Author: Cathy Newman

6 Tips for Living Out of Your Car While Traveling the Country

Cathy Newman

Road trips can be fun, amazing, and adventurous. Living out of your car while on the go is common and that’s why we have compiled a list of the best possible ways to live out of your car during travel. While exploring beyond your horizon is a wonderful experience to engage in, if you don’t play your cards right, traveling the country could turn sour. Here are some suggestions to keep things on track!

Organize

First off, organize your stuff and have a system in place to keep them. Save yourself from headache by making sure that every piece of gear at where it should be.

Find Out the Reason 

To help you organize better figure out the reason why you’re traveling. When you know why you’re traveling you stander a better chance to make adequate preparations. 

Take Your Food and Drinks Along

Also, remember to take your food and drinks along with you. You can make your trip more convenient by taking food along with you. Save money by making sure that pack your food and drinks in a cooler. You will have a less hungry adventure this way. If you are struggling to hit your nutritional goals, then bringing nutritional supplements may be ideal. Livon Labs, Neuroscience, and Quicksilver Scientific are brands that offer products that may be ideal for your needs!

Map Out Your Route

Stay on track and schedule by taking the time to map out the route to your destination. It will save you from getting lost and ensure that youhave a smooth and memorable trip to your destination. 

Use Water Alternatives to Bathe

While on the go you should know that you can’t bathe with running water like in your house. Ensure to carry baby wipes with you or you could bath in a river or lake. You can use soap or shampoo. Either one is sure to use a biodegradable product. 

Have a Trash Bag

Even though you are living out of your car, you need a trash bag to keep waste out of nature and to keep your car neat. Make sure that you’re emptying your trash bag often to prevent bad smell emanating from it and denting your car’s smell. 

These are the tips for living sufficiently out of your car during travel to any of your destinations. Traveling to another country or going on an adventure can be an amazing experience. It is important that you are as prepared as possible. With the insightful tips above, you can living out of your car while traveling the country.

Bird Watching in Michigan

Cathy Newman

Michigan is known to be a hotspot for bird watching. Thousands of bird watchers visit this place each year because of bird migratory patterns that attract an array of bird species. To enjoy bird watching in Michigan, you will need to travel to certain areas for the best view of each species. Below is a list of places you can enjoy bird watching in Michigan. 

Whitefish Point Bird Observatory

Located in Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula, Whitefish Point is famous for its huge waterbird migration. Between spring and fall, significant flights of different waterbirds such as loons, ducks, and scoters, fly to this area because of its vegetation. Here you will find numerous songbirds whose species exceed over 300.

Seney National Wildlife Refuge

Another place for bird watching in Michigan is the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. Breeding Le Conte’s sparrows, yellow rails, and more birds you will find in the approximately 5,000 acres of land of this National wildlife. This is the state’s most important breeding site of trumpeter swans.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Sleeping Bear Dunes is home to the largest breeding population of the endangered prairie warbler. This area’s mixed deciduous and coniferous woodlands make it an ideal breeding area for flycatchers and tanagers. Bald eagles and common loons also nest in some areas of the park.

Huron-Manistee National Forest

The Huron-Manistee National Forest has areas that offer you up-close sightings to some of Michigan’s most beautiful and diverse birds. You will likely find species of birds that include upland sandpiper, black-billed cuckoo, eastern bluebird, brown thrasher, black-and-white warblers, Lincoln’s sparrows, and Brewer’s blackbirds. When it comes to bird watching, you will be spoiled with options at the Huron-Manistee National Forest.

Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area

With over 1400 acres of wetlands and flooded cropland along the shoreline of Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron, you will find fascinating marsh nesting species such as the least bitterns, American bitterns, black-crowned night-herons, sora, , common moorhen, Caspian and Forster’s terns.

There you have it! Above are some fantastic places you can visit for bird watching in Michigan. Michigan is a beautiful place for bird watching and to meet other birders. The list above are some places to visit in Michigan to catch sight of all the birds that Michigan has to offer. If you are enthusiastic about bird watching, consider visiting the areas mentioned above. An enjoyable experience awaits you!

Hot Springs in Alaska

Cathy Newman

Alaska in the United States of America is known largest state in the country and quite popular because of its outdoor activities. Its diverse terrain includes mountains, wildlife, forests, and hot springs for heartwarming holidaying, which we are going to discuss in this post. 

When it comes to visiting hot springs in Alaska, there are many options to choose from. If you are wondering what these options are, then relax and find out below the most fascinating and relaxing hot springs in Alaska. 

White Sulphur Springs

The White Sulphur Springs is located in the remote Chichagof Island area. Surrounded by towering spruce trees and hemlocks, this hot spring overlooks the ocean, providing a unique and breathtaking view. Floatplane, boat, or kayak can be used to access the place. 

Chief Shakes Hot Springs

The Chief Shakes Hot Springs is a highly popular hot spring in Alaska. Nestled in the Tongass National Forest, this place has areas for amazing fun, including changing forestry, fire spots for outdoor fun, and picnic tables. 

Kilo Hot Springs

Are you a hiking enthusiast? Situated in the northern part of the Ray Mountain, Kilo Hot Springs is the place for you to be and hike all your way to adventure and fun. You can access the area with a small plane or from the Dalton Highway. The hot springs here are warm, serene, and relaxing. 

Tenakee Hot Springs

Bathhouses, viewing opportunities, amazing residents, and more, are what you will find in the Tenakee Hot Springs. It is situated in a remote village in southeast Alaska. This place offers you a place to relax and disconnect from the world as it has no cell reception.

Chena Hot Springs Fairbanks

Chena Hot Springs Fairbanks is the most popular and most visited hot spring in Alaska. Located in the northeast of Fairbanks, close to the Chena River State Recreation Area, this is a hot spring to hang out with friends and family. While soaking and relaxing in the springs, you will get the opportunity to view the aurora borealis above you. 

There you have it! Above are some hot springs in Alaska that you can consider visiting. Hot springs offer an amazing location for heartwarming holidaying or weekend vacation. You will definitely love the amazing scenery and cozy atmosphere anytime you visit any of the locations mentioned above. A wonderful experience awaits you.

Quick Flyfishing Guide for Beginners

Cathy Newman

Flyfishing is an exciting sport that is rapidly gaining popularity by the day. If you have decided to learn this sport, then you have made the right decision. But if you want to take on this water activity, you have to be guided. Below are tips on how to get started in flyfishing. 

Enlighten Yourself

For a start, it would be nice if someone could show you what to do. Educate yourself by watching YouTube videos or better still get a teacher who will make you learn the ropes of flyfishing. Some trainers can be hired privately. 

Gear Up

Flyfishing is a water sport that requires specific gear. Invest in a high-quality fishing rod, line package, and reel. Getting these gear does not cost you an arm and a leg. Visit your local fishing shop to get what you need. 

Practice How to Cast

If you want to get better at flyfishing, you have to practice and learn how to cast. You can do this with the assistance of a trainer or instructional videos on the internet. There are many training materials you will find on the web that will show you casting techniques to make you better out on the water. 

Get Flies and a Fly Box

You need baits to draw the fishes towards you. There are flies you can use that work according to an area. Before you get one, talk to the local fishermen to find out which flies work best.

Learn How to Knot

Finally, you need to learn how to make knots. Making knots is an important skill required for flyfishing. It can be intimidating, but with regular practice, you will be better at it. A trainer can help, or you can learn it online. 

There you go! Above are some essential tips for quick flyfishing for beginners. Flyfishing is an exciting activity. As a beginner, you have a lot to learn to improve your flyfishing skills. The tips above will help you get better in the sport. 

What’s more, once you have followed these tips above, you can get out on the water and start learning this activity. With dedication, steady practice, you will be able to become good at flyfishing. Now get out there and have fun and a happy moment on the water.

Why You Should Plan a Baja, California Wine Country Tour

Cathy Newman

The Baja, California wine country is one of the oldest wine-producing areas in North America. With a growing number of luxury hotels and world-class restaurants, Baja wine country is gaining a lot of attention. Here we have listed the various reasons why you should consider making a Baja, California wine country tour. 

Amazing Luxury Hotels

Due to its remote and fabulous location, the wine country has seen an influx of trendy and luxurious hotels. The hotels are stunning and beautiful, and staying overnight is worthwhile.

Delicious Foods

Don’t leave the are without tasting the fantastic cuisine that the area offers. This region boasts some of the world’s most respected chefs, such as Javier Plascencia and Diego Hernandez. While you are in Baja, California, you should try La Cocina de Doña Esthela, Corazón de Tierra, and Deckman’s en El Mogor.

The Vendimia Festival

Every year in August the Vendimia Festival takes place in the Baja area. This is a week-long wine festival. The event features live music, gala dinners, lectures, and lots of wine. Besides the Valle Wine and Food Festival (in October and November) and Festival de Las Conchas y El Vino Nuevo (in April), the Vendimia Festival is not one to be missed. Note that you should book accommodations in advance. 

Culture

The rich culture of the Baja wine country is a spectacle to behold. The culture is largely centered on wine. Take a tour around the over 60 wine refineries. Here you will be able to gain more insight into the culture this place holds. 

Above are some reasons why you should plan a wine country tour to Baja, California. Baja, California wine country is a place that every tourist will want to visit. The most beautiful Winelands in Valle De Guadalupe is found in this area. Apart from the complimentary wines, there is so much to explore in the wine country. If you are a wine aficionado looking to taste fantastic wine, you need to visit this off-the-grid location. You are guaranteed to have a fantastic experience during your wine country tour.

Since you are going to the southern California region, consider taking a detour and seeing some of these beautiful waterfalls.

6 Car Camping Hacks for When You Don’t Have a Tent

Cathy Newman

Not everyone wants to spend time in a tent when heading out into the wild. You already have a car, so why add to the complexity of setting up a tent, especially if you plan to pick up and go elsewhere shortly. If you are camping and you don’t have a tent, this post is for you, especially if you are going somewhere remote like Joshua Tree. Below are simple car camping hacks when you don’t have a tent. 

Get a Portable Outdoor Shower

When camping, you will need to shower. When this need arises, you shouldn’t stress about where you plan on getting clean. You can bring your shower with you while on the go. 

Inflatable Car Air Mattress

You will need a place to rest your head at night. An inflatable car air mattress is a cheap solution that offers a comfortable place to sleep even if you don’t have a tent. It makes sleeping easy. 

Create a Makeshift Dining Table from Your Trunk

When you aren’t eating in a tent, make the most of your trunk for a fantastic dining experience. You can do this by elongating your trunk with a slab of wood. This will be the perfect place to spread delicious snacks, like nuts and seeds from Apricot Power, Garden of Life, and Now Foods. Having the right snacks during any camping trip is essential to maintaining energy levels, good feelings, and to protect yourself from the elements by giving your body the nutrients that it needs to function properly.

Use the Roof as a Storage Unit

For any supplies that won’t fit in the trunk of your car, use the space on top of your car by installing roof rails and a cargo box. Make sure to look for a cargo box that seals out rain and won’t let frost inside during unusually cold nights. 

Cook Meals with a Portable Stove

Enjoy delicious meals while on the go using a portable stove. A liquid propane gas grill doesn’t take up much space and is quick to help you get your meal done properly. Once you are done cooking, you can easily pack it into your car. 

Use a Tent Designed for a Car

Another camping hack for campers without a tent is to use a tent designed for a motor vehicle. An SUV tent gives you the perfect place to sleep outside your car. This tent is easy to set up and comfortable to stay in. 

There you go! These are the car camping hacks that you need to know to have a place to stay while on the go. The fact that you don’t have a tent doesn’t have to take away your camping fun. With the above car camping ideas, you can enjoy the wild without needing to build a tent.

How to Start Rock Climbing

Cathy Newman

For adrenaline junkies, rock climbing is a great sport for fun and fitness. Rocking climbing is a way of socializing and getting creative. To participate in rock climbing you have to get a hang of it first. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to start rock climbing.

Gauge Your Expectations

Rock climbing is an activity that hinges on how prepared you are. You need to be actively working out to get your body ready for what’s to come. Work on your upper body as it will be doing much of the climbing. The muscles of the lower body are important too, as having strong feet and enough muscle to push yourself up will be important. Start with easier climbs before working your way up.

Choose the Type of Climbing

It is also important to choose the right type of climbing. If you are a beginner, you should start with indoor climbing. As you perfect your climbing skills, you can now climb outdoors. While you are climbing indoors, you will need a partner to aid you.

Take Intro Courses

Consider taking an intro course into rock climbing before you get started. Most climbing gyms offer intro courses and this is a great way to learn rock climbing more quickly. They will give you guides needed and answer all your questions about rock climbing.

Learn the Jargon

If you are just starting rock climbing you will be wondering what gripped, sloper, jug, etc., means. All of this is climbing lingo that climbers should know. There are many time where it will come in handy to know most of this language.

Bring The Right Gear

Finally, it is important that you get the right rock climbing gear. Rock climbing requires putting on protective gear. This will help keep you safe and protect mild to severe injuries as you climb. However, the gear that you wear depends on the type of rock climbing. While you are climbing indoors, you can rent all the gears you need at a climbing gym.
Above are some insightful tips on how to start climbing rocks. Learning these basics requires that you stay patient, hard-working, and dedicated. But good results do not come overnight. It takes regular practice and perseverance to achieve. The final step is putting all of this into practice. You might even find it useful if you decide to visit Utah and some of their many cave systems.

Lee Valley Kayaking Information

Cathy Newman

The Lee Valley White Water Center is a whitewater slalom center located in London. It was built in 2012 to host the London 2012 canoe slalom events. There is more to this whitewater center than what we already know. To tell you more about this center, let’s look at Lee Valley kayaking Information.

Lee Valley is home to the British Canoeing slalom performance program. It is owned and funded by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and managed by Vibrant Partnerships. They have been doing an amazing job managing it.

The Architects and Designers

FaulknerBrowns Architects designed the main facility building. Whitewater course experts, Whitewater Parks International, in collaboration with civil and structural engineers, Cundall, are the brains behind the watercourses design. The whitewater channel design was completed by the S2o Design and Engineering and Engineering Paddler Designs team. The center has amazing aesthetics after all this design. 

Memorable Events at Lee Valley White Water Center

The whitewater slalom center offers an extensive sports development program. Ranging from white water rafting on the Olympic course, to family paddling on the lake, there is so much to partake in at this center. The place is ideal for a beginner as the water is shallow enough not to be too dangerous. 

In addition to hosting the London 2012 canoe slalom events, Lee Valley went on to host the 2015 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships. Before that, it hosted a World Cup event in 2014. It has become a host of major canoe slalom events because of having adequate infrastructures for canoe slaloming in place.

Visiting Lee Valley White Water Center

To get to the Lee Valley you can travel by rail or bus. By rail, check the Waltham Cross or Cheshunt stations. Bus routes run by Transport for London and Intalink stop at the nearby bus station in Waltham Cross town center.

The Lee Valley is a hot-spot for kayaking given that it has appropriate facilities in place to ensure this sport is safe and enjoyable. Many kayaking enthusiasts troop to this spot annually to have great fun. Having this information about this place, you will get to enjoy it better on your next visit.

Natural Lakes in Colorado for Fishing

Cathy Newman

Colorado is increasingly becoming a fishing hot-spot for many anglers around the world. The state boasts natural and large lakes that are ideal for fishing. If you are looking for a different way to fish, check out how to double hook fish! For this reason, finding the best fishing sport in Colorado can be hard. Everyone has an opinion! 

To help you to get through the reeds and out into the fresh mountain runoff, we have compiled a list of natural lakes in Colorado for fishing. 

Spinney Mountain Reservoir

One of the best natural lakes in Colorado for fishing is the Spinney Mountain Reservoir. The scenic views of the shoreline make this natural lake a fantastic place to fish. Anglers throng to the Spinney Mountain Reservoir trophy trout, walleyes, and salmon. The best time for fishing here is during summertime. You will be having so much fun here, you will want to come prepared. Make sure to have all the equipment your need, extra food, water, and supplements, such as energy and recovery supplements from Enviromedica, Neocell, and Natures Way.

John Martin Reservoir

The 11,600 acres John Martin Reservoir is a huge attraction for those who love fishing. The warm weather combines with the turquoise water to create a fun environment. Anglers have plenty to see here as there are various birds species to view. The John Martin Reservoir is great for fishing. 

Crater Lake

Crater Lake is simply one of Colorado’s best natural lakes for stunning views. Hike through Aspen to reach this lake. On the lake, the Maroon Bell reflects on the glass surface of the water, and it is beautiful to see. It is a good spot to take photos and to catch fish. 

Horsetooth Reservoir

Another natural lake in Colorado for fishing is Horsetooth Reservoir. This man-made lake attracts swimmers and anglers each year. During summer, the lake is used by swimmers. Anglers can fish on a boat at the shoreline. Cabins and campsites surround the lake where you can stay if you wish to be at the lake overnight. 

Steamboat Lake

Located in northwestern Colorado, Steamboat Lake is a beautiful location around a pristine body of water. It has become a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. There are also hiking trails, mountains for biking, and great places to hike. For an overnight trip, there are yurt rentals and cabins. 

Fishing in Colorado is fun as it boasts a huge number of pretty lakes that are convenient for fishing lovers. This list above is where you can go to Colorado and enjoy some of the best fishing in the world. The lakes provide a lot of opportunities for an amazing adventure. If you are a fishing enthusiast or even during your leisure time, you can visit any of these natural lakes to catch some fish. An amazing experience awaits you.

Try These Family-Friendly Waterfall Hikes in Los Angeles

Cathy Newman

Los Angeles has waterfalls that make the perfect hangout spot for families. With the creek beds rushing with fresh mountainside runoff, towering cliffsides, and majestic scenic views, there is no other place you will want to be. If you are already taking a trip to Calistoga, California for the great camping available there, you will want to make plans to divert to some of the places on the list below for some of the waterfalls in Los Angeles you should consider visiting with your family. 

Santa Ynez Falls

This 18-foot waterfall is one of the best in Los Angeles. It runs alongside a creek and diverts to some points. For hikers, some trails are safe for hikers to explore and have fun.

Solstice Canyon Falls

Through a family-friendly you will find the popular Solstice Canyon Falls. Her, the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House that burned down in a 1982 wildfire, can be examined. Walk the Rising Sun and Sostomo Trails to engage in a challenging and serious workout. It is an amazing place to be. 

Sierra Madre

This 2.5-mile hike, just downstream from Sturtevant Falls, begins at the same location as the Chantry Flats. Although Sturtevant is a longer hike, it is a slightly more treacherous journey through a lush canyon; you navigate narrow trails within certain boundaries and do some climbing with ropes (mandatory if you want the most picturesque views of this 30-foot shoe). In summer, be wary of rock jumpers and swimmers who take advantage of the refreshing swimming holes created by the falls.

Monrovia Waterfall

Proof that size doesn’t matter, go to Monrovia Falls. What this 30-foot cascade of the San Gabriel Mountains lacks in height compensates for the inconsistency with an underground source that keeps water flowing in any season. The same source of water also means green foliage that blooms everywhere, providing a shaded canopy (and relief from the sun) with a mostly flat path less than two miles long.

Trail Canyon Falls

Although the infamous Station Fire devastated the area in 2009, the trail at all levels have been reopened and repaired. The approximately four-mile hike in the quiet secluded canyon includes a handful of stream crossings, gorgeous greenery, and 700 feet of altitude – all leading to a pretty 30-foot waterfall. 

Hiking is a really interesting outdoor activity. Hiking along waterfall trails with family and friends will make the adventure more interesting. You can be certain to have a fascinating experience anytime you hike along these family-friendly waterfall hikes in Los Angeles mentioned above.