“Pygmy Owl!” I exclaimed while turning on my camera. I took a couple of photos of this softball-sized Northern Pygmy-Owl perched on top of a birch snag. I noticed its focus was in the tall grasses below when it swooped from its perch and disappeared. I hustled over to where it dropped, keeping some distance, and saw some movement in the grasses. I tried to get my exposure and focus ready, when the bird popped up from the grasses, burdened by its hefty prize. Luckily for me, it perched on a branch at eye level with a small rodent resting on the branch in front of it. I took a few pictures, then remembering some photo tips I’d learned, I changed my position to get a better background and then proceeded to take probably the best photos I’ve ever taken in my life. A bit of luck and a little preparation. The photo tip came from wildlife photographer/YouTuber Simon d’Entremont who also says that LUCK is Laboring Under Correct Knowledge. Sure I was lucky to get that owl photo, but I also was keenly looking for it. I knew where to look, what to look for, and had my camera settings set correctly. What’s traditionally perceived as “luck” largely remains out of our control. The cool thing is, that this other type of "LUCK" (better known as preparedness), is within our grasp. By learning about the plants and animals outside, you’ll know where to look and you’ll see more (and have a richer experience). The more you know about the trails before you head out, the better the chance that you’ll have an epic trip wherever you go. The more in shape you are, the more enjoyable the hiking becomes… you’ll be able to do more and feel better while doing it (and be able to do it again tomorrow). Having the right gear and knowing how to use it, means you’ll be prepared if the weather unexpectedly changes or someone gets injured. Even better, the more you learn about the real risks of the outdoors (like slippery rocks near creeks, rapidly changing weather, etc), the less likely you’ll get into an emergency situation in the first place! As we turn the page on the new year, I encourage you to resolve to be more prepared and set specific, attainable hiking goals. For example, you could learn how to identify 5-10 wildflowers that will be blooming where and when you’ll be visiting. Learn the differences between bighorn sheep and a mountain goat, sometimes tricky at a distance! (Bring binoculars!!). Add strength training to your workout routine so you can keep your joints happy on the trail.
Kristen and I want you to have the richest experience whenever you set foot on the trail. I try to give you my honest takes on the trails that I've hiked in Glacier, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Zion, Yosemite, Rocky Mountain, and Olympic. I also include plants and animals I've seen along the way, while I take you through the trails I've walked. I've edited videos for Glacier, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Zion which you can access on the respective Day Hiking pages, by doing searches on my site, or visiting my YouTube Channel where I have them sorted in playlists. (I promise, I'm working on editing videos of the other parks.)
Of course, my maps are perfect for trip planning and work great when you arrive (especially when things go sideways and you need a plan B, C, or D.) All orders now include free shipping! Want to be better prepared physically? At minimum, sign up for Kristen's newsletter and get her free ebook "Trail Body - 10+ tips to help get YOUR body ready for the trail". For a more comprehensive and structured approach, Kristen’s HIKE-ABILITY Training Program is specifically designed for getting you ready to hike… the best time to start training is now! Don’t miss out on our limited time offer: Get $10 off when you enroll now through 1/15/2024
Now's the time to dream of new adventures and prepare for them. We're here to help you get there!
The trail awaits...
Jake and Kristen
PS I'll be updating my page on reservations and tell you all about my new camera in future blogs, so stay tuned!
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