Articles written by Joan H. Young

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About me - Joan H. Young

Joan Young is obsessed with quiet, outdoor, muscle-powered recreation. She has just become the first woman to hike the entire North Country National Scenic Trail, 4400 miles in length. Her book, North Country Cache, chronicles the adventures. She also

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Sports & Recreation > Hiking & Backpacking Fall hiking tips: 1 of 9

Autumn presents the outdoor enthusiast with wonderful opportunities. In northern zones the foliage is brightly colored and the air is crisp, but the sun may yet be warm. However, nights are cold and hunters are likely to be in the woods. One can hike in any season of the year, but what makes hiking in the fall different? Her...
Sports & Recreation > Camping What to look for when buying a tent: 1 of 7

Camping out- one of the joys of summer! You experience a sense of freedom in being close to nature. Home is wherever you put your tent. That tent will keep you dry, provide some protection from insects and other small animals, and give you a feeling of security and privacy in the great outdoors. It can also be your most expe...
Sports & Recreation > Hiking & Backpacking The many uses for a hiking stick: 1 of 4

Habitual hikers almost always walk with one or two sticks. Hiking sticks improve stability and ease pressure on joints. A stick can be used to clear the way, explore potential footholds, or become an extra tool. It can be a defense against aggressive animals, or even a display rack for emblems of trails you have visited. You...
Sports & Recreation > Hiking & Backpacking How to dress for cold weather hiking: 1 of 3

Hiking when the weather is chilly, even cold, can be enjoyable. There are fewer insects, and the air feels refreshing. But most people are afraid they will be too cold. Some simple choices and methods of dressing will keep you warm– ready for a good time outdoors. Key elements in successful dressing for cold weather ar...
Religion & Spirituality > Christian Holidays & Celebrations History of the Easter lily: 1 of 3

Banks of beautiful, sweet-scented white lilies decorate our churches and homes at Easter. The Easter Lily is a standard part of the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Yet, we hardly stop to think about how that flower came to be associated with Easter, or how all those plants appear magically in stores. The history ...
Sports & Recreation > Skiing The experienced skier's guide to Michigan resorts: 1 of 3

Caberfae Ski Peak, Cadillac, Michigan Caberfae (Gaelic for "stag's head") claims to be the most family-friendly ski resort in Northern Lower Michigan. Convenient to much of the lower peninsula, their motto is "Shortest Drive, Longest Runs." Skis and snowboards are available for rent at a full-service shop, lessons are offere...
Travel > Rental Cars & Driving Scenic road trips in Michigan: 1 of 2

Michigan’s motto is “If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you,” and no one can argue with that sentiment. Driving along the hundreds of miles of coastline, through rural farming scenes, or past the many outstanding waterfalls of the Upper Peninsula can be a road touring dream come true. Just to aid ...
Sports & Recreation > Hiking & Backpacking How to get started with snow backpacking: 1 of 2

You can begin backpacking in the snow without spending a huge amount of money. If you enjoy the challenges of the winter, your equipment can then be improved to allow you to stay out for extended periods. Let’s assume that there is enough snow to require snowshoes. If there is little snow, the winter backpacking requir...
Sports & Recreation > Hiking & Backpacking Ways to take care of your tent while backpacking: 1 of 2

Few backpackers venture out without a tent or some kind of fabric shelter. How you treat your tent while on the trail can have a real impact on how well the tent will protect you. Hammocks are becoming increasingly popular with backpackers, and most of these tips would apply equally to them. * Keep it dry This sounds like an...
Sports & Recreation > Camping 5 ways to keep camp food safe from wild animals: 1 of 2

Animals are just as interested in getting an easy meal as you or I. When camping, it can be a challenge to prevent the critters from helping themselves to our dinner. If you are basecamping, metal containers may be provided, or your car is a relatively safe cache. But what should you do if you are backpacking away from a veh...