Blisters are extremely common, especially for those who spend time recreating in the outdoors. A blister develops for a number of reasons, but the primary causes are pressure, heat, and moisture—or any combination of the three. Friction is the catalyst, usually, for a common hiking blister injury. Improperly fitting shoes or boots can cause friction, because the foot slides around [...]
There are few outdoor places more scenic and wild to camp in than the Bitterroot Valley. It’s amazing when you think of all the Bitterroot Valley’s available country through which a person can hike and stay a few quiet, peaceful nights out in a tent. And if you plan to soon visit the scenic landscape of the Bitterroot Valley, and [...]
If you have never tried the sport of fly fishing then the Bitterroot Valley is a great place to get started—to get your feet wet (pun intended). And while the Bitterroot Valley does have several fly shops, and these places are all ready to outfit you with recommended fly patterns and other tackle needs, it will still be important for [...]
The Bitterroot Valley is home to some of the most awe-inspiring mountainous landscapes in the West. And when you are out on the trails, in the forests, and at the top of mountains in the Bitterroot Valley you may feel inclined to capture the scene with a camera; most everyone these days has a phone in their pocket with a [...]
After we learn to tie our shoes many of us don’t put any more thought into the technique. But did you know that simple but irritating foot problems, such as blisters, are prevented with a little know-how. Here’s a few lacing tips and tricks, and the process of tying several different knots, that will keep you out on the trail [...]
Mountain Biking adventures are prevalent in the Bitterroot Valley; anyone, from the most advanced to the very novice can find both rugged and single-track-type trails to ride. Remember there are risks involved in mountain bike riding. It’s important to know the area in which you plan to ride—know the distances and the general routes the trails take (an unexpected fork [...]
Before you go camp in the wilderness, it is important to know a few tips to correctly set up a tent. First, you will want to know exactly how the tent sets up. Practice, practice, practice at home; know the ins and outs of your particular tent—different brands of tents set up in different ways—so that you are prepared to [...]
Yes, the Bitterroot Valley is known for pursuits in the outdoors. The Bitterroot Valley is home base for many fisherman, rafters, hikers, hunters, skiers, golfers, etc. But the communities that run the length of the Bitterroot Valley play host to all those who come here to visit. Every one of these communities has played, and continues to play, a unique [...]
For many of us, camping season has come and gone—the warm days have given way to cold, and an almost inhospitable weather pattern. However, winter camping is growing in popularity. While winter camping is fun, it is an inherently more dangerous way to camp, if only because of the weather and the cold temperatures. Preparation is key to staying safe [...]
The Bitterroot Valley is a mecca for outdoor recreational pursuit. You can hike, fish, hunt, golf, walk, bike, and run all in one place. It’s important to remember that safety is paramount for every one of these activities. And, while each activity has its own inherent dangers for which you will need to understand and prepare, one absolute necessity that [...]