skate or bike from my friends’ place on 38th over to a favorite burrito bar on the Eastside – Chill Out – usually stoked from the morning session, and super hungry. After I ordered (usually a phatty #19) I would immediately look for the latest ASJ and head to the back court for a good read under the Redwood tree in the Zen garden. As a freelance writer/photographer, one of those sessions inspired me to reach out to the editors. Back home in Lake Tahoe, I was already reporting on local backcountry ski conditions and it seemed such material would be a fluid fit with ASJ. Fast forward years later and beyond my own contributions — from skiing around the world, to classic ski tours in the Eastern Sierra — I remain continually inspired with the resilience and reporting found in each issue of ASJ. Covering snowy, surfy, dirt-focused adventures throughout the Golden State and beyond, ASJ has always done so from a local’s perspective. Never afraid to go beyond surface level athleticism, whether it be BIPOC inclusivity, conservation issues, or the nexus between both, we need this rootsy publication now more than ever!
JAMES MURREN
A VOICE THAT ISN’T SILENCED What I love about Adventure Sports Journal is the wide variety of outdoor adventure activities that are in the pages. There is not really a dominant sport/activity.
Waiting to see what comes in each issue and then opening it up and turning the pages is a welcomed opportunity to pass away time. In a day and age when independent journalism is declining, it is impressive that ASJ is still around. It is super important to make sure the regional outdoor adventure community has a voice that is not silenced by corporate interests. From my vantage point, ASJ has remained true to what makes it the media outlet we all enjoy: a table, if you will, around which there are plenty of seats for any and everyone to sit down and tell their story.
DIERDRE WOLOWNICK
LEARNING NEW THINGS Inspiration abounds in ASJ. Each time I wrote an article for the magazine, I found myself learning fascinating things, like how it’s possible to climb Everest car-to-car from Berkeley in just 2 weeks (Berkeley to Everest and Back – in 14 Days). How to convince yourself to keep slogging up Everest and K2 without supplemental oxygen, when your body is screaming at you to turn around (Suffering and Joy: the Challenge of the Extreme Peaks). I even got to provide some of it myself (Climbing to an Intentional Life and Raising Conservation Kids). You never know what you might learn reading ASJ – an excellent reason to keep reading – and publishing – for another 20! In today’s publishing world, to keep a magazine alive and flourishing for 20 years is quite a heady accomplishment. So kudos, you guys! Happy 20th anniversary, ASJ!
TRACY BARBUTES
AWARENESS, INCLUSIVITY & CHANGE Congratulations Cathy and Matt for an almost unheard of feat: successfully navigating twenty years of independent publishing. As the editors of Adventure Sports Journal, you’ve shepherded stories that have explored ideas and ideals; you’ve been fearless in pushing for inclusivity and environmental stewardship; you’ve challenged outdoor enthusiasts to be aware of a more complete history of wild places; you’ve taken us to mountain tops, down ski slopes and through wild rapids. These stories, and more, resonate deeply with those who embrace California and Nevada’s outdoor spaces. Having the independence to manage your own destiny means you may dive deep into
Brennan Lagasse
Dierdre Wolownick
Seth Lightcap environmental and social justice stories, as well as push for awareness, inclusivity and change. It also means bearing the responsibility of scrambling for funds to publish each issue. Reading your magazine makes me feel a part of a community that celebrates our connection to our planet and our love of adventure. Each issue introduces me to new athletes, adventurers, places, trails and events, as well as a much richer appreciation of places I’ve long explored. There are exactly two publications I want to hold in my hands while reading cover to cover: ASJ is one of them. I hope that your readers will honor your 20th anniversary by becoming members to help keep print alive.
DAVE NELSON Dave Nelson
SHARING STOKE I’ve been so grateful and stoked to work with ASJ over the years. Cathy and Matt are fun to work with, adventurous and cool humans. Coming from the surf industry it’s been fun learning about climbing and other sports. Did you know Matt solo climbed El Capitan in Yosemite? What a mad dog!
Tracy Barbutes James Murren
THANK YOU! For 20 Years
CONTRIBUTORS, ADVERTISERS, VENDORS & READERS Thanks for your continued support and inspiration. ASJ isn’t possible without you. It hasn’t always been easy, but your help keeps us going.
EVENT PRODUCERS
Thanks for the fun times and opportunities to collaborate. We can’t wait to be together again.
BUSINESSES
Thanks for making room on your shelves to share ASJ with your customers.
With your support we can continue to inspire adventure, event participation, exploration and environmental stewardship. — Matt Niswonger & Cathy Claesson
BECOME A MEMBER!
www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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CELEBRATING 20 YEARS Looking back at twenty years of Adventure Sports Journal 2004
2001
ASJ’s inaugural issue launched in March/April. Cover star Tom Davis talked about the risks of climbing big walls and our co-founders went boating: Christa Fraser rowed the Tuolumne, while Matt Niswonger learned to love sea kayaking with his wife and guide Cathy Claesson. And Lance Woleslagle interviewed big wave couple, Mike and Sarah Gerhardt, about surfing Mavericks. Our second issue featured Casey Stewman’s epic shark attack experience while Christa Fraser set out to watch the Pelagic Shark Research Foundation tag great whites. Yosemite OGs were also featured in the issue. The July/August cover design got a bit psychedelic with David Miln Smith, the original global adventure athlete. ASJ covered him again in the next issue, looking at the history of his 70s show, Survival of the Fittest. Sept/Oct featured a photo of fun hog cover star Sam Stivers downhilling by frequent contributor Robert Barbutti. Matt Niswonger and Cathy Claesson welcomed their first child, Nils. In the last issue of ASJ’s first year, readers were treated to a flashback of free soloist/roped free-faller Dan Osman’s unbelievably perfect horizontal hang off of Atlantis’ vertical face in 1993. Krista Hammond (now Houghton) covered the backstory of big wave break Mavericks and its 1975 discovery by Jeff Clark. Krista became a regular surfing and kiteboarding contributor over the years.
2002
ASJ stepped into its second year with a report on international BASE jumping by Sean Moffett. Meanwhile, ASJ editor Matt Niswonger launched a hare-brained stunt by completing a solo ascent of El Cap while mostly subsisting on energy gels. We followed the annual Pipeline Bodysurfing Classic in North Shore, Hawaii, and up and coming climber, Chris Sharma led a tree bouldering skills clinic for our readers. May/June set off with a Sea of Cortez sailboat trip to an island inhabited by feral goats and a profile on fisherman Don Antonio Talamente. We also shared the story of the tragic tale of the ill-fated 1934 German expedition on Nanga Parbat, which resulted in the deaths of ten people, many of them Sherpas. Surfer Paul Frediani reflected on surfing Linda Mar in the ‘60s. Frequent contributor Haven Livingston hauled ASJ into late summer with an all-female climbing team tour of some of the best climbs in Oregon, Utah, Nevada, and California. Later, researcher Matthew Rutishauser took readers scuba diving under the ice beneath the bustling Antarctic research town of McMurdo Sound. We dug into the 1864 Matterhorn tragedy, in which early peak bagger Edward Whymper conquered the Matterhorn, but at the cost of four lives and the end of the Golden Age of alpine mountaineering. Finally, frequent contributor Terri Schneider shared her love for adventure racing. We ended the year with a hilariously challenging Tahoe Big Blue adventure race report by Matt Niswonger, with each leg of the race becoming more hellish and leading him to love the sport. Sean Co discovered that racing cyclists like himself are treated like rock stars in Belgium, and Krista Hammond explored the true history of women’s surfing; she also did an article on the party life of the “after-hours athlete.” 20 — March/April 2021 20 ASJ ASJ—April/May 2013
2003
Cyclist Sarah Beaver shared a punishing 135-mile, 9,000’ climb through Arizona’s mountains. Yosemite Search and Rescue (YOSAR) guide, Michael Freeman, summited Lobuche, a 20,070’ Nepalese peak, and we followed kayaking legend Reg Lake on his epic 1987 first descents of four Pakistani rivers. Terri Schneider took on the Eco Challenge Fiji. Spring started with a story about endless backcountry powder in British Columbia; a 24 Hours of Adrenalin mountain biking race report, and a Baja surf adventure. Contributors Steve and Tricia Zenone shared their Balance Bar 24 Hour Adventure Race story after completing the race in an impressively grueling 29 hours. Fear was the focus of the May/ June issue, with adventure racer Terri Schneider; surfer Krista Hammond; BASE jumper Ginny Stone; sailor Skip Allan; whitewater kayaker Christie Dobson; climbers Peter Carrick, and Rob Miller; mountain biker Jacquie Phelan; and Class V river guide Alitia Danciu. The ASJ partners documented their disastrous adventure race in Dead Last and Still Proud in their summer issue. Dan Curtis Cummins went on a glider trip and four aerial athletes shared their experiences of human-powered flight. Ramona d’Viola profiled MTB original Jacquie Phelan and her pet rat Chrome Molly. Our Sept/Oct issue explored the evolution of the surfboard and Thomas Garlinghouse reported from the sharky waters of the Red Triangle. We celebrated the lifestyles of pro athletes Scott Lindgren, Sarah Gerhardt, Paul Romero, Ned Overend, and Dana Pinto. ASJ closed the year focusing on free heel skiing and the evolution of the snowboard, plus Q&As with legendary skier Wayne Kelly and Renaissance athlete Erik Rasmussen.
Seth Lightcap pulled ASJ into 2004 with a splitboarding adventure in the Palisades, while Matt Johanson made a winter trans-Sierra trip from Lee Vining to Yosemite Valley. We learned about deep saturation dives and why Monterey Bay is considered the Mt. Everest of diving. Superstar Rebecca Rusch offered readers a clinic on adventure race preperation. In March/April, we covered adventure racing and extreme kayakers, the Tsunami Rangers. Haven Livingston, Robert Wright, Julie Munger, and Lincoln Else recounted harrowing tales of technical land and water rescues. Hans Florine’s light and fast “Big Linkup” of both Half Dome’s face and El Cap in a single day anchored the May/June issue. Pete Gauvin explored supreme summer skiing on Shasta’s East Side while downhill legend Marla Streb swept past the pages with a brief cornering clinic. That summer, our new Associate Editor Pete Gauvin covered hairpin turns and scary-fast speeds of the Death Ride and also took our readers on a visit to the new whitewater park in Reno. Ramona d’Viola attempted a Guinness
2005
World Record with a women’s relay paddleboard through the Gulf Stream from Cuba to Key West. And a young climber named Kevin Jorgeson made his first of many appearances in ASJ. Our Sept/Oct issue featured the Lost Coast, and Pete Gauvin covered lightweight wilderness travel with Ray Jardine. Bob Walton and his camping buddies get up close with a black bear in the backcountry on a Snake Dike ascent. And Team ASJ covered their wins in the Big Blue Adventure Race series. Finally, ASJ made a big year bigger by celebrating legends Warren Miller, Lynn Hill, Mark Allen, Keith Bontrager, and Jack O’Neill with an iconic cover and compelling feature coverage.
ASJ’s fifth year went deep into snow country with Seth Lightcap “fiendishly pursuing” a year-round calendar of endless snowboarding, and Matt Niswonger covered Doug Robinson’s 1970 spring ski trip along the entire John Muir Trail from Whitney Portal to Yosemite. Snow season was still on for our March/April issue and Craig Dostie took kids on to earn their turns near Sugarbowl, while Seth Lightcap ticked off ten peaks for a Sierra spring backcountry ski dance card. Jerry Kay learned to surf at sixty. Meanwhile, Mark Allen offered ASJers a road map to refurbishing their aerobic engines after a sedentary season. May/June was snowmelt season and Bob Ward exposed spring slickrock that was a perfect “fat-tire playground.” Doug Robinson offered readers a curated list of ten favorite High Sierra climbs, and Krista Hammond flashed back to the evolution of surf films. In our July/August issue, Christa Fraser’s Red Lining on the Anguish Index looked at the intense history of cycling’s Race Across America (RAAM). Melissa Stevens shared her Central American surf odyssey, Allen Bushnell introduced us to kayak fishing, and John Yewell wrote about Half Dome’s growing crowds. That fall, Pete Gauvin talked to Scott Williamson who thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail and then turned around and did it again. Bob Madgic recounted a 1985 lightning strike on Half Dome that forced a daring helicopter rescue, and Billy Smallen learned the ropes of Yosemite climbing. Tahoe skier, Jessica Sobolowski was on our Nov/Dec cover, and Matt Johanson took us on a Sierra hut-to-hut ski trip. In Fire on the Mountain, Christa Fraser looked back at the sublime foursome of wilderness photographers, Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, Charis Wilson, and Seema Weatherwax during their time in Yosemite in the late 1930s.
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Our Jan/Feb cover photo Anniversary Issue: by Martin Sundberg teased SNOW … a perfect bluebird day with Sea Food: MELT Jeffrey Caspary telemarking at Sugar Bowl. Contributor Seth Lightcap followed the ski tracks of Norman Clyde, who logged nearly 120 first ascents in the High Sierra between 1914 and 1940; Stephane Riendeau talked to ASJ about the future of telemark films. Drew Miller reflected on his first trek in Bhutan, the land of Gross Domestic Happiness, while Pete Gauvin chased after California’s intermittently runnable creeks for rainy season creek boating. Our March/April issue marked our fifth anniversary and celebrated spring’s snow melt. Riding Solo by Ramona d’Viola looked at cyclist and endurance athlete Steve Wigen’s long list of accomplishments, including riding 4,000 miles in a single month. Chris Falkenstein shared an image for an article on Lost Arrow Spire, and Matt Johanson brought readers along on his Trans-Sierra trek from Yosemite to Mammoth. Santa Cruz resident badass Terri Schneider’s Racing in a Frying Pan covered her run across the Sahara in 120-degree heat, while Rob Dunton stayed cool on a Cal Salmon rafting trip. River season was the focus of the May/June issue, with Taylor Robertson’s cover photo of Jono Stevens running Dead Bear Falls on Upper Cherry Creek. Eastside local, Bruce Willey, talked faith and fear with a visit to Tuolumne’s granite church of Cathedral Peak, with photos by Bob Burd. Pete Gauvin went to legends Dave Scott, Mark Allen, and Greg LeMond for tips and tricks for high altitude training. Downhiller Marla Streb dropped in for a clinic on staying motivated as a pro. And Melissa Stevens wrestled with recovery from a kayaking injury. That summer, Petit Pinson meditated on the benefits of being a solo female in the wild, Geoff Jennings blazed down Cherry Creek, and writer John Coale introduced readers to paddle-in camping at Ebbetts Pass Lakes. Later that year, Liz Hess was on our cover and welcomed in the Nor Cal surf season with a photo taken by Nikki Brooks. Readers traveled to Mount Everest with Robert Chang’s trip report Flashback in the Death Zone, while Chandler Harris explored Big Sur’s art and adventure, and Maria Vitulli convinced us that surf camps are not just for kids. 2006 ESSENTIAL RACE CALENDAR Sponsored by
Looking Back at Five Years of Adventure
Castle Rock to Everest:
A Climber’s Ascent
Bouldering Zone Discovered
NUTRITION TIPS FOR SURFERS
Wandering Bishop Canyon
Sahara Desert Ultra Marathon
Spring Boost for Shasta
Salmon River Rafting Single Speeding Riding Solo
IT R MM FOU SU FOR A 7 RR N e SIE TIO pag A CA on N VA ails WI ER Det NT
Check out the ADVENTURE EVENTS CALENDAR on page 25
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green guide
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H Sharma: King of the Line H The Climber’s Guidebook H Peter Croft Q&A H Climbing Accidents: Recovery and Revulsion
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H 100 Ways to Green Your Life H Global Warming and Outdoor Rec H Eco-Legislation H Nature Deficit Disorder H Bikes that Haul
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Path-ological: Fave NorCal Trail Runs Give Out, Give Back for Charity
Also Inside This Issue:
Sierra Creekin’ for Kayak Mortals
C Mountain Unicycling
Lassen Chills, Skier Thrills
Also Inside This Issue:
Wimp’s Guide to Adventure Travel
C Fall Hiking on Mt. Eddy C Honeymoon on the PCT C Upstream with a Paddle C XTERRA Tahoe
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Check out the ADVENTURE EVENTS CALENDAR on page 28
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C Adventure Racing for Rookies C Walk the Slackline C Seasick in Tahiti C Spun for Fun: Playboating Primer
2007
We started 2007 with Yu Kuwabara who skied Mt. Whitney solo in a day via the Mountaineer’s Route. Dave Bailey went cross country ski racing in Royal Gorge, and Karen Kefauver shared her Copper Canyon, Mexico MTB adventure. That spring, we featured ultra runner Catra Corbett racing the Quad Dipsea, a brutal event near Mill Valley. We also went creek boating with Geoff Jennings, while Maria Vitulli wrote a guide to her favorite adventurous charity events. Surf kayaker Dave Johnston gave readers tips on how to use river skills in the ocean. That summer, we went surfing with Thomas Garlinghouse in El Salvador, and Roger Schumann took us sea kayaking on the California coast. Rick Deutsch took us on Yosemite’s infamous Half Dome hike, while Matt Niswonger wrote a short article about ascending the other side of Half Dome, via a climb called Snake Dike. Issue #38 was our Green Issue and we committed long term to covering
environmental issues to protect the places we love. Seth Lightcap took us slacklining with epic photos by Kevin Walker. Gordon Wright took us adventure racing with Doug Nurock, and Geoff Jennings went river play boating. Chris Sharma made the cover of our next issue, in a compelling Corey Rich photo of Sharma deep water soloing off Mallorca, Spain. We debuted a new Ear To The Ground column and honored Craig Dostie’s Couloir Magazine, a publication we admired. Seth Lightcap wrote about Peter Croft with Chris Falkenstein supplying photos, and Yosemite vet James Lucas wrote about a hilarious misadventure on the Prow in Yosemite Valley. We ended the year ice climbing with SP Parker, and climbing with Andrew Sawyer during his ascent of Mt. Sill in the Palisades. Christa Fraser tested alpine ski boots, and Seth Lightcap interviewed snowboard videographer Dave Hatchett. Seth also interviewed Cody Townsend, the Santa Cruz freeskier, to finish up issue #40.
July/August 2009 Issue #50
Full Circle on the Tahoe Rim Trail
Wild & Scenic Bachelor Party
Quiet Water Paddling
Sierra Ski Traverse
In 2009, we discussed all things mountain biking as Colleen Corcoran interviewed MTB pioneer Charlie Kelly and how the ALOHA STROKES: Nor Cal Outrigger Paddling “klunker” rides in Green Guide Marin turned into an off-road revolution. Also in issue #48, Matt Niswonger shared his story of attempting a 24hour mountain bike race while drinking two beers per lap, a race that ended predictably in failure. In the next issue, we took on outrigger paddling with Team Akau Hana of Santa Cruz. Closer to the mountains, Seth Lightcap went to the Royal Gorge on the American River. This Class V+ maelstrom of white water fury is the playground of a few elite kayakers like James McLeod and Scott Lindgren. We also published an obituary of river legend Lars Holbek who died that year of liver cancer. Kayak pioneer Ann Dwyer and ski BASE legend Shane McConkey also passed that year. For issue #50, we caught up with Tahoe-based outdoor journalist Tim Hauserman for a thru-hike of the Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) in fourteen days. Bruce Willey took us to Bishop’s Rubber Room where Tony Puppo was repairing climbing shoes. In the following issue Seth Lightcap introduced us to Alex Honnold who would later free solo El Capitan, and Matt Johanson marked the passing of another legendary free soloist, John Bachar. Also in issue #51, UCSC grad Jacob Thompson recounted his epic threeyear project to ride from Alaska to Patagonia. To end the year we put 12-year-old Tahoe telemark ski racer Kami AbiNader on our cover in a Kevin Klein photo. Issue #52 also featured an interview with Lonnie Kauk, son of the Yosemite climbing legend Ron Kauk. The H20 Issue
SOUTH FORK AMERICAN: Future Flows in Jeopardy
Yosemite’s Tyrolean Thrill
2009
May/June 2009 Issue #49
Surf Camps: NOT JUST FOR KIDS Big Sur: Beyond the Highway
Rebecca’s Rusch 24 Hour MTB Racing TWO EPIC SKI TOURS
High Route vs. Haute Route
Skiing Dick’s Peak
DOUG ROBINSON: Skiing High & In A Hurry
Great Ski Race Profiles
Pump Track Mania
TOP SPRING RIVER TRIPS
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Backyard Biking with Mark Weir & Lee McCormack
River Rat Jay Kincaid
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The Rise of Stand-Up Paddleboarding Whitewater Gold: The Yuba River Kayak Tours in the Bay Area & Beyond The Jay Race: Moriarty’s Enduring Legacy Shark Lottery: Playing the Odds in the Red Triangle Wetsuit Care and Repair Check out the ADVENTURE EVENTS CALENDAR on page 34 www.AdventureSportsJournal.com
2008
We started the year with free heel skier Lorenzo Worster on our cover, and Pete Gauvin caught up with Bela and Mimi Vadasz for an interview about Alpine Skills International (ASI), one of the oldest mountain guiding programs in the country. Adventure racer turned mountain bike champion Rebecca Rusch was on our spring cover and she shared training tips with our readers — this was her first magazine cover, and she signed the hard copy for us. We also recognized ASJ reader Don Ahlert who completed the Great Ski Race (Tahoe City to Lake Tahoe) 31 times in a row. Our summer issue was all about water with a Duke Brouwer cover photo of John Griffith surfing a wave on his SUP near Santa Cruz. We were one of the first magazines in the world to put SUP surfing on the cover. Continuing the water theme, Geoff Jennings explored all three forks of the Yuba River, and we also highlighted the Jay Moriarity Memorial Paddleboard Race. Issues #44 and #45 were all about living a green lifestyle. We caught Caroline Schaumann living out of her truck in the Canyonlands, and Bruce Willey profiled hang glider Kari Castle. Doug Robinson used issue #45 to explain his “atomic broom” theory of how the Nevada Test Site cleaned much loose rock from Sierra peaks with its weapons testing. Seth Lightcap scrambled a long section of the Sierra crest by linking five fourteeners. To finish 2008, we celebrated the work of backcountry evangelist Craig Dostie who promoted earning your turns throughout Tahoe and beyond. We also joined Seth Lightcap and his Tahoe friend Chris Edmands who completed the first ever fully human-powered produced ski and snowboard film.
Saltwater Buddha | Surf Custodian Matt Warshaw Swimming Tahoe | Droppin’ the Royal Gorge | Skill Building for River Rats Lars Holbek: 1957 – 2009 | The Jay Race Plus: Day Hammocking, Sierra Century Rides
Nor th Win G La a Se etaw ke Ta e pa ay ho ge ! e 5
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Rubber Room Recyclers | Park Once, Play More Green Companies & Goods | Eco Myths Busted 11 ASJ—Sept/Oct 2008
11 ASJ—Sept/Oct 2008
Jan/Feb 2010 Issue #53
the
Backcountry Issue
July/August 2010 Issue #56
Dirt-Farming
Climbers 11 Big Green Ideas Outdoors Author Tom Stienstra A Long Run to “Cure Aging”
Backcountry Econ 101 • Snowlands Defender Marcus Libkind Snow Camping in Comfort? • Beyond Resort Ropes • Honeymoon in Patagonia Skinny Ski Racing • In Footsteps of Sierra Pioneers
Kiteboarder Takes Flight Epic Sierra Singletrack Hiking Tahoe’s West Shore
2010
Our backcountry issue in 2010 (issue #53) followed Seth Lightcap as he took an enthusiastic look at winter camping in Tahoe, and ASJ editor Pete Gauvin interviewed Marcus Libkind of Snowlands Network. Bruce Willey contributed an article about Daniel Arnold and his book Early Days in the Range of Light. For our spring issue, we helped celebrate Sea Otter Classic’s 20th anniversary with a photo of bike racer Katerina Nash of Team Luna Chix on our cover. Matt Johanson reminded ASJ readers that cyclists can cruise down Tioga Pass for a few days each year without cars. Well known outdoor writer, Robert Frohlich skied out to Glacier Point and wrote about it for issue #54. Sadly, this was one of his last articles before he died of cancer later that year. In issue #55, Doug Robinson took us on the Sierra High Route, while Pete Gauvin interviewed Buddhist surfer Jaimal Yogis. Our next cover was a memorable shot of Bruce Willey and Caroline Schaumann as dirtbag farming climbers living off the land in a climber’s paradise. Issue #56 also featured an article by backcountry evangelist Craig Dostie about learning to kitesurf. Our fall issue featured a Bruce Willey article about Sierra legend John Fischer who was killed in a motorcycle accident. Last but not least, our final issue of 2010 featured a cover shot from the Jeremy Jones and Teton Gravity Research film Deeper. The photo by Seth Lightcap showed splitboarder Ryland Bell crawling out of the Sierra Benson Hut. Lastly, frequent ASJ contributor Gordon Wright competed against his 15-year-old son in Scott Tinley’s off-road triathlon. www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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MOUNTAIN BIKE ACCESS
2011 April/May 2011 Issue #60
ASJ’s 10th Anniversary Issue: A SURVIVOR’S TALE
> “Hardcore” Thoughts by Marshall Ulrich > Barefoot Running’s Achilles Heel > Amgen Tour Takes High Road > A Gold Country Bike Tour > River Festival Rundown > Off-Road Biking Events > Big Blue’s Todd Jackson > Volcanic Spring Skiing > SLO Motion
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2011 started with an article by Brennan Lagasse about getting “walled” in Sierra couloirs. Also that winter, we featured an excerpt from a book about the birth of ski bum culture by Tahoe author Jeremy Evans. Our March/April issue celebrated our 10th anniversary and featured a ripped 2010 Xterra World Champion, Shonny Vanlandingham. Waterman Chuck Patterson landed on our summer issue, which also included an article about Yosemite climbing legend Royal Robbins during his kayaking days in the late 1970s. Robbins has been featured or referenced in ASJ multiple times over the years. Our August issue had a cover shot of Woodford’s Canyon by Dean Fleming who went on to start a magazine of his own called California Climber. Possibly the most memorable climbing article in 2011 was from longtime ASJ contributor Matt Johanson who shared a chapter from his book Yosemite Epics. During a harrowing ascent of the Nose on El Cap, a climber snapped his rope but still managed to land feet first on a small ledge. He stuck the landing and saved his life. Finally, we featured a shot of Daron Rahlves earning his turns by hiking up a couloir. We were stoked to have California legends like Rahlves and Patterson on our covers in 2011. alpine boots.
Chuck thought they had potential to be taken to a bigger canvas. But during his trials with the equipment on the California coast, he found something was missing — ski poles! Why bother with ski poles, you ask?
“Yeah, it looks pretty funny,” Chuck admits. “But for me growing up skiing, poles were not for pushing — they were to help give you a nice tight body position, control and balance. So even though it’s a pain to hold onto the (tow) rope with them, I thought they helped me achieve a better body position and improved my balance on the waves.” One look at the video of Chuck bombing face-forward down these monster waves traveling at 30 miles per hour, legs independently jack-hammering on the wind bumps, and you can begin to see his point.
Chuck paddle surng one of the most dangerous waves in the world, Teahupo’o, Tahiti. Photo by Tim Ditty
Chuck Patterson: Alpine Aquaman Whether surfing or skiing off cliffs, stand-up racing or filming great whites, this homegrown California waterman is in his element
Chuck hucks at Squaw Valley. Photo by Hank de Vré
By Pete Gauvin
I
f such a thing as a California Action Sports Hall of Fame existed, Chuck Patterson would win unanimous induction on the rst ballot. Then the committee would need to go out and solicit bids to build an extra wing just to document the breadth of his exploits on water and snow.
Chuck’s body of work is that deep and diverse and innovative. Now 42, he’s been making his living as a fulltime sponsored athlete for 20 years. Not in one sport mind you, but a quiver full — as an extreme skier and snowboarder, professional windsurfer and kiteboarder, big-wave surfer and stand-up paddler. Indeed, CWP (his middle name is William) has groomed himself into the ultimate waterman in the same vein as icons Laird A Q&A with Bobby McMullen Hamilton and Dave Kalama, two of his mentors and contemporaries in big wave tow-in surng Swimming from Alcatraz and stand-up paddling, the latter of which has become Chuck’s bread-and-butter MTB Trail Building sport over the last ve years.
RACING BLIND
Canoeing the Carson
“I’ve been lucky that I’ve managed to make Wingsuit Pioneer a living pursuing a bunch of different sports. Each sportSkyline-to-the-Sea just seems to lead to the Trail next and compliment each other,” says Chuck, in Heidi’sfashion. Climb typically humble When I talked to him in May he had just returned home to Dana Point from the Battle of the Paddle festival in Hawaii, where he faced off against the world’s top SUP paddlers despite recovering from a staph infection that kept him out of the water until a week before the event. (The BOP California edition, which Chuck won in 2008, is Sept. 24-25 in Dana Point.) Though not in top form, Chuck was there as much to be an ambassador of the sport as he was to compete. The amicable 6-2, 220-pound hulk of muscle with the broad white smile is one of the most traveled, recognizable and versatile gures in the sport.
2012
In addition to racing, he’s surfed his SUP boards on big waves from Maui to Mavericks. “It’s a really challenging wave,” he says of Mavericks. “You’ve got to move around a lot to nd the peak and not get annihilated.”
In 2009, he was the rst SUP rider to surf the Cortes Bank break more than 100 miles off the San Diego coast. For his body of work, he was named Mr. SUP of the Year 2010 by the online magazine and networking site SUP Connect.
the surf with ski boots, ski poles and a pair of custom Starr Surf Skis mounted with alpine Downieville Classic bindings, which he’d done some R&D with a few times at smaller tow-in breaks along the Central California coast.
“Unfortunately, there was so much wind with the swell, it kind of knocked down the waves,” says Chuck, sounding a little dissatised with his Jaws’ skiing debut. “It was the worst conditions you could probably do it in, but there was so much media there, it was a go. I ended up getting three really good set waves. Of course, the next day conditions improved considerably but the hype was over,” so those rides weren’t documented.
ofRace an Amphibian Eppie’s Great | Evolution | SUP Event Guide | Like the three stacked protein shakes he downs each day, Chuck is a blend of his Nor Cal roots and the So Cal surf lifestyle soaked
avey Simon grew up an outlaw on the hallowed grounds of mountain biking’s birth, Marin County. He wasn’t an outlaw because he shoplifted or vandalized public property. He never spent time in a juvenile detention. He was a straight-A student. Simon was an outlaw because he rode his bicycle on public trails built on public land for public use. In most parts of the country, mountain biking on public lands is completely legal, but in Marin County, gaining equal trail access has been a decades-long struggle that continues to this day. Now in his late thirties, Simon has been doing a lot less mountain biking than he used to. When he’s not busy with his career as a professional pilot, Simon is working hard on helping build projects like Tamarancho Flow Trail, developing youth cycling programs and joining other mountain bike advocates at Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD) meetings regarding the Road and Trails Management Plan (RTMP). Passed in December 2014, the RTMP is the biggest land-use revision in MCOSD history; serving as a future roadmap as the county comprehensively updates trail access standards. And for the first time ever, the RTMP includes mountain bikers as a user group. Before the RTMP’s passing only a few months ago, the birthplace of mountain biking automatically outlawed bikes on all public trails unless it was signed specifically as a bike-legal trail. This type of exclusion is nothing new for Marin residents and mountain bikers like Simon. According to local trails advocacy group Access4Bikes, out of 177 miles of trail on MCOSD lands, only 10.9
miles – or a paltry 15 percent – is legal for mountain bikes. Especially confusing when looking at a recent MCOSD survey conducted at a trailhead not open to bikes, showing mountain bikers as the second biggest user group behind hikers. Even more confusing is the fact that equestrians account for less than one percent of users, yet they have access to 88 percent of MCOSD trails. And Simon is convinced that if the survey were conducted at a trail open to all users, mountain bikers would be the majority. “The mission statement of Marin County Parks specifically states ‘…providing recreational opportunities for the enjoyment of all generations,’ but the numbers speak for themselves,” said Simon. “In Marin County, dogs have more access to public land than mountain bikers do, which would be a depressing fact if it wasn’t so funny.” The reason why is complicated to say the least, and has been a paralyzing source of frustration for Marin mountain bike advocacy organization, Access4Bikes. Mountain bike advocates have worked tirelessly for years to try and bring this anti-mountain bike sentiment to light, but it seems for every step forward that mountain bikers take, something happens that pushes them two steps back. “For decades, opponents of mountain bikes cried they were environmentally destructive, but numerous third-party studies have completely disproven the issue of environmental destruction,” said Vernon Huffman, Access4Bikes President. “The truth is; water and runoff does more damage than any user group can. The solution isn’t banning a user group; it’s building sustainable multi-use trails with good drainage.”
16 ASJ ASJ—April/May — Feb/March 2013 2015
Mono Hot Springs I SUP Events I MTB Triple Crowns I Event Profiles
2016 began with an issue dedicated to Leonie Sherman who was diagnosed with breast cancer (she later beat cancer). This same issue featured the first of two articles about the blanket ban on bicycles in federally managed Wilderness by Kurt Gensheimer. This article raised some eyebrows, but the skyler the surf dog real controversy was yet to come. clean oceans international PCT California kayaking the rivers k That spring, we featured a cover kings, kaweah & kern BRAVE NEW WILD adventure in the lost sierra of Santa Cruz Bikes pro rider Scott Chapin to celebrate the continued rise of mountain bike racing. This issue also featured some influential articles including The Dying Game by Tim Hauserman about a string of deaths in the Tahoe outdoor scene that later went viral on Facebook. That same issue featured a powerful profile of Royal Robbins, the most influential climber in Yosemite history, by Doug Robinson. Doug was there every step of the way in the aftermath of the Golden Age of Yosemite climbing to witness the clean climbing evolution. He also helped ASJ get off the ground when we were just getting started. His influence on our editorial focus cannot be overstated. In summer 2016, we ran a Dave Nelson cover photo of pro surfer Homer Henard riding tandem with his K-9 friend best known as Skyler the Surf Dog. They were lighting up Instagram at the time. Later that year, Doug Robinson contributed another article about the history of the Buttermilks and the bouldering scene on the Sierra Eastside. Also in that issue we covered the exploding mountain bike scene in Carson City, Nevada led by “trail Jesus” Jeff Potter. Kurt Gensheimer took a spin on a Specialized Turbo Levo electric mountain bike (eMTB). Later that year, we met Chris Van Leuven who became a regular contributor and made a large impact with his climbing articles in the years to come. His cover feature on surf and climbing photographer Fred Pompermayer was the first of many eye opening articles we did together. Our final issue of 2016, featured professional Santa Barbara photographer Chris Burkard. This was another feature article written by Chris Van Leuven whom we soon started calling “CVL.” Issue #91
June/July 2013 Issu Is s su suee #7 #733
Last summer, Chuck became a media and online video sensation for intentionally paddling his SUP board out to lm and take mug shots of great white sharks that had been sighted off San Onofre Beach. Using an extension pole rigged with a GoPro waterproof camera, he paddled his Hobie SUP race board out to the spot the shark had been seen and within minutes was being circled by a 7’-8’ juvenile shark. Later it turned out there were two sharks.
Bob Pearson
“From the vantage point of an SUP you can see a lot more,” Chuck says. “Someone pretty much saw a shark everyday in the summer there, and so far they haven’t attacked anyone.”
— SHAPING THE FUTURE —
California’s Grand Canyon
AR
TAMBA “Skiing was a great platform to launch in to all the other Comes of Age sports I do … Dropping off a cliff and skiing out the ThebotCool Impossible tom is kind of the same thing as dropping a 70-foot wave and outrunning an avalanche of water.” Surfer’s Start-Up
Since then, Chuck has done some lming LEND Years before, McConkey, who once took water with National Geographic for a program due EtoCA AC y: skis down an unreal run in Alaska, had told air in the fall. L R red b TIA onso Chuck, who split his time between skiing in EN Sp Tahoe and surng in Maui, that he was the Ski Boots in Big Waves 2 ESS 01 another, perfect man to ip the paradigm and bring From one “Jaws” experience 2to skiing to the surf. entirely different, this past winter he followed the biggest swell of the year to Maui’s famed “I jokingly tried it 10 or 11 years ago in tow-in surf break at Pe’ahi (a.k.a. “Jaws”), Hawaii using jumper water skis,” says Chuck. where he’s surfed many times before. But he didn’t pursue the experiment any This time, though, he brought his ski gear. further until last year when he was impressed by some video of the fusion efforts of fellow Bringing to fruition an idea that was hatched more than a decade before while living in Tahoe freeskiers/surfers Cody Townsend of Santa Cruz and Mike Douglas of Whistler. They had and skiing at Squaw with his good friend, the experimented using the same custom skis and legendary Shane McConkey, Chuck took to
We started 2012 with an article by Seth Lightcap about his near fatal ski trip to Japan. He was inspired and happy to be alive after surviving an avalanche and riding some of the deepest powder of his life. Blind mountain biker, Bobby McMullen graced our spring issue that year with a gripping photo of him trailing a sighted rider while racing at the Downieville Classic. That summer, San Francisco based adventure swimmer Jamie Patrick swam the length of Lake Tahoe. Also, we featured our first Alex Honnold cover, with him bouldering near Bishop. ASJ Editor-in-Chief Matt Niswonger was invited to British Columbia for an unforgettable mountain bike odyssey, and he came back with a feature article and cover photo of then Ryders Eyewear CEO Brent Martin going hut-to-hut in the remote Chilcotins. The year ended with a cover feature by Leonie Sherman about Sierra legend and guidebook author Andy Selters who was wrapping up a proud Himalayan mountaineering career and looking for adventures closer to home. We also ran an article by Jaimal Yogis on dealing with the risk involved when surfing Mavericks.
22 ASJ ASJ—April/May — March/April 2013 2021
By Kurt Gensheimer
June/July 2016
Dances with Sharks
28 ASJ—June/July 2011
We started 2015 with a hard-hitting MTB article by Kurt Gensheimer, asking why mountain Separate and bike access is so limited in Marin County, the Not Equal birthplace of the sport. This article ruffled some Equal access to multi-use trails builds a strong and vibrant community, so why doesn’t this exist in the birthplace of mountainheld biking? for feathers, but that was nothing compared to what the future another Gensheimer article about the ban on bikes in Wilderness. D Haven Livingston began a project that spring to whitewater kayak for 100 days in a calendar year. Her article Goal 100 was featured in issue #84. On the cover of that issue was pro MTB rider Adrienne Schneider, the only person besides Alex Honnold to appear on our cover more than once. Later that summer, Dean Potter died while BASE jumping in Yosemite and we wrote a series of tributes to the influential climber. That year, we also featured an article about the infamous The Dirty Sanchez (TDS) invitational mountain bike race in the CA foothills by MTB pro Lauren Gregg, who was on our cover the year before. Issue #86 had one of our most heralded Tahoe covers ever, with an inspiring guide to circumnavigating Lake Tahoe via SUP in nine days by Laura Norman. Later that season, Leonie Sherman told her harrowing tale of being rescued by legendary backcountry ranger Dario Malengo, the longest serving backcountry ranger in the Sierra.
2016 Event Calendar
In the past year, he’s also distinguished himself for his fearlessness in a couple unique April/May 2012 and inventive ways. Issue #66
You can watch Chuck’s video, “Me, My Shark and I,” on Vimeo and YouTube and get a laugh from reading the comments about the size and composition of Chuck’s family jewels. For details and perspective on the encounter, read Chuck’s blog at chuckpattersonsports.com.
2015
Summer Festivals
in his mom’s German-Austrian blood lines, with heaping dollops of Tahoe and Hawaii time thrown into the mix.
Session Beers
Raised in the Bay Area in the Piedmont/ Oakland Hills by an American father who was a nuclear physicist and a mom who had been a ski racer in Europe, Chuck was skiing by the time he was two and a half years old. The family — he has a sister, Janet — spent a lot of time in Tahoe over the years. In the ‘80s, his mom became a top windsurfer and Chuck started windsurng when he was 10.
2013
By the time he graduated high school, the extreme ski scene was emerging and Chuck
In the first issue of 2013 author Brad Rassler shared Peter Mayfield’s story, and why he is so central to adventure culture in Northern California. From climbing El Capitan to running a school, our cover showed Mayfield skate skiing during The Great Ski Race. For our spring issue, Rick Gunn rode his bike through Steinbeck country, and we featured a cover feature of Bob Pearson and told the story of the Pearson Arrow brand. The issue also included a follow up article by Rick Gunn about a revitalized Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association (TAMBA) under the leadership of Ben and Amy Fish. The following issue featured a cover photo and story by Gunn on the history of MTB gold in Downieville. Later that year we featured a series of trail updates by ultra distance hiker Stephan “Otter” Olshansky, who was later found dead during a yoyo attempt of the PCT. His story became an Outside magazine article by ASJ godfather Doug Robinson. Austin Smith-Ford was on the cover of that issue celebrating the 40 year anniversary of surf and skate brand NHS, photo by Dave Nelson. Finally we ended the year with one of our most memorable cover stories, an ode to influential free skier Shane McConkey.
2014
a life changing odyssey
a new film a bout c lim bers
In early 2014, we started working with editor Michele Lamelin, a talented mountain biker and journalist who helped shape our coverage of the off-road cycling explosion that was taking off in California and beyond. Also in 2014, the ASJ founders Matt Niswonger and Cathy Claesson took their three children on a service trip to Mexico with Club Dust and wrote about it for issue #77. That spring, the Flow Trail near Santa Cruz was being built by Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz (MBOSC) and we ran a cover feature by Matt De Young who later became their executive director; the cover photo was shot by Bruce Dorman, a trailbuilder for the organization. Long-time contributor Haven Livingston was pushing hard into whitewater kayaking, and she anchored our summer issue with an article about three influential female kayakers – Diane Gaydos, Laura Farrell and Katie Scott. On the cover of that issue was Patagonia surf ambassador Kyle Thiermann (photo by Dave Nelson and story by Neil Pearlberg). Leonie Sherman hiked Steve Roper’s legendary High Route in the Sierra and wrote about it for our fall issue. Featured on that cover was Matt De Young’s profile on the Ladies of Enduro; the inspiring cover photo of pro rider Lauren Gregg was shot by Scott McClain. Our Oct/Nov issue documented Alex Honnold and Dave Allfrey’s climbing seven El Cap routes in seven days. This was Honnold’s second ASJ cover. Tahoe-based writer Tim Hauserman, who had been writing for us from the beginning (or close to it) ended our last issue of the year with his cover feature on the cross country skiing renaissance happening in Tahoe. Also included was a feature article on one-ofa-kind race producer Murphy Mack by Santa Cruz-based journalist Karen Kefauver.
O a b in p th thi envi studie MCOSD, successfully to bed, another curveball c from mountain bike oppon “Suddenly the story went f environmental destruction issue,” said Huffman. “Oppo claimed that mountain biki dangerous activity that put users at risk.” Access4Bikes looked furthe safety claim brought up by Conservation League (MCL) Horse Council (MHC), and a five-years of filed trail-use i from the MCOSD, they coul single incident that involved mountain bikers and eques only problem was the moun weren’t mountain bikers; th teen kids on BMX bikes. In a story that blew up pub women were riding rented
Getting Along: In Sant the equestrian and mounta together, they can promote This isn’t to say it’s all a bed on the mountain bike forum incident of a disrespectful m But by and large, the spirit user groups in the Santa Cru equestrians on the trail, wit right of way and what to do mountain bikers moving sw comfortably pass by. “Have group continues on their wa Chloe Perot, who rehabilita points out the importance o biker is coming down the tr of things that can spook a h from his perspective as a he with him in a way that help Mountain Bikers of Santa C mountain biker who also vo member of the Santa Cruz C that a number of Santa Cru those ranks regularly. She e forces to get a new multi-us of Santa Cruz. Lindsay credi equestrian Emma McCrary— blazer Emma McCrary devo to enjoy. Her spirit lives on biking and equestrian comm
2017
2017 started the year with a semi-nude cover photo taken by legendary climber Dean Fidelman; the story by CVL was about Fidelman’s work shooting landscape nudes spanning decades, and soon to be published in a book. We thought the cover might be controversial, but it really wasn’t. Speaking of controversy, our April/May issue featured an article by Kurt Gensheimer that caused a firestorm. His hard hitting story about bikes
in federal Wilderness lauded congressional efforts to lift the blanket ban on bikes in those areas. Gensheimer strongly advocated local discretion to determine bike access to certain areas, not a one-size-fits-all approach. With photos by James Adamson, the article hit a nerve. Soon after publication a couple of environmental non-profits joined forces to launch a hard hitting boycott against our advertisers. We were taken aback to say the least. After some tense negotiations, we agreed to remove the article from our site. Our business was being put on the line, and our free speech rights were trampled on. We had work to do, more articles to get out there. Regardless of how anyone feels about the appropriateness of bikes on certain Wilderness trails, censorship is not the answer. Shifting gears, that summer Leonie Sherman covered adventure opportunities in the Mammoth area, while sailor/ climber Paul Allen covered sailor Bill Lee’s return to the Transpac in a retrofitted Merlin. The legendary boat was an inspiration to see in action, and we were thrilled to be invited as guests for an afternoon sail before the race. Excited to take advantage of CVL’s deep history with Yosemite, we covered the history of Valley free soloing, and featured a cover photo of Steph Davis going ropeless on Outer Limits, a stout hand crack near the Merced River. Jack O’Neill passed away that year, and Domenica Berman covered the massive paddle out and back story behind the Jack O’Neill legend and brand. Keeping with the surfing theme, Aloe Driscoll wrote a piece about beautiful handmade surfboards from Ventana Surfboards and CVL came through again with a great piece on the history of Yosemite slacklining, with photos by Julia Reardin and Dean Fidelman. We ended the year with another Aloe Driscoll article. This time it was about pro surfer Tyler Fox and his publication Santa Cruz Waves. Kurt Gensheimer took a mountain bike road trip across Nevada, and CVL took a hilarious look at Yosemite climbing style in the 1980s. About to publish our 100th issue, we were ready to start 2018 in a spirit of celebration but also a sense of financial pressure as companies were increasingly “going digital” and putting pressure on our ability to stay in business.
RESTORE THE DELTA / SKIING GLACIER POINT / CALENDAR
E-BIKES AT MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN / GEAR WE LOVE / EVENT PROFILES / CALENDAR
June/July 2018 • ISSUE #103
Dec 2017 / Jan 2018
Artist Mind
surf photographer trent stevens
CHRIS SHARMA sea & stone GIFT GIVING GUIDE
for the adventure lovers in your life
THE CLIMBERS by Jim Herrington
2018
9 TIPS FOR CLIMBING
WITH KIDS
AVALANCHE AWARENESS
tips for reducing risk
THE CENTENNIAL RIDE from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe
HIKING THE PCT WITH A CAT THE MATURING VOICE OF MOUNTAIN BIKING mbosc expands access
PROTECT AMERICAN RIVER CANYONS PREVENT KAYAKING INJURIES
We started 2018 by celebrating our 100th issue. To come full circle, we ran a CVL cover profile of Chris Sharma, a Santa Cruz native who first graced our pages way back in 2001. Back then, he was just a lanky kid with freakishly strong fingers blowing minds at Pacific Edge Climbing Gym. In the 1990s, he was all set to become another Santa Cruz surfer until his dad took him to the climbing gym and something just clicked. For the next two decades he traveled all over the world and set the standard as the strongest, most inspiring pure rock climber in history. Issue #101 showcased a snowy Ming Poon cover photo of Lake Tahoe as we proudly featured some of his Tahoe masterpieces that were lighting up the ski mags. We also ran a Haven Livingston interview with Bianca Valenti, who has since become one of the hardest charging female big wave surfers in the world. Next, we celebrated the completion of the Mills Peak Trail in the Lost Sierra. A Kurt Gensheimer article about the 11-year project was a celebration of Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, an organization that has inspired a similar trail renaissance throughout California. Issue #103 became one of our most well-known covers. To this day, people mention the “Surf Jesus” cover photo by Trent Stevens. Next we ran a cover feature on GU cyclist Yuri
Hauswald, and his role at the forefront of California’s burgeoning gravel grinding scene. In the same issue, we profiled Seth Zaharias, a heart-of-gold climbing guide in Joshua Tree and beyond. We wrapped up 2018 with a jaw-dropping Jimmy Chin cover photo of Alex Honnold free soloing Free Rider on El Cap. The movie Free Solo became a mainstream hit and made Honnold a household name. Last but not least, Kurt Gensheimer joined climbing legend Chris McNamara for A Dirt Lap Around Lake Tahoe, a mountain bike odyssey linking all the available legal trail to circumnavigate Lake Tahoe. Climbing over 20,000 feet in two days, this was a sufferfest for the ages.
www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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24 ASJ ASJ—April/May — March/April 2013 2021
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2019
By 2019, our environmental message was coming into focus. Adam Ü graced our cover as the kind of athlete we wanted to celebrate: a gifted skier, climber, and marine biologist. Leonie Sherman also supported our first 2019 issue (#106) with a profile of backcountry advocacy organization Winter Wildlands Alliance to continually emphasize human powered backcountry travel. To recognize legendary Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue founder Doug Read, outdoor journalist Tim Hauserman took a deep dive into the community of people who risk everything to save others in Tahoe. Also, in staying with a Tahoe theme, issue #107 featured Kurt Gensheimer’s profile of bike/ski prodigy Max Fish who took on Heavenly’s Gunbarrel 25, an old school mogul challenge founded by ski wild man Glen Plake in 2004. Our spring issue that year put an emphasis on the Tahoe MTB explosion with a Deanna Kerr look at the history of Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, possibly the most famous mountain bike trail in Tahoe, for better or worse. That year was a banner year for whitewater, and we enlisted rafting aficionado and journalist Barry Kruse to help our readers find the right adventure from mild to wild. Sticking to the water theme, issue #109 opened with a memorable sea kayaking photo by Ben Herndon, and also featured a profile of legendary kayak badass/safety guru Gigi McBee. For hikers, longtime ASJ writer Matt Johanson took readers on a guided tour of the John Muir Trail. Also featured was a guide to bikepacking Catalina Island by Parker Amstutz. In fall of that year, we went to Yosemite for the annual Facelift event hosted by Ken Yager and Allyson Gunsallus. Tying the whole thing together, we featured a stunning Dakota Snider photo of a hang glider over Half Dome for our first ever “Yosemite Issue.” After all, Yosemite was the birthplace of ASJ and we thought the tribute to “the center of the universe” was fitting, along with the CVL profile of Yager. Our final issue of 2019 featured a stunning Joseph Dondelinger photo of mountain biker Thomas McGrady night riding with the Milky Way in full display. Also, that issue we began working with climbing author Dierdre Wolownick, mom of Alex Honnold and ground breaking athlete in her own right. Her story Climbing to an Intentional Life was a powerful look at using rock climbing as a way to escape some painful memories raising her two kids. For that issue, Leonie Sherman went to Finland for a climate change summit, and CVL dealt with the deaths of climbers David Lama, Jess Roskelley, and Hansjörg Auer. Also in issue #111, ASJ editor Matt Niswonger broached the subject of depression, an affliction that seems to disproportionately affect outdoor athletes.
OUTDOOR YOGA / CALIFORNIA MAP MAKEOVER / EARN YOUR BEER / GEAR WE LOVE
FALL 2020 ISSUE #115
DIVERSIFY THE OUTDOORS
ALLYSON GUNSALLUS
Yosemite Climbing Association
Reno Bike Project Raising Conservation Kids
2020
We started 2020 with a Jan Tiura cover photo of Yosemite Golden Age climber Bob Swift with a story of his life and death by CVL. Also in issue #112, Krista Houghton helped our readers escape the chilly bite of winter with a surfing trip to Hawaii for DIY travelers. We looked at the future of winters with Protect Our Winter's Jeremy Jones and Mario Molina, along with a cover photo by Ming Poon. As we began working on issue #114, the pandemic hit and a social justice reckoning rocked our world. ASJ co-founder Matt Niswonger started Riders Against Racism (RAR), a non profit organization to help bring the fight for inclusion to the outdoors. Our summer issue featured an article by Leonie Sherman about the League to Save Lake Tahoe
JAN TIURA ADVENTURE GUIDE
with a dreamy Tahoe waterscape cover photo by Trevor DeHaas. Guest editor Justin Cummings, the mayor of Santa Cruz, wrote a hard hitting piece about bringing diversity to conservation. For issue #115, we worked with Josh Pearlman and Santa Cruz Bicycles on a project to put then Santa Cruz mayor Justin Cummings on our cover — the tagline read Diversify The Outdoors. Also in that issue, Rick Gunn and Jim Scripps teamed up on an article about the Reno Bike Project. We also ran a story about Allyson Gunsallus, the Managing Director of the Yosemite Climbing Association. We ended 2020 with a resource for skiing in the time of COVID and heard from participants in the first RAR 50/50 Challenge, and their attempt to climb over 50K feet on a MTB in less than 50 days.
www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
25
11 CORE COMPANIES
As ASJ has evolved, so have our advertisers. In addition to making our publication possible with their support, these core companies have experienced rapid growth over the last twenty years.
Western Mountaineering PAST
Twenty years ago, Western Mountaineering was manufacturing in the same Bay Area building they are in today (in San Jose, California) but with fewer sewing machine operators, a smaller product line, and different fabrics. Down was $50 per pound at the time, and the test standard procedure took just 24 hours.
PRESENT These days, down costs twice as much as 20 years ago, coming in at roughly $100 per pound. Test standard procedures have become more extensive over the years and now involve five days of lofting in a climate controlled environment. In addition, the conditioning processes of steaming and tumble drying have been added to the test procedure. These procedures keep the Western Mountaineering team – which has grown to 48 people – very busy. Since the pandemic, about half of the sewing machine operators have been working from home on industrial machines they already own or that were supplied to them. This has allowed Western Mountaineering to continue manufacturing safely with far fewer people in the building throughout the day. Western Mountaineering has also produced and supplied well over 100,000 face masks, keeping their staff employed and local communities safer. Furthermore, their product line has grown, especially in the Extremelite series of sleeping bags with many bags coming in at less than a pound now. Over 95% of their products are still made right here in California.
FUTURE
Going forward, Western Mountaineering’s goal is to continue producing the finest down products in the world, using the most sustainable, ethical and advanced raw materials available. The owners will continue to work closely with suppliers to develop fabrics which are balanced, down proof (to keep feathers from leaking out), lightweight, and durable enough to last for decades. In the coming years, Western Mountaineering plans to slowly expand their product line with innovative products that will set new standards and break barriers in performance, weight and compressibility. Western Mountaineering will continue to manufacture in California in the years to come and they fully expect to be making warm puffy stuff with the same commitment to quality for a very long time. westernmountaineering.com 26 ASJ — March/April 2021 26 ASJ—April/May 2013
Four Wheel Campers PAST
In 2001, Four Wheel Campers was into their fourth decade of truck camper production. By then, they had already relocated to Woodland, California from their original Colorado location where they were established in 1972. The “overlanding” lifestyle was just taking off in the early 2000s and Four Wheel Campers had established themselves as a leader in pop-up campers. Twenty years ago Four Wheel Campers had two US dealers, 25 employees and were producing 160 slide-in campers annually. There were no solar or lithium battery solutions, and only one type and color of aluminum siding at the time.
PRESENT
Four Wheel Campers is still based in Woodland, where they have been since 1989. They’ve experienced huge growth over the past 20 years, going from two to ten US dealers, plus six international dealers. They currently have 100 employees and produce 1,200 campers per year. In addition to the slide-in campers, Four Wheel Campers is also producing flat-bed campers and topper campers, with various solar and lithium battery solutions as well as two types of aluminum siding with seven color choices.
FUTURE
Four Wheel Campers will be remaining in Woodland, but are moving to a larger facility in August 2021. Their goal is to reach more outdoor enthusiasts such as mountain bikers, surfers, paddlers, birders, photographers, climbers, and more. The company plans to continue partnering with ASJ to reach these outdoor lovers. fourwheelcampers.com
Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) PAST
ENO had only been in business for a couple of years as of 2001. They were very much a new business — just a man and van operation, selling hammocks at festivals and community gatherings across the southeastern US.
PRESENT
Today, with a home base nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, ENO offers roughly 70 products across 12 different categories, from hammocks and straps to tarps and nets to their newest endeavors in portable outdoor games and backyard furniture. Their products are sold in more than 2,000 outdoor and sporting good retail stores across the nation, online, and in over 13 countries.
FUTURE
ENO remains committed to the journey of building more sustainably and responsibly made products while staying true to their legacy of creating quality relaxation gear that helps people spend more time outside and connect with the world around them. enonation.com
Advanced Elements PAST
Twenty years ago this year, Advanced Elements was just starting out, with the introduction of the first hybrid inflatable kayak, then called the AirFrame. REI was one of the first retailers to get behind it and it quickly became a success. We started working with Adventure Sports Journal during our early years.
PRESENT
Today, Advanced Elements is still located in California’s Bay Area, where their design and development remains. Their distribution has grown to over 50 countries worldwide.
FUTURE
Advanced Elements plans to continue developing new and unique paddlesports products while listening to the wants and needs of their customers. We plan to continue working with ASJ for many years to come. advancedelements.com
Pacific Yurts
Gregory Packs
PAST
PAST
At the time ASJ was founded 20 years ago, yurts were rapidly growing in popularity thanks to the efforts of Pacific Yurts which was founded in 1978 and operated from an old Oregon dairy barn. In 2001, Pacific Yurts completed their facility expansion, which allowed them to better meet the increasing demand. The historically innovative company also introduced a new feature to their products: the window awning frame, which allowed people the freedom to leave their windows open for increased ventilation without worries of rain intrusion.
PRESENT
Despite difficulties created by the COVID-19 pandemic in the year 2020, Pacific Yurts is as busy as ever. In fact, they have just expanded their fabric division to keep up with demand for not only new yurts, but also replacement parts for Pacific Yurts that have been in use for many years.
FUTURE
The future looks very bright indeed with more and more resorts adding “glamping” yurt rentals and individuals wanting to create private retreats of their own while skipping the airline travel. As Pacific Yurts continues to grow, they plan to stay at the top of their industry. yurts.com
Twenty years ago, Gregory was 23 years young and located in the town of Temecula in Southern California. They were about one eighth of the size they are today and the founder, Wayne Gregory, was still designing all of the products himself. In 2000, Gregory’s flagship Pro Series line of packs won an Editor’s Choice award from Backpacker magazine and this was the beginning of a multidecade journey to become a global leader in pack fit and comfort. In 2003, Gregory launched their first pack for women, the Deva, which is still going strong today alongside the men’s counterpart, the award-winning Baltoro.
PRESENT
Though Gregory’s offering has grown to include backpacking, hiking, everyday adventure and travel gear, the Baltoro and Deva still remain best-selling packs. A dedicated team of pack designers and outdoor enthusiasts work in Gregory’s Salt Lake City, Utah headquarters and the brand is still winning awards.
FUTURE
Gregory’s small, talented and dedicated team plans to keep raising the bar higher. This May, they’ll be launching the world’s first comprehensive collection of plus size backpacks. This is one of many surprises for the year ahead. gregorypacks.com
Pacific Edge Climbing Gym PAST
Hydrapak PAST
In 2001, Matt Lyon founded HydraPak in Oakland with a small line of five hydration backpacks and its own unique reservoir. He started the day before 9/11, leading to a crazy first year of business. After a few years, HydraPak had found its niche in providing hydration systems to other brands, and started focusing on redesigning every element of its hydration products. Two years later, the running Softflask was introduced as the first new product for athletes beyond backpack reservoirs.
PRESENT
Today, the company is the largest supplier of reservoirs and soft flasks to premium brands, including leaders like Osprey backpacks and Salomon running vests. It is also the category leader in flexible bottles and water storage, selling broadly through specialty outdoor stores. Bicycle water bottles were added in 2018 under the Polar Bottle brand. The RECON Tritan bottle debuted in 2020 — the company’s first product made with 50% recycled materials
At the turn of the century, Pacific Edge was just seven years old, and climbing was still very much a “fringe sport” in the US. Their climbing prodigy, Chris Sharma had just left the nest and was on his way to establish the world’s first 5.15a climb, Biographie. The Northern California Youth Climbing League was in its first years and the championships were hosted at Pacific Edge. The YCL was the beginning of a national movement for youth climbing competitions.
PRESENT
Due to COVID-19, revenue has trickled down to 2000 levels and the gym has been closed for six months. Throughout this time, the community has remained so strong and their support of the gym and their staff has been truly amazing.
FUTURE
HydraPak continues to focus on innovating new products for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The customer and employee love for the outdoors is also driving a push towards sustainability in its own operations and the life cycle of its products.
Pacific Edge looks forward to bringing back their broad range of climbing classes, youth programs, and in-person yoga to members, and if they can bounce back, they might even expand.
hydrapak.com
pacificedgeclimbinggym.com
FUTURE
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Costanoa
Kayak Connection
OARS
Twenty years ago Costanoa had been open for just over one year. There were still some areas of unfinished construction and unavailable services. For example the hot tub was not yet open, the liquor license wasn’t in place, and some of the tent bungalows had not been raised. The black top pavement was still being poured in some areas, and much of the landscape was brand new. The RV campground area was used primarily for car camping and the food service was a deli-like facility.
Twenty years ago, Kayak Connection was under the original ownership of avid paddlers and water sports enthusiasts Mark Pastick and Margaret Collins. The owners and their small staff were excited to be celebrating ten years of happy paddling with locations in both the Santa Cruz Harbor and Elkhorn Slough. They offered lessons, rentals, tours and kids’ programs. The popularity of SUPing helped further grow their business. Dave and Jess Grigsby fulfilled their dream of having a paddling shop of their own when they purchased Kayak Connection in 2012.
Under the leadership of company founder, George Wendt, by the early 2000s OARS had earned a reputation as the preeminent river running company in the West with established rafting operations in Grand Canyon, California, Oregon, Idaho, and Utah. They had also branched out internationally with sea kayaking trips in Baja and a small rafting operation in Fiji where, along with nine local land-owning clans, two villages, a logging company and a government entity, they successfully established the Upper Navua Conservation Area.
PAST
PRESENT
Today they have a fully developed infrastructure with upgraded Premium RV sites that include fire pits, BBQs, and patio furniture. There is a restaurant, full service bar, conference center and catering facilities. There is also a seasonally operated outdoor dining facility with a pizza oven and draft beer. The landscaping is mature and they’ve added a new community fire pit as well as rustic water features.
PAST
PRESENT
PAST
PRESENT
The Grigsbys have continued to focus their attention on family friendly service and have recently enlarged the footprint of the Santa Cruz Harbor store, allowing them to expand both their retail offerings and instruction programs.
Today, Wendt’s sons, Tyler and Clavey, are leading the company and are dedicated to furthering OARS’ commitment to the preservation of wild places and creating meaningful outdoor experiences for our guests — values that have been at the core of OARS for five decades.
FUTURE
FUTURE
Costanoa hopes to add more outdoor related activities, especially for children, including a pump track, skate ramp, and expanded mountain biking trails.
Having survived the challenges of running a business during COVID-19, the Grigsbys (just like all good paddlers) look forward to adapting to constantly shifting conditions and growing their business.
costanoa.com
kayakconnection.com
oars.com
FUTURE
The OARS team endeavors to continue to set high standards, promote a culture of respect and inclusivity, embrace change, be an industry leader, and inspire a love for wild rivers.
Thanks to the support of our extraordinary members and community who have sustained Pacific Edge and Staff through this last year of closures. We are OPEN and plan to stay that way! Also: Congratulations to Adventure Sports Journal in their 20th year! 28 28 ASJ ASJ—April/May — March/April 2013 2021
104 BRONSON STREET #12 SANTA CRUZ, CA, 95062 PacificEdgeClimbingGym.com
www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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SWIFTWICK VISION SIX IMPRESSION NATIONAL PARKS COLLECTION What a great way to pay homage to your favorite national park! We’re especially partial about the Yosemite design (did you know ASJ was conceived on a climbing trip there?) but each and every design is beautiful. These socks aren’t just creative works of art, though. They’re constructed with high performance fibers that will take great care of your feet no matter your adventure. Moisture wicking and designed with medium cushion for long-lasting comfort, these socks also boast moderate compression to support muscles and a seamless toe to keep blisters at bay. Choose from Yellowstone, Zion, Great Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, and in celebration of its 100th anniversary, Grand Canyon; designs by Anderson Design Group. Swiftwick proudly supports the work of the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks. 75% Nylon / 21% Polyester / 4% Spandex. Small, medium, large, and extra large sizes available. MSRP: $15.99 • swiftwick.com
Gear We Love
OUTDOOR RESEARCH WOMEN’S HELIUM DOWN HOODIE
Goodies for your active lifestyle
ZODIAC LIGHTS GEMINI 2300 NATHAN TRAILMIX 12 LITER RACE PACK Running market leader Nathan Sports’ 12 Liter Race Pack is so versatile that it’s not just for trail running. This pack is actually ideal for day hiking, cycling, and other adventures. Carry as much as or as little as you like … this 12 liter pack can fit it all as well as pack down small. For such a streamlined and lightweight pack, the Trailmix 12L is designed with an impressive selection of storage compartments and special features. It boasts a roll-top main storage section, a compartment for the included 2L hydration bladder, front adjustable bottle pockets, two rear stretch pockets, AND a couple of zippered pockets for keeping valuables secure. If you think a pack with this many storage compartments couldn’t possibly be comfortable fully packed, we’re here to tell you it’s magically sweet. Adjustable side straps allow you to snug things up to just the right fit, while an internal compression system snugs up the load against your back keeping things surprisingly stable and light. The pack is constructed with a wicking mesh material to keep moisture at bay, and reflective elements boost visibility for safety. Trailmix comes in one-size-fits-most and expanded sizes, in a variety of attractive colorways. A 7-liter version also available. MSRP: $149.99 • nathansports.com
Whether you love riding at night or simply don’t love being caught in the dark at the end of a long ride, the Zodiac Lights Gemini 2300 is just the right light system for you. The kit features a GoPro-compatible base and bar mount, and an integrated long-lasting, rechargeable battery. Its 2300 lumens shine clearly and strongly, and you can dial in the brightness with five settings to choose from. Extremely durable yet light, this system is shock resistant, anti-fog, and IP64 waterproof rated. Founded on the principle that lights can be both high quality and cost effective, Zodiac Lights offers two other options besides the Gemini 2300: the Aries 2000 and Taurus 3200. MSRP: $145 • zodiac-lights.com
FINDSTER DUO+ GPS PET TRACKER
The Findster Duo+ pet tracker is a must-have for anyone adventuring with a canine companion. Its real-time GPS tracking will set your mind at ease no matter where you roam. Yes, that means in remote locales as no cell coverage is needed! Here’s how it works: Findster Duo+ consists of two modules — one that attaches to your furry adventure partner’s collar and another that stays with you — and these two modules communicate wirelessly with each other in a radius of up to three miles (sometimes even farther in the right conditions!). You then moniter your pet’s activity via a remarkably intuitive app downloaded to your smartphone. No worries, no hassles! Findster Duo+ does more than keep track of your doggo’s location on adventures. Its activity tracker logs the miles traveled, the number of steps taken, and how long your pup has been resting. You can even create “safe areas” and be notified right away if he or she leaves that space. We’ve been out adventuring with the Findster Duo+ in a wide range of conditions and can attest to its reliability and durability. The pet module has so far stood up incredibly well to rowdy play (puppies! in the forest!) and some pretty nasty weather. Furthermore, it’s intuitive and simple to use. Since Findster Duo+ uses wireless technology instead of relying on cell service, there’s no monthly subscription. Just pay for the kit and that’s it. MSRP: $149.99 • getfindster.com 30 ASJ ASJ—April/May — March/April 2013 2021
Outdoor Research (OR) has certainly raised the bar in the puffy jacket category with the ultra-durable and ultralight Women’s Helium Down Hoodie. Wait, did we just use the words ultradurable and ultralight in the same description? Indeed we did! Thanks to OR’s innovative Pertex Diamond Fuse fabric, you can confidently tackle the most burly adventures without sacrificing weight. Furthermore, this hooded version of OR’s Helium Down Collection boasts the exclusive waterproof Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse fabric on its hood, shoulders, and upper sleeves for additional weather protection. This unique fabric is designed with diamondshaped filaments that lock together, offering five times the tear strength of the current fabric used in OR’s Helium shell. The rest of the jacket is made from Pertex Diamond Fuse Ripstop, a breathable fabric that is twice as abrasion-resistant than the face fabric used in most down jackets. The interior is filled with premium RDS (Responsible Down Standard) 800+ fill goose down. At 15.4 ounces, this packable puffy will serve you well for countless adventures. The Helium Down Collection also includes a vest and hoodless jacket, in both men’s and women’s versions in a variety of colors and sizes. MSRP: $279.00 • outdoorresearch.com
THERM-A-REST NEOAIR® UBERLITE™ SLEEPING PAD (REGULAR)
Therm-A-Rest’s NeoAir® UberLite™ — a popular choice among long distance backpackers — offers insulated comfort in an extraordinarily lightweight and compact sleeping pad. We’re talking 2.5 inches of comfort … and with a 2.3 R-value, the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any air sleeping pad construction. The high-performance WingLock valve features a larger opening and one-way inflation which allow the pad to inflate three times faster; an included pump sack saves your breath even more. The regular size NeoAir® UberLite™ measures 72 x 20 inches, weighs a mere 8.8 ounces and packs down to a tiny 6 x 3.6 inches. Small, Regular Wide, and Large versions are also available. MSRP: $ 199.95 • thermarest.com
KELTY CBD ANTIBACTERIAL SPRAY Kelty’s CBD Antibacterial Spray is a must-have for your on-the-go first aid kit. The one-ounce nonaerosol spray bottle is easily packable, offering peace of mind for those minor cuts, scrapes and burns that are likely while adventuring. Containing 200 mg of CBD, this spray will give you instant relief from pain and also protect you against infection. Kelty’s CBD Antibacterial Spray is nonpsychoactive (no THC) and is not tested on animals. MSRP: $39.95 • kelty.com
Featuring ‘more space for trail snacks’ technology.
FLUX™ 1.5 L For long thru-hikes, the items you carry must earn their space in your pack. Lucky for the Flux, it packs down smaller than a deck of cards, weighs only 97g, and threads into 42mm water filters. Add in a 12 ASJ—Aug/Sept 2011
spill-proof, drink-through cap, and it’s all that with extra space for kettle chips.
www. advent ur espor t sjour nal. com
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Photo by @TravisBurklePhotography
The Ultimate Adventure Rig
Camper Models For Most Trucks - From $9,295 World’s Leading Pop-Up Campers Since 1972 32 ASJ—April/May 2013
www.fourwheelcampers.com