There was a time when I shared missives on X (one time known as Twitter) until the noisiness became enough to make me look for something a little quieter. Mastodon then became my choice of replacement for sharing links and other musings, and it helps that I can redistribute things from there more easily as well. What you now find here is part of that ongoing effort.
The best travel TV series to watch in 2024 (so far) https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-travel-tv-series-2024/
Can flying ever be sustainable? https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/can-flying-ever-be-sustainable/
13 Must-Read Adventure Books for Your Outdoor Bookshelf https://explore-mag.com/13-must-read-adventure-books-for-your-outdoor-bookshelf/
Great American Eclipse: What to experience in the path of totality https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/usa-solar-eclipse-guide/
Exploring the Mighty Columbia https://www.nwtravelmag.com/features/exploring-the-mighty-columbia/article_c2a6d66a-f64b-11ee-8e35-db038d8d86d3.html
The 18 new UNESCO Global Geoparks for 2024, in photos https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/new-unesco-geoparks-2024/
Exploring 5 UNESCO Sites in Newfoundland and Labrador https://explore-mag.com/exploring-5-unesco-sites-in-newfoundland-and-labrador/
Opinion: Campsites in Canada Are Way Too Difficult to Book https://explore-mag.com/opinion-campsites-in-canada-are-way-too-difficult-to-book/
Explore British Columbia, Canada: Along Rainforest to Rockies https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/discover/discover-british-columbia/discover-british-columbia/explore-british-columbia-along-rainforest-to-rockies/
World Poetry Day: Five places around the UK that inspired famous poets https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/places-around-the-uk-that-inspired-famous-poets/
A guide to Ireland’s six national parks https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/guide-to-irelands-national-parks/
6 Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park https://www.myutahparks.com/things-to-do/hiking-trails/best-hikes-canyonlands-national-park/
6 Perfect Trails For Your First Solo Backpacking Trip https://www.backpacker.com/trips/6-best-trails-for-your-first-solo-backpacking-trip/
5 Dayhikes You Need To Add To Your Bucket List https://www.backpacker.com/trips/5-dream-worthy-dayhikes-to-add-to-your-bucket-list/
Why Your Next Trip Should Be to a Blue Zone https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/blue-zone-trips/
The Best Rain Jackets in the World Will Soon Be Illegal—with Good Reason https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/forever-chemicals-pfas/
For a while now, I have fancied putting a link to #Kingfisher #Visitor #Guides (https://kingfishervisitorguides.com/) somewhere in the travel section (https://www.assortedexplorations.com/travel/) of my website, only for there to be nowhere for it to go. Blame it all on the #Britain and #Ireland scope of coverage if you like, but the inflexibility is on my end too.
Rhododendron Walking Festival, The Vee, Ireland https://www.vee.ie/
The best travel books of 2023 https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-travel-books-2023/
Image Via: The Chimney in Spillars Cove | Discovery Geopark Hiking Through Neverland (In Newfoundland) https://www.explore-mag.com/Hiking-Through-Neverland-In-Newfoundland
5 alpine hikes in Saas-Fee/Saastal https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/discover/saas-fee/content/alpine-hikes-in-saas-fee/
7 of the best spring walks in the UK https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-spring-walks-uk/
The 5 Best British Circular Walks https://www.wiredforadventure.com/5-best-circular-walks/
Just came across Paris Digest while pondering a possible trip to the French capital city https://www.parisdigest.com/
Know Before You Go with the Avalanche Forecast Layer https://blog.gaiagps.com/avalanche-forecast-layer/
Mount Rainier National Park Will Require Reservations in 2024 https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/news/mount-rainier-national-park-reservations-timed-entry-2024/
10 Winter Hikes in the Okanagan Valley https://www.explore-mag.com/10-Winter-Hikes-in-the-Okanagan-Valley
The 6 Most Adventurous Train Trips in North America https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/best-train-trips-north-america/
Calm Your Mind on These 5 Peaceful Trails https://www.backpacker.com/trips/5-most-peaceful-hiking-trails-in-the-us/
A new group launched, dedicated to the protection of #Lindow Moss in #Wilmslow, #Cheshire https://www.alderleyedge.com/news/article/23773/new-group-launches-dedicated-to-the-protection-of-lindow-moss
For Active Adventurers, This Is Hawaii’s Best Beachfront Resort https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/westin-hapuna-beach-resort/
The World’s Top 10 Tropical Adventures https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/best-tropical-adventures/
Storm #Jocelyn is making its way past Britain and Ireland overnight. Weather warnings issued, but the likely impact is not as heavy as #Isha. Railways closed in Scotland at 19:00 and will not open until 12:00 tomorrow.
The 10 Best Backpacking Trails in Our National Parks https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/ten-best-national-park-backpacking-trails/
Storm #Isha is making its presence felt. It is not too bad around where I am, but there are weather warnings for strong #winds and heavy #rain. These get to Status Red in parts of #Ireland. The equivalents go no higher than amber in the #UK, though the #Scottish #rail network was shut down, not a bad idea given the confusion surrounding Storm #Gerrit.
#Skiing season is well under way in the #Canadian Rockies, so Golden Shuttle is offering services between #Calgary Airport and Golden and between #Golden and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Timetables are online too for you to check when buses depart and arrive. If they did something similar during the hiking season, that would be of keen interest to me as a non-driver. https://www.goldenshuttle.ca/
In #Japan, there is what they call a new Golden Route between #Tokyo and #Osaka that goes via #Hokuriku on the Japan Sea coast. This is for use by tourists when exploring the area served by the new link, and there even is a multi-day travel pass, the Hokuriku Arch Pass. This is cheaper to buy outside of Japan, so the target market appears to be visitors from overseas. https://www.newgoldenroute.jp/ https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
A return to North America: This is an account of a 2023 visit to North America, focusing on the San Francisco Bay Area. The trip included hiking around various scenic locations such as Golden Gate Park, Land’s End, Angel Island State Park, Muir Woods National Monument, and Point Reyes National Seashore. Explorations were as diverse as they were satisfying, making for a regret-free journey home. https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2023/08/15/a-return-to-north-america/
Aviemore, again: This recounts a trip to the Scottish Highlands, reflecting on previous visits. These explorations of the Cairngorms included an ascent of Bynack More. Despite a mishap, the scenic beauty, was ravishing, so thoughts led to contemplations of future visits, including cycling and exploring nature reserves. The Highlands, once a refuge, still beckon as a place to experience anew. https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2023/08/23/aviemore-again/
A festive escapade: This is a reflection on a festive season getaway that recounts experiences in Edinburgh and Aviemore. Storm Gerrit complicates the journey to Aviemore, but there was enjoyable hiking in Glen Eanaich and satisfying explorations of Inverness. A walk from Kingussie to Aviemore presented obstacles like fallen trees. The New Year's Eve hike around Loch an Eilean is peaceful, with pleasant photogenic weather. https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2024/01/20/a-festive-escapade/
Beyond the Empire City: Exploring New York State https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/discover/new-york-state/content/beyond-new-york/
This is why you should visit the USA in 2024 https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/reasons-to-visit-the-usa/
This morning's view from the Hanging Gate pub #photo
How the Cat & Fiddle road and Shining Tor looked earlier today #photo
The weather has taken on a much colder feel around the #UK recently. We even got some #snow, though most has gone around me. The dry interlude has become a respite from all the wet weather, even if it is not to last.
Eight reasons why you should visit France in 2024 https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/reasons-to-visit-france/
13 of the best places to stay in the Canadian Rockies https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-hotels-in-canadian-rockies/
#Slovenia’s greatest walk https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/discover/discover-slovenia/content/trace-the-alpe-adria-trail/
2 Days in Great Smoky Mountains National Park https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/weekend-itinerary/
Patagonia Is Building Parks. Pay Attention. https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/patagonia-building-parks/
The Happy Camper: Review of Adam Shoalts' Book Where the Falcon Flies https://www.explore-mag.com/The-Happy-Camper-Review-of-Adam-Shoalts-Book-Where-the-Falcon-Flies
#Snow could come our way in the #UK during the coming week. As ever, only time will reveal what happens.
Your Guide to Visiting National Parks in Winter https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/your-guide-visiting-national-parks-winter/
For Hikers, Alaska’s Ferries Are a Slow Boat to Big Adventure https://www.backpacker.com/trips/adventure-travel/for-hikers-alaskas-ferries-are-a-slow-boat-to-big-adventure/
Spent #Christmas and New Year in #Scotland. The weather was mixed, and Storm #Gerrit nearly stopped a stay in #Aviemore. #Edinburgh was my base for Christmas before heading north later. All in all, the hiking took in the Water of #Leith, the #Pentland Hills, the #Cairngorms, #Kingussie and #Inverness. #Travel took me by #Aberdeen as well. There was much to savour despite unpromising #weather prospects.
These Are the 5 Hikes Backpacker Editors Dream of Doing https://www.backpacker.com/trips/5-trails-backpacker-editors-have-on-their-bucket-lists/
These 9 National Parks Will Have Timed-Entry Reservations This Year https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/national-parks-reservations-2024/
10 of the Best Winter Hiking Trails Near Calgary, Alberta https://www.explore-mag.com/10-of-the-Best-Winter-Hiking-Trails-Near-Calgary-Alberta
The Happy Camper: Quebec's New Dumoine Tote Road Trail https://www.explore-mag.com/The-Happy-Camper-Quebecs-New-Dumoine-Tote-Road-Trail
Locals Cry Foul as California Ski Resort Unveils Plans for Large Religious Statue https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/snow-sports/mt-shasta-to-build-summit-virgin-mary-statue/
29 People Died in One of the Worst Mountaineering Accidents in History. What Happened? https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/exploration-survival/avalanche-mountaineering-accident-draupadi-ka-danda-2/
A Prestigious Climbing Award Parts Ways with Its Antisemitic Namesake https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/climbing/american-alpine-club-renames-robert-and-miriam-underhill-award-the-pinnacle-award/
These 3 Long Trails Just Became America’s Newest National Parks https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/news/new-national-park-trails-north-country-ice-age-new-england/
Free National Park Days in 2024 https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/free-national-park-days-2024/
4 Heart-Pounding Yosemite Adventures https://www.myyosemitepark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/heart-pounding-yosemite-adventures/
Top 10 Winter Hiking Trails Near Toronto, Ontario https://www.explore-mag.com/Top-10-Winter-Hiking-Trails-Near-Toronto-Ontario
Fall and Winter Outdoor Adventures in Penticton, BC https://www.explore-mag.com/Fall-and-Winter-Outdoor-Adventures-in-Penticton-BC
10 of the Best Winter Hikes Near Edmonton, Alberta https://www.explore-mag.com/10-of-the-Best-Winter-Hikes-Near-Edmonton-Alberta
What to Do in Banff in the Winter https://www.explore-mag.com/What-to-Do-in-Banff-in-the-Winter
5 Places to Enjoy Winter in Canada Without Skis https://www.explore-mag.com/5-PLACES-TO-ENJOY-WINTER-IN-CANADA-WITHOUT-SKIS
10 Best Winter Hikes Near Vancouver, British Columbia https://www.explore-mag.com/10-Best-Winter-Hikes-Near-Vancouver-British-Columbia
Masculinity and femininity https://www.voicesofyouth.org/blog/masculinity-and-femininity
Get the Facts and Ignore These Four Winter Hiking Myths https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/winter-gear-myths-for-hikers/
After last week's drier if colder interlude, mixed weather is back with us again. Looks to stay that way for a while yet.
Was in #Ireland last week. Did not get very far with what I wanted to do but walked along the #Limerick Greenway from Newcastle West to #Rathkeale. Also got to see Bunratty castle & Folk Park on a sunnier day. Lots of dry weather too, which helped when going around Limerick city.
Five Bike-Safety Tips That Are More Important than Wearing a Helmet https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/biking/five-bike-safety-tips-that-are-more-important-than-wearing-a-helmet/
Off-Road Rescues in Colorado Are Getting Out of Hand https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/exploration-survival/drivers-stranded-colorado-passes/
The Best Budget Airlines—and Adventure Locales They Go To https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/pros-cons-budget-airlines/
How travel has changed in the past 30 years https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/how-travel-has-changed/
30 years of Wanderlust: Let's start at the beginning... https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/beginning-of-wanderlust/
Mapping the last 30 years in numbers https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/mapping-thirty-years-in-numbers/
The story of modern travel https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/story-of-modern-travel/
One of the Appalachian Trail’s Most Iconic Views Is Now Protected Forever https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/mcaffee-knob-view-protection-appalachian-trail-conservancy/
British Columbia to Expand 5 Provincial Parks https://www.explore-mag.com/BC-to-Expand-5-Provincial-Parks/
Weather prospects for the coming weekend are not looking promising. The past two weekends offered chances that were relished and associated memories trigger gratitude now.
Last Saturday saw me strolling around #Edinburgh. #Corstorphine LNR got a visit on the way to #Cramond and #Silverknowes. There was plenty of sunshine along with a seasonal chill. It was great to be out and about.
Last Sunday me making an incursion into the #Ochil Hills near #Stirling in #Scotland. The day was gloriously sunny, and a gravel track made up for my being somewhat underdressed.
How to spot greenwashing when booking a hotel https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/how-to-spot-greenwashing-when-booking-a-hotel/
Found myself strolling along the East #Lothian coastline near #Edinburgh in #Scotland yesterday. There was sunshine, warm at times, so it was a pleasant stroll linking with the end of a #hike that I did a few years ago.
The best things to do in Sicily, the scene-stealing island in 'The White Lotus' https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-things-to-do-see-sicily/
Italy’s 10 most spectacular rail journeys https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/italy-s-most-spectacular-rail-journeys/
2-Day Itinerary for the Perfect Yosemite Vacation https://www.myyosemitepark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/weekend-itinerary/
A mini guide to Tromsø, the final checkpoint in Celebrity Race Across the World https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/short-break-tromso-norway/
Hand Sanitizer Isn’t Cutting It. Here’s Why Hikers Need to Start Washing Their Hands. https://www.backpacker.com/skills/beginner-skills/bathroom-etiquette/hand-sanitizer-isnt-cutting-it-heres-why-hikers-need-to-start-washing-their-hands/
7 of Italy's best and most beautiful hikes https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/beautiful-hikes-in-italy/
The 10 Most Historical Trails in the U.S. That You Can Hike https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/historical-hiking-trails/
Island-Hopping Pacific Northwest National Park Road Trip https://www.myolympicpark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/vancouver-olympic-loop-road-trip/
#UNESCO declares new World #Heritage Sites for 2023 https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/new-unesco-world-heritage-sites/
The 25 Best Fall Trips in the World https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/best-fall-trips-in-the-world/
Rangers Scramble to Restrict Access to a New Crack That Appeared Overnight in Yosemite https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/climbing/new-crack-appears-in-yosemite-closing-popular-trail/
Hiking New York’s highest peak https://www.lakeplacid.com/hiking/mount-marcy
Best Adirondack Waterfall Hikes https://visitadirondacks.com/recreation/hiking/waterfalls
Adirondack Park is a gift to all who discover it. https://www.iloveny.com/places-to-go/adirondacks/spotlight-adirondacks/
How to Travel around New York State from NYC https://www.iloveny.com/travel-tools/transportation/travel-around-ny-state-from-nyc/
At These North Woods Cabins in Maine, Quiet Is the Main Attraction https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/north-woods-cabins-maine/
Was in #Wales again this weekend. Got some rain but a lot of dry weather as well. Not much visibility on top of Pumlumon Fawr but better elsewhere. #Aberystwyth also looks promising, so another return cannot be ruled out when the weather offers.
Florida's Rail Revolution https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/floridas-rail-revolution/
12 great ways to see New York in autumn https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/discover/new-york-state/content/new-york-autumn/
The Morocco earthquake: what you as a traveller can do to help https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/morocco-earthquake-how-to-help/
The 10 Best #Ontario Provincial Parks You Can Visit from #Toronto https://www.explore-mag.com/The-10-Best-Ontario-Provincial-Parks-You-Can-Visit-from-Toronto
Was in #Wales again this weekend. Hiked from #Minffordd to Morfa Mawddach in hot sunny weather on Saturday. Went via the summit of Cadair Idris too. Overnighted in #Porthmadog before returning home on a Sunday of unsettled weather.
The 5 Best Hiking Trails Just Outside Yosemite National Park https://www.backpacker.com/trips/best-hiking-trails-outside-of-yosemite/
Amazing photos on Bob Spirko's hiking website: http://bobspirko.ca/
Got heatwave here in the #UK. It may not be the best for hiking but I still want to make some use of it over the coming weekend. After an often wet summer, you need to use your chances when you get them, unless other things get in the way, that is.
Starting to come across some wonderful hiking accounts on here. Hope to see more.
OCD and Self-Help Resources https://www.ocduk.org/overcoming-ocd/self-help/
Sunny weather drew me to North Wales again. Saturday saw me ascend a clouded Carnedd Gwenllian, but there was some sunshine too. #Llandudno saw me enjoy another visit there on Sunday.
The 10 Most Beautiful Hikes in U.S. National Forests https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/hikes-national-forests/
How to sleep well on your travels https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/how-to-sleep-well-on-your-travels/
Tipping Is Out of Control. Here Are the New Rules. https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/advice/new-rules-for-tipping/
Is It Safe to Travel to Canada Right Now with the Wildfires? https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/safe-travel-to-canada-wildfires/
The 14 Best State Parks for Hiking in the U.S. https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/best-state-parks-for-hiking/
5 Active Adventures in Olympic National Park https://www.myolympicpark.com/things-to-do/park-itineraries/active-adventures/
The 13 Best Hikes in Yosemite Valley https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/best-hikes-yosemite/
San Francisco has a homelessness problem like many cities in the world. Here are some ways to help: https://projects.sfchronicle.com/sf-homeless/how-to-help/
How a 5-Ton African Elephant Crosses an Ocean https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/how-5-ton-african-elephant-crosses-ocean/
What Happens to the Grand Canyon if the Colorado River Dries Up? https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/colorado-river-drying-up/
The 5 Best Sections on the Pacific Crest Trail, According to a Dirtbag Who Has Done it All https://www.backpacker.com/trips/long-trails/pacific-crest-trail/best-sections-pacific-crest-trail/
This Service Dog Visited All 63 National Parks in One Year https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/service-dog-visited-every-national-parks/
How to Avoid Food Sickness While Travelling https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/advice/avoid-food-sickness-traveling/
25 Incredible Hiking Trails in British Columbia https://www.explore-mag.com/25_Incredible_Hiking_Trails_in_British_Columbia/
Not long back from a trip to San Francisco. Bay Area hiking was what I mainly did and it did not disappoint me. Getting around using public transport worked well enough for me too.
The 5 Best Hikes on the Appalachian Trail, as Chosen By a Thru-Hiker https://www.backpacker.com/trips/long-trails/appalachian-trail/best-hikes-appalachian-trail-thru-hiker/
13 Lesser-Known Public Lands Adventures https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/public-lands-adventures/
Beyond New York: A guide to the USA's best urban escapes https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-alternative-usa-cities/
Also trying out a GPS watch with ABC sensor and solar charging. It is early days but it has been revealing already.
Have been playing around with a PLB ahead of a forthcoming trip away. Reassuring to have it now. Subscription is expensive though and it was not that cheap to get either.
My most recent blog post is here: https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2023/07/09/jubilees/.
Had a worrying moment with the website not working as it should. Sorted it on the server side by adding extra DNS server entries to a configuration file. Avoided a complete rebuild. Now breathing a grateful sigh of relief.
5 Adventurous TV Show Locations You Can Visit https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/visit-tv-show-locations/
6 Under-the-Radar Beach Towns that Aren’t Touristy https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/not-touristy-beach-towns/
Don’t Be a Jerk: Here’s What Every Hiker Should Know About Trail Etiquette https://www.backpacker.com/skills/beginner-skills/a-complete-guide-to-trail-etiquette-for-hikers/
Can I Poach a Reserved Campsite That No One Has Shown Up To? https://www.backpacker.com/skills/can-i-poach-a-reserved-campsite-that-no-one-has-shown-up-to/
9 alternative #European cities for a magical autumn break https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/alternative-europe-cities-to-visit-in-autumn/
The #European cities to avoid this high season – and their underrated alternatives to visit instead https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/european-cities-to-avoid-high-season/
#Montreal and #Québec: Which #Canadian city is for you? https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/montreal-and-quebec-city-travel-guide/
How To Book Your Walker’s Haute Route Accommodation https://www.earthtrekkers.com/walkers-haute-route-accommodations/
6 Best Hiking Trails in Grand Teton National Park https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/hiking/grand-teton-hikes/
How to Take a Train to All the Best National Parks https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/amtrak-national-park-train-travel/
The Most Trusted Travel-Review Sites https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/advice/most-trusted-travel-review-sites/
What Makes Mount Baldy So Dangerous https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/exploration-survival/why-mount-baldy-dangerous-los-angeles/
Your Travel Destination Has Suffered a Disaster. Should You Still Go? https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/advice/natural-disasters-to-travel-or-not/
Local’s Guide to 22 of the Best Hikes Near NYC that are Jaw-Droppingly Beautiful https://www.travelnewyorknow.com/best-hikes-near-nyc-hiking-near-nyc/
Experience the St. Lawrence https://www.bonjourquebec.com/en-us/explore/experiences/experience-the-st-lawrence
The 25 Best Hikes in the World Right Now https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/best-hikes-in-the-world/
This Is the Most Beautiful Town in Colorado https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/essays/most-beautiful-town-in-colorado/
Best Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip via the California Coast https://www.myyosemitepark.com/road-trips/road-trip-itineraries/california-coast-to-yosemite-road-trip/
10 Great Hut-to-Hut Trips in the U.S. https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/great-american-huts-you-can-hike/
The Case for Ditching Air Travel https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/advice/flygskam-stop-traveling-by-plane/
Sacred Native American Sites Are Not Your Playgrounds https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/new-rules-respectful-recreation
Giving Mountains Back Their Indigenous Names https://www.outsideonline.com/2277891/giving-mountains-back-their-indigenous-names
Has Overtourism Killed Big Sur? https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/big-sur-overtourism/
Norway’s Bold Plan to Tackle Overtourism https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/norway-adventure-travel-overtourism/
Here’s What a Carbon Offset Actually Looks Like https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/how-carbon-offsets-work/
7 of the best walks in Snowdonia National Park https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-walks-snowdonia-national-park
The Best Ways to Relax and Recover After an Intense Hike https://www.explore-mag.com/The-Best-Ways-to-Relax-and-Recover-After-an-Intense-Hike
What to Do if You Encounter a Bear https://www.explore-mag.com/what-to-do-if-you-encounter-a-bear
High temperatures in #Macclesfield this afternoon. Not a preferred set of circumstances for hiking. Got a stroll in this morning instead.
Is It Safe to Hike in Wildfire Smoke? Here’s What Hikers Need to Know. https://www.backpacker.com/skills/beginner-skills/survive-wilderness-threats/hiking-in-wildfire-smoke/
How to Build a Wildfire-Smoke Air Filter for $150 https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/gear-news/gear-recommendations-may-2023/
Europe's most exciting new rail journeys https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/europes-new-rail-journeys/
These 6 Waterfall Hikes Are Straight-Up Magical https://www.backpacker.com/trips/five-must-see-summer-waterfalls/
When is the Best Season to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park? https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/park/weather-seasons/best-season/
Gaia Classic: The Only Map You’ll Ever Need? https://blog.gaiagps.com/gaia-classic-map/
The 8 Least-Visited National Parks in the U.S. https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/least-visited-national-parks-in-us/
The Chinese Wall Loop https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/montana/chinese-wall-loop
3 Hikes That Showcase the Raw, Dramatic Beauty of the High Uintas Wilderness https://www.visitutah.com/articles/3-hikes-high-uintas-wilderness
Scenic Views & Adventure: The Best Dolly Sods Hikes https://www.wvlogcabins.com/news/best-dolly-sods-hikes/
Ishi Wilderness: Deer Creek Trail https://www.calwild.org/deer-creek-trail/
When It’s Hot in Sacramento, This Alpine Lake Does the Trick https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/hike-guide-rockbound-pass-desolation-wilderness
50 U.S. Wilderness Areas, Ranked https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/50-best-wilderness-areas-u-s-ranked/
7 fantastic walks in Guernsey https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-walks-guernsey/
23 of the best places to visit in June https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-places-to-visit-in-june/
Celebrating Juneteenth across the USA https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/celebrating-juneteenth-in-the-usa/
The Pacific Crest Trail Just Got More International Than Ever https://www.backpacker.com/trips/long-trails/pacific-crest-trail/the-pacific-crest-trail-is-more-international-than-ever-this-season/
Crucial Bridge Closures in the Sierra Could Force Pacific Crest and John Muir Thru-Hikers Off the Trail https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/news/crucial-bridge-closures-in-the-sierra-could-force-pacific-crest-and-john-muir-thru-hikers-off-the-trail/
Spent last weekend in the #Cairngorms. Falling over scarcely intruded on a time with an ascent of Bynack More and a hike from Nethy Bridge to #Aviemore. The weather varied, but there was sunshine at some point on every day.
Perfect 72-Hour Backcountry Adventures https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/backcountry-trips-long-weekend/
The 36 Best Places to Visit in the U.S. for Adventure https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/best-places-to-visit-in-us-for-adventure/
15 of the world's epic walking trails https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/most-epic-walking-trails-in-the-world/
New weather satellite reveals spectacular images of Earth https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Meteorological_missions/meteosat_third_generation/New_weather_satellite_reveals_spectacular_images_of_Earth
We Mapped the West 200 Years Ago, and We’re Still Living with the Mistakes https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/exploration-survival/make-this-summer-the-season-of-water-adventures-with-your-dog/
Been updating broken links on the blog that were discovered by WPManage.
Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide https://happiestoutdoors.ca/wildside-trail-guide/
What to do when you encounter wildlife while trail running https://getouttheremag.com/articles/5343/what-to-do-when-you-encounter-wildlife-while-trail-running
Trip planner: 8 unforgettable journeys through Canada https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/canada-highlights-best-journeys-trip-planner/
The 27 best places to visit in July https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-places-to-visit-in-july/
What is the Best Season to Visit Olympic National Park? https://www.myolympicpark.com/park/weather-seasons/best-season-olympic-national-park/
Olympic National Park Essentials: 11 Basic Things You Need to Know https://www.myolympicpark.com/park/faqs/olympic-national-park-basic-information/
Feeling a bit under the weather at the moment. Hopefully, taking things easier will restore things again.
Spent some time in #Ireland recently. Got in some #walking in West #Limerick, South #Tipperary, North #Kerry and around #Galway city. Weather was mixed but some sunny spells too.
8 of the Most Awe-Inspiring Alpine Lake Hikes in America https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/best-alpine-lake-hikes-us/
8 tips for flight-free travel https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/flight-free-travel-tips/
The Ten Most Beautiful Hikes in the World https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/10-most-beautiful-hikes-world/
Get Paid to Travel or Move to One of These Beautiful Locations https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/get-paid-to-travel-or-relocate/
How to Poop in the Outdoors https://www.explore-mag.com/How-to-Poop-in-the-Outdoors
West Sweden by rail: 4 incredible pit stops on a train journey through West Sweden https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/discover/west-sweden/content/train-journey-west-sweden/
How to Camp on Olympic National Park’s Beaches https://www.myolympicpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/camping-rv/beach-camping-olympic-national-park/
Park Service Workers Aren’t Stoked on Their Jobs: A recent survey of employee satisfaction returned abysmal scores for the NPS https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/national-parks/national-park-service-job-satisfaction-survey/
California’s Superbloom Is Visible from Outer Space: Ask NASA https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/where-to-see-california-superbloom/
The Ethics of Wildlife Photography https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/ethics-wildlife-photography/
Jersey revisited http://ow.ly/mz5I50O2Twb
The UK's best bluebell woods to visit this spring https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-bluebell-woods-uk/
5 Amazing Parks Near Major Canadian Cities https://www.explore-mag.com/5-Amazing-Parks-Near-Major-Canadian-Cities
Manitoba North: Find Your Wild North of 53 https://www.travelmanitoba.com/places/manitoba-north/
Churchill: On the edge of the Arctic https://www.travelmanitoba.com/churchill/
10 amazing places to visit in Riding Mountain only the locals know about https://www.travelmanitoba.com/blog/10-amazing-places-to-visit-in-riding-mountain-only-the-locals-know-about/
10 Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Gros Morne National Park https://www.explore-mag.com/Budget-Friendly-Gros-Morne
Top 10 Things People Forget When Camping https://www.explore-mag.com/Top-10-Things-People-Forget-When-Camping
Is Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park the most serene place in Manitoba? We're nominating it. https://www.travelmanitoba.com/blog/is-hecla-grindstone-provincial-park-the-most-serene-place-in-manitoba-were-nominating-it/
The Best Places to Go Hiking in Manitoba https://www.explore-mag.com/The-Best-Places-to-Go-Hiking-in-Manitoba
Back from Jersey where I got some good weather and a break from everything. Day trips to Guernsey and Saint-Malo also transpired.
Fairytale Irish castles: 13 best places to stay in Ireland https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-castle-stays-ireland/
Was in #Ireland last week to sort out some business. Was rainy much of the time, though there were sunny interludes as well.
The best travel books of 2023 (so far) https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-travel-books-2023/
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail: A Beginner’s Guide https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/pacific-crest-trail-beginners-guide/
New post: A spot of refinement https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2023/03/20/a-spot-of-refinement/
7 of the best walks in Ireland https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-walks-ireland/
The 50 States of Climate Change https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/the-50-states-of-climate-change/
Snow lying near Cat and Fiddle Inn
Snow lying in hills near #Macclesfield
Two Colorado Fourteeners Are Closing to the Public https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/news/lincoln-democrat-fourteener-closure/
Learning to Assess Risk Could Save Your Hike— and Your Life https://www.backpacker.com/survival/survival-skills/how-to-judge-risk-on-hike/
State of Macclesfield Road in #Buxton this evening. Not so bad in #Macclesfield but lots falling on nearby hills.
Free 2023 Travel Planners for Alaska, Idaho, Oregon & Washington State https://nwtravelmag.com/our-free-2023-travel-planners/
Just booked a trip with Aer Lingus when the Ryanair website or app would not work for me.
The Best Short(er) Thru-Hikes in America https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/best-shorter-thru-hikes-america/
The Most Underrated Park in Every American State https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/most-underrated-parks-us/
How to Build a Campfire https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/exploration-survival/how-to-build-a-fire/
Ten Basic Rules for Adventure https://www.outsideonline.com/culture/love-humor/10-basic-rules-adventure/
What Bikepacking 2,700 Miles Taught My Partner About Limits and Living with Long COVID https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/biking/long-covid-bikepacking/
Giving my outdoors blog content a little prune https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/
There’s a Gorgeous Superbloom in North Carolina—and It’s Getting Hikers Into Trouble https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/news/daffodil-hiker-injuries-north-carolina/
Parks Canada Has a New Reservation System for 2023. Here's What You Need to Know. https://www.explore-mag.com/Parks-Canada-Has-a-New-Reservation-System-for-2023-Heres-What-You-Need-to-Know
This Is Why You Get Sick Every Time You Travel https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/advice/getting-sick-when-traveling/
Hiking in Alaska: A Guide for the First-Time Hiker https://www.explore-mag.com/Hiking-in-Alaska-A-Guide-for-the-First-Time-Hiker
What You Need to Know About Alligators Before Hiking or Paddling in Florida https://www.backpacker.com/survival/surviving-animal-attacks/alligator-safety-florida-hiking-and-paddling/
5 Places You Can Paddle When Canada Is Locked Into Winter https://www.explore-mag.com/5-Places-You-Can-Paddle-When-Canada-Is-Locked-Into-Winter
Hikers Are Banned from the Superbloom in this California Town https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/news/hikers-are-banned-from-the-superbloom-in-this-california-town/
Next phase of Lindow Moss restoration commences https://www.alderleyedge.com/news/article/23035/next-phase-of-lindow-moss-restoration-commences
Classic canoe films https://www.explore-mag.com/The-Happy-Camper-Classic-Canoe-Films
Dull and overcast in #Macclesfield today.
23 big bucket list adventures https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/23-big-bucket-list-adventures/
Just had a #snow shower in #Macclesfield. There may be more to come.
Esja near Reykjavík, earlier today
Ogwen valley webcam today
Now at @hill_wanderer as well. Hedging bets given all that is happening now.
New Year’s Eve rambling on Tenerife, near to Santa Cruz https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/28/new-years-eve-rambling-on-tenerife-near-to-santa-cruz/
A New Year’s Day adventure in Parque Rural de Anaga on Tenerife https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/29/a-new-years-day-adventure-in-parque-rural-de-anaga-on-tenerife/
Exercising added restraint within Parque Nacional del Teide on Tenerife https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/30/exercising-added-restraint-within-parque-nacional-del-teide-on-tenerife/
Exchanging years while on Tenerife https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/31/exchanging-years-while-on-tenerife/
New post: When promised sunshine scarcely appeared, https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2023/01/10/when-promised-sunshine-scarcely-appeared/
The Best Hikes for Every Month in 2023 https://www.backpacker.com/trips/hiking-calendar-best-backpacking-trips-2023/
Wanderlust Editors' Hot List 2023 https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/editors-hot-list-2023/
Had some heavy rain here in Macclesfield this morning. Now moving away but it felt like it never would stop while it was around.
New long-haul flight routes for 2023 https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/new-long-haul-flight-routes-2023/
Just finished a set of trip reports for an outing to Tenerife from a few years ago. https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/31/exchanging-years-while-on-tenerife/
The Best Hikes for Every Month in 2023 https://www.backpacker.com/trips/hiking-calendar-best-backpacking-trips-2023/
Where Should You Hike in 2023? We Asked 5 Pros About Their Epic Plans. https://www.backpacker.com/trips/where-should-you-hike-in-2023-we-asked-the-pros-about-their-plans/
5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Bucket List Treks You’ll Remember Forever https://www.backpacker.com/trips/adventure-travel/5-off-the-beaten-path-bucket-list-treks-youll-remember-forever/
How will we travel in 2023? https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/travel-trends-2023/
Aspen Has Been Overrun by Zillionaires. Has the Town Lost Its Gonzo Soul? https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/essays/gonzo-aspen-overrun-by-billionaires/
The world's top new trips for 2023 https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-trips-for-2023/
Been busy with trip reports from a trip to Galway and Clare in 2018. There is one more set of thoughts to come, and that completes the set.
A day on Aran This is the last of four hiking trip reports from an August 2018 stay in Galway that allowed me... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/23/a-day-on-aran/ #Aonghasa #Aran #Aran Islands #Bus Éireann #Connemara #County Clare #County Galway #Dún Aonghasa #Galway #Geography of Europe #Geography of Ireland #Geography of the Republic of Ireland #Iceland #Inisheer #Inishmaan #Inishmore #Ireland #Kerry #Killeany #Kilronan #Rossaveal #The Burren #Tim Robinson
When sunshine arrived late on the way from Maam Cross to Oughterard This is the third of four hiking trip reports from an August 2018 stay in Galway that allowed me to venture on day hikes in the counties of Clare and Galway. The first of the four ventured along part of County Clare's Atlantic Coast, while the second related reconnaissance wanderings around Connemara.... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/20/when-sunshine-arrived-late-on-the-way-from-maam-cross-to-oughterard/
A grey day around Connemara The second full day of my August 2018 trip to the West of Ireland remained dry until the evening when heavy rain came. That persisted overnight, and I was to see its effects the... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/19/a-grey-day-around-connemara/ #Clifden #Connacht #Connemara #County Galway #Derryclare #Derryclare Lough #Galway #Geography of Ireland #Glendollagh Lough #Ireland #Lough Inagh #Moycullen #Nature #Oughterard #Recess #Sky #Twelve Bens
A damp hike along Clare cliff tops This report comes from a trip to the counties of Galway and Clare in August 2018. While that year brought a lot of sunshine, this was a fading memory by... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/18/a-damp-hike-along-clare-cliff-tops/ #Aran Islands #Cliffs of Moher #Counties of Ireland #County Clare #Doolin #Dunguaire Castle #Galway #Geography of Ireland #Hag's Head #Ireland #Kinvara #Liscannor #Moher #Moher Tower #The Burren #Tourism in Ireland
What are the European Capitals of Culture 2023? https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/european-capitals-of-culture-2023/
A short amble about Yr Eifl One trip often inspires another, and my visit to the Llŷn... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/12/a-short-amble-about-yr-eifl/ #Cambrian Coast Express #Cambrian Line #Cardigan Bay #Ceiri Hillfort #Electronic Information for Libraries #Geography of Wales #Gwynedd #Gyrn Ddu #Gyrn Goch #Llanaelhaearn #Llithfaen #Llŷn Peninsula #Mawr #Moel- #Mynydd Carnguwch #Pistyll #Pwllheli #Seaside resorts in Wales #Tre'r Ceiri #Wales #Wolverhampton #Yr Eifl
Very foggy here in #Macclesfield this morning.
Various Trip Updates Rather than continuing to tease or even bore readers with what is to be found on this outpost of mine by listing outstanding trip reports in blog posts, I am collecting a list of outings here as they happen. It should ensure that I never forget to say more about any walks or cycles that I have done that deserve it. Naturally, such a list should be ever-changing, and I need to not be so tardy with sharing... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/various-trip-updates/
A bitter blustery day on Moel Famau Though there were plenty of things on my mind like executing my next career moves at the end of a long break, times... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2021/04/18/a-bitter-blustery-day-on-moel-famau/ #Bryn Alyn #Bryn Ayn #Bryn y Castell #Cefn Mawr #Chester #Clwyd #Clwydian Range #Denbighshire #Garth #Geography of Wales #Llanferres #Loggerheads #Loggerheads Country Park #Macclesfield #Moel Dywyll #Moel Famau #Nain #River Alyn #Ruthin #Wales
Grey at the start and at the end, lots of brightness otherwise The trouble with trip reports is... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/09/grey-at-the-start-and-end-lots-of-brightness-between-them/ #Betchcott #Church Stretton #Cothercott Hill #Counties of England #Geography of England #Geology of Shropshire #Hollies #Manstone Rock #Rock #Shrewsbury #Shrewsbury and Atcham #Shropshire #Shropshire Way #Snailbeach #Stiperstones #Stretton #The Leasowes #Wilderley Hill #Woolstaston
Combining old ways around Barmouth 2022 has turned out to be a very dry year, which probably has helped with my explorations of parts of Ireland. While we could not imagine... https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/12/11/combining-old-ways-around-barmouth/ #Barmouth #Bwlch #Cadair Idris #Cambrian Way #Craig #Cramond #Diffwys #Dinas Oleu #Edinburgh #Garn #Geography of Wales #Grut #Gwynedd #Haze #Ireland #Llanelltyd #Scotland #Strolling #Subdivisions of Scotland #Wales #Wolverhampton
Been cold and snowy around #Macclesfield lately. Cold weather set to continue too.
Recent changes in mapping technology There have been a few things that I have been meaning to write about in recent times but I never got around to doing that because of other distractions. Anyone who has been here before should know that I have a fascination with maps and the advance of technology has done nothing to change that. If anyth https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/02/15/recent-changes-in-mapping-technology/ #Cycling #Mapping #OutdoorGear #OutdoorSkills #Walking
Into nighttime Over the last few months, I have gone walking under hours of darkness by design rather than by accident as often has been the case. Much of this has been in urban areas in the name of remaining active after a day of working from home but some have taken me away from hard surfaces as well.The first time that I ever tried this was during a much-nee https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/02/15/into-nighttime/ #Cheshire #OutdoorSkills #TimesandSeasons #Walking
Musings on cycling This post nearly got called "Misgivings about cycling" after encountering a cyclist riding at speed on the pavement while out for two evening walks last week. While I accept that riding on the road can be forboding, going on the footway is illegal and these incidents happened when the road was quiet as well. It also peeves me a bit as I find it intrusive on narrow footpaths.What https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2022/02/15/musings-on-cycling/ #Cycling
More Outdoor Activities Inspiration Worldwide OutforiaIrish Walking Coillte Outdoors Fermanagh Lakelands Irish Trails MountainViews Outdoor Northern Ireland The Ireland Walking Guide Walk Northern Ireland Walking Ireland Glenariff Forest Park Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails Drimoleague Walkways Mayo WalksBritish Walking Discovering Britain GetO https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-outdoor-activities-inspiration/
More Walking & Cycling Ideas Irish Walking Coillte Outdoors Fermanagh Lakelands Irish Trails MountainViews Outdoor Northern Ireland The Ireland Walking Guide Walk Northern Ireland Walking Ireland Glenariff Forest Park Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails Drimoleague Walkways Mayo WalksBritish Walking Discovering Britain GetOutside go4awalk.com OUTDOORSmagic https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-walking-cycling-ideas/
Weather Forecasting Services Much like my fascination with maps, my interest in weather forecasting dates from when I was growing up on a farm in rural Ireland. With an outdoor business like that based somewhere with a changeable maritime climate, knowledge of whatever weather was on the way was crucial. Spells of dry weather come and go and there are many things that need doing when those episodes arrive. Often https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/weather-forecasting-services/
A Worldwide Mapping Survey Without decent maps, we'd never get around the countryside on foot or by bicycle as we do. One only has to start reading Rachel Hewitt's Map of a Nation to realise the debt that we in the U.K. owe our forbears when it comes to the quality of what we enjoy today. As if that were not enough, it is striking how a heritage dating over several centuries is transferring to the ever-pervasive d https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/a-worldwide-mapping-survey/
Collected Long Distance Trails While many walkers are happy to go for shorter strolls, there are some who are attracted by the idea of following long-distance trails. Many do this at one go but my encounters with those longer routes happen on a section by section basis. That is how I completed both the West Highland Way and the Gritstone Trail as well as covering much of the Pennine Way. Others that I have met https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/collected-long-distance-trails/
Collected Long Distance Trails While many walkers are happy to go for shorter strolls, there are some who are attracted by the idea of following long distance trails. Many do this at one go but my encounters with those longer routes happens on a section by section basis. That is how I completed both the West Highland Way and the Gritstone Trail as well as covering much of the Pennine Way. Others that I have me https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/collected-long-distance-trails/
Collected Walking Destinations Many good walking areas have their own dedicated websites so I have thought it a good idea to offer a list here. This list used to live on the blog sidebar but seeing how long that was and my wanting to say a little about each entry caused the move to the dedicated page that you find here. Many of the websites for areas in the U.K. belong to national park authorities and areas of https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/collected-walking-destinations/
Collected Long Distance Trails While many walkers are happy to go for shorter strolls, there are some who are attracted by the idea of following long distance trails. Many do this at one go but my encounters with those longer routes happens on a section by section basis. That is how I completed both the West Highland Way and the Gritstone Trail as well as covering much of the Pennine Way. Others that I have me https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/collected-long-distance-trails/
More Walking & Cycling Ideas Irish Walking Coillte Outdoors Fermanagh Lakelands Irish Trails MountainViews Outdoor Northern Ireland The Ireland Walking Guide Walk Northern Ireland Walking Ireland Glenariff Forest Park Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails Drimoleague Walkways Mayo WalksBritish Walking Discovering Britain go4awalk.com OUTDOORSmagic TrigpointingUK https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-walking-cycling-ideas/
Collected Long Distance Trails While many walkers are happy to go for shorter strolls, there are some who are attracted by the idea of following long distance trails. Many do this at one go but my encounters with those longer routes happens on a section by section basis. That is how I completed both the West Highland Way and the Gritstone Trail as well as covering much of the Pennine Way. Others that I have me https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/collected-long-distance-trails/
Cheshire, Derbyshire & Staffordshire Webcams This started with the collation a few local webcams that show weather conditions among the hills that are found to the east of Macclesfield and it was a period of wintry weather that put the idea into my head. Interest in travel conditions around hill country are not limited to outdoors enthusiasts either as I discovered when a work colleague was planning https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/cheshire-derbyshire-staffordshire-webcams/
Curtailed adventuring In spite of the pandemic, 2020 turned out to be something of a vintage outdoor activity year though most of that was local and I never got to Scotland, let alone overseas. If anything, 2021 has turned out to be more restricted even if I have been fully vac https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2021/08/19/curtailed-adventuring/ #Cheshire #Countryside&Environment #Derbyshire #Staffordshire #TimesandSeasons #Travel #TripReports #Videography #Walking #Yorkshire
More Walking & Cycling Ideas Irish Walking Coillte Outdoors Fermanagh Lakelands Irish Trails MountainViews Outdoor Northern Ireland The Ireland Walking Guide Walk Northern Ireland Walking Ireland Glenariff Forest Park Clare Trails Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails Drimoleague Walkways Mayo WalksBritish Walking Discovering Britain go4awalk.com OUTDOORSmagichttps://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-walking-cycling-ideas/
Trip Reports to Come Rather than continuing to tease or even bore readers of what is to be found on this outpost of mine by listing outstanding trip reports in blog posts, I am collecting a list of outings here as they happen. It should ensure that I never forget to say more about any walks or cycles that I have done that deserve it. Naturally, such a list should be ever changing and I really need not to be so tardy wit https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/trip-reports-to-come/
More Outdoor Magazines Along with featuring collections of walking and cycling magazines, here is a selection of those featuring a variety of other outdoor activities. That is a list includes running, skiing, canoeing and sailing so it is a varied one. Some of these may not hold much attraction for me but they do introduce me to new areas while indoor cycle training sessions are being made to feel shorter. The word "a https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-outdoor-magazines/
Online Hiking & Backpacking Gear Retailers Equipment is the cause of much discussion among practitioners of many leisure pursuits and hillwalking or backpacking is no different. It is why you get crowd sourced gear review websites like Trailspace together with gear testing sections in many an outdoors magazine. However, lists of retailers like what was once found on OutdoorsMagic seem to be thin on t https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/online-hiking-backpacking-gear-retailers/
More Walking & Cycling Ideas Irish Walking Coillte Outdoors Fermanagh Lakelands Irish Trails MountainViews Outdoor Northern Ireland The Ireland Walking Guide Walk Northern Ireland Walking Ireland Glenariff Forest Park Clare Trails Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails Drimoleague Walkways Mayo WalksBritish Walking Discovering Britain go4awalk.com OUTDOORSmagichttps://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-walking-cycling-ideas/
Weather Forecasting Services Much like my fascination with maps, my interest in weather forecasting dates from when I was growing up on a farm in rural Ireland. With an outdoor business like that based somewhere with a changeable maritime climate, knowledge of whatever weather was on the way was crucial. Spells of dry weather come and go and there are many things that need doing when those episodes arrive. Often https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/weather-forecasting-services/
A Selection of British and Irish Hostels It seems that depending on the long standing services of hostelling associations is no longer as foolproof as might have been the case once upon a time. After all, Hostelling Scotland has closed some of its hostels not so long ago and the YHA have been on a similar course in a much more obvious way. Therefore, it seems sensible to collect any good ways of find https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/a-selection-of-british-and-irish-hostels/
More Walking & Cycling Ideas Irish Walking Coillte Outdoors Fermanagh Lakelands Irish Trails MountainViews Outdoor Northern Ireland The Ireland Walking Guide Walk Northern Ireland Walking Ireland Glenariff Forest Park Clare Trails Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails Drimoleague Walkways Mayo WalksBritish Walking Discovering Britain go4awalk.com OUTDOORSmagichttps://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-walking-cycling-ideas/
Trip Reports to Come Rather than continuing to tease or even bore readers of what is to be found on this outpost of mine by listing outstanding trip reports in blog posts, I am collecting a list of outings here as they happen. It should ensure that I never forget to say more about any walks or cycles that I have done that deserve it. Naturally, such a list should be ever changing and I really need not to be so tardy wit https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/trip-reports-to-come/
Preoccupations Though it has been quiet on here over the last few months and COVID-19 restrictions complement the wait for vaccination, I have managed to get out for some local wandering. Some of the walks necessarily have not of much note but there have been deeper incursions into nearby hill country too.One outing took me to the top https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2021/04/11/preoccupations/ #Cheshire #GritstoneTrail #Photography #TimesandSeasons #TripReports #Walking
Lovely day here in Macclesfield. Last night was frosty but days are growing longer. Thinking about spring.
How to Prevent, Recognize, and Treat Hypothermia: http://ow.ly/h8eP50DKwvT
Recovering From an Injury? Don’t Forget to Rehab Your Mind: http://ow.ly/ktyE50DKwsh
How to Get in Shape and Train for Hiking: http://ow.ly/ba9650DBhf8
How to Deal With Your Fear of Snakes: http://ow.ly/I1Wz50DBhbm
Endless Summer in the National Parks: ow.ly/eD4V50DyXwA
In Praise of National Monuments: ow.ly/1uNp50DyXrV
A useful tool from MHFA England about stress and how to deal with it: ow.ly/ei6s50DyXl9
This Avalanche Season Just Keeps Getting Worse http://ow.ly/49p850Dvbj2
7 Great Reasons to Travel Solo http://ow.ly/sNlM50DqaUx
Conscious Traveller: Why being mindful of the past makes travel better http://ow.ly/C42N50DqaNA
Walk up to fall of snow this morning. Met Office may have been issuing warnings but I still did not expect what we got. This January is being more snowy than last year's one.
Can I go walking in Europe? Walking and trekking in summer and autumn 2021 ow.ly/RjpX50Dhh0K
Got lots of snow in #Macclesfield last night. Turning to slush in the town but lots still lying in the surrounding countryside.
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go Winter Hiking in Canada http://ow.ly/K67o50DecRB
We can't travel right now, but we can still dream of the incredible landscapes, wildlife and people of Latin America. Here's our pick of nine adventures: https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/latin-america-bucket-list-trips-2021/
Digital Mapping Tool Overview Until we could carry them with us on mobile devices like phones, digital maps were for planning outdoor routes before printing these off for taking them with us. Now, the data and the routes can be entirely electronic so long as your device has the battery life to support the desired activity and there are plenty of places to recharge it along the way.That world is a very diffe https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/digital-mapping-tool-overview/
Visual treats Over this weekend, I have been watching Life of a Mountain: Helvellyn on Vimeo. That meant renting the title for 24 hours at a cost of £7 and I have a copy of the DVD on order from Striding Edge too. The latter action was a result of watching the online version though I somewhat mourn the loss of SteepEdge where I u https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2021/01/03/visual-treats/ #Countryside&Environment #Cumbria #Iceland #TimesandSeasons #TripIdeas #Videos #Walking
Hanging new calendars The first day of most years for me involves the changing of calendars and there have been times when that happened later because I was away from home at the time. For one thing, spending the Christmas and New Year period with family in Ireland meant that it was as my late parents' house where I went changing calendars at the start of a new https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2021/01/01/hanging-new-calendars/ #Countryside&Environment #Photography #Walking
The UK may have left the European Union but I am #StillEuropean! I am part of a movement of pro-Europeans who are fighting for our future relationship with our EU allies. Will you join too? https://www.europeanmovement.co.uk/still_european_2021
A year when an unwanted adventure arrived We live in a time when all sorts of activities are being sold as adventures. Even a day hike falls into scope for this yet I do not need such branding to make me take advantage of such a possibility. https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2020/12/31/a-year-when-an-unwanted-adventure-arrived/ #Cheshire #Conwy #Countryside&Environment #Derbyshire #Portugal #Shropshire #Staffordshire #TimesandSeasons #TripIdeas #TripReports #U.S.A. #Walking
The 10 wonders of the world, as chosen by Team Wanderlust: https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/wonders-of-the-world-wanderlust/
Welly walking Things have been quiet on here since October but life has been busy for me too. Perhaps, that may be a lot of the cause for the online absence. During times of running in and out of pandemic lockdowns, I have a had a technical project to keep me busy: learning a new scripting language that could have a use in my line of work.In some ways, th https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2020/12/31/welly-walking/ #Books #Countryside&Environment #TimesandSeasons #Walking
Online Hiking & Backpacking Gear Retailers Equipment is the cause of much discussion among practitioners of many leisure pursuits and hillwalking or backpacking is no different. It is why you get crowd sourced gear review websites like Trailspace together with gear testing sections in many an outdoors magazine. However, lists of retailers like what was once found on OutdoorsMagic seem to be thin on t https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/online-hiking-backpacking-gear-retailers/
Same month, two consecutive years, two very different seasons During July, I read Barry Lopez's Horizon and its prose has the same elegance and attention to description that I enjoyed when reading Arctic Dreams, one of his earlier works. The main reason that I mention summer 2020 reading here is that it mentions the explorer https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2020/08/28/same-month-two-consecutive-years-two-very-different-seasons/ #ClevelandWay #TripReports #Walking #Yorkshire
Online Hiking & Backpacking Gear Retailers Equipment is the cause of much discussion among practitioners of many leisure pursuits and hillwalking or backpacking is no different. It is why you get crowd sourced gear review websites like Trailspace together with gear testing sections in many an outdoors magazine. However, lists of retailers like what was once found on OutdoorsMagic seem to be thin on t https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/online-hiking-backpacking-gear-retailers/
Snowing nicely here in Macclesfield this afternoon. Was at online BMC winter skills lecture last night and weather is wintry today. Nicely timed...
Collected Long Distance Trails While many walkers are happy to go for shorter strolls, there are some who are attracted by the idea of following long distance trails. Many do this at one go but my encounters with those longer routes happens on a section by section basis. That is how I completed both the West Highland Way and the Gritstone Trail as well as covering much of the Pennine Way. Others that I have me https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/collected-long-distance-trails/
More Walking & Cycling Ideas Irish Walking Coillte Outdoors Fermanagh Lakelands Irish Trails MountainViews Outdoor Northern Ireland The Ireland Walking Guide Walk Northern Ireland Walking Ireland Glenariff Forest Park Clare Trails Broadford & Ashford Walking Trails Drimoleague Walkways Mayo WalksBritish Walking Discovering Britain go4awalk.com OUTDOORSmagichttps://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-walking-cycling-ideas/
5 Reasons Why a Flightseeing Tour in Nahanni National Park Reserve Should Be on Your Bucket List http://www.explore-mag.com/5-Reasons-Why-a-Flightseeing-Tour-in-Nahanni-National-Park-Reserve-Should-Be-on-Your-Bucket-List
More Outdoor Magazines Along with featuring collections of walking and cycling magazines, here is a selection of those featuring a variety of other outdoor activities. That is a list includes running, skiing, canoeing and sailing so it is a varied one. Some of these may not hold much attraction for me but they do introduce me to new areas while indoor cycle training sessions are being made to feel shorter. The word "a https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-outdoor-magazines/
Weather Forecasting Services Much like my fascination with maps, my interest in weather forecasting dates from when I was growing up on a farm in rural Ireland. With an outdoor business like that based somewhere with a changeable maritime climate, knowledge of whatever weather was on the way was crucial. Spells of dry weather come and go and there are many things that need doing when those episodes arrive. Often https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/weather-forecasting-services/
Subscriptions and home deliveries This has been an exceptionally tough year for retail and hospitality businesses and it is not over yet. In fact, it looks as if the start of 2021 may be no better. My line of business differs from these so I am one of the lucky ones in many respects since I have been able t https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/2020/10/10/subscriptions-and-home-deliveries/ #Ayrshire #Books #Derbyshire #Magazines #TimesandSeasons #TripIdeas #Walking #WesternIsles
Selected Travel MagazinesIt is only in recent years that I began to read travel magazines as regularly as the walking magazines that have told me so much about where to walk around Britain and Ireland for more than a decade.https://www.assortedexplorations.com/travel/practicalities-inspiration/selected-travel-magazines
Walked from Hayfield to Chapel-en-le-Frith a few weeks ago. Bright morning clouded over and it felt cold too. Fancy a reprise of sorts on a brighter day.
Sunny end to the day here in #Macclesfield. Was thinking of going for a walk among hills tomorrow but weather forecast not so promising. Sunday looks better though.
Hike This, Not That: 15 Epic Alternatives to Crowded Trails https://www.backpacker.com/trips/hike-this-not-that-15-epic-alternatives-to-crowded-trails
Our travel experts reveal the best autumn walks across England, Wales and Scotland, for enjoying forest strolls and pretty autumnal red, yellow and orange scen https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-autumn-walks-uk/
The UK's best wilderness walks https://www.cicerone.co.uk/the-uk-best-wilderness-walks
How trees could save the climate https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-07/ez-htc070319.php
Online Hiking & Backpacking Gear Retailers Equipment is the cause of much discussion among practitioners of many leisure pursuits and hillwalking or backpacking is no different. It is why you get crowd sourced gear review websites like Trailspace together with gear testing sections in many an outdoors magazine. However, lists of retailers like what was once found on OutdoorsMagic seem to be thin on t https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/online-hiking-backpacking-gear-retailers/
Find True Solitude on These 12 Perfect Hikes https://www.backpacker.com/trips/find-solitude-on-these-12-perfect-hikes-on-blm-managed-land
The 10 Rules of Solitude https://www.backpacker.com/skills/10-rules-of-solitude-avoid-the-crowds
‘We want to keep our forest’: why Guyana's wilderness needs visitors https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2019/oct/27/guyana-jungle-rainforest-community-run-wildlife-tour-adventure?CMP=share_btn_tw
What it's like to travel the 3 Guianas, seeing Kaietuer Falls, birds and other wildlife, staying in eco-lodges, colonial towns, and the historic ruins on the p https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/travelling-through-the-three-guianas/
As the world tentatively reopens, Mark Stratton takes the plunge and makes the journey from London to Reykjavik, discovering new travel rules, socially-distanc https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/travel-to-iceland-during-covid/
Get off the beaten track and discover north Iceland's Arctic Coast Way road trip. Includes horseriding, whale watching, the Northern Lights, diving and more https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/how-to-drive-new-arctic-coast-way-iceland/
8 Lonely Backpacking Trips Where Solitude Rules https://www.backpacker.com/trips/where-solitude-rules
More Outdoor Magazines Along with featuring collections of walking and cycling magazines, here is a selection of those featuring a variety of other outdoor activities. That is a list includes running, skiing, canoeing and sailing so it is a varied one. Some of these may not hold much attraction for me but they do introduce me to new areas while indoor cycle training sessions are being made to feel shorter. The word "a https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/more-outdoor-magazines/
Reading about Scottish islands at the moment. Never been to the Orkney or Shetland islands so they are possibilities to ponder. The Faroe Islands and the Channel Islands, though not Scottish, are others that are worth considering.
Amazed to see airlines offering bookings for next summer. With the way that things are going now, I am going to wait to see how things go over the next few months. Holiday planning can wait though idea collection always proceeds.
Lonely Planet Traveller magazine not published since just after pandemic started. Wondering if it will return again. Handily, other titles like Wanderlust are still going. Actual travel will need to wait though.
Just looked through copy of Wired for Adventure. Very different from its predecessor, Adventure Travel, and looks far more substantial and glossy too. On reading list for now but will get to it. https://www.wiredforadventure.com/
Yorkshire Dales walks for all ability levels, including strolls, hikes and longer treks to Ilkley Moor, Buckden Pike, Ingleborough, Aysgarth and beyond https://www.wanderlust.co.uk/content/best-walks-yorkshire-dales
Nice sunny end to the day here in Macclesfield. Weather not so good over next few days with a weather warning for rain being issued over the weekend. Best to enjoy good weather when it comes...
Cheshire, Derbyshire & Staffordshire Webcams This started with the collation a few local webcams that show weather conditions among the hills that are found to the east of Macclesfield and it was a period of wintry weather that put the idea into my head. Interest in travel conditions around hill country are not limited to outdoors enthusiasts either as I discovered when a work colleague was planning https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/cheshire-derbyshire-staffordshire-webcams/
Trip Reports to Come Rather than continuing to tease or even bore readers of what is to be found on this outpost of mine by listing outstanding trip reports in blog posts, I am collecting a list of outings here as they happen. It should ensure that I never forget to say more about any walks or cycles that I have done that deserve it. Naturally, such a list should be ever changing and I really need not to be so tardy wit https://www.assortedexplorations.com/outdoors/trip-reports-to-come/
Hoped to get to visit Colorado this year after spending some time in British Columbia last year but that had to be put on hold for obvious reasons. It stays on the ideas shelf along with other possibilities.
Travels have been limited to England and Wales this year but hope to go further afield when circumstances allow. That could mean waiting a while yet...
This has been a year for house insects: moths and flies especially. It might have been the lockdown but I had not notice that as much before.
Damp this morning in Macclesfield but not as wet as forecast foretold.