One of the most important things you'll learn when taking on that next outdoor challenge is the art of layering. Layering with lightweight jackets, tees, and hoodies helps you stay comfortable during inclement weather and gives you options if things start to heat up. Whether you're hitting the campsite in the tropical rainforest or gearing up for an ice fishing trip in the mountain tundra, layering up with an all-weather jacket can help you make the most of your outdoor adventure and stay cool, calm and comfortable no matter what nature throws at you.

The Columbia Waypoint II Shell fits the bill with its ultra-performance shell that keeps you warm and dry no matter what the forecast has in store. The jacket is designed with a waterproof shell and extra seams to keep water out. The sleeves have adjustable cuffs for extra protection, and the drawcord adjustable hem means you can look forward to a custom fit. You'll also find small zippers in the underarm area; these help you stay cool without having to take off the entire jacket and it works as a venting system that circulates extra air - any time you need it.

The jacket is made with a recycled polyester blend with Shangri-La ripstop and Omni-Tech fabrics. This gives you an extra layer of protection and keeps you dry even when you're sweating it out in the humid rainforest or jungle. The jacket sizes run large, so you'll have plenty of space to layer with fleece jackets underneath, a lightweight sweatshirt or even a button down flannel shirt or top. A stow-away hood keeps you looking sharp when you don't need to hide from the wind, and the simple, clean-cut design is a great addition to any outdoor wardrobe.

One of the most innovative features of the Columbia Waypoint II Shell is the interchangeable liner; you can switch out the liner with most 3-point Columbia Interchange System liners to use it in almost any type of environment. Plus, this versatile piece is easy to clean; just throw it in the washing machine for a cold rinse and tumble dry on low to freshen it up in a flash.

Whether you're heading off on a trekking adventure, kayaking through new territory or hitting the campgrounds for an overnight stay, you'll need the right gear to enjoy happy trails. Layering is every outdoor enthusiast's strategy for keeping cool winds and chills at bay, especially in areas where temperatures drop after sundown. Layering up with fleece jackets, moisture-wicking shirts and thermal pants is a surefire way to trap in much-needed body heat on cooler days, and when you do it right, you have the freedom to take off or put on just one or two garments so that your body temperature stays on the level.

Make this process easier with jackets like the Merrell Spring Iso. It's a super lightweight and slightly fitted polyester jacket designed with Merrell® Aeroblock™ technology, which blocks out harsh winds and chilly temperatures. It's your shield of resistance when you're hiking through the woods or setting your sights on an overnight trek across the Arizona dessert.

Not only does this jacket ward off ugly weather, but it also protects your skin when you're roughing it in the great outdoors. The jacket's designed with raglan shoulders that provide extra support for those heavy backpacks you're lugging around on your trail, so there's less pressure on your upper body throughout your trip. Two small zip pockets make it easy to ditch the fanny pack and store your basics safely and securely. And the seamless, flattering cut makes this a must-have cover up for any campsite party.

A few more layering tips for any avid outdoor enthusiast:

• Stick with the lightweight, zipper-free pieces whenever possible for easy layering and less bulk.
• Avoid wearing too much fleece; fleece can warm up very, very quickly when you're on the run so you could end up overheating and get tired early in your trip.
• Wear a lightweight t-shirt made with moisture-wicking microfibers under shirts and jackets for extra comfort.
• Drink more water than usual; your body needs to be well hydrated in order to conserve energy on its own, so drink as much as you comfortably can throughout the trip.
• Keep hands and feet warm overnight with hand warmers and a pair of quality socks.

A big part of the enjoyment that comes with exploring the great outdoors is doing it your own way, not the way that everyone else thinks you should. This fierce sense of outdoor independence dominates "The Straight Story," a big screen adventure that also focuses on some of the most gorgeous areas of the United States.

The late, great actor Richard Farnsworth stars as Alvin Straight, the real life Iowa farmer who rode a lawn mower nearly 300 miles to visit his ailing brother in Wisconsin. Not a person who liked to take charity from anyone, Straight spent a good portion of the summer of 1994 traveling the back roads at a blazing 5 miles per hour. At night, the proud and stubborn Straight would cook and camp out under the stars, paying for supplies out of his own pocket. When a kindly husband and wife offered Alvin the use of their telephone, he left cash by the phone to pay for the call. Most people would have given up along the way and accepted a ride or a bus ticket, but the stubborn Straight kept on going like a true outdoorsman.

Director David Lynch, known for such edgy material as "Blue Velvet," makes "The Straight Story" a virtual love letter to the great outdoors. As he shows Alvin Straight's long journey from Iowa to Wisconsin, Lynch captures some unspoiled wilderness on film.

Part biography and part documentary, "The Straight Story" is a film that will entice viewers to explore the great outdoors, but make sure to gas up your car and not the riding mower before hitting the road.

The Adirondack Wilderness area of New York draws thousands of people each year for agri-tourism, fishing, hunting and - you guessed it! - mountain climbing. There are several mountains in this area, each of which poses unique challenges.

The highpoint of New York is a rugged and heavily forested peak called Mount Marcy, and although it doesn't rival the height of mountains in the west, it is still a main attraction. Mount Marcy is an excellent climb for beginner and advanced climbers alike. There are several routes to the peak, ranging from easy to technically difficult, so amateurs can try different routes in a progression until they get comfortable.

Unlike many of the other state highpoints in the U.S., Mount Marcy is extremely dense, with only the top few hundred feet relatively clear of trees. This makes for a beautiful and somewhat sheltered climb, allowing you to focus on your hands and feet rather than the surrounding vistas. The peak of Mount Marcy, by contrast, is very sandy with scattered rocky outcroppings, which means that footing can be shaky. If you're going to climb this mountain, make sure to wear a pair of boots with adequate ankle support.

Also popular on Mount Marcy is skiing and snowboarding, both of which are available from October through mid-March. If you'll be visiting New York during the winter, it might be safer to try snowboarding and leave your climbing activities for warmer months. All of Mount Marcy routes can be completed in a single day, so you don't have to worry about camping if you're going to make this climb. However, it is important to grab a map on your way out so you know where to find the trailhead; climbers have gotten lost on the mountain, and the forest makes it more difficult to get your bearings.

You'll also want to be careful of wildlife on Mount Marcy. Poisonous plants, black bears, coyotes and wolves are found in this area, and you might not hear them coming if they approach under the cover of trees.

Whether you're heading out on a walking trail or running errands across the city this spring, do it in style with a chic and versatile trench coat. The classic trench coat continues to be one of spring's ultimate must-have accessories, a necessary transition piece between chilly winter days and the warm months ahead. The season's most coveted coats are designed in bright and bold colors and simple, classic styles that flatter your figure and give you just enough coverage to ward off chilly winds and the occasional rain shower. Easy to pack, clean and maintain, the trench works with cropped pants, jeans, skirts and even dresses.

The Patagonia Women's Negril Trench Coat is a stylish and sassy addition to your spring and summer wardrobe, the best way to enjoy cooler days and nights without bulking up with sweaters and extra layers. The double-breasted trench coat is designed with a slimming, fitted cut with stretch cotton for extra support and feminine shaping. Trench coats are a versatile jacket for almost any body shape, and even the loose and comfortable fitting can turn any basic outdoor ensemble into something a little more sharp and stylish.

Both the front and the back of the Patagonia Trench are designed with contoured seaming for the perfect fit; use the wide belt to emphasize your waistline and create an even more flattering effect. This coat also features hip pockets on the princess seams, printed binding and trim on the inside, and the coat falls right above the knee for maximum coverage. Plus, the high-quality materials allow you to machine wash and dry at home - no extra trips to the dry cleaners necessary. The wrinkle-free materials will make this coat a low-maintenance addition to your spring closet.

Get this one for casual weekend days, running errands after office hours or even as a versatile coverall for leisurely walks and hikes in the backcountry. The Patagonia trench coat is available in "Afterglow," an eye-catching burnt orange that looks great with jeans, black pants and other basics, and "Sesame," a light khaki color that works especially well with skirts, summer dresses and capris.

Love the outdoors but hate coming home with cuts and scrapes? Protect your skin with the right lightweight clothing to enjoy the experience without wearing unnecessary layers. The Patagonia Men's Dispatch Pants are a pair of easily packable, low-maintenance pants that you can wear for a short walk, a long trek or just to relax in after a busy day.

When warm temperatures and bright sunny days are in the forecast, you're probably setting your sights on a trekking adventure in the forest or backcountry. It's tempting to throw on a pair of shorts for the day, but many savvy hikers know that cutoffs and shorts aren't going to protect those legs on the trails.

The best strategy is to wear loose and comfortable clothing; this is important for hikers, trekkers, camping enthusiasts and even city folk who want to get out and explore for the day. Lightweight pants that wick away moisture and protect your skin can keep you cool and comfortable in almost any climate. These types of pants also reduce the chances of getting bug bites, suffering from excessive sun burn or dealing with extreme allergies from plants and flowers. Pairing these pants up with a lightweight shirt or tee that can be layered with a hoodie or puffy jacket is the best choice for longer hikes, treks and camping trips.

The Patagonia Dispatch Pants are made with a quick-dry, nylon and polyester fabric blend, which means they're an ultra-breathable pair for even the most hectic day. Plus, you can layer these under a pair of heavy-duty fleece pants or other outdoor gear when temperatures drop. Roll them up and tuck them into your backpack, suitcase or gym duffel or even stow a pair away in the trunk of your car for any last-minute trips or getaways.

The Patagonia Men's Dispatch Pants are available in espresso or black. Match them up with almost any basic piece from your outdoor wardrobe and head out on your adventure in comfort and style. When you want to pack minimally and head out on a fuss-free adventure, a pair of lightweight and versatile pants is a necessity.

If you're determined to win the annual bike race or you're heading out on a hiking adventure, staying hydrated is a top priority. As the weather warms up and you find yourself spending more time in the hot sun, making sure you have enough water on hand ensures you'll survive the adventure like a pro. The Camelbak Chaos pack is an excellent choice for any avid rider or hiking enthusiast. The low-profile bag holds enough water for almost two hours of riding, so you won't have to make any pit stops on your trek.

The main compartment is large enough to hold all your gear for the trip, and the side compression straps make it easy to add on a few extra items if needed. You'll find plenty of pockets and straps to keep everything organized, and the adjustable waist belt makes it easy to just gear up and go at the last minute.

So what exactly do you need to pack when you're heading out on a biking marathon or trek in the great outdoors? The key to packing success is to keep it simple; you want your pack to weigh as little as possible so you're not carrying around extra weight for the ride. First, you'll need a fresh set of clothing. You never know when the weather will turn on you and a fresh set of clothing can help you finish your route in comfort. A simple pair of cycling shorts, lightweight t-shirt and insulated underwear (if the weather warrants it) are sufficient for a 1-3 hour trip. You'll already be wearing some cycling shoes, riding gloves and socks, but you may also need to pack an extra pair of socks if you get stuck in rainy conditions for a long period of time.

If you're not sure about the weather conditions for the day, it's a good idea to pack some goggles, a fleece vest or jacket and some waterproof over gloves. You may need some extra gloves to take care of any bike repairs or other unforeseen problems along the trail. Finally, don't forget to pack some emergency basics including a mini-first aid kit, a pocket knife, compass and a map. You can tuck all of these essentials into the waterproof compartments of your pack for safekeeping.

There's something inherently honest about a mountain climb, where everything comes down to a battle between your skills and the elements. On the most dangerous peaks, a climber may come home with a great story or they may not come home at all.

That same brutal honesty applies to Granite Mountain, which is the highest point in the state of Montana. A part of the Beartooth Range in the Rockies, this climbing destination contains an area that's named, appropriately enough, Froze-to-Death Plateau.

Rising approximately 12,799 feet into the air, Granite Mountain literally scrapes the ceiling of Montana and is one the most beautiful, yet potentially deadly climbs in America. Some climbing enthusiasts have made the 20-plus-mile roundtrip to the top in a day, but most climbers favor a two-day summit and campout overnight.

Living up to its name, Froze-to-Death Plateau is kind of like the infamous Bermuda Triangle in some ways. Montana's Forestry Service warns climbers that late afternoon storms are pretty common in this area of Granite Mountain, and there's always a chance of snow 12 months out of the year.

The biggest problem with Froze-to-Death Plateau is getting your bearings. The natural rock formations can be deceptive, so make sure you pack a compass and a couple of copies of the United States Geological Survey's Quadrangle Map of Granite Peak. To make sure you actually don't freeze to death, invest in a handheld GPS system like the Oregon 200 by Garmin (it can be a lifesaver when visibility is poor).

Suffice it to say, Granite Mountain is a climb that's suitable only for those who are at the top of their game, both physically and mentally. The Montana Forestry Service requires all climbers to check in at the Beartooth Ranger Station, but they also make no guarantees about evacuating climbers in bad weather.

With the very real chance of hypothermia on Froze-to-Death Plateau, Granite Mountain is one peak that you should never take for granted.

Sources:
http://www.jhmg.com/climbs/beartooth/index.php
http://www.summitpost.org/mountain/rock/150239/granite-peak.html
http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/custer/recreation/granitepeak.shtml

Whether you're hitting the hiking trails for a cross-country adventure or trekking off to the lakes for an ice fishing adventure, layering up with fleece and wind-resistant fabrics is an absolute must. While a down coat or parka will help you stay warm throughout the day, it's the layers that will trap in your body heat to the max and keep your muscles and joints in great shape during frigid temperatures.

Layering Basics
Camping gurus already know the golden rules of layering; much of this process is common sense, but you'll need to be selective about what types of clothing you're packing on for the day. To stay warm in wintry climates, you'll need to stick with clothing that's lightweight and sticks close to your skin. This means steering clear of too much bulk and avoiding clothes with too many zippers and accessories; too much hardware makes it harder to layer different types of clothing and also makes it harder for you to move around.

For the inner layers, you'll need to stick with thermal underwear and moisture-wicking fabrics that won't absorb any sweat on your skin. This clothing needs to be made of lightweight materials and fabric, which are not only comfortable but also easy to wash.

The mid-layer is one of the most important. This is your insulation layer, the layer that includes pants, vests, fleece jackets and sweaters. This North Face Apex Bionic Jacket is an excellent choice for the mid-layer; it fits snugly and comfortably over basic tanks and tees, and it's made with Weatherblock fabric which stops that bone-chilling wind dead in its tracks. Plus, it's easy to wash and maintain; you can count on this for your mid-layer under a parka or down coat, or just wear it as a light jacket during warmer temperatures.

The outer layer is your final insulating layer and needs to be adjustable so that you can take it on and off with ease. Look for areas with extra ventilation and lightweight materials so you're not weighed down. This is the only layer where you need to pay attention to extra pockets, flaps and other accessories.

Spring Break season means more sun and surf time will be filling up the calendar, so you'll need to pack comfy and versatile gear to make the most of your adventures in the great outdoors.

A pair of cushioned sandals is a great way to kick off the season in style! The Columbia PFG Marlin sandals are a super-lightweight pair made with waterproof lining, a contoured foot bed and a non-slip grip and tread for extra comfort. You can say goodbye to sore and distressed feet after your day of trekking across beach territory for your perfect spot under the sun.

The best thing about these sandals is the extra padding. Whether you're hitting the boardwalk on Venice Beach or been sunning on the sand in the Bahamas, you can protect those toes from the scorching sands and pebbles along the waterfront with the contoured foam base. They're slightly flexible too, which means you can jump into that next beach volleyball or other waterfront game without putting stress on your feet by going barefoot. The contoured base fits even wide feet, so you'll get plenty of arch support; the deep tread pattern prevents slipping and sliding on watery surfaces, giving you plenty of traction indoors and out.

If you're a fan of hiking along the oceanfront cliffs or exploring the rainforest on an eco-adventure, these are the sandals to take on the trails. You can slip in and out of them at a moment's notice when you're ready to dip into the lake or stream, and they're super-easy to rinse off if you get stuck in muddy waters. For cleaning, a quick rinse or scrub in soapy water followed by an air drying session is all it takes to keep these sandals in tip-top shape.

And don't forget to protect those toes even further with plenty of sunscreen and moisturizer. Your feet need as much attention as the skin on your face and body when you're out in the sun; these thong sandals won't cover up much when you're spending hours outdoors, so load up on SPF 30 or higher moisturizer to prevent chapping, flaking and sunburn!

One of the most important things to learn if you're going to be trekking in the wilderness is how to create a shelter for yourself. Most survivalists don't carry tents with them on journeys because they are too heavy and sort of defeat the purpose of surviving without any creature comforts.

And as you learned in grade school science, shelter is one of the key human needs for survival.

A survivor knows that he or she can create a shelter with numerous materials, depending on the environment. You would use different things to construct a shelter if you were trekking through the rain forest than if you found yourself in the mountains. While shelter is more important during the winter months, you'll need some type of covering even in milder climes.

First, the goal is not to create the biggest shelter you can construct. If it's cold outside, you're going to want a shelter that is large enough to fit your entire body comfortably, but small enough to restrict the escape of body heat. The shelter should also serve as a morale booster; when you are protected from the elements, you will naturally feel safer in your environment.

In some cases, you might be able to find a natural shelter already created for you. Caves, for example, are an excellent form of shelter because they provide protection on all sides and often have a small mouth that will keep you safe from larger predators.

However, survivors know that there are times when you have to build your own shelter out of materials you collect in the wilderness.

An axe is a handy, lightweight tool to have with you during a survival excursion. You can use it to cut small branches from trees and construct a lean-to using the side of a boulder, tree or other natural formation.

You should also bring with you rope and a light source to make your job easier.

Surviving isn't difficult when you know how to use your surroundings to create a shelter but make sure you explore different methods depending on where you are traveling.

This mountain goes by many names but is one of the most difficult climbs in the world, and certainly one of the most treacherous in the western hemisphere. Officially, they call it Cerro Chalten, but it is more commonly known as Mount Fitz Roy. It soars to a formidable 6,401 feet, made almost entirely of granite, and Mount Fitz Roy was once a very active volcano.

The most treacherous aspect of Mount Fitz Roy is its sheer granite face, which presents significant problems for inexperienced climbers and experts alike. Finding the appropriate route to the summit can be difficult, particularly when ascending the east side. Although rock fall isn't as common on Mount Fitz Roy as other peaks in the Los Glaciares park, many people have been severely injured from falls without the right safety equipment.

Mount Fitz Roy is located directly on the Argentina-Chile border in Patagonia. The area was largely undeveloped until recent years, presenting difficulties actually getting to the base of the mountain - never mind climbing it. Now, however, several hundred people visit Mount Fitz Roy every year to climb it, and the trail heads are far more defined.

The weather is also a problem when trying to climb Mount Fitz Roy. Its official name translates as "smoking mountain," because the peak is constantly surrounded by a dense layer of clouds. Fog roils throughout the area, obscuring vision and making the climb even more difficult, and this area also sees a fair amount of rain each year.

If you're going to climb Mount Fitz Roy, make sure you pay careful attention to the weather forecast, as climbing in the rain is never a pleasant experience. You should also make sure to bring a pair of goggles with you just in case and plenty of ropes for each climber.

If you prefer not to climb Mount Fitz Roy, you can take the easier route and trek around the base of the mountain. A pair of quality hiking boots, such as the Cliff Walkers from Propet, is all you'll need for this type of hiking.

Yellowstone National Park continues to attract millions of avid hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts each year. If you're one of the many hiker paying respects Old Faithful this season, make sure you're well-prepared for the adventure.

Here are a few essentials for making it through your Yellowstone trail like a pro:

Layer it up
Wearing layers is essential when hiking or camping in Yellowstone's temperate climate. Many areas of the park experience rain showers and chilly winds, especially during the autumn and winter seasons. Make sure you're well prepared for inclement weather with wool socks, moisture-wicking pants and shirts, an insulated vest, a wool beanie and a lightweight puffy jacket for any evening excursions on the itinerary.

Don't get Stuck in the mud
The trails are usually very wet and muddy at the beginning of the year; make sure you're wearing comfortable hiking boots that provide plenty of ankle support and will prevent your toes from getting wet. You may need trekking poles to make it across some of the bogs and marshes on the more challenging trails, so map out your route and factor in weather conditions well beforehand.

Pack up that First Aid Kit
Whether you're putting together your own or picking up a pre-made kit, make sure you're well prepared to manage insect bites, cuts, bruises and small wounds. While you won't have many rocky boulders to conquer on the beginner's trails in Yellowstone, you might find yourself forging through forests, thermal springs and canyons. Wrap up those wounds and treat insect bites in a flash with basic supplies stocked in your first aid kit.

Cook Smart to Avoid Bear Attacks
When you're setting up camp in Bear Country, make sure you're doing everything you can to avoid a bear attack. Many hikers and campers encounter bears in Yellowstone because they're not prepared; leaving food unattended at the campsite or cooking and storing food in open areas will leave a scented trail that attracts bears day and night. Use an efficient cooking and food heating system for your meals to make that food prep and cleanup is a cinch.

When you're hitting the backcountry for an overnight stay, eating like a king (or queen) is possible with the right equipment. Whether camping in the rainforest or undertaking a multi-day hike in desert country, you can cook up a storm when there's no inn or tavern in sight.

Benefits of the MSR Blacklite Cookset
When traveling in a group, the MSR Blacklite Guide Cookset will be every weary traveler's essential. The set features 3-liter and 4-liter aluminum pots with fitted lids, a pot-lifter and pack towel, so you can heat up that tomato soup, baked beans and other canned staples within seconds.

If you want to cook up a one-pot meal, use these sturdy pots with their non-stick and scorch-free coating; the rounded corners will heat everything up in a flash, and the snug lids will keep that stew bubbling with steady heat.

The MSR brand is one of the most trusted and well respected gear and equipment providers on the market; you can rest assured that these pots will last for years of adventures to come.

Outdoor Cooking Tips
A few more tips for cooking on the run:

Pack Ingredients in Separate Zip Lock Baggies
Just pre-measure everything and store it in Zip Lock bags for easy cooking at the campsite.

Cover Pots at all Times
This keeps the bugs out and heats up the pans faster.

Store Food above Ground Level
Hang or stack food away from the ground to prevent insects and small animals from joining the dinner table.

Use Cans of Frozen Juice as Coolers
Frozen juice cans work just as well as ice to keep food and beverages chilled on the road.

Use a Charcoal Chimney
This will heat up the coals much faster and help you get an even temperature. Using coals also helps prevent burnt or overcooked food.

Wear Gloves
Suede work gloves can do double duty as oven mitts for handling hot pots and pans.

Degrease with Dish Soap
A few drops of dish soap and hot water are all it takes to get rid of burnt food at the bottom of the pan.

I know that many survivalists prefer to head out into the wilderness with nothing more high tech than a digital watch. However, even the most talented and intelligent survivalists sometimes run astray of their path, and a GPS system can avoid catastrophe in such situations.

In other words, GPS might save your life if you throw one into your pack along with your map, compass, knife, food stuffs and other gear. In fact, some survivalists won't leave home without this handy device.

The great thing about GPS for survivalists is that you can use it only when you absolutely have to. If you never encounter a situation where your survival depends on knowing where the heck you are, leave the gadget in your pack and pretend you don't even have it.

When you're buying a GPS device, however, there are a few things survivalists should keep in mind. Simply picking the first one off the shelf is a mistake, particularly if you will only be using your GPS device for outdoor wilderness training.

First, your GPS system should be small and easy to carry. When you're trekking through the wilderness, the last thing you want is more weight, and a smaller device will be more accessible in an emergency.

You'll also want a GPS system that is waterproof. Not only might you find yourself accidentally falling into a lake or stream, but rain and other forms of precipitation will ruin a non-water-proof gadget.

Depending on where you go for survivalist excursions, hiking, trekking and other activities, you might want to choose a GPS device that allows you to store points or locations along your route. This will help you stay on track throughout your journey, especially if it is taking you through unknown territory.

And finally, don't replace your compass and map with a GPS device. Yes, GPS can make survival easier, but there are some places where it won't be helpful. Ravines, trenches, ridges and hollows are a few locations where GPS doesn't always work, so make sure you have backup equipment.