hiking

You’ll Be a #WoodsExplorer With These 6 Hiking Essentials in Your Backpack-Giveaway

August 25, 2015 by Kathryn 3 Comments

One of my favourite things about camping with my boys is getting in touch with nature and while we do that in some ways even just relaxing at our campsite, I like to take it one step further with nature hikes. Discovering the area’s wildlife and native plants is fascinating, and my boys get plenty of exercise at the same time. Family fun that encourages learning and good health is a winning combination in my opinion!

To ensure that we make the most of our hiking excursions, proper preparation is a must. And for me, that means a Woods Hybrid 40L Daypack filled with my six hiking essentials! These are the must-have products that go into my backpack before heading out on a hike.

Plenty of Water

Taking water on a hike is obviously a must since proper hydration is so important. But it’s all too easy to underestimate the amount of water that’s needed for a hike. One cup (250ml) of water per person, per hour is the minimum amount that I ever take on a hike. For a one-hour hike with my boys, carrying a 1 to 2 litre bottle, depending on the weather, ensures we’ll all have an appropriate amount, plus a bit extra. [Read more…]

Try One of These 6 Must-Experience Canadian May Long Weekend Adventures

May 13, 2015 by Kathryn 8 Comments

There’s nothing I love more than exploring the great outdoors, and May Long Weekend is one of the best times to do that! With the snow finally gone and spring in full swing, getting outside for some fun and adventure is always a must for our family. This May Long Weekend, why not throw caution to the wind and see what this beautiful country has to offer? These six attractions across Canada are ones the whole family will enjoy!

Watch whales instead of Netflix—The Vancouver Whale Watch, now in its 15th year, provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the majestic creatures in action.
Check out the Wildlife Discovery Tour in Jasper, Alberta—the best place in the Canadian Rockies to see wildlife. Follow along knowledgeable guides in search of moose, elk, bear, mountain sheep, wolves, and even loons, eagles and osprey.
Visit the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village outside Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. This 40-acre museum contains a pioneer village, antique grain elevator, farmyard and the Sukanen ship itself. With plenty of antiques and room to explore, it gives visitors a glimpse into life on the prairies in the past.
Venture over to The Forks, Winnipeg’s meeting place where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers join. Whether it’s beautiful scenery, dining, shopping or entertainment, it’s a great place to check out with the family over the long weekend.
Give white water rafting a go at the River Run Rafting and Wilderness Resort in the Ottawa Valley. This family style raft trip is fun for adults as well as children of all ages.
Hike the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. From hiking to kayaking to whale watching, the Cabot Trail provides the recipe for a perfect May Long Weekend.

[Read more…]

Protect Your Feet and Get Outdoors this Summer with Blundstone Boots

June 29, 2013 by Kathryn 10 Comments

There is nothing better than a good pair of boots, but the biggest problem I have when shopping for sturdy hiking boots or stylish boots for city wear is that they often take weeks or even months to break in and feel really comfortable. And while I have found boots that feel great right away, they generally tend to be flimsy and quickly start to break down and fall apart.

Then Blundstone Canada gave me the chance to choose a pair of its famous leather boots to review. Blundstones are specifically designed to be comfortable as soon as they’re pulled on for the first time and the thick leather exterior gives them unparalleled durability too. I chose the classic boots from the 550 Series, Blundstone #585 boots in Rustic Brown to review and I couldn’t wait to check them out.

blundstones 550 series boots [Read more…]