Getting out of the house may seem limited, due to worldly circumstances; however, we do still have the ability to get some fresh air. Lucky for us, the 48th state has a whole lot to offer. Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your future explorations.
Starting with an app
You know you want to get outside, but where? Well, there’s an app that can help you with that.
All Trails—FREE on iPhone and Android—helps you discover the best hiking, biking, and running trails based on your location. The app offers thousands of trail maps, reviews, and photos—crowdsourced from users just like you.
Gearing up
VENICE, CA - JULY 6: People are reflected in sunglasses for sale on the boardwalk on Independence Day weekend at Venice Beach on July 6, 2013 in Venice, California. An estimated 16 million people visit the famous beach city annually which is celebrating 108th birthday as of July 4. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
Now that you’ve had help with knowing where to go, do you have the appropriate attire?
There are three ways to go, locally owned: Summit Hut, National Co-Op: REI, or delivered straight to your door: Amazon. I prefer one of the first two since I like knowing that my money is going straight to the local economy or getting cash back on my purchases. All three of these stores have exceptional gear from clothing, hiking sticks, flasks, sunglasses, sunscreen and more, for those of us looking to get our adventure pallet wet.
Worth a thousand words
We all want to get that perfect picture for social media as a memento on our hikes. So don’t forget your cell phone and if you’re looking for a lens to attach to it, or even a gimbal, I highly recommend a company called Moment. They sell several professional-quality lenses for far less than a DSLR camera would cost. Or you can also find equipment—like tripods—at all three stores mentioned earlier. Note: please take your selfies/photos at appropriate times and in the proper areas, to not put yourself or others in danger.
