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Journal
Stories, ideas, and inspiration at the intersection of travel, outdoors, culture, and community.
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3 Transit-Friendly New York Trails with Scenic Views
Explore three transit-friendly New York trails with scenic views, including Beacon, Garrison, and the Bronx. No car needed for these easy outdoor escapes.
drfter
6 days ago5 min read


What to Do If You Encounter a Bear in the Wild
Photo by Danika Perkinson A beginner-friendly guide to staying calm, safe, and not becoming the main character in a wildlife documentary Seeing a bear in the wild sounds exciting until it actually happens. One minute you are hiking, enjoying the trees, feeling outdoorsy and peaceful. The next minute, there is a bear, and suddenly your brain is running through every bad idea at once. Should I run? Should I scream? Should I take a photo? Should I pretend I’m not here? Shoul
drfter
Jul 225 min read


The Fourth of July, Public Land, and the Freedom to Be Outside
Reflect on the Fourth of July through public land, nature, belonging, and the freedom to be outside. Explore a more intentional way to celebrate outdoors.
Phaon Spurlock
Jul 37 min read


Bug-Proof Your Outdoor Trip: Simple Tips for Hikers and Campers
Learn how to bug-proof your outdoor trip with simple tips for bug spray, tick checks, clothing, campsite setup, and protection on hikes and camping trips.
drfter
Jun 163 min read


Guide to Cold Soaking Your Food: The No-Stove Camping Hack That Actually Makes Sense
Learn how to cold soak food for camping and backpacking with this beginner-friendly guide to easy no-stove meals, best foods, timing, tips, and meal ideas.
Phaon Spurlock
Jun 28 min read


Best Socks for Hiking: What to Look for Before You Hit the Trail
Choosing the right hiking socks can make your trail day much more comfortable. Here’s what to look for before your next hike, from fabric and cushion to fit and sock height.
Phaon Spurlock
May 293 min read


Drfter Trail Day Recap: Our First Hike of the 2026 Season in Beacon, NY
Recap Drfter’s first hike of the season in Beacon, NY, from Grand Central to the Hudson River trail and a post-hike hangout at Two Way Brewing.
drfter
May 273 min read


What to Wear on a Hike in Different Temperature Ranges by Season
Not sure what to wear on your next hike? This simple guide breaks down hiking outfits by temperature range,
Phaon Spurlock
May 84 min read


What to Pack for a Day Hike
Planning your first day hike? This beginner-friendly packing checklist covers the essentials you need to stay comfortable, safe, and prepared on the trail, from water and snacks to layers, navigation, safety items, and optional comfort gear.
drfter
May 46 min read


Hiking and Camping Dictionary: Common Outdoor Terms Explained
If you’re new to hiking and camping, outdoor language can feel like its own world. You’ll hear people talk about shells, insulation, base layers, car camping, daypacks, and bivvies like everyone should already know what they mean. This hiking and camping dictionary breaks down common outdoor terms in plain language, so you can feel more confident before your next hike, campsite setup, or gear shopping trip. Hiking and Camping Dictionary Updated Regularly A Ascend To hike or c
drfter
Apr 175 min read
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