SEARCH OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Use our website to search outdoors by specialty or location. It's easy to search and find top-rated outdoors.
COMPARE YOUR ADVENTURES
After searching for outdoors, learn more by comparing quotes, reviews, and full profiles of each outdoors.
CONTACT THE ADVENTURERS
Once you find outdoors that you like, contact them to get more information. Our members are happy to hear from you
Explore What To Do
Are you looking for some fun and adventure? The benefits of outdoor adventures are tremendous in so many ways.
Featured Adventurers
Our Blogs
What Backpackers Are Actually Saying About 2026’s Ultralight Tents
A note before this one: GAO hasn't put these specific tents through our own field testing. What follows is a summary of what established outdoor gear publications are reporting in their 2026 ultralight tent reviews, with sources linked so you can read the full testing behind each pick yourself.The overall pick reviewers keep landing onCleverHiker's 2026 ultralight tent testing names the Durston X-Mid Pro 1 as its top overall pick, citing its roughly one-pound weight, an offset pole design that yields 45 inches of peak height at both ends, and a 90-inch floor length with enough room to store clothes, electronics, and small bags inside without crowding the sleeping space. It's a single-wall, trekking-pole-pitched design, which is standard for the ultralight category but worth knowing if you haven't used one before.The budget option that keeps showing up on shortlistsThe Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo comes up repeatedly as the value pick in this category — reviewers point to a beginner-friendly pitch and strong headroom for the price, at roughly 8 ounces heavier than the top overall picks but at a fraction of the cost. For a first ultralight tent, or a backup shelter that doesn't need to be the lightest thing in the pack, it's the one that shows up across multiple outlets' recommendations.Two-person optionsFor parties of two, the Zpacks Duplex Classic is frequently cited as the lightest two-person ultralight shelter on the market, built in Dyneema composite fabric for weather resistance well beyond what its weight would suggest. The Zpacks Pivot Duo is noted as a variation on the classic A-frame shape aimed at a more comfortable interior for two people, for those willing to trade a bit of weight savings for livability.The freestanding pickFor hikers who want ultralight weight without giving up a freestanding setup — useful on rocky or uneven ground where staking out a trekking-pole tent is difficult — the Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo comes up as a favorite, with a double-wall design that adds storm protection most single-wall ultralight tents don't have.Why GAO is running this as a roundup, not a reviewPhotographer: Edho Fitrah | Source: UnsplashPhotographer: Edho Fitrah | Source: UnsplashNone of the picks above reflect GAO's own hands-on testing. This is a summary of published 2026 gear-review coverage, assembled so readers get a starting shortlist with sources to verify and dig deeper before buying. If GAO tests any of these tents directly in the field, that will run as a separate, clearly labeled hands-on review — not folded into this roundup.Sources for further reading: CleverHiker's Best Ultralight Tents of 2026; GearJunkie's Best Ultralight Tents (Tested); OutdoorGearLab's Best Ultralight Tent testing; Backpacker's Best Ultralight Tents, Tested and Reviewed (2026); Treeline Review's Best Ultralight Tents (Field-Tested).FAQHas GAO tested these tents directly?No. This roundup summarizes what established outdoor gear publications reported in their 2026 ultralight tent testing. Any future GAO hands-on review would be published separately and clearly labeled as such.What's the best overall ultralight tent according to 2026 reviews?The Durston X-Mid Pro 1 is named the top overall pick in CleverHiker's 2026 testing, citing its weight, interior space, and offset pole design.What's a good budget ultralight tent?The Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo comes up consistently as the value pick across multiple 2026 gear-review roundups, trading a modest weight penalty for a significantly lower price.
Best Summer Day Hikes from Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park (2026 Guide)
Bear Lake Road climbs 1,275 feet in 9.2 milesThat's the corridor in one sentence: pavement that starts at 8,200 feet at the Trail Ridge Road junction and ends at 9,475 feet in the Bear Lake parking lot, with most of Rocky Mountain National Park's most-photographed alpine lakes stacked along trailheads branching off it. Two trailheads off this road, Bear Lake and Glacier Gorge, put you within a few miles of a dozen named lakes, three waterfalls, and one 12,324-foot summit. None of it requires a permit to hike once you're inside the gate. Getting to the gate is the part that trips people up.The 2026 timed entry system, and what it actually restrictsPhotographer: Michael Kirsh | Source: UnsplashRocky Mountain National Park runs two separate reservation systems in summer 2026, and mixing them up is the single most common way visitors get turned away at the entrance.Timed Entry covers general park access and applies daily from May 22 through October 12, but only between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Arrive before 9 or after 2 and you don't need it.Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road is the one that matters for this guide. It's required to drive Bear Lake Road at all, not just enter the park, between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m., daily, from May 22 through October 18. If your plan is an early alpine start at Glacier Gorge or Bear Lake trailhead, this is the permit you need, and the 5 a.m. start time means even a pre-dawn departure doesn't get you around it.Both permits cost $2 through Recreation.gov and cover one vehicle for the day, so reserve as a group, not per person. Reservations release on a rolling schedule: July dates opened June 1 at 8 a.m. MDT, August dates open July 1 at 8 a.m. MDT. If a date shows sold out, check back at 7 p.m. MDT the evening before. Unclaimed and returned reservations release first-come, first-served at that time.Once you're through the gate, there's no checkout time. Stay until sunset if you want. The reservation only governs entry.Two trailheads, two different daysPhotographer: Lior | Source: UnsplashBear Lake Trailhead (9,475 ft) is where most first-time visitors start, and for good reason: the lakes are close, the elevation gain is gentle by Rocky Mountain standards, and the trail is well-graded enough for families. Here's what's reachable, with round-trip mileage and elevation gain calculated from the NPS one-way figures:DestinationRound tripElevation gainNotesBear Lake Loop0.6 mi (full loop)~70 ft cumulativePaved, wheelchair accessibleNymph Lake1.0 mi462 ftLily pads by midsummerDream Lake2.2 mi948 ftBest light before 10 a.m.Emerald Lake3.4 mi1,542 ftContinues past Dream LakeBierstadt Lake4.0 mi580 ftAspen groves, quieter than the othersOdessa Lake8.2 mi2,360 ftFull-day commitmentFlattop Mountain8.4 mi5,732 ftSummit trail, above treeline for the final pushGlacier Gorge Trailhead (9,175 ft), a short drive or one shuttle stop before Bear Lake, is the harder-earned corridor. This is where the crowds thin and the terrain gets serious:DestinationRound tripElevation gainNotesAlberta Falls1.6 mi466 ftWarm-up leg for everything else on this listMills Lake5.4 mi1,632 ftBest Longs Peak views on the corridorThe Loch6.0 mi2,092 ftAlpine lake below Taylor PeakTimberline Falls7.6 mi3,178 ftScramble section near the topSky Pond8.4 mi3,452 ftCathedral Spires backdrop, the corridor's signature hikeBlack Lake9.4 mi2,998 ftFewer hikers make it this farSky Pond and Emerald Lake get the photo credit, but they're not comparable efforts. Emerald Lake is a 3.4-mile round trip most reasonably fit hikers finish in under two hours. Sky Pond is 8.4 miles with a short exposed scramble near Timberline Falls, and it takes most parties five to six hours car to car. Plan around the harder number, not the prettier one.Beat the parking, not just the permitThe Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road reservation gets you onto the road. It does not guarantee a parking spot at the end of it. Both the Bear Lake and Glacier Gorge lots fill by 9 a.m. most summer mornings, often earlier on weekends. Once they're full, rangers close the road to further trailhead traffic until space opens up.The workaround is the park's free shuttle system, which runs the Bear Lake Route and Moraine Park Route from the Park & Ride transit hub, about 5.2 miles up Bear Lake Road. Park at Park & Ride, which rarely fills before mid-morning, and ride the shuttle to either trailhead. It also solves the logistics of a point-to-point hike: start at Bear Lake, finish at Glacier Gorge, and catch the shuttle back to your car instead of retracing your steps.What to carry above 9,000 feetEvery trail on this list starts above 9,000 feet and several finish above treeline, where weather turns fast and without much warning. The standard backcountry basics apply here without modification: a paper map as backup to your phone, more water than feels necessary, a layer for wind even on a warm forecast, and a turnaround time you commit to before you leave the car. Afternoon thunderstorms are routine in July and August. If you're headed for Flattop Mountain or Sky Pond, start early enough to be off any exposed ridge by early afternoon.FAQDo I need a permit to hike from Bear Lake or Glacier Gorge?No permit is required to hike once you're inside the park. You need a Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road reservation ($2, Recreation.gov) to drive Bear Lake Road between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 22 through October 18, 2026.How hard is the hike to Sky Pond?Sky Pond is an 8.4-mile round trip from Glacier Gorge Trailhead with about 3,450 feet of cumulative elevation gain, including a short scramble near Timberline Falls. Most hikers take five to six hours.Can I hike Emerald Lake and Sky Pond in one day?They start at different trailheads about a mile apart by road but aren't connected by a direct trail loop, so most visitors treat them as separate outings. Emerald Lake is a half-day hike; Sky Pond is closer to a full day.What happens if the Bear Lake or Glacier Gorge parking lot is full?Rangers close the road to further trailhead traffic until space opens. Park at the Park & Ride transit hub instead and take the free shuttle to either trailhead, which runs throughout the summer season.Sources: National Park Service, "Exploring the Bear Lake Road Corridor" (nps.gov/romo, updated August 18, 2025); National Park Service, "Timed Entry Permit System" and "Rocky Mountain National Park Announces 2026 Timed Entry Reservation System" (nps.gov/romo).
Top Winter Survival Tips: Stay Safe and Warm
When venturing into cold weather, the importance of dressing in layers cannot be overstated. The body loses heat rapidly in frigid temperatures, and wearing multiple layers allows for better insulation and temperature regulation. The first layer, often referred to as the base layer, should be made of moisture-wicking materials that draw sweat away from the skin. This is crucial because dampness can lead to a rapid drop in body temperature. The second layer, typically an insulating layer, can be made of fleece or wool, which traps heat close to the body. Finally, the outer layer should be windproof and waterproof to protect against the elements. This combination not only keeps the body warm but also allows for flexibility in adjusting to changing conditions, such as moving from a cold outdoor environment to a heated indoor space. In addition to layering, choosing appropriate clothing is essential for maintaining comfort and safety in winter conditions. Accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves play a significant role in preserving body heat, as a substantial amount of warmth is lost through the head and extremities. Insulated boots are also vital, as they provide both warmth and traction on slippery surfaces. It is advisable to select footwear that is both waterproof and breathable to prevent moisture buildup inside the boots. Furthermore, individuals should consider the specific activities they will be engaging in; for instance, those participating in high-energy activities like skiing may require lighter layers that allow for greater mobility, while those who will be stationary for extended periods may need heavier insulation. Ultimately, dressing appropriately for winter weather is a critical step in ensuring safety and comfort during cold-weather excursions.Key TakeawaysDress in layers and wear appropriate clothing to stay warm and dry in winter weatherKeep a winter emergency kit in your car with essentials like blankets, food, water, and a flashlightKnow how to build a shelter in case of emergency to protect yourself from the elementsStay hydrated and eat high-energy foods to maintain energy and body heat in cold weatherBe aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite and seek medical attention if necessaryKeep a winter emergency kit in your carHaving a winter emergency kit in the car is an essential precaution that can make a significant difference during unexpected situations. This kit should include items that can help individuals survive if they become stranded or face an emergency while on the road. A basic winter emergency kit typically contains items such as blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a first aid kit. Additionally, it is wise to include a shovel for snow removal, sand or kitty litter for traction, and jumper cables in case of battery failure. By preparing this kit ahead of time, individuals can ensure they are equipped to handle various emergencies that may arise during winter travel. Moreover, it is important to regularly check and update the contents of the emergency kit to ensure everything is functional and within its expiration date. For instance, food items should be replaced periodically to avoid spoilage, and batteries should be tested to confirm they are still operational. In addition to these essentials, individuals may also want to include items such as a whistle for signaling for help, a multi-tool for various tasks, and even a portable phone charger to maintain communication in case of an emergency. By taking the time to assemble and maintain a comprehensive winter emergency kit, individuals can significantly enhance their safety and preparedness while traveling during the colder months.Know how to build a shelter in case of emergencyIn the event of becoming stranded in a winter wilderness scenario, knowing how to build a shelter can be a lifesaving skill. The primary goal of constructing a shelter is to protect oneself from the harsh elements while conserving body heat. A simple yet effective shelter can be made using natural materials found in the environment, such as branches, leaves, and snow. For instance, creating a lean-to by propping branches against a sturdy tree trunk can provide adequate coverage from wind and precipitation. It is crucial to insulate the shelter's floor with leaves or pine needles to prevent heat loss through contact with the cold ground. Additionally, ensuring that the entrance is small can help retain warmth inside the shelter. Understanding the principles of shelter building goes beyond just constructing a physical structure; it also involves strategic planning based on environmental conditions. For example, positioning the shelter away from potential hazards such as falling branches or avalanche-prone areas is vital for safety. Furthermore, individuals should consider the direction of prevailing winds when selecting a location for their shelter; facing away from the wind can significantly reduce exposure to cold gusts. In extreme situations where snow is abundant, digging into a snowbank to create an igloo-like structure can provide excellent insulation against the cold. Mastering these skills not only enhances survival chances but also instills confidence in one's ability to navigate challenging winter conditions.Stay hydrated and eat high-energy foodsActivityRecommendationWater intake8 glasses (64 ounces) per dayHigh-energy foodsWhole grains, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetablesHydration during exerciseDrink 7-10 ounces of water every 10-20 minutes during exerciseElectrolyte intakeConsume electrolyte-rich foods or drinks after intense physical activityMaintaining hydration and consuming high-energy foods are critical components of staying healthy and energized during winter activities. Cold weather can often mask feelings of thirst, leading individuals to underestimate their hydration needs. It is essential to drink water regularly, even if one does not feel particularly thirsty. Dehydration can impair physical performance and cognitive function, making it more challenging to respond effectively in emergencies. Carrying insulated water bottles can help keep water from freezing while also encouraging regular hydration breaks during outdoor activities. In addition to hydration, fueling the body with high-energy foods is vital for sustaining energy levels in cold weather. Foods rich in carbohydrates and fats provide the necessary calories needed for warmth and activity. Trail mix, energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits are excellent choices for quick snacks that are easy to carry and consume on the go. Additionally, consuming warm meals when possible can provide both comfort and energy; soups or stews made with hearty ingredients can be particularly beneficial during long outings. By prioritizing hydration and nutrition, individuals can enhance their endurance and overall well-being while navigating winter environments.Be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbiteUnderstanding the signs of hypothermia and frostbite is crucial for anyone spending time outdoors in cold weather conditions. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to dangerously low body temperatures. Early symptoms include shivering, confusion, fatigue, and difficulty speaking or moving. As hypothermia progresses, individuals may experience severe drowsiness or even loss of consciousness. Recognizing these signs early on is essential for taking prompt action; if someone exhibits symptoms of hypothermia, it is vital to move them to a warmer environment and provide insulation while seeking medical assistance. Frostbite is another serious condition that can occur when skin and underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. The extremities—such as fingers, toes, ears, and nose—are particularly vulnerable to frostbite. Initial signs include redness or pain in affected areas followed by numbness and discoloration; skin may appear white or grayish as frostbite progresses. If frostbite is suspected, it is crucial not to rub or massage the affected areas as this can cause further damage. Instead, gently warming the affected areas using body heat or warm water (not hot) is recommended while seeking medical attention if necessary. By being vigilant about these conditions and knowing how to respond appropriately, individuals can protect themselves and others from severe cold-related injuries.Use proper heating sources and be cautious of carbon monoxide poisoningWhen seeking warmth during winter months, it is essential to use proper heating sources while being mindful of safety precautions against carbon monoxide poisoning. Many people rely on space heaters or generators for additional heat; however, these devices must be used correctly to prevent dangerous situations. It is crucial to ensure that any heating device used indoors is specifically designed for indoor use and has adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Installing carbon monoxide detectors in homes or cabins can provide an added layer of safety by alerting occupants to dangerous levels of this odorless gas. In addition to using safe heating sources indoors, individuals should also exercise caution when using outdoor heating methods such as campfires or propane heaters in enclosed spaces. While these methods can provide warmth, they also pose significant risks if not managed properly. Ensuring that there is sufficient airflow when using outdoor heating sources is vital for preventing carbon monoxide accumulation. Furthermore, individuals should never leave heating devices unattended or use them while sleeping; this practice significantly increases the risk of fire hazards or poisoning incidents. By prioritizing safety when using heating sources during winter months, individuals can enjoy warmth without compromising their health or safety.Know how to navigate in snowy and icy conditionsNavigating snowy and icy conditions requires specific skills and awareness to ensure safety while traveling outdoors during winter months. One of the most important aspects of navigating these conditions is understanding how snow and ice affect traction and movement. When walking on icy surfaces, individuals should take small steps with their feet flat on the ground rather than shuffling or sliding; this technique helps maintain balance and reduces the risk of slipping. Additionally, wearing footwear with good traction—such as boots with rubber soles—can significantly enhance stability on slippery surfaces. For those venturing into more challenging terrains such as hiking trails or backcountry areas covered in snow, having navigational skills becomes even more critical. Familiarity with maps and compasses or GPS devices can help individuals stay oriented despite reduced visibility due to snowstorms or whiteouts. It is also advisable to follow established trails whenever possible; these paths are often packed down by previous travelers and provide safer footing compared to untracked snow. Moreover, understanding how weather conditions can change rapidly in winter environments allows individuals to make informed decisions about their routes and turn back if necessary before conditions worsen.Stay informed about weather conditions and have a communication planStaying informed about weather conditions is paramount for anyone planning outdoor activities during winter months. Weather forecasts can provide valuable insights into temperature fluctuations, precipitation levels, wind speeds, and potential storms that may impact travel plans or safety measures needed during excursions. Utilizing reliable weather apps or websites allows individuals to receive real-time updates on changing conditions while out in the field. Additionally, checking local advisories regarding road closures or hazardous conditions can help travelers make informed decisions about their routes. Equally important is having a communication plan in place before heading out into potentially treacherous winter environments. This plan should include informing friends or family members about intended routes and expected return times; this way, someone will know if an individual does not return as planned and can initiate search efforts if necessary. Carrying fully charged mobile devices equipped with emergency contact numbers ensures that help can be reached quickly if needed. In remote areas where cell service may be unreliable, considering alternative communication methods such as satellite phones or two-way radios can enhance safety measures further. By prioritizing awareness of weather conditions alongside effective communication strategies, individuals can significantly reduce risks associated with winter travel while enjoying their outdoor adventures safely.If you're looking for more outdoor survival tips, especially during the colder months, you might find our article on "Winter Survival Tips" incredibly useful. For further reading and to enhance your outdoor adventure knowledge, check out our blog at Go Adventure Outdoors. Here, you can explore a variety of articles that cover everything from basic survival skills to specific gear recommendations, ensuring you're well-prepared for your next winter excursion.
Discover Recent Adventurers
All The Pathos And Irony Of Leaving One’s Youth Behind Is Thus Implicit In Every Joyous Moment Of Travel:
One Knows That The First Joy Can Never Be Recovered, And The Wise Traveler Learns Not To
Repeat Successes But Tries New Places All The Time.
Stay In Touch
Join Our Newsletter So We Can Span You With Amazing Deal, Discounts And News.
