Elevation Outdoors Summer 2023

In Granby, everything’s a little more independent. Even so, we celebrate community.

It’s evident every Thursday during the summer at Music & Market.

It’s an event that brings together neighbors, visitors, musicians, artisans, makers, bakers, and farmers at our hometown park in the heart of Granby.

It’s how we unite as a town – to meet up with family and to catch up with friends. The kids run free and we tap our toes until the sun goes down.

GRANBY. A LITTLE MORE INDEPENDENT.

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For Nearest Dealer, Videos & Product Information Please Visit Our Website

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IN THIS ISSUE

SUMMER 2023

SILVERTHORNE, COLORADO

DEPARTMENTS

7 EDITOR’S LETTER

An argument in favor of e-bikes on the trails

9 QUICK HITS

Hit Colorado’s high dirt roads; put the family in an adventure wagon; explore ghost towns; find the goods in Ridgway; and learn about our favorite new gear, tech, and book.

14

FLASHPOINT

Luis Benitez has topped Everest six times and positioned Colorado as a thought leader as the first director of the state’s Outdoor Recreation Department. Now, he has his vision set on creating a national department that would put recreation at the forefront of the national agenda.

HOT SPOT

Jackson Hole is calling. Point the grill to the world-famous winter resort this summer to find easy-to-access fun with big kicks.

24

ROAD TRIP GEAR

It’s time to hit the road in search of that perfect adventure. Here’s the gear you must have.

26

THE ROAD

The road to nowhere always leads you to somewhere unexpected—no matter if that is the summit of a wilderness peak or the courage to rethink the way we see and define ourselves in the outdoors. By Dani Reyes-Acosta.

30

ELWAYVILLE

Peter Kray learned a lesson from each one of his beloved dogs—and they can teach us how to be better people.

FEATURES

18

FIVE COLORADO ROAD TRIPS

Hop along on our favorite fun-season excursions.

21

THE 2023 SUMMER PEAK GEAR AWARDS

This hardware is the real deal. We asked our core contributors to pick the gear they use the most, the gear that performs the best for them, to determine who wins these biannual awards. So, without further ado, we present the outdoor products that make our lives better.

ON THE COVER

Storyteller, athlete, and POW Alliance Member of the Year Dani ReyesAcosta gets after it in the San Juans. Hear what she has to say on page 26.

By Abigail LaFleur-Shaffer abigaillafleur.com Instagram @abi.lafleur

Find your next adventure in Silverthorne. Surrounded by miles of hiking and biking trails and located next to the famed fishing waters of the Blue River, Silverthorne offers a multitude of outdoor experiences perfect for your summer in the mountains.

WANT MORE? CATCH UP ON PAST ISSUES, YOUR FAVORITE BLOGGERS, AND DAILY ONLINE CONTENT AT ELEVATIONOUTDOORS.COM.

THE ROAD DONE RIGHT: See our picks for best road trip gear, including Tune’s roomy M1 camper, on page 24.

Photo courtesy of Tune.

GUIDE YOUR WAY.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN doug@elevationoutdoors.com

PRESIDENT / PUBLISHER

BLAKE DEMASO blake@elevationoutdoors.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

MELISSA KENNELLY m.kennelly@elevationoutdoors.com

EDITORIAL + PRODUCTION

MANAGING EDITOR

CAMERON MARTINDELL cameron@elevationoutdoors.com

DEPUTY EDITOR

TRACY ROSS

SENIOR EDITOR CHRIS KASSAR

COPY EDITOR

MELISSA HOWSAM

EDITOR-AT-LARGE PETER KRAY

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

AARON BIBLE, ROB COPPOLILLO, LIAM DORAN, JAMES DZIEZYNSKI, HUDSON LINDENBERGER, SONYA LOONEY, CHRIS VAN LEUVEN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS SETH BOSTER, ARIELLA NARDIZZI, RADHA MARCUM, FREDERICK REIMERS, DANI REYES-ACOSTA, KIERAN SCHNITZSPAHN

DESIGNER/ART MANAGE R REBECCA CENCEWIZKI art@blueridgeoutdoors.com

ADVERTISING + BUSINESS

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER HANNAH COOPER hannah@elevationoutdoors.com

BUSINESS MANAGER MELISSA GESSLER melissa@elevationoutdoors.com

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES hannah@elevationoutdoors.com

CIRCULATION INQUIRIES circulation@elevationoutdoors.com

DIGITAL MEDIA

ONLINE DIRECTOR

CRAIG SNODGRASS

DIGITAL EDITOR

RYAN MICHELLE SCAVO

PUBLISHED BY ©2022 Summit Publishing, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

SUMMIT PUBLISHING

What’s your favorite roadside attraction?

DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

The Coffee Kiva outside of Escalante, Utah. Where else can you get espresso in the middle of a stunning red rock wilderness?

HANNAH COOPER

Anything with snacks!

CAMERON MARTINDELL

City parks and rec centers, especially with kids—stop and run or swim and get the wiggles out.

TRACY ROSS

Idaho's Lost River Range region— and not because of the Ammon Bundy for Gov. signs.

RYAN MICHELLE SCAVO

When our family is road tripping, we can’t help but stop at big bridges. One of my favorites is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge outside Taos, New Mexico. It’s 650 feet above the Rio Grande and offers amazing views!

DANI REYES-ACOSTA

I love rushing rivers— watching them, stopping to eat a snack, and swimming in them.

FREDERICK REIMERS

The actual London Bridge that some Arizona millionaire bought and moved to Lake Havasu City.

AARON BIBLE

Natural springs, like the one on the road to A-Basin or on the way up to Caribou. There’s nothing like filling your bottles with fresh spring water.

ARIELLA NARDIZZI

Plume Coffee Bar is a must-stop for every road trip. It's got the best coffee to revive you after a long hike, a homey atmosphere and the friendliest strangers. Plus, I love exploring Silver Plume’s unique mining history and “living ghost town.”

SETH BOSTER

A massive beetle looms over Highway 115 south of Colorado Springs. That's Herkimer, built in 1949 by John May to mark the May Natural History Museum—a collection exotic bugs from around the world.

PETER KRAY

The Collegiate Range is the best photo stop in all of Colorado.

IN PRAISE OF THE E-BIKE

by DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

The first time I got an e-mountainbike to test ride, it arrived in a semi truck and was delivered on a pallet. The PR guy who wanted me to try it out told me it would be a great way to hammer my friends on the trail. I wanted nothing to do with that. I thought it would be a cheap, classless, weak, and feckless way to ride at all. So the bike sat, untouched, in my garage for weeks. One day, I finally decided I would at least take it for a spin on the streets. I had barely gotten to the end of my block when I saw a friend out working on his yard. Instead of being embarrassed by my fall into cycling impurity, I yelled out to him: “You have to try this thing.”

There was no way in hell it was going to replace my baby, my Santa Cruz Tallboy, and my determination to gut out hard work when it comes to mountain biking. And even if I felt the lure of the e-bike, I still believe in that ethos. I like to suffer. I like to do it on my own. So even after that first electric ride, I stayed away from e-bikes on the trails.

Oh, I was just fine riding them on Boulder’s incredible bike path infrastructure. I learned that I rode my bike more when it was an e-bike. I took it to the store, the gym, and on any other errand that made sense. I love how it made those quick trips easier and kept me out of my car. But the trails? No. I still saw that as cheating.

Then I met Santa Claus. I was in Finland in 2017 to hike Halti, the country’s highest point as a celebration of the nation’s 100th birthday and we were staging in the town of Rovaniemi on the Arctic Circle. This is where the big man lives, or so our Finnish hosts assured us. And they double assured us they were not

joking. Indeed, more then 500,000 people come here every year to sit on his lap (at least in spirit) and check out his workshop (where a deadpan elf showed me a diagram that scientifically explains how he does it all in one night... something to do with the spin of the Earth and time travel.) Anyway, we were given the chance to ride fat e-bikes through the surrounding hills to reach the storied workshop.

What a joy it was. Our sturdy hiking group had a wide range of mountain biking experience—but hop on the fat e-bikes and the playing field was level. You had fun riding the trails as a lifelong cyclist or as a newbie. We flowed along and stopped to eat wild blueberries. Santa was gregarious and very glad that we had biked to him. And even more glad that we were going to benefit from the antioxidant properties of all the berries we ate.

This month, I have been getting in what my friend Jason Blevins refers to as “acoustic” mountain bike rides, but I have also had a blast on the e-mountain bike. The machines are banned on Boulder trails but nearby White Ranch in Jefferson County welcomes them. This is a perfect ride for a powered bike. It starts with a climb so ugly we rarely want to take it on anyway. Again, it’s not that the e-bike was cheating here. It was simply a different way to see and experience the trail (and I promise I will go back and ride it without the aid of power).

When it comes down to it, e-bikes are not cheating; they are fun. They don’ t go too fast (most shut off around 20 mph); they don’ t somehow ruin the trail (smoother riding is probably better for the trail surface); they don’ t get people in over their heads. They simply are a new way to flow on the trails. Don’ t believe me?

Try one. And then tell Santa what you want this Christmas.

GQUALITY EAR RESELL

FEEL THE POWER: IF YOU DON'T LIKE E-BIKES, YOU PROBABLY NEVER TRIED ONE.

THERE'S A LOT TO LIKE ABOUT POWERING UP YOUR PEDALS.

ROADS WITH A VIEW

DRIVE THE ROADS EVEN THE MINERS COULDN’T TAME.

The pavement gets all the love. Asphalt stretches to some of America’s highest reaches in Colorado, including Mount Evans (14,130 feet) and Pikes Peak (14,115 feet). Paved roads can also take drivers over Loveland, Cottonwood, and Independence passes, all of which cross the Continental Divide. But what's an adventure without extra adrenaline? Jump outside of the lines and drive along the harsh ground above treeline miners tried and failed to tame.

If you want to feel that Rocky Mountain high off the blacktop, check out the following high drives on dirt in the Centennial State: Mount Antero (14,270 feet) is a third 14er auto tour on the wilder side. Mosquito Pass (13,186 feet), aka the Highway of Frozen Death, rumbles far above Fairplay and Leadville; the nickname serves as a warning. Imogene Pass (13,114 feet) follows a steep, twisting track between Telluride and Ouray, with the bonus of visiting the ghost town of Tomboy. Engineer Pass (12,800 feet) represents the highest point along the beautiful, often-brutal Alpine Loop spanning 65 miles. You can reach it from Lake City, Ouray, and Silverton.

—Seth Boster

LARS PETTER JONASSEN @LPJONASSEN

THE ROAD UP ANTERO PEAK PROMISES TO BRING YOU TO A HIGHER PURPOSE.

THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP VEHICLE

VANLIFE—AS IN TRULY FULLtime this-is-my-only-abode—isn’t for everybody. When I take a lap around my neighborhood, it seems there are at least a handful of modern conversion vans on each block. In talking with a number of owners, the frequency of use ranges drastically from the dedicated few who get out nearly every weekend, plus the occasional big trip a year to the majority of owners who get out around once a month—maybe more in the summer.

The problem with a van that has been converted into a camper is it can mostly only be used as a camper. Granted, there will be exceptions, but this was what the team at Adventure Wagon wanted to address. They designed a system so a conversion van doesn’t just convert once into a camper van, but so it can easily convert as needed from camper van to cargo van to a high-capacity people-mover.

The team at Adventure Wagon (adventurewagon.com) loaned us a van to test out on a trip to Utah. Our family of four needed the double bunk system plus four seats with seatbelts for on the road. It was a simple setup with a Dometic electric cooler as the extent of our kitchen and a Goal Zero battery and solar panel to power the 12-volt electrical lights and USB outlets.

The entire interior of the van can go from a camping configuration to totally empty in about 15 minutes.

To do this, Adventure Wagon uses L-Track (logistics track) to anchor all of the modular pieces in the van. This is a common system used in a number of other cargo hauling industries, including aviation. The L-Track is installed along the floors and walls, and it’s how the chairs, bed shelves, and cargo bags are secured to the inside of the vehicle. This means, when emptied, the van can be used for household DYI projects to haul full sheets of plywood or other materials when it’s not being used as a camper van.

The van proved to be very convenient on our 1,000-mile journey. We had two bed shelves stacked in the back of the van. Initially, we thought the kids would want to be on the top bunk, so we set the bunk higher up, sacrificing some of their headroom for my wife and me on the bottom bunk. This also left plenty of room under the bunk for gear storage where two long sliding drawers could come out of the back of the van for easy gear access. Van camping is always going to be a little crammed with four people—even though the kids are small at 5 and 8 years old.

On our drive home, we foolishly thought we could find a campsite near Moab. Instead, with evening approaching, we managed to find a dispersed camping location near town just before dark. And this is the beauty of the fully contained camping van system. After grabbing dinner in town, we just parked, boiled up some hot drinks, and settled into bed.

—Cameron Martindell

GOLD RUSH GHOST TOWNS

GET ON COLORADO’S BACKROADS AND EXPLORE THESE THREE ABANDONED MINING TOWNS.

A state steeped in rich mining history, Colorado boasts some of the most fascinating ghost towns in the country. These abandoned communities offer a window into the past, to the height of the gold rush. While they may now be desolate, the stories they bear are as spirited as ever.

One such ghost town is St. Elmo, nestled in the heart of the Sawatch Range. Once a thriving mining community, St. Elmo is now a perfectly preserved example of a late 19th century mining hub. Forty-three historic buildings await exploration, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of miners and their families.

Continue South to Animas Forks, settled at 11,200 feet in the San Juans. This remote community was home to several successful mines, but brutal snowstorms and harsh winters froze the residents out by the 1920s. Today, visitors can explore the town’s remaining structures along the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway.

For those seeking a truly eerie experience, Colorado’s largest ghost town, Ashcroft, is not to be missed. This former silver-mining town has been abandoned for over a century. The preserved buildings, including a hotel, saloon, and post office, are rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of former residents. With stories of boom and bust, fortunes lost and found, and the resilient spirit of mountain-town settlers, you’ll come away from these adventures with a newfound appreciation for Colorado’s epic history.

—Ariella Nardizzi

EAT PLAY STAY: RIDGWAY, COLORADO

EAT

When it comes to experiencing Ridgway’s local cuisine, True Grit Cafe (truegritcafe.com) is a beloved local haunt that embodies the spirit of the West with its tasty Cowboy Cuisine. This premier “Ranch-to-Fork” eatery will make you feel at home with locally sourced comfort food “just like mom used to make.” Indulge in hearty breakfast options, like their famous huevos rancheros, or savor a mouthwatering elk burger.

TECHNOLOGY GEAR WE LOVE BOOKS

NATURAL ATLAS

This app blends offline mapping and GPS locating with an exhaustive naturalist field guide into a field diary. Identify and document flora and fauna with over 1.3 million animals and 400,000 plants. The maps include information about the geology, land ownership, points of interest (waterfalls, arches, etc.), tree cover, and tide info for on-the-go discoveries.

$40/YR | NATURALATLAS.COM

PEAK DESIGN CAR VENT MOUNT

Avoid drilling holes or using super sticky tape to install a phone mount in your vehicle. This clever unit makes a very stable connection to the vent fins and allows the magnetically attached phone to move out of the way so it doesn’t impede airflow.

$65–$100 | PEAKDESIGN.COM

HIKING SAFETY HANDBOOK

Author Art Hogling has taken his decades of hiking experience plus extensive research to help anyone heading into the wilderness for a hike be safe about it.

The 284-page book is full of tips and tricks about gear, weather, terrain, trail etiquette, and much more.

$23 | MOUNTAINEERSBOOKS.COM

MODULAR DESIGN MAKES A VAN FROM ADVENTURE WAGON VERSATILE FOR ADVENTURE, DYI PROJECTS, OR MOVING LOTS OF PEOPLE AROUND TOWN.

UNWIND AND FIND ADVENTURE IN THE GATEWAY TO THE SAN JUANS.

Another culinary gem is the renowned Colorado Boy Pub & Brewery (coloradoboy.com/ ridgway). This family-owned microbrewery takes pride in its craft beverages, brewed with passion and creativity. Sip on refreshing ales while relishing the flavors of its wood-fired pizza, featuring locally grown produce and artisanal ingredients. This establishment embodies Ridgway’s commitment to sustainability through wind and solar power, while offering a genuine taste of the town’s local brewing scene.

PLAY

For adventure-seekers, Ridgway offers a plethora of riveting activities that cater to explorers of all kinds. Ridgway State Park (cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/ ridgway) is a sprawling oasis of outdoor recreation with options for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing along the pristine waters of the Ridgway Reservoir. Embark on scenic hikes, such as the Dallas Creek Trail, which treats hikers to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding sky-high peaks and

meandering streams. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or exhilarating mountain biking escapade, Ridgway State Park is a vast outdoor playground for all. For an awe-inspiring experience like no other, set your sights on the iconic San Juan Skyway. This scenic byway, which winds through the riveting mountain roads of the San Juan Mountains, unveils jaw-dropping landscapes of snowcapped summits, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls at every bend. Take your time to explore the charming towns along the route, such as Ouray and Telluride, for a full

day adventure in these bustling mountain towns.

STAY

Complete your Ridgway experience with a tranquil stay at the Chipeta Solar Springs Resort & Spa (chipetalodge .com). Unwind in the luxurious hot springs, or pamper yourself with a rejuvenating

spa treatment, all while soaking in fresh mountain air and breathtaking views. The resort’s Southwesterninspired architecture and warm hospitality make for a serene oasis. This destination is the ideal place to unwind after a long day of adventuring in Ridgway’s epic outdoors. —A.N.

Sure, #vanlife is aspirational and all, but how many of us are really taking off weeks at a time to explore the backcountry? Realistically, you are likely spending your weekends locally: Pedal Paddle Climb Run. (Hydrate and repeat?)

Imagine… returning to the trailhead to your vintage cab-over camper parked among a sea of Subaru Outbacks. Or loading up an old-school step-van with friends and preferred recreation gear stowed safely in the back. Expect lotsa smiles and waves!

(Photos of similar era/style vehicles for conceptual purposes only; not actual vehicles available.)

MOUNT SNEFFELS RISES NEAR RIDGWAY

JOURNEY TO SCP CORCOVADO WILDERNESS LODGE FOR UNFORGETTABLe OFF-THE-GRID ADVENTURE

Welcome to otherworldly adventure on the pristine Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica. Discover unforgettable outdoor activities; sea kayaking, whale watching, reef diving & snorkeling, rainforest hiking, trail rides, mangrove exploration, and nighttime rainforest wildlife watching.

Book now and experience how Every Stay Does GoodTM for your soul, community, and planet.

A WILD IDEA

LUIS BENITEZ HAS TOPPED EVEREST SIX TIMES AND POSITIONED COLORADO AS A THOUGHT LEADER AS THE FIRST DIRECTOR OF THE STATE’S OUTDOOR RECREATION DEPARTMENT. NOW, HE HAS HIS VISION SET ON CREATING A NATIONAL DEPARTMENT THAT WOULD PUT RECREATION AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE NATIONAL AGENDA.

by FREDERICK REIMERS

Political operative wasn’t Luis Benitez’ first career. Before he served as the state of Colorado’s director of the outdoor recreation industry in 2016, he was a mountaineering guide. He led climbers up the highest points on all seven continents, including six ascents of Everest. His clients included Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind person to summit Everest; military veterans searching for breakthroughs on Himalayan peaks through Warriors for Summits; and Wharton School of Business students tackling Ecuador’s Cotopaxi as part of their MBA.

As another mountaineer-turnedColorado-politician, Sen. Mark Udall has said, “You don’t climb mountains by

accident. Mountaineers are optimists. Similarly, one of the most important qualities in politics is optimism, and Luis has that.” The men got to know each other in the 1990s when Benitez was an instructor at the Colorado Outward Bound School and Udall was its director.

These days, Benitez is fresh off a stint serving as Denver-based VF Corp’s vice president of global impact and government affairs and back on the public stage politicking for increased power for his beloved outdoor recreation industry. In public appearances across the country and in the media, he is advocating for the creation of a national director of outdoor recreation. He points to the wins that Colorado’s state office of outdoor rec has generated for the state and its citizens and wants the same thing for the nation. The idea isn’t actually a new one, says Benitez. A mostly forgotten federal agency, the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation existed for 15 years through the 1960s and 1970s.

“Outdoor recreation comprises 2% of our nation’s economy and provides priceless quality of life and health benefits to our people, but there’s no specific entity shepherding it in the federal government,” says Benitez.

“Imagine how much more effective it could be with dedicated leadership.”

Seeing the Big Picture

When Gov. John Hickenlooper created the Colorado Office of Outdoor Industry and installed Benitez to lead it, he placed it in the Office of Economic Development and International Trade. The idea was to compete economically with Utah, which

had created the first such state post in 2013. Benitez did just that, helping grow Colorado’s outdoor recreation industry from $13 billion to $60 billion in four years. Among his wins were helping to persuade VF Corp to move its headquarters from North Carolina, convincing German ebike manufacturer Haibike to move from California, and landing the Outdoor Retailer show in Denver once it left Utah in 2017 (due to flagging attendance, it has since returned to Utah).

“Luis tied together the benefits of outdoor recreation: a robust economy and a happier and healthier population,” says Hickenlooper, and he sold his vision across the entire state government. “He worked with the Department of Natural Resources to make it easier to get more people into the wild. That has a material benefit to how many tents and sleeping bags our retailers sell each year.”

Benitez’s big picture thinking created far more value than can be captured by GDP. He blazed trails to Colorado’s academic community, urging Western State University to create the nation’s first MBA focused on outdoor rec in 2018, and had a hand in the creation of CU Boulder’s master’s in economics of the outdoor recreation economy, and Denver University’s Leadership in Outdoor Recreation Industry program. “Those programs create a more robust economy, but also benefit society by fostering more sustainable businesses,” says Benitez.

That scope is much wider than the one possessed by the now-defunct Bureau of Outdoor Recreation. Established in 1962, it wasn’t an advocate for private business but

did work to support groups like the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, summer camps, and other recreational organizations. The bureau played an advisory role to state and local governments to promote outdoor recreation, issuing annual reports on outdoor rec. Its biggest impact was the work it did in orchestrating the 1964 Wilderness Act, and in 1965, the creation of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The LWCF has funded some $18 billion in recreational infrastructure since its inception, ranging from boat ramps to baseball diamonds. Every single county in the nation had been the beneficiary of projects funded by the LWCF. The Bureau of Recreation was ultimately absorbed into a different agency in the Interior Department in 1977, and then dissolved thereafter.

Benitez was naturally working on the state level, but wanted agencies like his to be part of a national movement. He personally met with delegations from a half-dozen states like Montana and Michigan to create their own positions and campaign for the offices at the National Governors’ Association with Hickenlooper’s blessing. Then he created a formal agreement, the Confluence Accords, which assures alignment among the state offices on issues like promoting conservation and health and wellness. Nineteen states have signed the Confluence Accords, with another on the way. “How many other industries

AT THE PODIUM: AS COLORADO'S OUTDOOR REC LEADER, BENITEZ BROKE NEW GROUND.

“LUIS IS INCAPABLE OF TALKING ABOUT THE GREAT OUTDOORS WITHOUT GETTING PEOPLE EXCITED.” —SEN. JOHN HICKENLOOPER

have made a formal agreement to work for the greater good of society?” says Benitez. “You don't see that from the pharmaceutical industry.”

A National Vision

That alignment across the industry and the states has led to some remarkable bipartisan political wins in recent years. Outdoor recreation industry leaders were major players in advocating for the John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management and Recreation Act in 2019, which created 1.3 million acres of Wilderness and 10 new Wild and Scenic river segments, as well as increased the size of three national parks, among dozens of other conservation acts in dozens of states. The Senate passed it by a 92–8 vote, and it was signed into law by President Trump. The following year saw similar bipartisan support for the Great American Outdoors Act, which permanently allocated $900 million annually to the LWCF, which had been allowed to expire in 2018, and reduced the infamous National Park Service maintenance backlog by $9.5 billion. All of that money is actually one of the reasons Benitez sees a national outdoor recreation director as so important. Between the LWCF and money from Biden’s 2021 American Rescue Plan Act and his Infrastructure law, there are millions earmarked for outdoor recreation and conservation, but, says Benitez, few state and local entities know how to access those funds. “Even if they get to it, they don’t have people to do the work,” he says. A national outdoor rec leader could help direct that money to where it is most needed.

Veteran Washington DC outdoor recreation industry political player Jess Wahl Turner agrees with that assessment. “There are endless programs to tap for outdoor recreation,” says Turner, president of the trade organization Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “Who is coordinating with state parks to use infrastructure bill funds to build EV charging stations? There is evidence that planting greenery in school yards reduces ADHD, but who is coordinating with the department of education to do that? That’s an ideal role for a federal outdoor rec director— advocacy and education of the benefits of outdoor recreation across all government departments.”

Turner applauds Benitez for using his personal time and political capital to advocate for the creation of a national director of outdoor recreation, and, like him, would like to see the position fulfill two other primary roles: convening and expanding the state outdoor recreation offices and leading the Federal Interagency Council on Outdoor Recreation (FICOR). The latter is a partnership between seven land management agencies including the National Park Service, Forest Service, and the Bureau of Reclamation. Before it was dissolved by the Trump administration, FICOR made significant strides on behalf of outdoor recreation, including combining most federal permits and reservations into the recreation.gov website and helping the Bureau of Economic Analysis measure the economic impact of the outdoor rec industry. (Those figures, pegging outdoor rec at 2% of GDP, has been a

major tool for political wins like 2020’s Great American Outdoors Act.)

Under the Biden administration, FICOR is back, but the problem, says Turner, is that its leadership rotates annually between the agencies and so, “doesn’t have the full attention of any of them. A national outdoor recreation director would be the ideal convenor of FICOR.”

On one conference panel this spring, Benitez went so far as to call FICOR a “headless snake” in front of an actual FICOR administrator. The administrator laughed and said, “We are at least a benevolent headless snake.”

Benitez says he isn’t talking about making government larger, an important concern especially for outdoor rec’s more conservative constituents. “I’m talking about better government. I did the Colorado job with my single salary, a gas card, a computer, and a desk. The outdoor industry is great at getting by with minimal resources—give us a roll of duct tape and some bailing wire and we’ll put it together.” Wahl says she envisions a staff of 3-10, tiny by Washington standards.

Coming Soon to Commerce?

How would the position of a national outdoor recreation director be created? Benitez would prefer that it reside not in the interior department like the defunct Bureau of Recreation, but in the Department of Commerce. The closest analogue is the newly created post of assistant secretary of travel of tourism. The position was created by Congressional law last

year, which is one way the outdoor rec post could be established. Another avenue is that it could be decreed by the secretary of commerce. The latter is faster, says Turner, but the legislative route tends to withstand changes of presidential administration, so it’s ultimately more powerful. “Doing both simultaneously is usually the best route,” she says.

Benitez would like to see the position created before the next election, though Sen. Hickenlooper, the idea’s most powerful champion so far, wouldn’t commit to a timeline. He favors the secretarial order and legislation combo, saying “The secretary of commerce is on board. I’m hoping it will move forward in the days ahead.”

Is Benitez stumping for the job for himself? “I’m not looking to fluff my own pillow,” he promises. “I just realize I have a moment in my life where I have the freedom and flexibility to help get it done.”

The more Benitez stumps for the idea the better, says Hickenlooper. “Luis is incapable of talking about the great outdoors without getting people excited.”

It’s not just his charisma that makes Benitez an effective advocate, though, say political insiders. It’s also his past career on Everest and other peaks. “His street cred opens doors and creates a sense of interest about Luis, and that doesn’t hurt,” says Udall.

IN THE WILD: BENITEZ'S CRED IS STRONG THANKS TO AN IMPRESSIVE CLIMBING CAREER.

JACKSON HOLE IS HOT

POINT THE GRILL TO THE WORLD-FAMOUS WINTER RESORT THIS SUMMER TO FIND EASY-TO-ACCESS ADVENTURE WITH BIG KICKS.

by CHRIS KASSAR

When we say Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR), you think of epic big-mountain powder runs and challenging couloirs. It’s time to expand your vision. JHMR has as much, if not more, to feed your adventurous spirit in the summer. Hike on quiet alpine trails with views of the Tetons, cruise through the world-class bike park, and push your tolerance for vertigo on the via ferrata—all while ending each day in the lap of luxury with delicious food and luxurious accommodations. A summer getaway to JHMR is also ideal for groups and families with varying ability levels and desires. And because JHMR has committed to a number of sustainability initiatives (for instance, it runs year-round on wind power sourced from a neighboring wind farm in Idaho), this is one adventure you can feel great about. Bonus: You can even bring Fido!

Climb the Via Ferrata

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Want to experience climbing in the Tetons?

The the guided high-alpine climbing experience is for you. Traverse granite walls, span chasms on suspension bridges and climb wiggly ladders on the first via ferrata ever legally commissioned on public land. Push your limits and skills while enjoying

boundless views from your perch in Casper Bowl high above the valley floor. With over 15 routes ranging in difficulty and pucker factor from easy to expert, there is something for everyone. Climb the longest route (500 vertical feet) and cross the 120-foot suspension bridge, or stick to more mellow terrain; either way, you won’t regret it. Half- or full-day trips available; jacksonhole.com/ summer-activities/via-ferrata

Ride the Park

Feel the flow on countless downhill trails sure to delight those who like to defy gravity. Whether you’re a pro or just getting started, the bike park has it all: jump lines, berms, tabletops, gnarly rocky trails that get techy, flowy trails that help you find your groove, and everything in between. Pick your line, crush it, then hit the Sweetwater Gondola or the Teewinot Chairlift and do it all again. If you prefer earning your downhill, there are also plenty of sweet cross-country trails here.

One of the coolest parts about this bike park? Due to its incredible work with Teton Adaptive and Joe Stone (who broke his back and now rides an e-trike MTB), adaptive athletes have been included in planning many trails, and all bike park trails are adaptivecompatible. (Watch to learn more here: youtu.be/_w8QnqZ1mEM.)

Plus: Don’t miss Sunday Funday

Score 20% off rentals and $20 bike park tickets from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Plus, specials, competitions, and prizes, followed by free live music in the Teton Village Commons.

For info on guided rides, lessons, rentals, camps and more visit: jacksonhole.com/summer-activities/ bike-park

Hike the Mountain

Immerse yourself in the full beauty of JHMR by hiking or running a trail or two (or as many as you can). For a full-day adventure, hike from the resort base to the summit. Want to get to the summit, but don’t have all day? Ride the Bridger Gondola; then hit the 1.8-mile Cirque Trail for a breathtaking, flower-filled hike or run. Experienced hikers seeking less-traveled trails can hit Holey Moley, a new double-black-diamond-rated trail that weaves 17 miles through the Crags. Steep and strenuous, this trail has exposed sections requiring scrambling and is best-suited for experienced hikers. If hiking time or energy is limited, take the tram and explore the alpine environment on a half-mile wander along Top of the World trail. At 10,450 feet, your efforts are rewarded with 360-degree views and the chance to check out the new viewing platforms and interpretive signs sure to enrich your experience. jacksonhole.com/ summer-activities/hiking

Fuel Up

Newly renovated for summer 2023 and conveniently located in the Teton Mountain Lodge, Spur Restaurant & Bar (tetonlodge.com/spur-restaurant ) serves a combo of creative specials and old favorites for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Housemade pastas and pizzas, fresh salads, and imported meats and cheeses make Italian eatery Il Villaggio Osteria ( jhosteria.com), a must-visit. We highly recommend the mozzarella carozza appetizer and the Nutella cheesecake. For outstanding food and ambiance, hop on the Bridger Gondola to Piste Mountain Bistro ( jacksonhole. com/piste-mountain-bistro) where dinner with a view unlike any other awaits; world-famous, can’t-miss gourmet waffles (available 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at the top of the world (aka top of the Tram) at Corbet’s Cabin ( jacksonhole.com/waffles).

Rest Up

With relaxing rooms and motivating views Teton Mountain Lodge (tetonlodge.com) is the ideal place to unwind after a day of adventure. Its location at the base of JHMR means you’re an easy walk from delicious dining, various adventures and sumptuous spa treatments. With a policy that welcomes pets, and room and suite options for 2 to 14 people, you can bring all members of your family—even the furry ones—for a perfect vacation.

PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF JACKSON HOLE MOUNTAIN RESORT (X4)

FIVE PERFECT COLORADO ROAD TRIPS

BY DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN

THE PERFECT ROAD TRIP MELDS

time listening to that new playlist alongside stops that get your heart pumping. The key to doing a road trip right is taking the time to enjoy it. With this principle in mind we put together these itineraries to get outside and play in our favorite state (and dip into the Land of Enchantment). These five trips all begin in Denver (so modify your personal trip from that central loci) and soak in different regions of the state. We hope to see you out there.

1) The Circle Line: Summit to Steamboat

This classic trip heads into the heart of the beast—from Denver up I-70 to Summit County then on to Steamboat. It’s a classic cruise in mountain culture. The Route: Follow I-70 west into the mountains. Stop at Exit 205 when you hit Dillon and Silveerthorne. From here, you have multiple options to play—SUP Lake Dillon, hike Ptarmigan Peak, or fly fish on the Blue River. Head up Colorado Route 9 to Kremmling and then over Rabbit Ears Pass to Steamboat. Spend a few days paddling or fishing on the Yampa. Go mountain

biking on world-class trails. Eat, drink and maybe even got to the rodeo in town. When you have had your fill, head down Colorado 131 to State Bridge and the Colorado River. Take your time back along I-70 with stops in Avon, Vail, or Georgetown or just try to beat the traffic home.

2) Over the Top: Grand Lake to Fort Collins

You can’t get more Colorado than this adventure. Go sailing, drink beer, and visit Rocky Mountain National Park in between. It’s perfect for when the parents are in town.

The Route: Once again you head up I-70 west from Denver, but turn off to Empire and Winter Park on US 40. Stop to mountain bike and chow down at Winter Park or keep heading to the big destination—Lake Granby and Grand Lake. These high-mountain waters and their winds offer up SUP and sailing adventures as well as good eats and beer in town. You can then explore Rocky Mountain National Park via less crowded trails on the west side. Continue up US 34 and through the park via Trail Ridge Road, a thrill for all ages. Head down though Estes Park and Loveland and then take US 287 north to Fort Collins. Soak up one of the best towns in the West, full of beer, art, biking, paddling, and a solid punk rock scene. Brave 1-25 back to Denver.

3) Southern Comfort: Trinidad and Taos

See what makes Colorado a Southwestern state. This excursion hits gravel roads, hot springs, and reminds us that these lands have been a homeland long before the Centennial State put borders on them. The Route: Follow I-25 south (key up some good podcasts) through Colorado Springs and Pueblo. Stop to explore the new gravel bike rides the town has been actively promoting (be sure to pick up the local Gravel Adventure Field Guide ( graveladventurefieldguide.com/

trinidad-1 ). When your legs are filled with lactic acid, drive south on I-25. Exit at Walsenburg and head west along US 160 over La Veta Pass and turn south at Fort Garland along the stunning US 159 through San Luis, the oldest town in Colorado, into New Mexico. Look for wild horses and stop to fish the Costilla River. In Taos, live the good life with green chili, a peek at D.H. Lawrence’s forbidden art, and hiking, mountain biking, and rafting. Head back on US 64 through the heights of Eagle’s Nest and on to I-25. Point it north and make game-time decisions that balance stops and traffic on the way back.

CAN YOU FEEL THE CALL? IT’S HIGH TIME TO HIT THE HIGHWAY IN SEARCH OF ADVENTURE AND NEW PERSPECTIVES. SO HOP ALONG AND WE WILL GUIDE YOU ON A FISTFUL OF OUR FAVORITE FUN-TIME EXCURSIONS IN THE CENTENNIAL STATE

PHOTO CREDIT: LIAM DORAN

DESTINATION GRANBY

4) Colorado’s Ark: Salida and Buena Vista

The Arkansas Valley is the heart of the state. And the communities here have managed to both keep their identities and offer up tons of recreational opportunities for anyone seeking out a shot of mountain town life.

The Route: Take US 6 out of downtown and intercept C-470. Head south to US 285 and turn into the mountains. You can stop to bike at Buffalo Creek or keep heading up to Kenosha Pass and its excellent developed and dispersed camping. Continue through South Park until you hit US 24 in the Arkansas Valley with the Collegiate Peaks soaring above you. From here, you choose your own adventure. Head north on 24 to Buena Vista and its fun downtown with Deerhammer Distillery and the Surf Hotel. Or head south on 285 to Salida with its mountain bike trail system and riverfront dining. Mix and match. Be sure to visit both. Head back the same way or north to Leadville and I-70 on 24 or go

east on US 50 to Pueblo and I-25.

5) The Eastern Plains Drifter

Colorado’s flatlands all too often get overlooked by those who are in love with the mountains. That’s a shame, because there is so much to enjoy out here—and no crowds.

The Route: Instead of giving you specific directions out here we suggest you find your own route in all this open space. In the north, hit Pawnee Buttes and the Pawnee National Grassland where dispersed camping is allowed everywhere. Close by to Pueblo, the canyon of the Purgatoire River is a pleasant surprise in the prairie. Head east and explore wildlife areas along the South Platte River via I-76. Or head south to the Comanche National Grassland where you can find hiking and camping at Picture and Carrizo canyons and pay tribute to the sad legacy of the Sand Creek Massacre and Native American Genocide. And don’t miss the ghost town of Dearfield, an all-Black community in Weld County with big dreams that was swallowed up by the Dust Bowl.

FORT COLLINS CREDIT NICK MARKOWITZ

DEARFIELD CREDIT DOUG SCHNITRZSPAHN

HIKING THE BIGHORN MOUNTAINS

Spanning over 1.1 million acres and encompassing 1,200 miles of trails, 30 campgrounds, 10 picnic areas, six mountain lodges, two ski hills and hundreds of miles of waterways, the Bighorn National Forest offers near limitless outdoor recreation activities - from hiking, biking, hunting and kayaking to camping, skiing, parasailing and snowmobiling.

Cloud Peak rises to an elevation of 13,171 feet and provides onlookers with dramatic views and vistas. The mountain can be climbed most easily from the western side, accessed by either the Battle Park or West Tensleep trailheads and is roughly 24 miles round-trip from both. The peak is located in the 189,000 acre Cloud Peak Wilderness within the Bighorn National Forest. The northeast slope of Cloud Peak is a deep cirque which harbors Cloud Peak Glacier, the last active glacier in the Bighorn Mountains.

10 EPIC DAY HIKES

Steamboat Point -- 1.7 Miles -- Moderate

Tongue River Canyon -- 4.7 Miles -- Moderate

Porcupine Falls -- .8 Miles -- Easy

Paradise Falls -- 2.6 Miles -- Easy

Bucking Mule Falls -- 4.9 Miles -- Moderate

Black Mountain Lookout -- 3.4 Miles -- Strenuous

Soldier Ridge -- 8.1 Miles -- Moderate

Sibley Lake -- 2.3 Miles -- Easy

Story Penrose Trail -- 6.9 Miles -- Moderate

Welch Ranch Recreation Area -- Various -- Easy

More info and maps available at the desk

KEYS TO A GOOD TIME

Inform someone of your travel plans before you go

Scan here for more info on each of these great hikes

THE SUMMER 2023 PEAK GEAR AWARDS

THIS HARDWARE IS THE REAL DEAL. WE ASKED OUR CORE CONTRIBUTORS TO PICK THE GEAR THEY USE THE MOST, THE GEAR THAT PERFORMS THE BEST FOR THEM, TO DETERMINE WHO WINS THESE BIANNUAL AWARDS. SO, WITHOUT FURTHER ADO, WE PRESENT THE OUTDOOR PRODUCTS THAT MAKE OUR LIVES BETTER.

CONTRIBUTORS: AARON BIBLE, LIAM DORAN, RADHA MARCUM, CAMERON MARTINDELL, ARIELLA NARDIZZI, DANI REYES-ACCOSTA, RYAN MICHELLE SCAVO, DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN, KIERAN SCHITZSPAHN, CHRIS VAN LEUVEN

Kokopelli Chasm Lite

$999; kokopelli.com

WHY IT WON: Being able to hike in to a spot stand-up paddleboard gives you access to high mountain lakes and other backcountry bodies of water, as well as tricky put-ins near roads— it’s a game-changer. This 10-foot inflatable SUP in a backpack makes those adventures possible, weighing in at just under 13 pounds and performing admirably on the water.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Alpine lakes in the Indian Peaks, Green Mountain Reservoir, Utah’s Green River

Yamaha Wabash RT

$3,499; yamahabicycles.com

WHY IT WON: An electric gravel bike gives you the ability to patch together big, long adventures on gnarly roads. It also gives cyclists who may be compromised the ability to hang with friends or take on new adventures. Yamaha Power Assist is celebrating 30 years of producing e-bikes in 2023, and this ride incorporates that know-how in a nimble and stable ride with impressive battery life providing a range of up to 90 miles in Eco mode. Plus, it has a cushy seat dropper.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: The test track at the (e)revolution show in Denver, big rides in Boulder County foothills

Priority 600X Adventure

$3,500; prioritybicycles.com

WHY IT WON: We have been big fans of Priority’s belt-drive commuter bikes for years. This baby takes that break-downproof technology and powerful crank response and puts it into an efficient bikepacking machine with an enclosed Pinion C1.12 gearbox.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Don’t just believe us. Local Boulder hero Ryan Van Duzer used this aluminum ride to tackle the Continental Divide trail from Mexico to Montana.

Moosejaw Comfortress 8P

$399 (with aluminum poles); mossejaw.com

WHY IT WON: This eight-person monster of a tent is all the basecamp your family needs. With two separate rooms and plenty of standing space, its 116-square-foot inner footprint

provides plenty of privacy and boogie room. Add on the massive 51-square-foot vestibule and you have can play games and chill even when it’s raining or too sunny. Best of all, it rings in at a nice price for families.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Olive Ridge campground in Allenspark, Cow Creek South Campground on Green Mountain Reservoir

Rab Arc Eco Waterproof Jacket

$235; rab.equipment

WHY IT WON: Rab has made an incredible commitment to sustainability in all its products and this waterproof/breathable shell proved up to alpine climbing and backpacking while living up to that ethos. But the three-layer jacket made 100% recycled Pertex Shield Revolve won because it actually provides that protection while delivering an athletic fit and weighs in at just 15.1 ounces.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Numerous adventures in the Indian Peaks and James Peak wilderness areas, Boulder Mountain Parks

Arc’teryx Proton Hybrid Hoodie

$350; arcteryx.com

WHY IT WON: Light, stylish, and easy-to-wear, this insulator is one of those pieces you bring along whether you are headed out for a quick hike in cooler temps, peak bagging, or backpacking. And since it’s technically a backcountry ski/snowboard piece, we are looking forward to using it throughout the winter too.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Adventures in the San Rafael Swell and in Boulder Mountain Parks

Pact Outdoors

Lite Backpacking Toilet Kit

$35; pactoutdoors.com

WHY IT WON: Everybody poops in the woods and having the right equipment to do it with Leave No Trace principles is key. Designed for backpacking (and even dayhikes), this smart kit includes a light, low-profile trowel with the mycelium wipes and tablets that fit into the shovel handle. The mushroom-based wipe expands when wet to create a wet wipe, which cleans so much better than toilet paper and actually helps break down the human waste along with the tablets.

GO PLAY OUTSIDE.

There’s di erent ways to get outside, and di erent ways to get down a river. In Western Nebraska we go tanking. Bring friends, family, hell bring everyone. Just don’t forget snacks.

Go for a float down a meandering river, play on the sandbars, go play outside.

Find your next adventure in Western Nebraska. Even if that adventure is just a lazy float.

Go to Western Nebraska.

PETZL HEADLAMPS... HYBRID CONCEPT for choosing your power source. FULL-TILT lamp bodies for various wearing options.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Backpacking in Rocky Mountain National Park and the Indian Peaks, day hikes at Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Itacate Foods

$12.50–$35; itacatefoods.com

WHY IT WON: This startup creating “Latin backpacking food for adventurers with great taste and strong values” offers three hearty, healthy meal options: Charge-up Chilaquiles, Campsite Lentejas (lentils), and Sunset Caldo (soup). They're easy to rehydrate: We clocked just about eightminutes until perfect at 11,000 feet when on a mountain-running trip. Packed with all the protein, calories, and nutrients we need on big endeavors, they taste amazing—and authentic.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Mountain running in the Sierra, paddling on Colorado’s Dolores River

Oboz

Katabatic Low Waterproof

$160; obozfootwear.com

WHY IT WON: Comfy straight out of the box, this lightwight shoe has become our go-to hiker for on-trail adventure. It provided the stability to tackle summit scrambles and big days on the trail, and stayed comfy and dry even when we splashed through puddles and mud.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Hiking in Golden Gate Canyon State Park, birding adventures at eastern Colorado wildlife refuges

Slot

High Noon Sun

Hoody $42; slot-usa.com

WHY IT WON: Designed for the desert, this 30+ UPF, moisture wicking long-sleeved shirt— which doesn’t feel long-sleeved at all—is perfect for hot-weather adventure, providing essential sun protection and even some warmth when the temps drop or you get wet. Bonus points for the convenient hood.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: The long trek to the top of Texas’ Big Bend National Park, the Edwards Plateau hill country

Mystery Ranch

Superset 30

$160; mysteryranch.com

WHY IT WON: We loved the versatility of this sturdy daypack that we used for everything from holding gear on big hikes to going to the gym with kids to catching a flight to a tradeshow. It's an ideal size for airplanes or business travel, and holds a helmet, puffy, laptop, water bottle, headphones… whatever you deem essential.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Everywhere

Exped Deep Sleep Mat

Duo 7.5

$260; exped.com

WHY IT WON: This cushy sleeping mat has changed our way of thinking about backcountry sleeping from suffering on the thinnest piece of foam to treating ourselves to a solid night's sleep. The extra-large valve simplifies deflation and an oversize packsack allows for easy, simple storage as well. In addition, the 7.5 cm of open-cell foam provides excellent back support and can comfortably fit larger tents or in the trunk of a Subaru Crosstrek with room to spare.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Camping in the snow off Guanella Pass, multiday camping excursions in Moab, car and tent camping across Colorado

Scarpa

Kinesis Pro GTX

$329; us.scarpa.com

WHY IT WON: Ideal for big adventures and providing plenty of support, these boots are just the ticket for off-trail backpacking and wildlife photography missions in steep terrain. You feel invincible in them.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Cold, wet photography missions in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and far beyond

Gorewear

Distance Kit 2.0

$91 jersey, $130 bibs; gorewear.com

WHY IT WON: This full cycling kit is shockingly affordable and plays in the same pond as much more expensive high-end apparel. It offers a comfortable feel and strikes a nice balance of performance fit without being race-focused. Gore calls it the most comfortable kit you can wear all day; we agree with that sentiment. Plus we appreciate the low-key colors and design.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Gravel and road rides around Colorado Springs and Boulder

Xtratuf Auna

$75; xtratuf.com

WHY IT WON: The tread pattern on this flip-flop grips like no other we've ever tried—on wet, polished concrete, bricks, and on the trail. The footbed features a comfortable, almost massaging, texture and grips nicely so your foot doesn't slide around. It helps that the Auna has a pronounced arch to help grip the foot and the upper strap proves comfortable and secure.

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Cruising around the neighborhood, camping trips, and short hikes

Swytch Air E-Bike Conversion Kit

$499; swytchbike.com

WHY IT WON: Have you ever dreamt of converting any pedal bike into an e-bike for just $500? This year, we successfully transformed a single-speed beach cruiser with coaster brakes into a sleek e-bike with 10 miles of range thanks to the Swytch Air. Additionally, the book-size battery can be removed, easily fitting into the lid of a backpack. The result is a lightweight e-bike that's incredibly easy to transport. HERE WE TOOK IT: Rides around Yosemite National Park and Mariposa, California

Haglofs L.I.M. Mimic Hood

$360; haglofs.com

WHY IT WON: Super light and compressible and shockingly warm for such a light piece this insulator is just the ticket for the high peaks and backpacking trips. Our tester said, “I am usually a down guy, but this piece is so good I might convert to synthetic.”

WHERE WE TOOK IT: Backpacking in Utah, hiking in Colorado

ROAD TRIP GEAR | 07.23

LET’S GO

SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING, AND IT'S TIME TO HIT THE ROAD IN SEARCH OF THAT PERFECT ADVENTURE. HERE’S THE GEAR TO MAKE THE TRIP EASIER AND MORE FUN.

by

DOUG

SCHNITZSPAHN

1. Tune Outdoor Tune M1

Weighing in at just 360 pounds, including a patented wing-wall design with flared sidewalls, this pop top gives it more cubic living space than any other lightweight truck camper on the market. It also comes with three aluminum or glass awning doors/windows for easy access, low-power interior halo lighting, and 440 feet of universal T-track on the interior, exterior, and roof for unlimited customization. Best yet, it assembles quickly and easily, translating to fast order-to-installation times and aftermarket service, while letting it integrate with nearly any pickup chassis—from Toyota Tacomas to Ford Lightnings. $10,999–$12,999: tuneoutdoors.com

2. Top Tree Herbs Green Bali Kratom Tea

Need a little something to help you both relax and pep up, but want to avoid caffeine and alcohol? Say hello to kratom, an herb extracted from a Southeast Asian evergreen that can help you relax (though it has not been FDA tested and approved). Lab-tested and mixed with green tea here, it makes for the perfect beverage when you pull into camp after a long day behind the wheel. $19; toptreeherbs.com

3. Snow Peak Entry Pack TT

Light and airy, this car camping tent includes a sprawling vestibule tarp that makes it easy to chill in camp during times of rainfall or bright sun. The fourperson tent is a snap to set up thanks to a color-coded system. Plus, the tent and tarp can be used separately depending on your needs. $600; snowpeak.com

4. BioLite Solar Generator 1500 Kit

If you plan on living on the road, you will need to plug in gear in camp. Providing 1521Wh, this reliable unit offers up the ability to charge your laptop or a fridge and runs on a wall charge or can be powered by BioLite's SolarPanel 100 ($300). $1,699; biolite.com

5. Yakima Yakima SkyRise HD Medium

We’re big fans of Yakima’s tent for the top of your car since you don’t have

to always be beholden to campground reservations when you are out on the road. Just pull over in a legal spot or dispersed camping area and you’re all set. Bomber 600-denier fabric and heavy waterproofing keep out the weather, while inside, a built-in sleeping pad makes it cozier to sleep on your car roof than on the ground. Plus, it’s intuitive and quick to set up. $1,999; yakima.com

6. Camp Chef Mountaineer

Roadside cuisine is certainly an art improved by the right cooking system. Sturdy, reliable, featuring two booming 20,000 BTU burners, this lightweight aluminum camp stove is most likely better than the stove in your last Airbnb. The top and side panels keep the wind out when it’s blustery and you can power it with a full-size propane tank. $390; campchef.com

7. Katherine Homes Hats

The designs on artist Katherine Homes’ trucker hats give you some flair and protect you from sun and glare behind the wheel. We are partial to the jackrabbit and wolf models, which celebrate two very different icons of North American wildlife. $34–$39; katherinehomes.com

8. Zeal Hawker

The perfect pair of shades is the cherry on top of a good road trip— and mandatory for safety behind the wheel. With frames made from recyclable stainless steel and plantbased polarized lenses make you cool as Tom Cruise in the cockpit. They are the perfect complement for a long drive. $159; zealoptics.com

THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT

THE ROAD TO NOWHERE ALWAYS LEADS YOU TO SOMEWHERE UNEXPECTED— NO MATTER IF THAT IS THE SUMMIT OF A WILDERNESS PEAK OR THE COURAGE TO RETHINK THE WAY WE SEE AND DEFINE OURSELVES IN THE OUTDOORS.

by DANI REYES-ACOSTA

Maps scatter across the passenger seat and slide swiftly just out of reach. My brakes screech and I stop for a pack of street dogs chasing each other into traffic. Here on the outskirts of town (is a city of 6 million a town?), I can nearly taste freedom from the smog, the machine-gun Spanish,

the sideways looks cast toward this solo woman traveler. Shackled by a chain of stoplights and the uncertainty of a used car, the blinged-out Subaru and I in it, lurch slowly toward the skyline. To the east, snowcapped peaks beckon with cradling arms. Vamos

The chaos of the city feels stifling, never-ending in its choking clamor of logistics. Maybe my goals cloud my vision, the desire to leave layering pressure into an unpredictable series of events. I hadn’t intended to bring so much gear, but flying out of Portland for Santiago with even just the basics for surfing, snowboarding, climbing, backpacking, and camping meant just one thing: a road trip.

Two weeks became three, then four, as I oriented myself in the anarchy of entropy. After all, boarding my one-way flight gave me no time to process what I left behind, only to face the onslaught of a new life unfolding. Like small leaves unfurling in the frost, first chances fight fiercely for life. Everything feels important, urgent.

New friends, locals, had helped me set a course for the next few months, and this first trip to the mountains would be my test for self-sufficiency. Close to the city, I’d drive to the jagged skyline with a plan to camp, climb, and even ski tour. But I didn’t take into account the trusty Outback would overheat after miles of stop-and-go traffic. Stella, my newly acquired adventure vehicle that was supposed to take me to Patagonia and Peru, into the Andes, and to the deep Pacific, bellowed angrily as I pulled over, apparently in front of a mechanic’s shop. Two men walked over to greet me: “Did I need help?”

Several friendly conversations assured me that a leaky metal line needed to be replaced, but the Sawzall sealed my fate for the evening: I wasn’t going anywhere, and the part wouldn’t be ready until tomorrow. My life’s possessions were trapped in the vehicle, which I couldn’t drive. But did I feel safe sleeping at a stranger’s home? The answer was a resounding no (several comments had raised red flags). I’d sleep in my car, even if my hosts

SPREADING

thought this was a strange solution. “I will camp in my new home,” I insisted stubbornly.

The next morning, Stella bumped to a box canyon in the Cordillera de los Andes, 160 million years of geological history hailing their greetings: ore-banded walls towered above, glaciers shimmered in the alpine, and boulders happily sunned themselves in the shadow of massifs. Horses ranging along a fiercely bounding river gazed lazily as I crossed a tirereinforced bridge: “Did I know where I was going?” they inquired with looks of curiosity.

The chaos of the previous weeks dropped away that night in the silence of moonlight pebble wrestling. It disappeared with the whooshing wind that nearly knocked over a Jetboil effervescent with water for tea. Stars twinkled above as I tucked into my sleeping bag. Dreams

HER WINGS: THE AUTHOR RUNS DEEP IN THE HIGH REACHES OF THE SAN JUANS, WHERE SHE FINDS BALANCE BETWEEN ORDER AND CHAOS.

came slowly, a spiral of flashbacks and hazy hopes of the future.

“The English word chaos comes from the Greek word meaning "abyss." In ancient Greece, chaos was originally thought of as the abyss or emptiness that existed before things came into being...”

(Merriam

Webster)

I awoke the next morning completely confused: Where was I? Moments passed before I remembered I was in Chile, not bivvying at Smith Rock with my friends from the Nike Rock gym. I’d awakened with a pang of regret. Had I left behind the first chance of new community I’d known as an adult? “Keep moving,” I told myself. “There’s no time for regrets today. You’re in the Andes!”

Moments later, as I ran through the boulders, I heard shouts: Dale mujer ! (Send it, woman!) Following the voices, I cautiously stepped onto the outer edges of a group of Chileans. They were here to boulder for the day. Did I want some yerba mate? Did I know about the proposed hydroelectric dam? Had I ever gone on a randonnée in Valle de las Arenas? Did I want to join them for their big campout? There would be climbing, ski touring, and an asado Claro, I responded. Of course! We climbed until sunset, my fingertips as pink and tender as the soft horizon clouded by Santiago haze. Into the night we climbed until the food, drink, and film projector came out. I howled songs of joy with my new friends. We loved this place, I as much as they. We lamented the dam that would be built, belting sorrowful ballads to the moon: “No alto maipo! ” they barked at imaginary legislators, at the mining company that wanted to buy the water rights.

The next morning, one of the skiers—a woman who had been on the bootpack at dawn with me— chained herself to a bulldozer. A climber unfurled a banner that read “No Dam, No Mining, Power to the People.” I snapped photos, hurriedly, before workers bullied us away.

I emailed my photos to friends the next week and watched online as community members posted about the event. They encouraged each other to share stories, rallying decision-makers to action. I realized, over the coming months, that this was rare: community-driven storytelling around a common cause—saving a place they loved— hit differently than other stories about peaks they’d climbed or lines they’d skied. There was a power in these collective voices that dissolved tension lurking within the culture of single-minded dominance.

That lesson stayed with me over the years as I collected stamps in my passport and miles on other (equally ugly) vehicles. The push and pull between self and other, personal goals and external demands, never quite left me as I built a freelancer portfolio. First as a digital strategy director, then as a creative strategist, and finally, on my own, balance eluded me. Too much work on the docket swapped priority with too many gobies on the back of my hands. Was this the worst set of problems I’d find on the path of pursuing my dreams?

I felt the stress of manufactured and real problems strain me over the next few years, bending me with the pressure. I poured time and energy into a newer mold for life, growing wings with each step I ran (both figuratively and metaphorically). With new climbs developed, longer distances run, and more fulfilling projects on the horizon, the tang of my work sliced closer to the heart of my being.

It wasn’t until I took a run down a gravel county road in our new home, when I saw a red pickup pull from around the corner and slow, that the shank of this blade struck something deeper. The driver rolled down the window, pointing a rectangular object straight at me. Solar flares through the dust obscured the object: Was that a phone?

The stranger tailed me, filming me as I ran, encircling my sixty minutes of sanity with a cyclone of uncertainty. It was then that I realized: My existence would always confound, if not threaten, somebody. Later that night, I sat down to write out my frustration, and found myself quoting Audre Lord: “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”

Iwrote, and shared, in a story called “Yo Alcanzo: She Se Puede,” of what my family, our community, and even my heart wanted of me. That Latino Outdoors, the nonprofit that would post this blog, allowed me to say: “We are just individual musical notes in a symphony beyond our comprehension” blew my mind. Was this creative freedom?

I knew, deep down, that my story wasn’t just my own to tell, and that I wasn’t the only one who felt like this. Our stories as humans, outside, focused so narrowly on the individual in much of outdoor media. The focus is often so tight that much of the light and beauty of our natural world, and her other kin, falls out of frame.

My work opening the aperture of what “being outside” means took on a new form. First through writing, then public speaking, and finally,

via film, I learned to shift focus from the individual to the collective. I learned chaos and order can exist harmoniously. In the tangle of new stories, the challenges of political identities, a deterministic set of commonalities emerged.

The smallest of differences in my experience traveling—spending time with friends that cared deeply about a place they might lose forever— compounded over time, transforming how I viewed the storytelling forever. My seemingly random experience may not have been that random: This past September, The North Face tapped me to join its Explore Fund Council to broaden the conversation on inclusive exploration. Through grant-making, storybanking, and thematic exploration, this work circled back to that evening under the Andean moon.

As I walked through the garden that afternoon, I turned sweet compost in the sun. I mused at the stars and bars dangling from my neighbor’s flagpole as a monarch

FULLY IMMERSED: AS AN ATHLETE, STRATEGIST, WRITER, AND FILMMAKER—AND, NOW, AS A MEMBR OF THE NORTH FACE'S EXPLORE FUND COUNCIL AND PROTECT OUR WINTERS' ALLIANCE MEMBER OF THE YEAR, AUTHOR DANI REYES-ACOSTA IS OPENING UP THE APERTURE OF WHAT BEING OUTSIDE LOOKS LIKE.

alighted upon the milkweed. After looking straight at the sign of hate, I sat down with my journal to write. “Today,” I scribbled, “a butterfly began a revolution.”

Dani Reyes-Acosta is a filmmaker and professional athlete aiming to inspire individual action and collective communion through selfcare and self-determination in the outdoors. Honored by Protect Our Winters as Alliance Member of the Year for her advocacy, she is also an Explore Fund Council Member for The North Face. Find her online as @notlostjustdiscovering or follow @outlierfilmseries to expand the conversation on community.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: LOREAH WINLOW, ABIGAIL LAFLEUR-SHAFFER (X3)

RAISED BY DOGS

I AM A BETTER PERSON THANKS TO A FEW THINGS MY FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS HAVE TAUGHT ME.

by PETER KRAY

Ibelieve in Doggie Heaven. That open field in the sky where all dogs go, prancing over the Rainbow Bridge with their eyes bright and their tails wagging, splashing in the rain clouds and drying their thick coats in the sun.

That’s because in my family—all the way from my grandparents to my parents, nephews and cousins—every dog we’ve shared our lives with has been treated as an icon on Earth, and as a big-hearted mischievous saint after they have passed on. Their shaggy tales, four-legged escapades, and heart soaring loyalty are the consistent narrative of our collective pedigree, and their sweet fuzzy faces stare back from among the collage of wedding, reunion, and ski photos in every room.

As I look at them—the proud mutts, shepherds, Labradors, herding dogs and Irish setters (and also the two sweet black English Labs sleeping at my feet right now)—in the animal

of the knowledge five of those family dogs shared with me, and how it might apply to all the humans, dogs, and other creatures of this world.

Toby # 1—We Are All Kin

My father got Toby the Dog, a beautiful black and tan German shepherd, when he was a captain in the Air Force, before my brother I were born. He was the big brother to us both of in those early years, licking our faces, herding us back from the curb, and when we were sleeping, waiting between us and the door.

Toby went with us on every adventure, skiing, camping, and canoeing in Canada, working back and forth on the trail to make sure everyone was still together. For every 5 miles we hiked, he walked 10 more. He was the second in command to Dad, and the day Toby died at the age of 12 told me more about life than anything I’d experienced before. Especially that the best part of living is for celebrating each other, taking your turn to be the curator of every memory worth the share.

Pancho—Life Is Worth Enjoying

Pancho was a long, all-black German shepherd (Dad loved those dogs). We tied a red bandana around his neck when we went hiking so people didn’t think he was a bear. Not that they needed to worry—all Pancho wanted to do was sit beside you and lick your hands.

He liked birthday parties and ice cream. Laying in the middle of soccer games in City Park. Or playing fetch with Earl, the former Denver Public Schools shop teacher who lived next door. I remember him slowly drinking cold water from a mountain pond at a campsite, and sitting on the back porch listening as the sun went down. He understood the timeless satisfaction of a good day ending with a new one about to begin.

Toby #2—We Are Responsible for Each Other

day. Sometimes I got calls from the bars, sometimes from friends 10 or 12 miles away, and then the worst, from animal control. I barely had enough money for groceries, rent, or beer. But I somehow always found the $20 to bail him out. And he rewarded me for it with every powder day on Teton Pass, summer run to the Snake River, and all those nights he kept my feet warm. Or as Toby liked to say it, with his head back and his eyes wild, “A-roo, roo, roo!”

Bella—Be the Queen You Are

Of course, sometimes you just have royalty in your world. Bella, the beautiful black Labrador, was such a girl. Toby the dog and my wife Catherine’s mother Delores, the matriarch of her own home, were the only two creatures to whom Bella ever listened.

We planted 250 tulip bulbs in the backyard in New Mexico. Bella ate them all. We thought it would kill her. She lived to almost 17, always staying in charge of the meals and the walks, and then later on, she wanted her little evening sip of Shiner Bock beer. We could all benefit from enjoying our own sense—no matter how subtle—of “royal rule.”

Bettie Wonder—Be Kind

Bettie Wonder was a little blonde Labrador. We called her “Wonder” because she looked like a loaf of Wonder Bread when she was small. But she made big connections with anyone she met on the trail. People would see me walking and stop to talk to her, leaving their cars running in the road. It was always Bettie they wanted to see. Sharing some secret or just saying hello. And she always listened. Patiently nodding and panting, leaning in if they needed another kiss. You know, just making it clear she heard you and was glad to see you too.

So here’s a cheers to all the pups and how their betterness has helped make us all better people. Better creatures. Hopefully, we are still doing our own part to contribute to a better world.

“A-roo, roo, roo!”

—Elevation Outdoors editor-atlarge Peter Kray is the author of The God of Skiing. The book has been called “the greatest ski novel of all time.” Buy it here and read it now: amzn.to/35Afxl L

wisdom of their deep brown eyes, I see a specific lesson they are teaching, albeit one I have yet to completely learn. Those are the best lessons, I suppose, the ones life teaches you again and again—especially when it comes to the tutorials of love, patience, and being a good person.

In honor of the infinite wisdom of all canines, I would like to share some

Toby #2 was a Labradormalamute mix from Montana who originally belonged to a drunken roommate with whom I shared a house in Jackson Hole. When the roommate asked if I could take care of his dog while he ran river trips in Alaska all summer, I said, “Sure, but when you come back, he won’t be your dog anymore.”

Toby ran away almost every

THOSE ARE THE BEST LESSONS, I SUPPOSE, THE ONES LIFE TEACHES YOU AGAIN AND AGAIN— ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO THE TUTORIALS OF LOVE, PATIENCE, AND BEING A GOOD PERSON.

We are the Mountain People.

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