hiking - Trail to Peak

by Drew Robinson May 27, 2018 0

Gear Review: Salewa Ultra Train 2 Hiking Shoe

alewa’s Ultra Train 2 is a trail shoe specifically designed for speed hiking, fastpacking, and high alpine mountain training. The low-profile upper has a precise fit with a durable and protective outer shell. The protective 8mm drop midsole and aggressive Michelin compound outsole are carryovers from the original Ultra Train, which will be welcome news to those that enjoyed the original. I’ve been wear testing the Salewa’s Ultra Train 2 since they were released a few months ago, and will share my experience in this review.

A Guide To Hiking Santa Cruz Island: Channel Islands National Park

by Drew Robinson May 23, 2018 4

Central Coast Hikes National Parks

A Guide To Hiking Santa Cruz Island: Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park is made up of five islands just off of the California Coast. In this guide, I’ll provide all of the information you need to explore Santa Cruz Island, the largest island in Channel Islands National Park.

by Drew Robinson May 18, 2018 2

Lists and Advice

REI and Backcountry Memorial Day Sales: Save on Patagonia, Salomon, Arcteryx, Osprey, and more!

The week before Memorial Day sees outdoor gear companies offer massive discounts on some of the best name-brand gear that they stock. If you’re looking to add some new gear to your summer kit, now is the time!

Gear Review: Adidas Terrex Swift R2 Hiking Shoes

by Drew Robinson May 9, 2018 5

Footwear Reviews

Gear Review: Adidas Terrex Swift R2 Hiking Shoes

The Adidas Terrex Swift R2 is a burly, rugged, and sturdy trail shoe that’s made to tackle long hikes and backpacking trips. The Swift R2 is built on a stable 10mm drop platform with a sturdy board lasted midsole. The aggressive full coverage outsole uses a super sticky Continental rubber compound for a sure footed stride on wet and dry trails.

by Drew Robinson May 7, 2018 0

Central Coast Hikes National Parks

Hiking to El Montanon Peak – Santa Cruz Island

The 1808ft summit of El Montañon is the highest point on the east side of Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park. The hike to El Montañon Peak starts out at Scorpion Ranch and gains more than 2,000ft of elevation over 4 miles to the summit. In this guide for El Montañon, I’ll provide gpx files, maps, photos, and a hike description.

Gear Review La Sportiva Lycan Trail Running Hiking

by Drew Robinson May 1, 2018 2

Footwear Reviews

Gear Review: La Sportiva Lycan Trail Shoe

The Lycan is a brand new mountain running trail shoe from La Sportiva. The Lycan is nimble and light, combining a highly responsive midsole with a sticky and low profile outsole. I’ve been using the Lycan as a light hiker and as my go-to trail running shoe since their release, and will share my thoughts in this review.

by Drew Robinson April 30, 2018 6

Central Coast Hikes Kid Friendly Hikes National Parks

Hiking To Smuggler’s Cove – Santa Cruz Island

If you’re a hiker visiting Santa Cruz Island, this hike to Smuggler’s Cove has to be on your itinerary. This 8.2 mile hike gains a modest 1500ft of elevation gain, but provides some incredible ocean views in the process. Most hikers reach Smuggler’s Cove via an out-and-back route on Smuggler’s Rd, but in this guide I’ll provide directions for a more scenic loop route through Scorpion Canyon.

by Drew Robinson April 23, 2018 7

Central Coast Hikes National Parks

Hiking Scorpion Bay to Cavern Point Loop – Santa Cruz Island

This loop hike from Scorpion Bay to Cavern Point takes place on Santa Cruz Island, the largest of eight islands making up Channel Islands National Park. Santa Cruz is also the largest island in California at 96.5 square miles. Starting at the Scorpion Anchorage Visitor Center, hikers will scale an ocean bluff with majestic views of the California mainland. From there, the trail follows the coastline before returning to Scorpion Anchorage via the Scorpion Ranch Campground.

Gear Review: Salomon XA Elevate Hiking Shoe

by Drew Robinson April 12, 2018 14

Footwear Reviews

Gear Review: Salomon XA Elevate Trail Shoe

The XA Elevate is Salomon’s newest entry into their “On & Off Trail” shoe line-up. These shoes are designed for high alpine pursuits and are perfectly suited for steep terrain and challenging underfoot conditions. The XA Elevate is built on a highly stable 8mm-drop midsole, and has a Premium Wet-Traction Contragrip outsole that clings on to anything and everything.

A One Day Road Trip Through Death Valley National Park

by Drew Robinson April 10, 2018 3

National Parks

A One Day Road Trip Through Death Valley National Park: 10 Things To See

Death Valley National Park is the perfect place for desert lovers looking to explore the outdoors. In this guide, I’ll provide 10 must-see attractions for visitors planning a one day road trip in Death Valley National Park.