If outdoor adventures are calling your name this season, a mountain climbing trip could be your excuse to escape the office and embrace nature at its best. Pack the right survival gear for your excursion and you'll make the most of climbing, hiking and exploring that mountain territory.

Whether you're a beginner or expert climber, mountain climbing can be a great upper and lower body workout that will challenge you to the max. Set your sights on a rock climbing trip in Chattanooga, or head to the snowy mountains in Colorado; there are hundreds of unique destinations scattered throughout the U.S, and there's nothing like a challenging physical workout to get you in tip-top shape for the season - all while taking in the mountain-fresh air. Just make sure to pack for the trip with essential survival gear, and you'll set foot on a safe and memorable adventure.

A medical kit is an absolute must-have for any outdoor adventure, and you can prepare for a mountain climbing trip with all of the essentials, wrapped up tight in these portable kits. From bandages to an emergency stash of painkillers, you'll be well prepared for any first aid emergency.

Headlamps will get you through those coves and climbs at dusk, so make sure you stock up on at least a couple of these for your all-day adventure. Headlamps with adjustable straps offer the ultimate in comfort and will help you navigate your path - especially when there isn't one paved out for you.

Nothing wraps up a day of climbing better than a hearty meal. Make sure you're prepared for your dinner in the great outdoors with a foldable stove. These lightweight, fully-functional stoves make cooking and warming up food a cinch! And, when it's time to turn down for the night, make sure you're safe and sound in a tent designed for adverse weather.

Mountain climbing without the right tent can put you at risk for an animal attack, a sleepless night in a cold-weather climate or make it hard to keep your supplies and gear well protected from the elements. Pitch a tent designed for adverse weather conditions, and make sure you follow all instructions to set it up just right.

Many California tourists have made a pilgrimage to Anaheim to visit Disneyland, the 53-year-old theme park that contains their version of Switzerland's Matterhorn Mountain. Unlike the actual peak, the worst parts about "climbing" Disney's Matterhorn are the long lines for the bathrooms and finding your car in the parking lot at the end of the day.

Rising 14,692 feet above sea level, the real Matterhorn is not as high as some of the other mountains that have earned a deadly reputation, but appearances, in this case, are deceiving. The first team to successfully reach the summit in 1865 lost four members during their descent, leaving only three climbers alive to tell the tale.

Breathtakingly beautiful but potentially lethal, the Matterhorn is so steep that climbing it does present a real challenge. In addition to lots of rope work, to reach the summit, you'll need to be as sure-footed as a mountain goat on some of the icier surfaces. These days, approximately 15 climbers die during their attempt on their way to the top or on the trip down. More than a thousand others find themselves in serious trouble and have to be rescued.

The Matterhorn definitely is not a climb for novices and, because of the real dangers involved, contracting with a guide service is highly recommended. The experienced staff provides guidance and training before you start your ascent, making their fees a good investment in your expedition.

Unlike some of the more inhospitable climbing destinations, the Matterhorn throws its towering shadow over Zermatt, a beautiful and welcoming little Swiss village. No matter if you are there to climb or to ski, Zermatt is a great place to visit, with churches, restaurants and a 9-hole golf course if you decide to bring your clubs along.

The one thing that you won't find in Zermatt is a gas-guzzling automobile. The village only allows green transportation, such as electric cars and sleighs. To get into Zermatt, you will have to take an environmentally-friendly bus or train.

If you can't resist the siren call of this mountain, make sure that you are equipped and fully-prepared to make this dangerous climb. This Matterhorn definitely isn't kid stuff.

Resources:

http://www.destination360.com/europe/switzerland/matterhorn.php
http://www.zermatt.ch/e/matterhorn/
http://www.climb.mountains.com/Classic_Peaks_files/European_Classics_files/Matterhorn.htm
http://www.ski-zermatt.com/mattnet/features/walking_guide/around_zermatt.html
http://www.zermatt.ch/index.e.html

Sure, you love the great outdoors--but you also love your iPod! Check out these cool tips for hauling your tech gear up mountains and down rivers, regardless of your vacation destination.

Let's face it: we're all multi-layered human beings with a wide diversity of interests and passions. We're not just accountants or just mountain bikers, and sometimes our interests conflict with one another. This is the conundrum that active professionals face when they need a break from concrete sidewalks and high-rise office buildings. Sure, you want to go skiing or white-water rafting or hiking with the family, but you don't want to cut yourself off from the civilized world.

Taking an outdoor vacation means lightening the load of stress you carry on a daily basis and freeing yourself from worry. You shouldn't feel guilty about wanting to check your e-mail or answer your cell phone, but you'll need to be prepared if you want access to your gear on vacation.

Know the Itinerary

You'll need to plan differently for your vacation if you're going to be canoeing down a river than if you'll be climbing a mountain. Water, for example, is like kryptonite for your tech gear, so you'll want to pack sealable plastic bags to store your laptop, cell phone, PDA and other electronics.

Also, you'll want to think about comfort if you'll be on the move or cruising down a trail, so consider a roomy messenger bag with a shoulder strap for all your gear, such as the Patagonia Half-Mass Bag, which is padded to keep your gear extra safe.

Think Small

Big, bulky bags really don't cut it when you're trying to haul your tech gear around the wilderness-or even on a plane. The goal should be to find the smallest bag that will conceivably hold all of your equipment.

A compact backpack, for example, will allow you to safely store the majority of your gear without worrying about extra weight or volume. The Oakley Planet Pack 2.0 is the perfect solution-it even has a special compartment for your media player while you're on the go.

You'll also want to focus on security if you're going to bring expensive tech gear with you on vacation. Having a small, easy-to-access bag that holds all your stuff will allow you to keep a close eye on your belongings, and you won't be hunting through your luggage when you've got to get your Internet fix. So stay safe and allow yourself to enjoy the great outdoors and modern conveniences at the same time!

Even with good physical conditioning, you only have a 1-in-5 chance of surviving Kangchenjunga.

To successfully reach the summits of the truly big mountains, a climber needs all the necessary permits, essential survival gear and, most of all, respect for the mountain itself. As long as climbers have attempted to summit Kangchenjunga, the third largest mountain in the world, has commanded more respect than many other peaks.

Located on the Sikkim-Nepal border, this beautiful landmark has a name that, roughly translated, means the "Five Treasures of the Great Snow." The treasures, in this instance, refer to Kangchengjunga's five peaks, each of which exceeds 8,000 meters in height.

In 1955, Charles Evans led a successful British expedition to the top of Kangchenjunga, but out of respect for the Sikkimese people and their reverence for the mountain, they stopped short of the summit. Some of the later expeditions also intentionally came within a few steps of the top before turning back.

With its heavy rain and snowfall, if you decide to tackle this mountain, you may face a double whammy of avalanches and mudslides. With a height of 28,169 feet, climbing Kangchenjunga also involves the real danger of altitude sickness. Make sure you go prepared with a medical kit, such as the SAM Splint, which is so lightweight and compact that you won't even notice it in your bag. But beware: a medical kit can only help you so much. Some climbers have simply disappeared while making an attempt for the Kangchengjunga summit.

Though not the deadliest mountain in the world, in all the recorded attempts at the summit, Kanchenjunga has a 20 percent fatality rate. Those can be pretty hard odds to beat, especially if this is your first 8,000-er.

Climbing season for Kangchenjunga runs from April through October, with the best weather occurring in April and May. For an expedition of seven or fewer members, the climbing fee is approximately $10,000 plus a $3,000 garbage deposit that will be refunded if no trash has been left on the mountain.

In addition to planning the expedition, you'll need to apply for certain permits to gain access to parts of Sikkim, which is located in India. Some areas around Kangchenjunga are completely off-limits, so it's a good idea to check with the Tourism Office when planning an expedition.

Kangchengjunga's natural beauty is only exceeded by the dangers involved in reaching the summit. Besides good physical conditioning, you'll truly need a healthy respect for the "Five Treasures of the Great Snow."

Sources:
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html?pk=132
http://www.travel-himalayas.com/himalayan-mountains-peaks/kangchenjunga-kanchenjunga.html
http://www.hindu.com/mag/2005/02/20/stories/2005022000500200.htm http://www.mounteverest.net/news.php?id=15602
http://www.peakware.com/peaks.html

When you're bored with the usual hiking trails and cross country treks, maybe it's time to hit the mountains! Mountain climbing is a great way to explore the great outdoors, breathe in the fresh mountain air and see life from a new perspective - literally. Still, the only way you'll reach the top is with the right survival gear, and selecting the right mountain climbing boots is an essential step in the right direction.

Mountain climbing boots are usually designed with Thinsulate materials, Gore-Tex and durable rubber to keep your feet well-protected on a rigorous route. Finding the right fit and making sure you pick the right type of shoes will keep you trekking on without stress, and also reduce your risk of injury.

If you're ready to freshen up your outdoor sports agenda and find yourself heading to the mountains, be sure to follow these tips when selecting a pair of mountain climbing boots:

The Heavier the Better

Heavy boots are ideal for mountaineering activities because they help balance out your weight and keep you grounded en route. Look for heavy materials that combine steel, rubber and heavy plastics so you can carry some extra weight in your lower body and maintain balance on even the steepest slopes.

Go For the High-Cut Style

High cut boots provide extra ankle and lower leg support, and can also withstand colder temperatures if you're heading to a snowy mountaintop. Look for styles that provide extra cushioning in the heel and back of the ankles, but make sure you can flex your ankles slightly as you bend, squat or stoop in these boots.

Stick with Waterproof Lining

Waterproof lining means you don't have to worry about snow, rain or sleet as you hike and climb your way to the top of the mountain. Waterproof lining such as Gore-Tex can prevent water from soaking into your socks and also help your feet 'breathe' as they sit snugly in those boots. Waterproof lining can be found in the toe area of most quality mountain climbing boots.

Opt for Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather (vs. split-grain leather) is best for more rugged routes, and can withstand extreme temperatures and ward off moisture. Full-grain leather styles are tough; make sure you've given yourself time to 'break in' to these types of mountain climbing boots so you can practice your balancing act on even the toughest trails.

Look for Hidden Support

If you're planning on conquering a multi-route trail that involves mountain climbing, hiking and cross country trekking, you may need some extra support to stabilize the ankles and feet, and prevent shock injuries as you engage in different types of movements. Mountain climbing boots made with steel inserts and flexible plates can provide extra support when you're tackling different types of terrain.

The style and cut of quality mountain climbing boots do take time to get used to, so it's best to practice different stances and maneuvers before you head off on your route. Mountain climbing boots need to be durable, but also provide comfort and protection on those challenging trails. Make use of these tips when you're looking for your ideal pair and enjoy the rough terrain on your mountain climbing venture!

Five-star hotels, room service and expensive tours can't compare with these nifty ideas.

We aren't all lucky enough to have thousands of dollars socked away for yearly vacations, but if you like the great outdoors, you're in luck. You can plan amazing outdoor vacations on the cheap, without sacrificing fun and relaxation. Five-star hotels, room service and expensive tours can't compare with these nifty ideas.

State Parks

One of the best ideas for outdoor vacations on the cheap is to visit a state park - or even more than one! Most have camping facilities that include restrooms and even water sources, and you don't have to have an RV or camper to get some shut-eye. A fifty-dollar tent from Wal-Mart, a roaring fire for your hot dogs and s'mores and plenty of scary stories will keep a family of four in style for a whole week.

Even better? The camping fees at state parks are next to nothing, and some even don't charge during the off season. For example, "primitive" camping at Sam Rayburn in Texas is only $10 per night, while full service camping is only $18. You won't find that kind of deal at any hotel.

Visit Relatives

Most people don't think about all of their relatives and out-of-town friends when they plan outdoor vacations. For example, maybe you've always wanted to go hiking in Colorado, but you don't have the money to spring for a hotel and meals while you're enjoying the fresh air. Consider calling your old friend from college or your second cousin and asking if you can stay with them. Not only will you save some dough but you'll get a chance to catch up!

Stay at a B&B

If you don't have any friends or relatives who live near your destination, there are other ways to travel on the cheap. Bed-and-breakfast motels, for example, are usually less expensive than a hotel, and many offer home-cooked meals so you won't drain your bank account on fast food for the entire vacation.<p>You can enjoy outdoor vacations on the cheap if you think outside that proverbial box. Everyone deserves some time off now and again, and sometimes it's easier to commune with nature when you aren't in your own backyard.

If you are lucky enough to draw a tag, head to Arizona to hunt these beautiful antelope.

If you are looking for a place where, as the song "Home on the Range" says, the "deer and the antelope play," look no further than the White Mountains of Arizona. Located in the northeastern corner of the state near the New Mexico border, the White Mountains offer a great opportunity to hunt the pronghorn antelope.

Named after their sharply-pointed horns, these antelopes, with their ability to run upwards of 60 mph, can give Olympic sprinters a run for their money, especially when they are frightened. Their speed combined with their beautiful tan and white bodies make them quite a prize if you can bring one down.

Native to North America, the pronghorn likes to roam in herds and the most recommended way to spot your prey is to move to high ground with a pair of binoculars. Before heading to Arizona, search for maps of the White Mountains on the Internet so you can get a good idea of where you need to start hunting.

Fall is the time to go in search of the speedy pronghorn. Rifle season runs September 5-11 and muzzleloader season runs September 12-18. Hunting these antelopes in the White Mountains does require an Arizona hunting license plus an antelope tag, which is available only through a drawing. For non-Arizona residents, the tag fee for 2008 was $485.

Though the hunting is good, getting to the White Mountains can become a bit of challenge. The three closest major airports are located in Phoenix, Albuquerque and Tucson, which means you'll need to travel between 200-300 miles to reach your destination.

Lodging, on the other hand, shouldn't pose any problems. The region around the White Mountains contains an abundance of cabins, resorts, and hotels where you can relax and prepare for the next day's hunt. The White Mountains also offer some great places to trout fish as well.

Despite the distance, stalking the Pronghorn Antelope in Arizona is one of those rare hunting opportunities that should not be missed. Tag draws typically occur in February, so start making your plans for the 2009 season now.

Resources: http://www.biggamehunt.net/sections/Pronghorn_Antelope/Antelope_Hunting__Start_to_Finish_05290609.html http://www.azantelope.org/Facts___Research/About_Pronghorn/about_pronghorn.html
White Mountains Online: http://www.wmonline.com/gamefish/fishin.htm
Arizona Game and Fish: http://www.azgfd.gov/h_f/game_antelope.shtml
Go Arizona: http://www.go-arizona.com/White-Mountains

Also known as Mount McKinley, Denali rises more than 20,000 feet above sea level.

Things may grow bigger in Texas, but Alaska plays host to Mount Denali, one of the famous "Seven Summits" and the highest mountain on the North American continent. With an altitude that exceeds 20,000 feet, it's also one of the most difficult mountains in the world to tackle, even for a seasoned, physically fit climber.

Though sometimes referred to as Mount McKinley, Denali, whose name translates as "The Great One" or "The High One," is located about 140 miles north of Anchorage, Alaska. When you get within sight of this beautiful destination, you'll want to get out and climb right away, but preparations definitely are in order, though.

Like Alaska itself, Denali is a study in contrast, with strong winds that can approach 100-mph and cold temperatures. Depending on what time of the year that you decide to challenge Denali, you also could climb on a very warm day with nearly endless hours of sunshine.

Denali is, therefore, a mountain suitable for those who are both physically and mentally ready to climb it, especially due to the high risk of altitude sickness. There are, however, climbing schools located near Mount Denali that can help you get prepared to reach the summit. Experienced guides also are available to assist you in your quest to conquer Denali.

Because this mountain is located in Denali National Park and Preserve, the National Park Service charges a "special use fee" of $200 for every person attempting to climb Denali plus a $10 per person park entrance fee. You also must pre-register with the National Park Service at least 60 days before your attempt.

There are plenty of lodges and hotel near Denali National Park, but one of the recommended places to stay is the town of Talkeetna, which offers air taxi services that offer a close view of Denali before you make the climb. Some of the major airlines service Anchorage and from there, it's about a 120-mile drive to Talkeetna.

No matter if you call it Mount McKinley or Denali, this is one majestic mountain and one of the biggest climbing challenges you'll ever face.

Resources:
PBS Kids: http://pbskids.org/nova/denali/where.html
National Park Service: http://www.nps.gov/dena
Talkeetna Chamber of Commerce: http://www.talkeetna-chamber.com/

No one should die without seeing the coast of Maine from Acadia National Parks. This is one hike that I highly recommend.

August 15: We woke to rain after sleeping like babies. Once the sun was out, we headed to a hike that we had planned called Huegenot Head and Champlain Mountain in Acadia National Park, Maine.

The hike was 3.3 miles and supposedly would take two and a half hours. I'm not sure who's counting the minutes or how old the person is, but we like to stop and smell the flowers and did the hike in 3.5 hours. We found one area strenuous and much of it challenging, but the hike was gorgeous and worth the challenge. This hike begins at the Tarn parking area. We found the granite staircase. We love this kind of trail in spite of the physical work it requires. We started out with about 1,400 steps. Sure the steps were well defined and we had forest next to us eliminating the fear of falling off of them, but still, that's a lot of steps when you're going up a mountain and gaining 1,100 feet in elevation.

After the 1,400 steps, we hit some switchbacks. This is the kind of hike I call "rock climbing." I'm 5 feet 4 inches and with rocks like that, I'm pulling myself up to get on them and onto the next one. When we weren't "rock climbing" the trail was almost straight up. There's an elevation gain of 1,100 feet.

The summit was incredible and a perfect place for a picnic. We were looking at Frenchman's Bay but didn't see any seals or other critters. We had company but it was alright becase we all shared our stories of how we got up. We could have come to this summit any of four ways including using a ladder. At that time I had never done ladders so chose the rocky way. I had also been told that one way up the trail was so steep that I would be on my hands and knees clinging to the side of the mountain and trying not to look down to lots of air. Many of us wondered where the Starbucks was and when the helicopter would be coming to take us down!

We found out that we had our hike to ourselves for the most part because of the four ways up. The Precipice Trail, which is how some came up, is said to be the most difficult on this side of the island. The trail we went up is Tarn. We decided to go down Bear Brook Trail, which felt like an easy descent after the climb up. One negative about Bear Brook Trail is that we ended up on Route 3 and then had about a mile walk to our car. I would have preferred hiking to our car.

It's summer season, and even though it's an ideal time to loll on the beach and stroll the boardwalk, we all need to squeeze in a workout or two into the oh-so-busy relaxation schedule. Consider it your summertime balancing act, but whatever the case may be, summer is an opportune time to get out to the sand and surf... and go hiking!

Summer beach hikes are a great way to explore the dunes, experience the great outdoors from a fresh perspective and still squeeze in some fun in the sun while you're at it. A hike through beachfront hills, dunes and coves can also give your entire lower body a workout, engaging key muscle groups in the calves, hamstrings, glutes and thighs. Unless you're planning on pitching a tent and camping at the nearest beach venue, you won't need a backpack or a ton of gear to make your way through the trail.

What you will need are a few basic hiking supplies that are fit for walking and trekking through sand and softer terrain.

The right hiking shoes are a start, and you'll need a weatherproof pair with a light grip. Avoid the heavy boots and trade them for lighter, low-cut shoes that are designed with a waterproof layer. This wards off the surf and keeps toes happy and dry as you coast along the shoreline.

Protective clothing is another beach hiking must-have. While it's tempting to head off in your swimwear so you can work on that tan you crave, you'll need to protect skin from the sun and make sure you have enough coverage to get through any lush vegetation you encounter on the trail. Cover up with beach coveralls such as sarongs, lightweight short-sleeve shirts and baggy tanks and you'll be good to go.

Layers of sunscreen will also protect your skin and keep skin cancer and skin burns at bay. Make sure you use at least an SPF 30 or higher and double up on the sunscreen if you're alternating between hiking and swimming on your adventure.

There's no reason to skip a workout this summer with the right lineup of activities that are perfect for beach season. When you're done playing a few rounds of sand volleyball, had enough of lounging by the ocean and are ready to explore the waterfront, pack up your basic survival kit for a beach hiking adventure!

Idaho might be best known for its potatoes, but if you're getting ready to plan a vacation, you might consider this state for excellent climbing as well. Far from the potato fields, Seven Devils Mountains are home to some of the most rugged mountainsides in the world, and they present a unique challenge to the avid climber. Extending for nearly 40 miles along the Oregon border, the Seven Devils Mountains might make the perfect vacation.

Fortunately, this area of Idaho presents a unique opportunity for visitors, as there is far more to do than climb mountains. Several national and state parks are located within five miles of the range, some of which offer boating, kayaking, trails, cycling and horseback riding. When you're tired of high elevations and craggy mountainsides, you can take a break and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

For more experienced climbers, there are several mountains in Seven Devils that will test your skills and endurance. Devil's Tooth, for example, is nearly 8,000 feet in elevation and has two summits, one of which is far more difficult to reach than the other. If you'd like to try the steepest side, you'll need to be able to ferret out the most reasonable approach, which means that technical climbers will have the most success.

The Tower of Babel is another popular peak in Seven Devils Mountains, and is accessed from Sheep Lake. The mountain rises just over 9,000 feet in elevation, presenting almost limitless paths that jump from one rocky ledge to the next, presenting an almost spiral pattern that can be discerned from the ground.

You'll find Class 1 hikes in Seven Devils Mountains as well as Class 5 hikes, but it is important that you know the area before you set out for a climb. The rock faces of the mountains aren't always entirely stable, and taking a child on too difficult a hike could prove very dangerous. There are brochures and guides available all around Sheep Lake, Idaho, so make sure you check with the experts before you set out in the morning for some exercise.

If you get the chance, you should also visit Hells Canyon, which is the the deepest river gorge in the United States and extends all the way to Snake River. It is a glorious sight from numerous mountains in the range, and you can head off into the Wilderness from there.

Diamond Head State Monument is located on the island of Oahu in beautiful Hawaii. This is a must-do hike. It can be seen just about anywhere on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. (Unless you're diving!)

When we arrived we were told by a person in a kiosk (there was no Visitor Center) to be back by 6 p.m. because the gate to the parking lot closes then and if we missed it, we'd be sleeping there. In fact, the gate didn't close at exactly 6 p.m and, if we had wanted to spend more time, we could have found parking outside the gate.

The trail was well maintained and, for the most part, pretty easy. There were handrails all the way up the 1.4 mile round-trip hike. This was a short hike, but really nice. We encountered some lava we had to climb up, but I'd call this hike great for the whole family. Although easy, it's a steep 760-foot crater, so I found wearing hiking boots to be a good idea. We also always carry binoculars and this was a great place to have them, along with the necessary sunscreen and a cap. There was no shade so having lots of water helped also.

Once we got to the top we had a gorgeous view. It felt as if we were on top of the world. It was one of the most impressive views I've ever seen. Along with the beautiful blue water, we saw hotels and a lighthouse.

We headed down at about 5 p.m. and it was still quite warm. Be forewarned: there was no water or bathrooms on the trail or at the top of Diamond Head.

We spent about two hours doing this hike. Even at that time of the day there were plenty of people. There weren't enough for me to call the observation posts crowded, but close to it. If I were to go again, I'd go early in the morning when it wouldn't be as crowded or hot.

If a mountaineering or a cliff-climbing course is penciled into your calendar this year, you'll need to plan ahead with the basic gear and supplies. Rock climbing is a great way to experience the great outdoors from a fresh perspective; whether you're climbing the Rockies or taking a trip across the Grand Canyon, be prepared for breathtaking views and a total body workout as you reach new heights. Make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable with these rock climbing necessities:

1. Carabiners

You'll need a sturdy set of carabiners to keep your ropes and pulleys working at their full potential. Look for wire gate, lightweight carabiners that reduce 'gate lash' and make it easy to change out ropes and coordinate pulleys on your climb.

2. Rock climbing shoes

The necessary footwear for a rock climbing adventure is a far cry from the standard hiking boot or cross-country trekking shoe. A pair of quality rock climbing shoes can either be lace-up or Velcro style, and you'll get the most out of your climb with a pair of leather uppers designed with flexible soles. They're also designed with extra grips on the base, and are super lightweight for better performance.

3. Climbing harnesses

Making sure you have the best-fitting harness can help you stay comfortable and well-protected during even the most challenging climbs. The right harness will help distribute your weight evenly without pinching or cinching your skin as the pressure increases; look for extra features such as vents in the waistbelt and flexible plastic inserts for extra spine and muscle support.

4. Climbing helmet

Protect yourself from falling rocks and boulders, and keep that scalp as dry as possible with a well-fitting helmet. Helmets designed with air vents and an adjustable strap can offer the best fitting, and these are also a lightweight accessory. Look for helmets with detachable headlamps or clips to hold a lamp in place for adventures at sunset that lead into the night.

5. Camming device

As you make your way up the steepest climbs and challenging rock formations, you'll need the right holding device to keep you on course. Camming devices made with an interlocking design can make each move smooth and flexible. Look for lightweight camming devices made with stainless steel for maximum durability and versatility.

Bat flight, cave exploration and nature talks are all part of the fun at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Have you always wanted to see bats in their natural habitat? Do you prefer darkness to bright sunshine? Are you the exploratory type? Vacations for the outdoorsy type don't have to include rock climbing or bike riding - in fact, there is plenty to do and see below ground. Carlsbad Caverns, located in Eddy County, N.M., is one of my favorite vacation destinations in the world.

Rather than exposing yourself to the great outdoors, you can explore what underground passageways have to offer. The Carlsbad Caverns were formed over hundreds of years as aggressive sulfuric acid ate away at the limestone rock below ground. Now, these caves are open to public for exploration, including a few caves where visitors can tour by themselves without a guide.

Even better, Carlsbad Caverns offers a wide range of difficulty in their cave tours, allowing both experienced cave divers and novice enthusiasts alike to enjoy their vacation. Spider Cave, for example, includes lots of crawling, climbing and shimmying through tight spaces, which can be exciting for someone who doesn't mind a bit of physical activity. Of course, those who are claustrophobic need not apply.

For more novice visitors, the Kings Palace cave is one of the most beautiful sites to see in Carlsbad Caverns, and includes lighted passageways where dozens of fascinating cave formations are put on display. The Left Hand Tunnel Tour is easy compared to some of the other caves, and requires that visitors carry lanterns as they explore cave pools and ancient fossils.

Of course, spending an entire vacation below ground might be depressing to some, which is why Carlsbad is one of the best destinations in the entire U.S. On the days when cave exploration seems unattractive, you can take a few hours in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Nature walks, informative demonstrations given by park rangers and slide programs are all available.

And finally, make sure you take at least one evening to visit the Carlsbad Amphitheater, where every summer evening the bats leave the cave in one gigantic stampede, rushing out over seated visitors. Although photography and pets are not allowed, this is a wondrous experience that no one should miss while in New Mexico.

With freezing temperatures and strong winds, Mount Washington is suitable only for top-notch climbers.

Though the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy calls a towel the most useful item to carry in your pack, when attempting to climb to the top of Mount Washington in New Hampshire, you really should have a snow shovel. As the "Home of the World's Worst Weather," the summit is one of the most dangerous places to reach during the winter months (between October and May).

Arguably one of the toughest climbs in the continental United States, Mount Washington rises 6,288 feet above sea level, but the height isn't the biggest issue here. With an average annual snowfall of 256 inches and an average temperature of 26.5 degrees Fahrenheit, if the hypothermia doesn't get you during a climb, an avalanche could possibly bury you or one of your companions.

Falling ice can also be a big problem when attempting to reach the summit. Recent climbing advisories have reported frozen chunks the size of automobiles, which have smashed into rocks and turned them into dangerous flying missiles.

Suffice it to say, only the most experienced climbers should even think about climbing to the top of Mount Washington. The extreme cold combined with the high altitude and gale-force winds can sap the strength from even the most seasoned veteran, so make sure never to climb alone. Avalanches are typically a big problem during the winter months, so make sure to pack a good snow shovel and an avalanche beacon.

Despite the dangerous climate, the summit is home to the Mount Washington Observatory, which has monitored weather conditions and conducted scientific research since 1932. If climbing isn't an option, you can reach the summit by driving up the auto road or riding the cog railway between May and October. Even in the summer months, the weather can take a nasty turn, so it's always a good idea to check the conditions before heading out.

No matter how you attempt to reach the top, Mount Washington is one heck of a climb.

Sources:
http://home.earthlink.net/~ellozy/washington.html
Mount Washington Information: http://www.mountwashington.com/
Mount Washington Observatory: http://www.mountwashington.org/about/visitor/
The Cog Railway: http://www.thecog.com/
Mount Washington Auto Road: http://www.mountwashingtonautoroad.com/

This trail is great even if you have no interest in seeing President Hoover's summer house.

We loved a couple of hikes in Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The entire area is spectacular. One hike was once called Camp Hoover Trail. It is now known as Rapidan Camp Trail.

There are three trails: Rapiden Camp via Mill and Laurel Prongs (The Appalachian Trail) which is a 7.4-mile, somewhat difficult loop with streams and cascades; Rapiden Camp via Rapiden Fire Road, which is 12 miles round trip on a dusty road that is closed to public vehicles, and the third: Rapiden Camp via Mill Prong Trail. (Trail maps are available once you arrive.)

The trail we took is four miles round trip. It isn't a loop, but an in and out. There are markers on the road. Rapiden Camp is at mile marker 53, where you'll find the trail head. Note that the sign says Rapiden Camp-Laurel Prong-Hazeltop Loop. You'll park at the Milan Gap parking lot.

Our guidebook called our hike and the 7.4 hike "strenuous." Another paper calls this hike "moderate." This one really depends on your ability and experience. It was steep in places, moderate in others, woodsy in much of the area and, because it was raining when we were there, the narrow trail was muddy.

Shenandoah National Park, like many others, has bears. They are black (or brown) and usually don't attack unless provoked or if you come between a mom and her cubs. Although we didn't see any, one guy told us he did as he made his way down. We saw bear droppings and were told by the ranger who lives on the property that the creatures do roam about. In fact he showed us another giveaway: tree bark chewed by a bear looking for bugs. Oh Dear.

You'll pass a catch-and-release pond and two stream crossings. You'll see some small but pretty cascades along the way. Since it had been and still was raining, this was a bit of a challenge. We got there just by chance for a 2 p.m. tour and talk. The Prime Minister's Cabin is open to the public, but Rapiden Camp was the summer retreat of President Hoover. His house is called the Brown House; you will not be able to enter without a ranger. It's worth it!

If a backpacking adventure is calling your name this season, picking out some essential equipment can help you trek along safely and comfortably. You'll need ultralight backpacking and hiking gear to get you through those tougher trails and challenging courses; from shoes to sleeping bags, make sure you have all the basics covered with this equipment checklist:

1. Sleeping bag

If you're heading out on an overnight course or extended trip, make sure your sleeping bag is well-prepared for harsh climates and inclement weather.

2. Fleece jacket.

No matter how hot the temperatures are during the day, the nighttime climate can drop dramatically and leave you shivering yourself to sleep without the right gear. Pick up a lightweight fleece blanket, gloves or jacket to keep you warm and toasty.

3. Cooking pot.

This will probably be the heaviest piece of equipment in your stash of supplies, so look for something lightweight, efficient and convenient. You'll also need some utensils, a lighter and a water filter so you can cook up a nourishing meal after a hard day of hiking.

4. Hiking boots.

All-purpose hiking boots are your best bet for a backpacking trip, especially if you're trekking across different types of terrain. Avoid investing in a super-heavy pair loaded with extra 'features' you don't really need. Lightweight, waterproof and comfortable ankle boots are the ideal match for a backpacking adventure.

5. Swimming shorts or a swimsuit.

When you're taking a break from backpacking and hiking, don't forget to take a dip in the lake or swim around the waterfall pool! Tuck a swimsuit into your backpack for some rest and relaxation during your adventure.

6. Poncho.

You never know when that downpour is going to hit, so pack a poncho to keep you dry during a rainy spell. Ponchos are lightweight and easy to fold up and pack away in the small compartments of your backpack.