International Geocaching Day is coming soon, so it’s time to hunt for treasure outside. This outdoor activity has become famous worldwide as people have fun searching for small containers and trinkets. Before you head out, you need the proper tools for geocaching. Here are the top 12 geocaching essentials for your next adventure.

1. Garmin eTrex 22x

Modern smartphones have excellent built-in GPS systems, but cell service may be unreliable in the woods. In these situations, you need the Garmin eTrex 22x to keep you on the right track. This gadget lasts up to 25 hours in GPS mode and has preloaded maps for the trail. With a GPS, you can accurately locate geocaches and stay out of outdoor trouble. 

Get it from Garmin

2. Leib Games Metal Pirate Coins

Finding a geocache container is exciting — you never know what trinkets are inside before you open it. When you take the reward, it’s customary to leave something behind. Make the prize memorable for the next person with pirate coins from Leib Games. These novelty tokens look like gold pieces you’d find in a pirate’s treasure chest. 

Get it from Amazon

3. Victorinox Deluxe Tinker

While some containers are easy to open, others may require more effort. If you’re having a tough time, you need a multitool to get the job done. The Victorinox Deluxe Tinker is among the geocaching essentials because it contains pliers, tweezers and scissors. This pocket knife is also handy in the woods, as you may need to cut twigs and branches. 

Get it from Victorinox

4. General Tools Telescoping Glass Inspection Mirror

An inspection mirror is one of the geocaching tools you shouldn’t leave behind. The hidden treasure could be in hard-to-see places, so this gadget lets you examine with less risk. General Tools’ Telescoping Glass Inspection Mirror increases visibility with its two LED bulbs and extra-long arm. It’s also handy for assessing possible dangers surrounding your cache. 

Get it from General Tools

5. Ironclad General Utility Work Gloves

When outdoors, you should avoid working with your bare hands. The last thing you want is to pull bandages from your first-aid kit and waste daylight. Make the day easier by getting solid work gloves. This Ironclad pair combines comfort and durability to last outdoors. The terry cloth is handy for sweating when temperatures are high on International Geocaching Day. 

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6. Geocaching Travel Bug

While finding treasure is fun, hiding items for others is just as rewarding. If you bury an item, you need a geocaching travel bug as one of your essentials. Each tag has durable metal and a tracking number to follow as it changes hands. Your container could end up anywhere! Geocaching gives you two travel bugs — one for the buried item and one for your tracking. 

Get it from Geocaching

7. Uniball Jetstream RT Ballpoint Pen

Locating the cache involves finding a logbook inside the container. These logbooks record signatures from anyone who locates the cache, so putting your name in this tiny history book is essential. Make your signature count with the Uniball Jetstream RT Ballpoint Pen. This tool resists smudging and makes writing easier with its quick-drying feature. 

Get it from Unibrands

8. Geocaching Journal

The Geocaching Journal is the official notebook from the founders. Take it with you on your next experience! This journal provides writing prompts and lets you get the most out of each trip. Plus, Geocaching maximizes sustainability with soy-based ink, recycled paper and a hardcover design. Make eco-friendliness one of the essentials for your next geocaching adventure. 

Get it from Geocaching

9. X-DRAGON Monocrystalline Portable Solar Panel

Geocaching could take you inside a city or deep in the woods, so preparing for either scenario is wise. Long journeys in rural areas mean you might not have electricity access. How can you charge your electronics? You need a portable charger. X-DRAGON’s monocrystalline gadget has multiple USB ports and quickly charges phones and other electronic geocaching tools. 

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10. Ledlenser P7R Flashlight

Geocaching after daylight saving time ends can be more challenging when the sun goes down. A daytime treasure hunt turns into a nighttime hike, necessitating visibility tools on your geocaching adventure. You need the Ledlesner P7R Flashlight for maximum lighting in the woods. This handheld tool has 1,000 lumens and shines up to 700 feet away from you. 

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11. Cotopaxi Cielo Rain Jacket

Precipitation on International Geocaching Day can rain on your parade. However, the Cotopaxi Cilo Rain Jacket can save the day by shielding you from the weather. This jacket is one of the geocaching essentials if the weather is unpredictable in your area. Midwesterners know all about going from sunny skies to torrential tornadoes within an hour. 

Get it from REI

12. YETI Yonder 1L Water Bottle

Geocaching can take a long time, so nourishing your body outdoors is vital. Start with hydration and bring plenty of water on your outdoor adventure. After all, experts say guys need 15.5 cups of daily fluids for adequate hydration. Yeti’s Yonder water container makes hydration easier by giving you 34oz of liquid and resisting shatters. 

Get it from Amazon

Gathering the Tools for International Geocaching Day

Geocaching lets you explore nature and practice your navigation skills by finding treasure. The third Saturday of August commemorates this outdoor tradition, so you’ll see plenty of friends and family outside looking for containers. Before you head out, grab the geocaching essentials for a fun day of exploration.

The post Equip: Top 12 Essential Geocaching Tools for International Geocaching Day appeared first on Modded.

Are gorillas endangered? Unfortunately, the future of these majestic primates is clouded by the possibility of extinction. Habitat loss, climate change, and disease have dramatically impacted their population, raising concerns about their well-being and sustainability. The survival of gorillas hangs in the balance. Let’s look at why this is the case and what we can do to help.

How Closely Are Gorillas Related to Us?

Gorillas share around 98% of their DNA with humans, alongside chimpanzees and bonobos. Imagine that! Just a tiny fraction of genetic difference separates people from these incredible beings. This close genetic connection is evident in their physical characteristics — opposable thumbs, analogous outer ear structures and even similar gestation periods. 

Gorillas also share behavioral traits with humans. They live in tight-knit family groups, communicate with various sounds and gestures and even display emotions similar to ours. When you observe a gorilla mother tenderly cradling her baby, it’s hard not to draw parallels to human parents. 

Gorillas have complex social structures, with clear hierarchies and deep bonds formed over years. They also exhibit behaviors that suggest a sense of humor, empathy and mourning for lost ones. These distinct similarities make their plight all the more poignant. 

Why Are Gorillas Endangered?

The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species has assigned the “Critically Endangered” tag to the world’s gorillas — two steps away from complete extinction. Only around 2,600 mature Eastern gorilla species remain. 

The biggest threats to their survival include: 

Habitat Destruction

One of the primary threats to gorillas is habitat loss. Imagine waking up one day to find your home being torn down. 

This is a daily reality for gorillas as forests are cleared for agriculture, mining and infrastructure development. For example, recent oil exploration in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Virunga National Park exposed nearly one-third of the world’s mountain gorilla population to environmental hazards. 

Deforestation also reduces the living space available for these creatures and fragments their habitat, making it difficult for different groups to interact and breed.

Climate Change

The temperature in their natural environment highly restricts gorillas. As mountainous animals, climate change is a huge problem, as they have nowhere colder and higher to escape from the increasingly warmer conditions lower down. 

Extreme changes in rainfall patterns can affect the availability of food and water, forcing gorillas to venture into human-inhabited areas in search of resources. This increases the likelihood of conflict, which further threatens their existence. 

Diseases 

It turns out gorillas sharing a huge chunk of human DNA means they’re exposed to diseases that affect people. For example, a simple cold can spread quickly and devastate the gorilla population. 

Ebola virus outbreaks have wiped out a great number of primates in past decades owing to the lack of vaccinations and prompt treatment responses. Additionally, tracking gorillas in the wild can be difficult, by which time infections may have spread even more. 

Civil Wars and Regional Instabilities

Rwanda, Uganda and the DRC are home to the world’s largest endangered gorilla populations. Civil unrest in these countries and neighboring regions affects these animals’ living environments and can even put them in the direct line of conflict.

Displaced communities have to move into forests to seek refuge, causing wildlife to retreat deeper into the woods to avoid human contact. In some instances, these animals may be hunted for bushmeat consumption, which can push species to the brink of extinction. The loss of even a few individuals can have disastrous effects on their populations, given their slow reproductive rates.

Gorillas Are Vital to Ecological Sustainability 

Gorillas live in tropical rainforests and mountainous regions, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. As the animals at the top of the food chain in these environments, a decline in their population affects the ecosystem and could negatively impact other wildlife in the area. Without these massive herbivores chowing down lots of vegetation, the natural biodiversity order would be disrupted. 

Protecting gorilla populations is also vital to natural reforestation. As they forage, these creatures create small clearings in the foliage, dispersing seeds and allowing a wider array of plant species to find sunlight.

Conservation Efforts and Success Stories

Despite the dire situation, there is hope. Dedicated conservation efforts have made significant strides in recent years.

Protected Areas and National Parks

Establishing protected areas and national parks has been crucial. Tireless efforts by environmentalists and international partners have led to several areas being carved out and designated for wildlife conservation. 

In May 2024, the African Wildlife Foundation officially handed over 27 hectares of reclaimed land to expand the habitats and increase food availability for gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The implementation of stringent anti-poaching measures has also helped stabilize gorilla populations. 

Research and Monitoring

Continuous research and monitoring are vital for effective conservation. By tracking gorilla populations, studying their behavior, and understanding their needs, experts can develop targeted protection strategies. For example, extreme measures by Virunga Park rangers, including over 2,200 annual patrols, have led to a 4.7% species growth rate per year.  

These monitoring efforts, alongside other conservation programs, have also been vital in preserving ecosystems and biodiversity in the face of cross-border conflict and instability. 

Ecotourism 

Ecotourism has emerged as a powerful tool for wildlife conservation. Tourists worldwide pay substantial fees to see gorillas in their natural habitat. This revenue funds conservation programs and provides economic incentives for local communities to protect gorillas instead of hunting them. Countries like Rwanda and Uganda have seen positive results from well-managed ecotourism programs.

What Can You Do?

You can contribute to the protection and sustainability of gorilla populations in several ways. 

• Support conservation organizations: Numerous institutions are dedicated to saving gorillas. Your support can fund anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration and community education programs.
• Promote sustainable practices: Reduce your consumption of products linked to deforestation, such as palm oil, minerals and other natural resources. 
• Raise awareness: The more people know about gorillas’ challenges, the greater the collective effort to protect them. Share information on social media, organize awareness events or give talks at community centers. For instance, did you know that September 24 is World Gorilla Day? 
• Practice and promote responsible tourism: If you’re planning a safari to see gorillas, choose responsible tour operators who follow strict guidelines to minimize impact on the animals and their habitats. Your visit can contribute to conservation efforts and local economies when done ethically.

Protect Endangered Gorillas 

Gorillas are our closest living relatives and are crucial in maintaining the world’s biodiversity. Their endangered status is a sobering reminder of humans’ impact on the planet. However, our concerted efforts can turn the tide and not a moment too soon. After all, saving gorillas is not just about preserving a species — it’s about safeguarding our shared heritage and the intricate web of life on Earth.

The post Are Gorillas Endangered? A Case For Humans’ Closest Relatives appeared first on Modded.

At 20,310 feet above sea level, Mount Denali in Alaska has the distinct honor of being the highest mountain in North America. Set against a backdrop of brilliant blue sky and towering glaciers, its imposing stature makes even the most experienced climbers skittish. For many, the toughness of the challenge makes the victory more satisfying. Having this mindset is key if you’re going to take on the snow-covered peaks of Denali.

The mountain has everything — treacherous terrain, extreme weather, fixed lines, steep altitudes — the whole roster. You want to make sure you’re well-prepared for your expedition. So here are the eight most essential prep tips to help you train adequately for your journey. 

1. Get Your Experience Up 

Hiking up the highest mountain in North America requires a ton of practical mountaineering experience. Thousands of people sign up yearly, with only a 53% success rate for the average individual. Glacier travel is no joke and you’ll need to acquire ample experience with ascending and descending glaciated peaks to prepare for this climb better. 

Improving your technical climbing skills is also imperative, especially regarding route finding and crevasse rescue procedures. You’ll find many professional courses covering essentials like fixed-line climbing and self-arrest techniques to work your way up Denali’s challenging topography. 

2. Pre-Acclimatize Before Your Trip

Denali is a super cold place. The mountain is located in the Denali National Park and Preserve, a massive expanse spanning 6.1 million acres with arctic-type conditions almost year round. This expedition environment can be unforgiving, especially to the uninitiated. You must build up your adaptability to winter camping and traversing at high altitudes. 

Professional guide services require climbers to have good acclimatization before they can embark on the expedition. While many online resources and prep programs exist, practical experience remains the best teacher. Go on numerous training climbs on more accessible snowy peaks, gradually building up to longer exposures at increasing altitudes. Generally, it takes 1-3 days for the body to acclimatize at a particular altitude. Your body has to re-acclimatize as you ascend. 

3. Get in Prime Mountaineering Shape 

Hamstrings, muscle cramps and altitude sickness will dampen your climb. You must be in peak physical and mental condition to America’s highest mountain. If you haven’t hiked in a while, you might want to start doing strength training, increasing the tempo as you progress. 

Even if you travel frequently, engage in physical activities to prepare your body for the trek. The National Park Service recommends training with a 40-70 lb backpack, which you’ll carry across uneven terrain for 6-8 hours. There’s also work to be done setting up camp and implementing safety measures, so improving your endurance is crucial. 

4. Learn How to Ride on Sleds 

Don’t just come to Denali for the climb. Familiarize yourself with the terrain and take some time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery all around you. Dog mushing is Alaska’s state sport and offers one of the best ways to explore the park. Authorized guide services may provide sledding services and safety lessons. There’s also an on-site kennel where you can meet the dogs and cuddle the puppies — another highlight to your unforgettable trip. 

You’ll use sleds to haul your gear up the mountain when the proper climb begins. However, these will be attached to your waist. Hiking up snowy trails while dragging a heavy pack is physically demanding and risky. You must know the basics of distributing weight evenly from front to back and having redundant attachments to provide immediate backup if one attachment point fails. 

5. Invest in High-Quality Gear 

Minor details such as your jacket zipper and equipment buckles can greatly impact your mountain climbing experience. High-quality gear is more durable under extreme conditions and can often be a lifesaver during your hike. 

Pack lots of layered clothing and double-insulated boots to keep warm at all times — the risks of hypothermia and frostbite increase the higher you climb. Remember to personally test every piece of equipment and redundancies before embarking on the climb. 

6. Take the Well-Beaten Path 

Denali’s least technical ascent route is fraught with complexity enough, so there’s hardly any need to overcomplicate things by selecting a more challenging path. Plus, more people sign up for the route with the most minor climbing difficulties, so reaching the minimum size for travel groups is quicker. According to the park records, over 90% of Mount Denali hikers climb through the West Buttress pass. 

7.  Know Your Limits

You know your body best. Don’t overexert to the point of endangering yourself or others. If you’re having problems, notify the hike leader right away. Many climbers experience headaches, blurry vision and fatigue during the journey. These tend to subside as they acclimate to the altitude and get some rest. However, worsening symptoms might indicate Acute Mountain Sickness, requiring you to return to lower elevations immediately.

Make sure you eat enough. Your nutrient reserves deplete faster during exertion, so you need lots of calorie-rich foods to keep your energy levels up. 

8. Enhance Team Dynamics and Communication 

The highest mountain in North America is a global monument, attracting adventurers and thrill seekers worldwide. Since 2022, 34% of climbers at Denali have come from outside the U.S., so expect a diverse climb team with varying individual cultural backgrounds and philosophies. However, once the climb commences, these differences take a secondary role. Summiting Denali demands teamwork, communication and a relaxed attitude. 

You’re climbing as a group and you need to trust each other and cultivate a supportive environment. Keep to agreed timelines and maintain a commitment to safety. Lastly, lend a helping hand as needed. It could be you who needs the extra assistance the next day. 

Conquer the Highest Mountain in the U.S.

Denali stands tall and majestic, overlooking the pristine Alaskan wilderness. The mountain poses the ultimate challenge, daring the bravest climbers to attempt its summit. Going on such a high-altitude hike is one of life’s most exhilarating experiences, so ensure you’re well-prepped for the journey. Let these tips be a starting point in your preparations for the achievement of a lifetime.

The post 8 Prep Tips for Hiking the Highest Mountain in North America appeared first on Modded.

Mountain biking involves cycling on rough, off-road terrains, often through challenging trails and natural landscapes. The sport offers a range of physical and mental benefits. It enhances cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, and improves overall endurance. Additionally, mountain biking provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, reducing stress and promoting a sense of adventure and freedom.

Before embarking on any mountain biking adventure, it is vital to prioritize proper preparation and safety measures. Failing to do so can lead to accidents and injuries. By taking the time to prepare adequately, riders can reduce risks and maximize their enjoyment on the trails. Safety includes wearing appropriate protective gear, ensuring the bike is in optimal condition, and understanding the trail’s difficulty level and terrain features.

This comprehensive guide is designed to assist beginners in their mountain biking journey. It covers essential aspects, from selecting the right equipment to mastering fundamental mountain biking techniques. The guide will also delve into climbing and descending skills, handling obstacles, and understanding trail etiquette. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of gradual progression, continued learning, and post-ride maintenance to foster a safe and rewarding mountain biking experience.

Choosing the Right Equipment

Selecting the Right Bike

When choosing a mountain bike, it is essential to consider various factors to ensure it suits your needs and riding style. There are different types of mountain bikes, such as hardtail and full-suspension bikes, each offering distinct advantages. Hardtail bikes have front suspension only, providing a lighter and more efficient option for smoother trails. On the other hand, full-suspension bikes come with both front and rear suspension, ideal for tackling rougher and more technical terrains, providing better control and comfort.

Considerations Based on Terrain and Riding Style

Understanding the terrain and the type of riding you intend to do will further influence your bike selection. For cross-country trails and long-distance rides, a lightweight hardtail bike might be the best choice, offering efficiency and agility. For downhill trails or aggressive riding, a full-suspension bike with more suspension travel will better handle rough descents and provide improved traction.

What to Wear Mountain Biking

Apart from the bike itself, having the right gear and accessories is crucial for a safe and enjoyable mountain biking experience.

1. Helmet and Protective Gear

Wearing a properly fitting helmet is non-negotiable for mountain biking safety. A good-quality helmet will protect your head in case of falls or accidents. Additionally, consider investing in other protective gear, such as knee and elbow pads, to safeguard vulnerable areas from potential injuries.

2. Proper Clothing and Footwear

Dress appropriately for mountain biking, opting for moisture-wicking and breathable clothing to stay comfortable during rides. Avoid loose clothing that may get caught in the bike’s moving parts. For footwear, opt for sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction that provide ankle support.

3. Tools and Emergency Supplies

Carry essential tools and emergency supplies to handle unexpected situations on the trail. A basic toolkit may include a multitool, tire levers, spare inner tube, and a portable tire pump. Additionally, bring along a first-aid kit, sufficient water, snacks, and a mobile phone for communication in case of emergencies.

By carefully selecting the right bike and ensuring you have the necessary gear and accessories, you can set the foundation for a safe and enjoyable mountain biking experience.

Pre-Ride Preparation

1. Inspect Tire Pressure and Condition

Before hitting the trail, check the tire pressure to ensure it matches the recommended range for your bike and riding style. Proper tire pressure optimizes traction and handling on different terrains. Also, inspect the tires for any cuts, punctures, or signs of wear that could lead to potential issues during the ride.

2. Evaluate the Brake System

Test both the front and rear brakes to ensure they engage smoothly and effectively. Check brake pads for wear and replace them if necessary. Properly functioning brakes are crucial for maintaining control and safety during descents and technical sections.

3. Adjust Suspension Settings (If Applicable)

For full-suspension bikes, adjust the front and rear suspension settings based on your weight, riding style, and the terrain you’ll encounter. Proper suspension settings optimize comfort and control, enhancing your ability to handle rough sections of the trail.

Safety Check for Personal Gear

1. Ensure the Helmet Fits Correctly

Confirm that your helmet fits snugly on your head, with the straps securely fastened. It should sit level on your forehead and not obstruct your vision. A properly fitting helmet is vital for protecting your head in the event of a fall or collision.

2. Adjust Protective Gear

If you’re wearing knee pads, elbow pads, or other protective gear, ensure they are correctly adjusted and securely fastened. Properly fitted protective gear reduces the risk of injury to vulnerable areas during crashes or unexpected impacts.

C. Understanding the Trail and Conditions

1. Research the Trail’s Difficulty Level

Familiarize yourself with the difficulty level of the trail you plan to ride. Trails are often graded as easy, intermediate, difficult or expert based on technical features and elevation changes. Choose a trail that matches your skill level to ensure an enjoyable and safe ride.

2. Check Weather and Terrain Conditions

Before heading out, check the weather forecast for the day to prepare for any potential changes in conditions. Also, consider recent rainfall, as wet or muddy trails can significantly affect traction and difficulty. Being aware of the terrain conditions allows you to adapt your riding technique accordingly.

Informing Others of Your Ride Plans

If heading out alone, let someone know about your ride plans prior to leaving. Share the trail you’ll be riding, your expected duration, and an approximate return time. This information can be critical in case of emergencies, ensuring someone can reach out for help if you do not return as expected.

By conducting a thorough pre-ride preparation that includes checking your bike, ensuring proper gear, understanding the trail and conditions, and informing others of your ride plans, you set the foundation for a safer and more enjoyable mountain biking experience.

Basic Mountain Biking Techniques

Maintain a Proper Stance for Control and Balance

Adopt an active and balanced stance on the bike. Keep your knees slightly bent and your body centered between the handlebars and saddle. This position lowers your center of gravity, enhancing stability and control over the bike.

Distribute Weight for Different Trail Situations

Adjust your weight distribution based on the trail’s terrain and obstacles. When climbing, shift your weight forward to maintain traction on the front wheel. Conversely, when descending, shift your weight backward to keep the front wheel grounded and prevent going over the handlebars.

Braking Techniques

Use Both Front and Rear Brakes Effectively

Utilize both the front and rear brakes for controlled and efficient braking. Apply gradual pressure to the brakes to avoid sudden skidding or loss of control. The front brake provides most of the stopping power, but using both brakes in harmony maximizes control during descents and tight turns.

Avoid Skidding and Maintain Control

Practice modulating the brake pressure to prevent skidding. Skidding reduces traction and control, increasing the risk of accidents. Instead, apply the brakes smoothly and release them momentarily if you feel the tires locking up, allowing them to regain traction.

Shifting Gears Efficiently

Understand Gear Ratios for Uphill and Downhill Riding

Familiarize yourself with your bike’s gear ratios to optimize pedaling efficiency on various terrains. Shift to lower gears when climbing steep ascents to make pedaling easier and maintain a consistent cadence. On downhill sections or flat terrain, shift to higher gears to build speed efficiently.

Make Smooth Gear Transitions to Prevent Chain Issues

Anticipate gear changes and shift proactively to prevent sudden, jarring shifts that could lead to chain drop or damage. Ease the pressure on the pedals while shifting, and avoid shifting under heavy load. Additionally, keep the chain well-lubricated and regularly check for any signs of wear or damage.

By mastering these fundamental mountain biking techniques, including body positioning, braking skills, and efficient gear shifting, you’ll enhance your control, confidence, and overall enjoyment on the trails. Practice these techniques regularly to improve your mountain biking skills and tackle more challenging terrain with ease.

Uphill Riding Techniques

Gear Selection for Climbing

Choose an appropriate gear ratio before tackling uphill sections. Shift to lower gears to make pedaling easier and more efficient on steep ascents. This allows you to maintain a steady cadence without straining your legs excessively. Anticipate changes in terrain and adjust gears accordingly to keep the momentum going.

Pacing and Conserving Energy

Pace yourself during climbs to conserve energy for the entire ride. Avoid pushing too hard at the beginning of the ascent, as this can lead to fatigue later on. Instead, maintain a steady pace and use your gears wisely to manage the effort required. When facing particularly challenging sections, consider using a zigzag pattern (switchbacks) to make the climb more manageable.

Downhill Riding Techniques

Maintaining a Stable Position

While descending, maintain a stable and balanced position on the bike. Keep your body centered and relaxed, with your knees and elbows slightly bent to absorb impacts. Hover your fingers over the brakes, ready to engage them when necessary, but avoid squeezing them too tightly, as it can lead to loss of control.

Controlling Speed and Handling Obstacles

Control your speed by feathering the brakes, applying intermittent pressure rather than sustained braking. This technique helps you maintain better traction and control while descending. Scan the trail ahead and anticipate obstacles such as rocks, roots, or drops. Shift your body weight accordingly to maneuver the bike smoothly over these obstacles and maintain your balance.

You’re Ready to Go!

By mastering these uphill and downhill mountain biking techniques, you can efficiently navigate varying terrains and confidently handle challenging sections. Uphill riding requires strategic gear selection and energy management, while downhill riding demands a stable position, controlled speed and quick obstacle-handling skills. With consistent practice, you’ll enhance your overall mountain biking abilities and fully enjoy the thrill of both climbing and descending.

Not quite ready to take on a mountain? Take a look at our list of urban cycling essentials to get a feel for your bike in a more local environment.

The post Mountain Biking: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Modded.

Hiking is an excellent way to get exercise and embrace Mother Nature around you. However, some people focus more on the fitness elements and less on the wilderness. How can you appreciate the scenery and be present while on the trail? Take a day to go soft hiking. This fitness trend combines physical activity and mindfulness while trekking the great outdoors. Here’s what you need to know about this trend. 

What Is Soft Hiking?

Soft hiking is a slow-paced and more mindful version of traditional walks in the woods. Your focus is more on nature around you instead of accomplishing a personal best time. Your soft hikes appreciate fish passing in a stream, deserted buildings, beautiful trees and the breeze blowing on your cheek. This version of hiking prioritizes the journey more than the destination.  

While people have practiced it for generations, soft hiking got its name during the pandemic. A pair of girls from the United Kingdom — Lucy Hird and Emily Thornton — started a TikTok account dedicated to this more relaxed version of outdoor adventures. The soft hiking keyword reached 10 billion views on the video-sharing app, demonstrating this fitness trend’s popularity worldwide. 

How Is It Different From Regular Hiking?

Soft and traditional hiking aren’t much different. However, there are some essential distinctions you’ll need to know if you plan an excursion with friends. Here are the differences you need to know:

• Taking it easy: Hiking isn’t usually something you can do on a lunch break. The softer version entails taking your time — even if it means you spend all day on a five-mile hike.  
• Stopping at amazing sites: Why do these hikes take so long? You have plenty of time to stop and smell the roses. You may walk by an old church or find an open field to throw a football. The trail could also provide scenery for a fantastic photoshoot. 
• Eating a long lunch: Some hikers don’t like to stop for lunch — if they do, it’s only for a quick bite. Soft hiking encourages long rests to refuel your body and relax your muscles. Carbs are your body’s primary energy source, so stock up on trail mix, fruits and easy-to-digest snacks. 

What Are the Benefits of Soft Hiking?

It’s no secret that hiking is good for the body. How does soft hiking help compared to regular outings? Here are a few positive implications to consider before your next outing. 

Being Outdoors

The primary benefit you get on these slower hikes is more outdoor time. Being in the wilderness lets you disconnect from your phone, social media and the hustle and bustle of daily life. While you can bring electronic devices, good luck finding a cell signal in the wilderness. Outdoor exercise means you get vitamin D, fresh air, mental clarity and more benefits. 

Easier Exercise

Exercise is great, but there’s a possibility you’ll overdo it while hiking. For example, you might not take enough breaks or overstrain your muscles due to the distance you travel. Exceeding your limits leads to shin splints, stress fractures and other unwanted injuries. 

Soft hiking addresses this issue by taking it easy and emphasizing relaxing exercise over a great workout. You’ll burn calories but don’t need to overwork yourself for a great outing.   

Reduced Anxiety

While the physical benefits are great, you’ll reap the mental health boost from softer hikes. Being outside naturally boosts your happiness due to the calming colors and the therapeutic environment. Seeing green entails being envious. However, seeing green on the trails is a positive due to the trees and plants surrounding you. 

Enjoying Yourself

Who says hiking has to be strenuous? If you would rather take a step back and relax in nature, that sounds like an excellent option. Hird and Thornton started the soft hiking trend because they didn’t fit with others’ approach to outdoor time. These companions had advanced fitness levels or didn’t want to stop to enjoy the scenery. The softer version of the trend emphasizes enjoyment over your physical fitness goals. 

Where Are the Best Places to Go Soft Hiking?

Does soft hiking change where you should travel? This version of outdoor exercise doesn’t necessarily change the distance you walk. However, it emphasizes the scenery and enjoying every moment. Here are a few examples of beautiful trails that are ideal for soft hiking adventures. 

Grand Teton National Park

While Yellowstone grabs attention in Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park holds its own with various terrains for hiking. The recreation area features forests, mountains, valleys, lakes and rivers. You can take a week-long trip to Grand Teton and not get bored! The park is one of America’s best due to its postcard-worthy scenery and easy trail options. Bask in Wyoming’s beauty while emphasizing mindfulness. 

Kalalau Trail

Are tropical locations more up your alley? Kalalau Trail in Hawaii is excellent for hiking along the Pacific Coast and embracing the incredible scenery. The course totals 11 miles and is inside Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, making it a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts in the Aloha State. You’ll start on Ke’e Beach and end your trek on Kalalau Beach after a few hours in the sun. 

Slow hiking and mindfulness are a more significant emphasis on the Kalalau Trail because of its dangers. The course can be slippery, which is an unwelcome sight when you’re walking on narrow trails. The streams are another concern when walking along the Kalalau Trail. 

Plitviče Lakes National Park

While America boasts natural beauty, you can find great soft hiking opportunities in other countries. For instance, check out Plitviče Lakes National Park in central Croatia. The Plitviče Lakes and the waterfalls look like an image in a video game or somebody’s screensaver. The location is terrific for a soft hike because you’ll sit in awe while embracing the park’s natural beauty.  

Getting Into Soft Hiking

If life is a race, there’s room for someone in second or third place. Rushing is fine if you’re up against a deadline at work or trying to catch a flight. However, time outdoors should be sacred and appreciated. Soft hiking makes it easier by embracing the world around you and making this exercise an experience — not a chore. Save your chores for the household and try a soft hike next time you go out. 

The post Soft Hiking: The New Way to Appreciate Nature appeared first on Modded.

So you’ve heard about the mystery geocaching, and what you’ve heard is enough to get you asking some questions. What is a geocache? How do you find one? What’s the best geocaching app to use? Lace-up, you’re about to learn how to geocache. 

What is Geocaching? 

Geocaching is what you would call a high-tech international treasure hunt. The aim of the game is to track and find geocaches, which are small hidden treasures placed in TC spots by other people. It’s been around since 2000, so there are endless caches and treasures to seek. 

To find the geocaches, you download a GPS-enabled app on your phone, then pick a geocache to find and download the coordinates for the hunt. You can also download a map from a website, but GPS on your phone will be more accessible, especially if you want to track your trip in real time. 

With geocaches in 196 countries worldwide on all seven continents and in space, you can geocache just about anywhere. From New York’s two-decade-old geocache to Germany’s Lego geocache giraffe, you can go to many exciting places with geocaching. 

What is a Geocache? 

A geocache can be virtual or physical. Virtual Caches work like Pokemon Go and someone sets up hidden treasures on a map and you follow the GPS with an app on your phone to find them. 

Physical geocaches come as waterproof containers with a logbook inside for you to sign and sometimes a treasure to trade. When you go on your first geocache hunt, you’ll want to carry tokens to put in caches for other cachers to find.  Along with the physical log book, you can also sign digital log books to prove your findings. 

So physical geocaches come in different forms:

• Regular Caches – These can be waterproof containers like Tupperware or ammunition boxes. 
• Micro Cache –  A small cache, usually the size of a film canister.
• Nano Cache –   This is an even smaller cache with the logbook rolled up inside. It’s so small you may need tweezers to pull out whatever’s inside so if you go hunting for one, be prepared!
• Camouflaged Cache – People usually use disguises to hide these caches like fake rocks.  
• Multi-caches – This involves two or more locations, to find the cache, you will have to follow the coordinates for clues
•  Mystery caches – A mystery cache requires you to complete a puzzle and gather information from coordinates to find the final location. 

Best Geocaching Apps for Beginners 

Find the best geocaching app to start your adventures.

1. GooseChase

Maybe you’re interested in the geocache chase, but downloading maps, finding coordinates, and packing tweezers for a nanocache sounds a little too much for you right now. Try GooseChase, an interactive digital treasure hunt that just needs you to have your phone on you. You can participate in a scavenger hunt made by someone else and find hidden digital treasures in your local park, playground or city center. It’s a great app to practice and gain skill before diving into the deep end. GooseChase is the overall best geocaching app for beginners or students.

2. AdventureLab

AdventureLab is also an excellent way to learn if you’re just getting started. It’s primarily virtual, but adventures take you to physical locations with puzzles, clues and questions to discover landmarks and everyday treasures in your vicinity. You can also design your own treasure hunt map with waypoints or cache signals that make up an interactive map of your local area. The scoring system on the app allows you to find friends and compare your geocache experience and treasure finds. 

3. Geocaching

This is a great geocaching app, especially for families with kids who want to try it out. It has a simple interface that’s easy to understand and even lets you use a secondary map app.  The free version has cool features like finding geocaches by location, type and tracking code. You can also log your finds or caches you struggled to find. The app lets you see how difficult it is to get to the geocache, the kind of terrain and a description to help you find it. You can even message the geocacher who placed it where it is. 

4. c:geo

If you’re looking for the best free geocaching app that is truly free, c:geo might be your best bet. c:geo is an Android app that gives you access to various geocaches. You can search for caches in several ways using coordinates, addresses, keywords, nearby caches to find and even a ‘go to’ option that lets you move from one cache coordinates to another. Choose the cache type you want through the filters. Pick traditional caches only or mystery caches and earthcaches, for example. 

You can download maps to use offline, access trail maps for off-road geocaching and it will still work as if you’re online. You can also use external maps and a compass and customize the app and set the app to low power mode if you’re taking a long trip and need the extra battery power. 

5. Cachly

Cachly is similar to the Geocaching app, it just requires a one-time payment to get all the features like offline maps and advanced search. It works with an Apple watch, which makes it great for adventurous geocaching where you might want to put your phone away. 

You can search for caches nearby when you find a cache with the app. It also lets you hide caches you found so you can focus on getting new ones without distractions. You can also highlight caches to stand out on the map or make your personal notes and handpick caches to make a private list. 

Tips for Geocaching Adventures

• Stay safe. If your GPS shows a cache inside a waterfall or past the cliff’s edge, remember your smartphone’s GPS sometimes gets it wrong.  When using your geocaching app, think of safe ways to get to the cache. It could be around the waterfall by a tree or at the bottom of the cliff. 
• Be discreet – For the sake of other geocachers, try to draw little attention to the cache and hide it when you’re done. 
• If you find a treasure in the cache, leave one too! You can leave a golf ball, a badge, a small pack of cards or a toy or anything that both kids and adults would enjoy. 
• If you can message the person who put the cache there, remember to say TFTC– Which stands for ‘Thanks for the Cache’. 
• Look for events or geocaching pop-ups like Secret Santa geocaching on Reddit.  

A World of Adventure Awaits 

Get your running shoes on and visit your local national park today for some geocaching fun. While it may not be the Lego geocache giraffe in Germany, there are thousands of exciting places to see and treasures to find. 

Originally posted 11/23/23 – Updated 4/29/24

The post What are the Best Geocaching Apps for Beginners? appeared first on Modded.

You have seen many ocean shows on the Discovery Channel, and at the end of every episode, you ponder the seemingly endless number of creatures that live in the water. Your mind races with the overwhelming images of what lies beneath the surface. The ocean is full of mystery and the unknown. 

There is still so much to learn about the sea. Only about 5% of the ocean has been explored. To truly understand the realm of possibilities, you must understand some common facts about the sea. This will expand your knowledge and understanding of the ocean’s potential. 

Why Learn About the Ocean?

The ocean is fascinating and mysterious, but there is so much more than what lies beneath the surface. It comprises 70% of Earth and affects the weather, making or breaking the sustainability and growth of all life forms.

Studying and understanding the ocean can clarify what happened to past civilizations and life forms. You can appreciate its impact on all living things. Through absorbing solar radiation and releasing heat, the sea can influence the Earth’s climate by producing rainfall and driving climate change. 

You can enhance your knowledge by learning about ocean surface typography, which is a form of study NASA utilizes to track the sea’s impact on weather and climate. Understanding currents and heat storage can simplify this concept and give you a well-rounded outlook on the ocean’s impact on civilization. 

Basic Ocean Facts

Whether you remember fourth-grade science class or watch every ocean show possible, there’s always more to learn about this vast body of water. These lessons might have touched on how many oceans there are or explained that an incoming high tide is best for saltwater fishing. However, there’s much more to learn about the ocean’s complexity. 

1. How Far Can You See Across the Ocean?

Many factors hinder your ability to see across the ocean, such as height, which affects how far someone can see into the horizon on a perfect day. However, it is common for most to see around three miles away while standing offshore.  

Clear weather allows you to see the furthest distance when looking at the horizon. Weather, including haze, rain, fog and snow, can hinder your ability to see longer. Other factors, including time of day, water and air temperature, and wind speeds, can also affect your vision. 

2. How Deep Is the Ocean?

The sea has various depths and is not uniform, even close to shore. In 2010, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimated that the ocean’s average depth is 12,080 feet. However, this may be lower today due to the changing sea floor. 

The Mariana Trench is the deepest part of the ocean, measuring 35,876 feet deep. This area is in the Pacific Ocean and continues changing as tectonic plates separate over time.

3. Does the Ocean Freeze?

Lakes, ponds and pools freeze, but does the ocean? Many believe that due to the salt in the water and the waves’ movement, the sea cannot freeze. However, it does. Roughly 15% of the ocean can freeze during specific times of year. 

Ocean water can freeze at 28 F, 10 degrees lower than its average temperature. The ice contains little salt because it is only partially frozen. If you ever find yourself stranded in the frozen sea, you can melt the ice for drinking water.

Questions About the Ocean

You likely have many questions about the ocean. It covers most of the Earth’s surface, leaving much room for learning. 

1. What Is Sea Smoke?

You may take an early morning walk when visiting the beach with your friends and family. As you look out on the ocean, you see fog hovering over the water. This is actually sea smoke. 

Sea smoke is created when a cold air mass drifts over warm water. It is not limited to the ocean but can also occur with other bodies of water, such as lakes and rivers. Autumn is the most common time for sea smoke, as the water is still warm from the summer months while the air temperature has begun to drop. 

2. How Fast Is the Ocean Rising?

Sea levels are increasing due to global warming. NASA monitors the change through its satellite data, reporting that it has increased from 0.1 to 0.13 inches since 1993. NASA’s Surface Water and Ocean Topography satellite, along with other equipment, can monitor this rate closely for precise readings. 

Questions About Boats

Many sea enthusiasts also find interest and joy in boats and boating experiences. This knowledge goes hand-in-hand with learning about the sea. 

1. Can You Live on a Boat?

Forrest Gump made living on a boat look like a freeing experience filled with self-reflection, but is it possible to live on one full time?

It’s a possibility for many boat owners. However, deciding to live on the sea takes tons of preparation, including food supplies, safety equipment and other essential items.

Boat living does not necessarily mean you need to move out to sea. Most live in their vessels on a dock or marina. Most marinas require an application to stay there permanently. Some places have lengthy waiting lists or will not authorize permanent residence. 

Living on a boat requires drastic downsizing and preparation for constant sun exposure. Be sure to have preventive and healing sun care for all areas, even your lips, to protect their thin skin while living on the water. 

2. How Far Away Can You See a Ship at Sea?

Seeing the horizon depends on weather conditions and height. However, the distance you can see from a ship is drastically different from just standing on the shore. 

The average person can see three miles out on the horizon when standing on land. When standing on a ship or boat, the average distance you can see is 12 miles offshore due to the height of the vessel and its position on the water. 

Most sea captains will verify that 12 miles can be seen from any boat as a safety precaution for spotting other vessels. Interestingly enough, international waters are 12 miles from shore, which is believed to correlate with the distance that can be seen when perfect weather conditions are present. 

The Sea-Loving Man and His Ocean

You may know abundant ocean facts and information, but there is still much to learn and experience. Whether you want to live life on the marina, map the rise of the ocean or experience sea smoke, facts help establish a better frame of reference. 

Expanding your knowledge about the ocean can provide an overall understanding of how the world and civilizations work. It’s fascinating to learn about the mysteries that lurk in the sea’s shadows, but learning about the science and capabilities will provide insight into the Earth’s future and what caused major societal downfalls in the past. 

There is still so much to learn about the ocean and how it affects the world. Expand your knowledge and uncover the mysteries of this massive body of water, fact by fact.

The post 7 Fascinating Ocean Facts for the Sea-Loving Man appeared first on Modded.

Are you looking to chase new thrills? As long as you’re not afraid of the cold — or heights — ice climbing could become your next adventure. This extreme sport is for the bold. Learn more about ice climbing, its history as a sport and how you can make your first ascent with this guide. 

What Is Ice Climbing?

Ice climbing is just what it sounds like — the sport of climbing frozen water to reach new heights. There are two primary types of ice climbing — water and alpine.

Water ice climbing is what many people picture when they imagine ice climbers scaling perilous icicles hanging from cliffsides. Climbers seek out glaciers, frozen waterfalls or other flowing water sources that have frozen over. Since the water must be frozen, water ice climbing typically takes place in sub-zero temperatures. Most climbers focus on technique over destination.

Alpine ice climbing is more about the destination. It’s one part of mountaineering — in certain climates, mixed climbing includes ice. Climbers must traverse icy sections amid rock and other surfaces while summiting a mountain. 

Both water and alpine ice climbing are typically considered extreme sports due to the physical demands, risks and frequently sub-zero temperatures.

The History of Climbing Ice

Ice climbing has been part of mountaineering for as long as people have scaled frozen peaks. However, it became established as its own unique form of climbing in the 20th century. Rather than learning ice-climbing skills simply to get across frozen sections of mixed routes, some climbers began focusing on ice intentionally.

In the 1960s, Yvon Chouinard designed the modern ice axe, which made ice climbing a safer, more accessible possibility for climbers. Over the last several decades, ice climbing has grown in popularity among climbers looking for the extra thrill of scaling frozen rivers cascading down mountainsides.

The Basics of Ice Climbing

If you want to try your hand at ice climbing, you should familiarize yourself with the what, where, when, why and how of this extreme sport. Learn more about the gear you’ll need, the best seasons and locations to explore the ice, and the top techniques in the business.

Necessary Equipment for Ice Climbing

While some forms of climbing require almost no gear, like bouldering or free soloing, ice climbing isn’t quite so minimalist. You’ll need the proper equipment to stay safe and secure on your adventures, including:

• Insulated climbing boots
• Crampons
• Ice axe(s)
• Dry-treated climbing rope
• Carabiners
• Belay devices
• Climbing harness
• Gloves
• Eye protection
• Helmet
• Ice screws

While rock climbers may have much of the necessary equipment already, some gear is unique to ice climbing — and essential. For example, crampons are a necessity to get traction on snow and ice. They’re metal spikes that attach to the bottom and edges of your boots, allowing you to gain purchase on slippery or hard surfaces.

When Can You Go Climbing?

Many people assume ice climbing is a winter sport because it obviously requires freezing temperatures. However, there are many places you can ice climb year-round. Certain climates and high altitudes remain cold enough all year long for the ice to remain thick and stable.

Whether you’re water ice climbing a glacier in the summer months or taking advantage of your alpine ice climbing skills to summit a high peak, you’ll always be able to find ice routes with a little travel.

While there are always options available somewhere in the world, many ice climbers use warmer months to hone their rock climbing skills. It’s a great way to cross-train and prepare for your next season on the ice.

Where Can You Ice Climb?

Some climbers are lucky enough to have excellent ice climbing spots in their local area, while others in search of the perfect frozen waterfall or snowcapped summit may have to make an adventure of it.

Here are some of the top destinations around the world for enthusiasts:

• Ouray Ice Park, Colorado, U.S.
• Rjukan, Norway
• Cogne, Italy
• The Eiger, Switzerland
• Canmore, Alberta, Canada
• Sandstone Ice Park, Minnesota, U.S.
• Kandersteg, Switzerland
• Hokkaido, Japan
• Frankenstein, New Hampshire, U.S.
• Helmcken Falls, British Columbia, Canada
• Sólheimajökull, Iceland

The Essentials of Ice Climbing Techniques

Most ice climbers alternate between two types of ice climbing styles, depending on the particular terrain — the French and German techniques:

• French technique: This style is also known as flat-footing. As the name suggests, it’s best for flat or moderately steep pitches. The climber keeps almost all crampon points in contact with the ice. At a certain steepness, the climber must sidestep to continue up the slope.
• German technique: This technique is necessary for steeper grades. The climber kicks into the slope, digging the front crampons into the ice for purchase. It’s also called front-pointing for this reason. 

How to Get Started Ice Climbing

If you’ve never been ice climbing, it can seem intimidating. However, you can get started with the right preparation. Keep these tips in mind before you head to the glacier:

• Hire a guide: What better way to learn everything about ice climbing than to hear it directly from an expert? Many ice parks and mountains have experienced guides who can teach you the ropes and help you safely navigate the frozen pitches. 
• Start small: While this may seem like a no-brainer, it can be easy to get caught up in the thrill of ice climbing. Don’t overexert yourself early on. Start with flatter, shorter pitches to develop your strength and technique before moving on to bigger mountains. 
• Follow a cross-training routine: You can build your strength before you even pick up an ice axe. While general physical fitness will benefit you on the ice, developing your grip and arm strength are particularly useful focuses.
• Practice useful techniques: If you’ve never swung an ice pick before, it might not come naturally to you. Give your technique some practice before you find yourself on a frozen waterfall.

Start Your Next Adventure on the Ice

Ice climbing is an increasingly popular sport, attracting professional athletes and enthusiastic hobbyists alike. Layer up and head to the mountain to get a taste of the thrill today.

The post Get a Hang of Ice Climbing: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Modded.

Spending a couple of days in the great outdoors doesn’t mean you have to restrict your diet to trail mix or granola bars. There’s an abundance of nourishing delicacies to fill your camping meal plan throughout the trip. These easy campfire meals cover all your bases — from single-skillet recipes to prepped foil packets you can enjoy on the go. 

1. Hot Dogs With Cast-Iron Beans

Hot dogs are a classic camping meal ready to fuel you up for the adventures of the day. This filling recipe is easy to throw together. You only need a cast iron skillet and a hot grill. 

Ingredients

• Six hot dogs
• Six hot dog buns
• One can of small white beans
• Olive oil
• One small onion
• Plum tomatoes
• Two garlic cloves 
• Two tablespoons of molasses
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Worcestershire sauce
• Mustard, ketchup and relish for serving

The cooking process is quite straightforward, too. Simply heat the olive oil in the skillet and add the onions, garlic, tomatoes and beans, making sure to stir occasionally. Season with salt and pepper, then add the Worcestershire. Grill the hot dogs over direct heat until warmed through. Serve and enjoy. 

2. Camper’s Breakfast Hash

This dish has everything you’d want from a hearty breakfast meal — delicious, filling and easy to make. 

Ingredients

• Two packages of shredded hash brown potatoes
• One pack of fully-cooked breakfast sausage links
• One cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• One-quarter cup butter
• One-quarter cup chopped onion
• One-quarter cup chopped green pepper
• 12 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Start by melting the butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the hash browns, sausage, green pepper and onion, gently cooking for around 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are lightly browned. Push the mixture toward the edge of the pan and crack in the eggs. Season with salt and pepper when the eggs are thoroughly cooked, then add the shredded cheese. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt before giving the mixture one final stir. 

3. Protein Waffles

These waffles pack a whopping 17 grams of protein per serving. But the best part is this quick dish consists of only three ingredients: bananas, eggs and your favorite protein powder. It might be best to prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in a sealed container. This way, when you’re ready to cook, you only need to prep the waffle maker. 

Protein waffles are super customizable, so feel free to top yours with anything from buttermilk syrup to peach jam. 

4. Spinach-Artichoke Dip with Roasted Bread

This delicious dip is the perfect campfire snack after a long day exploring the wild. And the best part is you can prepare everything in a single pan or skillet. 

Ingredients

• One can of artichokes
• One pack of frozen-leaf spinach
• One pack of cream cheese
• One clove of pressed garlic
• One loaf of country bread
• Half a cup of sour cream
• Half a cup of grated parmesan
• Lemon juice and zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Mix all the wet ingredients in a bowl, carefully folding in the artichokes and spinach. Season the mixture with the black pepper and salt, then transfer it to your skillet. Top with some more grated parmesan and cover with an aluminum foil. Cook until bubbly and golden brown. Grill the bread over indirect heat until crisp and dig in. 

5. Gnocchi Foil Packet

Fancy a tasty pasta meal for lunch? Cook these handy gnocchi packs straight on the grill — no boiling water necessary and zero dishes to clean afterward. 

Ingredients

• Store-bought gnocchi
• Shucked corn 
• Cherry tomatoes
• Unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• Two garlic cloves 
• Salt and red pepper flakes
• Dry white wine
• Finely chopped fresh basil
• Grated parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper

The most complex part of this process is folding the foil packets so they’re leak-free and able to hold form during cooking. Divide the ingredients into the packs, drizzling the white wine evenly. The foil packets trap in steam from the wine, cooking the gnocchi to perfectly tender and elevating the flavors of the corn and basil. Eat directly out of the packet.

6. Hot Chili Mama 

This make-ahead campfire meal packs a punch and can be the perfect way to spice up your outdoor experience, literally. 

Ingredients

• Three pounds of lean ground turkey (or other protein of your choice)
• Three chopped tomatillos
• Two minced garlic cloves
• One can of chili 
• One can of beer
• One pound of frozen cannellini beans 
• One finely chopped carrot
• One large yellow onion
• One chopped orange bell pepper
• Finely chopped habaneros
• Chili powder
• Dried thyme

Since you’ll be preparing the dish ahead, you have the luxury of time, plus access to all the proper utensils. Start by browning the ground turkey in a large stock pot. Add the rest of the ingredients and let it simmer for 2 ½ hours before packing. Consider your spice tolerance when adding the habanero and chili powder. Remember, there are no standard bathroom facilities in the wild. 

7. Salmon With Vegetables in Foil

Smothered in fresh ingredients, these salmon filets are cooked to perfection, staying super-tender and juicy inside foil packets.

Ingredients

• Four skin-on salmon filets
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Chopped fresh dill
• Finely chopped garlic
• Lemon zest
• Red bell peppers
• Frozen corn
• Frozen lima beans

Season the filets with salt and pepper, making sure to place each piece on the foil skin-side down. Combine the remaining ingredients in a bowl and spoon the mixture over the salmon evenly. Wrap the foil tightly and grill over the campfire. Garnish with dill when ready to serve. 

Easy Campfire Meals

Camping is the perfect getaway for escaping into the great outdoors and relaxing with the sounds of nature. Don’t let complicated cooking get in the way of your adventure. Take advantage of these easy campfire meals for your next trip.

The post 8 Easy Campfire Meals for Your Next Outdoor Adventure appeared first on Modded.

The future of van-dwelling is electrified. The production of emission-free recreational vehicles (RVs) becomes more commercially viable as solar battery technology advances. Check the seven all-electric RVs you can order now.

1. WOF Iridium e-V24

The Iridium owns the distinction of being the world’s first fully electric motorhome. It boasted a 249-mile range, making a splash during its debut at a German trade show in 2019. It’s a joint project of camper van manufacturer WOF and EV retrofitter EFA-S.

Over four years after unveiling the trailblazing brand, WOF offers the Iridium e-V24. The Baden-Württemberg-headquartered automaker used the Ford E-Transit as the model’s base. It can run 198 miles on one charge. Its 68kW battery can go from 15% to 80% in 38 minutes of charging.

This electric motorhome for two puts a premium on practicality. It has an ergonomic kitchen with spacious storage, a rear multi-lounge, and a wet room with a sink, a toilet and a shower. Some of its other features include:

• 6.33-by-4.79-foot double bed
• 70-liter compressor fridge
• Large table with face-to-face seating
• Slidable bench toilet

2. Winnebago eRV2

The eRV2 makes off-the-grid living in style. It sports warm interior based on Scandinavian and Japanese design principles and a 5-in-1 lounge that transforms into two workstations, a bed and a multipurpose configurable bathroom.

Sustainability-wise, Winnebago uses renewable and recycled materials for the electric camper van’s flooring, cab seat, bedroom and lounge seating.

Built on the Ford E-Transit platform, this electric camper van is smart. Its companion app gives you access to the proprietary Winnebago Connect system that lets you remotely control your house systems and auto-adjust settings based on your preferences. Its centralized monitors can track energy and water usage and help you manage your coach systems. Regarding safety, it has 360-degree cameras, reverse brake assist and blind-spot assist.

When it comes to energy efficiency, the Forest City, Iowa-based company equipped the eRV2 with light-emitting diode (LED) lights and a 900-watt energy system that generates power using portable and rooftop panels. Its 3-in-1 plug promises to reduce charging time to 45 minutes.

Winnebago advertises the eRV2 to have a proprietary IonBlade® lithium house battery and support up to seven days of off-grid living.

3. Grounded G1

The G1 — another Ford E-Transit derivative — is a brainchild of Tesla and SpaceX engineers. This solar-equipped camper van has a 640-watt energy system and can run up to 108 miles per charge. It comes with a house battery that can power onboard appliances.

Grounded furnishes the G1’s kitchen with a refrigerator or a freezer, an induction cooktop and a sink. This zero-emission RV has a queen-size bed, a dry-flush toilet, an outdoor shower, overhead and garage storage, and a pull-out table with bench seating.

Using the Grounded+ app, you can remotely control the camper van’s electronics and appliances, monitor its power status, keep tabs on water and fuel levels, track your real-time location, and more. This vehicle’s software allows over-the-air updates, so expect it to be bug-free wherever you go camping.

What makes the G1 special is its modular interior. Grounded lets customize the furniture layout piece by piece. You can use the Detroit automaker’s refitting service to change components down the road to suit your ever-changing needs.

4. THOR Vision Vehicle

THOR engineered its sleek and innovative camping wheels on its motorized platform — unlike many other all-electric RVs on this list. A class of its own, this impressive B+ RV has answers to most inconveniences you may encounter when going off-grid.

The THOR Vision Vehicle has an integrated fuel cell that charges its chassis and house batteries on autopilot. Its high-capacity battery is rechargeable at EV charging stations and compatible with 240-volt outlets at campsites. It can power all your appliances for up to seven days with its 1,500-watt solar roof, making it perfect for remote camping.

This futuristic RV has comfortable interior, intuitive cabin and dashboard touch-screen monitors, a frosted window glass effect, voice-controlled systems, and digital side and rearview mirrors. Likewise, its driver-assistance systems come in handy when changing lanes and reversing.

5. Bowlus Volterra

The Volterra redefines luxury land travel for off-griders. Bowlus takes pride in its towable’s AeroSolar solar system made from next-gen monocrystalline solar cells, which can passively generate electricity anywhere without activation or setup needed.

For power storage, it has a 17-kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate battery. This power management system can download software updates over the air. 

Furthermore, the Volterra is Starlink satellite internet-ready — the first of its kind. It features 50-gallon freshwater storage, an induction stove and propane backup. When camping at night with limited light sources, you can safely back up your vehicle with its full-color night-vision cameras.

When your electric tow vehicle runs out of juice, you can extend its range by up to 65 miles with this non-motorized RV’s emergency charge.

6. Lightship L1

The L1 is an ultramodern trailer designed to ensure near-zero range loss for EVs and fuel efficiency for gas-powered automobiles. Its tapered rear, telescoping hard-sided walls, and sleek front edges make it 200% as aerodynamic as conventional towable RVs. Its low-drag towing and weightless design allows it to glide in the air.

Lightship’s tube-like trailer has dual modes — camp and road. In Camp Mode, its exterior height expands to 10 feet. In Road Mode, it shrinks to six feet and nine inches to avoid crosswinds and ensure safe, stable towing.

The L1 can sleep up to six people. It’s window-heavy, giving it airy interior with panoramic views on all sides. It has a convertible lounge area with an automotive-grade custom textile made of up to 70% recycled polyester.

Moreover, its bathroom has a porcelain floor and a rainshower overhead. Its indoor kitchen has smart appliances, spacious stain-resistant countertops, well-thought-out storage units and a water-efficient dishwasher. It has a tablet app for remote access and control, too.

Outside, this trailer has a camp kitchen. You can pull out the induction cooktop and collapsible sink to dine al fresco or hold a large gathering.

Like other all-electric RVs, the L1 promises up to seven days of boondocking with appliances on. Its solar roof and awnings can produce three kilowatts of electricity and store power in an 80-kilowatt-hour battery system.

7. Retreat Caravans ERV

The ERV is probably the closest home on wheels you can buy. Its notable amenities are as follows:

• 24-inch smart TV with arm and antenna
• 28-liter electric hot water service
• 224-liter compressor refrigerator
• Two 110-liter water tanks
• 110-liter grey water tank
• Built-in speakers
• Cabinetry
• Cassette toilet
• Dryer
• Induction stovetop
• Kitchen and bathroom sinks
• Laminate splashback
• Leather seat bases
• LED lights
• Microwave oven
• Walk-in and outdoor showers
• Washer

This Australian travel trailer is available in various floor plans — all promising abundant living space. A 14.3-kilowatt-hour lithium battery, 2,400-watt-generating roof-mounted panels, and a 5,000-watt smart inverter make up its solar system, allowing you to live outside civilization for an extended period.

More All-Electric RVs Will Enter the Market

This list of seven is just the beginning. The entry of Mercedes-Benz Van.EA and Volkswagen ID. Buzz will give aspiring automakers more platforms to underpin their emission-free travel trailers and motorhomes, so expect more variety in the future.

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