adventure Archives | Page 3 of 11 | Diamond Brand Outdoors

Posts

10 Lesser Known Autumn Adventures in North Carolina

Autumn is that seasonal sweet spot between the balmy, bug-bitten days of summer and the frigid frost of winter. Fall is a time when fiery foliage makes outdoor excursions even more alluring. While leaf-peepers flock to the mountains of North Carolina, some of the state’s most stunning natural spaces remain nearly devoid of visitors. This fall, soak up North Carolina’s stunning seasonal color in the state’s overlooked wild places.

1. Medoc Mountain State Park

The 10 miles of hiking trails are an excellent way to explore Medoc Mountain State Park.
bobistraveling

Just outside the town of Hollister, Medoc Mountain State Park is an inviting, but often ignored, autumn retreat. Laced with 10-miles of hiking trails, the park offers everything from gentle, streamside rambles to more rugged loops over the park’s rocky bluffs. Take to the placid waters of Fishing Creek or bring a picnic and set up shop for the day in the midst of the park’s sprawling, fall-color-tinged meadow.

2. Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Falls Lake State Park offers excellent hiking, paddling, and mountain bike opportunities.
Razvan Orendovici

Enjoy autumn colors at one of the state’s most unique outdoor spaces, Falls Lake State Recreation Area in Wake Forest. A veritable paddler’s paradise, the recreation area actually consists of a series of access sites dotting the forest-fringed fingers of a massive 12,000-acre reservoir. Beyond the water, many of the access points also feature campsites, mountain biking trails and hiking trails, including an extensive segment of the Mountain-to-Sea Trail, which hugs the lake’s southern shore.

3. Middle Prong Wilderness

The Middle Prong Wilderness is one of the least visited parts of the Pisgah National Forest.
Joe Giordano

Tucked away in the massive Pisgah National Forest, the Middle Prong Wilderness is one of the vast recreation area’s most rugged and least-visited corners. The 7,900-acre wilderness located near Asheville is loaded with challenging terrain dominated by high peaks, precipitous drop-offs, and craggy ridgelines. For real solitude seekers, Middle Prong Wilderness is managed to show minimal signs of human impact. While there are ample hiking options, including access to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, signage is minimal, so plan on using those well-honed navigational skills.

4. New River State Park

New River State Park features both hike-in and paddle-in campsites.
bobistraveling

One of the state’s wildest parks, New River Park showcases one of North Carolina’s most stunning waterways. Distinguished as a National Scenic River four decades ago, the New River flows past some of the state’s most dramatic, mountain-loaded landscapes. The park features a handful of hiking trails, but the real highlight is the mighty river itself. The state park is also loaded with pristine backcountry retreats, offering an array of primitive hike-in and paddle-in campsites spread throughout the 750-acre recreation area.

5. South Mountain State Park

A misty morning in South Mountain State Park.
Charlie Cowins

Clinging to the Jacob Fork River, South Mountain State Park is a blissful escape for backpackers. There are 50 miles of sylvan trails, trout-loaded steams, and dispersed backcountry campsites to explore. Besides just hiking, the park also boasts 18 miles of mountain biking trails and 33 miles of bridle trails. High Shoal Falls’ tumbling, 80-foot cascade is a beautiful waterfall that is especially alluring when framed by autumn’s palette of burning colors.

6. Merchants Millpond State Park

Merchants Millpond features excellent paddling.
bobistraveling

Foliage-seeking shutterbugs will relish in Merchants Millpond’s photogenic potential. The tannin-tinged backwater makes for a stunning backdrop of iconic fall portraits. Aside from just aesthetics, hikers can enjoy the state park’s 9-miles of trails while paddlers can explore Merchants Millpond from the water. For a longer getaway, the park also offers family-style campgrounds, backcountry tent sites, and even a few rustic paddle-in campsites.

7. Uwharrie National Forest

Uwharrie National Forest features some of the oldest mountains on the continent.
emily accipiter stewart

A little more than an hour’s drive from Charlotte and Greensboro, the Uwharrie National Forest harbors seemingly untouched backcountry and some of the oldest mountains on the continent. The 51-acre national forest is also traversed by nearly 70 miles of trails, including two extensive routes perfect for color-loaded fall backpacking trips: the 10-mile Dutchman’s Creek and 20-mile Uwharrie Trail. Beyond the potential for backcountry forays, the national forest also boasts a bounty of scenic lakeside campsites at the Badin Lake Campground.

8. Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is filled with birds and other wildlife to see, including black bears and a small population of red wolves.
USFWS SE Region

Fall is still prime paddling season along North Carolina’s coast and the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge has an abundance of options to suit any skill level. Fringed by the Alligator River and the Albemarle, Croatan, and Pamlico sounds, this wildlife refuge includes more than 15 miles of well-marked paddling trails plus plenty of terrestrial trails and bike-able public access roads. The mammoth refuge is also one of the state’s most unique wildlife areas. This sanctuary harbors more than 200 different birds, a booming black bear population, and most notably, a small population of endangered red wolves, reintroduced from captivity in the late 1980s.

9. Three Top Mountain Game Land

A hike at Three Top Mountain can take you to elevations 4,800 feet above sea level.
James Lautzenheiser

Managed by the Nature Conservancy, Three Top Mountain in the North Carolina High Country is still off the radar of many weekend warriors. Named for the three distinctive rock outcroppings dominating the protected area, Three Top Mountain is loaded with seasonal color, in large part, due to the preserve’s unique geological composition. This includes amphibolite bedrock, rarely found in regional ecosystems. The 2,308-acre preserve’s high country hiking trails still feel undiscovered and include gritty climbs to elevations of 4,800 feet above sea level.

10. Goose Creek State Park

Explore the coastal ecosystems at Goose Creek State Park.
bobistraveling

Nestled along the confluence of Goose Creek and the Pamlico River, Goose Creek State Park showcases a stunning array of coastal ecosystems, from cypress swamps to mixed hardwood forests. The park is also loaded with recreational opportunities including 8 miles of hiking trails and an abundance of recreational paddling on both Goose Creek and the Pamlico River. For a starry night away from the urban grind, pitch a tent in the park’s pine shaded campsites.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Featured image provided by David Siu

November 16, 2017/by RootsRated

Local

10 Reasons to Wake Before Dawn in WNC

Dawn patrol is the practice of heading out before sunrise and beginning the day with a paddle, run, ski, hike, or whatever form of outdoor adventure you most crave. Crawling out of bed into the cold and making your way to the trailhead in darkness requires deep motivation, commitment and prior planning — but the payoff is enormous. Set the alarm, ready your things the night before, and see for yourself how dawn patrol sets the stage for a fulfilling and invigorating lifestyle. Here are ten reasons for Asheville explorers to head for the hills before daybreak.

1. You Don’t Have to Travel Far

One of Asheville’s greatest assets is its proximity to the wilderness. Your morning mission could take you as far away as Cataloochee Ski Area or as nearby as Richmond Hill Park. Ease yourself into the realm of dawn patrol with a sunrise run on a greenway, work your way up to a trail run at Bent Creek, or take an illuminated ride at Pisgah. When the Blue Ridge Parkway is shut down in the winter, it creates a beautiful track of clean snow (469 miles long) for hiking and cross-country skiing. Whatever gets your heart beating and fills your lungs with fresh air makes a suitable morning conquest.

2. Achieve the Coveted Work/Life Balance

Asheville sparkles in predawn light.
Pulaw

Achieving a healthy work/life balance is very possible in a small city such as Asheville. When your life is partly defined by outdoor adventure, however, the limited daylight of winter does present a challenge. Practice alarm clock discipline, arm yourself with warm layers and a headlamp, and fearlessly face the pre-dawn darkness to infuse each day with outdoor endeavors before you even clock in.

3. Appreciate the Comforts of the Office

There’s nothing like coming in from the cold to help you appreciate everyday luxuries so often taken for granted. Those first few lungfuls of frigid mountain air might feel harsh, but dawn patrol will help you revel in the comforts of office life as you never have before: placid temperatures, hot water, your lumbar-supporting office chair. Even that brown bag lunch you brought from home will be a source of gleeful anticipation to your stoked appetite.

4. Catch a Blue Ridge Sunrise

The sun rises over Graveyard Fields, a popular hiking destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Jenn Deane

Greeting the dawn is one of the healthiest rituals you can incorporate into your life, and the ethereal Blue Ridge Mountain range puts on a truly spectacular sunrise. Catch the show from Mt. Mitchell State Park, Sam’s Knob, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or any place where you can glimpse those first rays. The tranquility, awe, and invigoration you experience will fuel you straight through your 9 to 5.

5. Shoot Stunning Photos

Perfecting the camera settings to catch those elusive moments of daybreak.
Matt Paish

Western North Carolina is photogenic. But Western North Carolina at sunrise is really, really photogenic. Dawn patrol can yield some breathtaking captures: silhouettes and sun rays, the delicate colors of dawn seeping through the forest or brightening the streets, and you (in a glorious selfie), looking burly and alive in the first light of day.

6. Stick to Your Exercise Plan

Experts agree that the most effective way to stick to a workout plan is to exercise first thing in the morning. So while you’re outside, being uplifted by nature and extolling in the many virtues of dawn patrol, you’re turning this healthy practice into part of your daily routine and upping the chances of meeting your fitness goals.

7. Avoid a Congested Commute

Don’t hit that snooze button: the earlier you’re up and at ’em, the emptier the roads. Asheville’s growing traffic issues are never as apparent as they are during peak commuting hours. By heading into the mountains before dawn, not only will you skip the morning commute, you’ll also save yourself from battling post-work traffic as you try to make it to Bent Creek before nightfall.

8. Coffee in the Mountains…

Coffee in the mountains sure beats the drive-through line at Starbucks.
Martin Cathrae

Coffee tastes better on the side of a mountain or sipped from a thermos as you stroll alongside the French Broad river. That pleasant caffeinated buzz hits you harder when mixed with fresh air and exercise endorphins. Simply put, dawn patrol coffee is one of life’s most amazing offerings. Enjoy it as often as possible.

9. …Espresso in the City

Enjoy your second round of coffee at one of Asheville’s many cafes.
Unsplash

You’re back in town and ready to start the work day….but not until you’ve finished a second cup, this one purveyed at one of Asheville’s many coffee shops. Treat yourself to an espresso and a glazed twist; after all, it’s 9 a.m. and you’ve already earned it.

10. The Breakfast Beer

Once in a while, your morning conquest might just turn into a ”mental health“ day.
Jay Johnson

If your morning conquest somehow turns into a full blown snow day, this is the perfect time to try out a “breakfast brew.”

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Featured image provided by Caleb Morris

November 16, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

4 Frozen Waterfall Hikes in Western North Carolina

While subzero temperatures and dwindling daylight can really put a damper on our motivation to hit the trail, the Blue Ridge Mountains are never quite as dramatic and ethereal as they are in the depths of winter. Familiar trails are transformed as bare trees unlock long-range views, the balds sparkle under a thick feathering of frost, and visitors are few and far between. But perhaps the most powerful offering of the winter landscape are the waterfalls: sheaths of ice, rainbows suspended in frozen mist, the cascade slowed or suspended entirely. See for yourself at these four waterfalls in the North Carolina mountains to explore this winter. (Check out Frugal Backpacker’s Winter Hiking Basics.)

1. Trashcan Falls

Trashcan Falls is more beautiful than the name may suggest.
Justin Fincher

No WNC outdoor enthusiast should let a winter pass them by without spending a weekend in the High Country. Between skiing, cold-weather bouldering, and endless miles of pristine hiking trails, there is no shortage of frozen adventure to be found just two hours north of Asheville. Boone’s old fashioned downtown has enough pubs, college eateries, and cozy cafes to keep you warm and dry after a day out in the snow.

Located on Laurel Creek, a tributary of the Watauga River, Trashcan Falls is a beautiful place to explore. Don’t be put off by its mysterious name — this 15 foot cascade is perfectly pristine. Just a quick dash down a wooded trail from the parking area, this waterfall is quickly and easily accessible. Allow yourself plenty of daylight to explore because the falls and the gorge downstream are irresistibly wild and alluring in the winter. Ice swirls in the eddies, flowers in patterns on the boulders, and chokes the current where the creek narrows. Winter offers a striking new perspective on this pocket of wilderness that is often crowded with swimmers and sunbathers during the summer.

2. Looking Glass Falls

Looking Glass Falls in winter is a dazzling landscape.
Sarah Zucca

Looking Glass Rock, the pluton dome that rises from within Pisgah National Forest to an elevation of nearly 4,000 feet, got its name because of the way sunshine reflects off its shining granite face. In the wintertime, this “looking-glass effect” is sharply enhanced as a sheen of ice coats the sides of the rock. A visit to Looking Glass as it lies sparkling under the winter sun should be on the top of every hiker’s cold-weather bucket list.

One of the few roadside waterfalls in the Blue Ridge, the 60-foot Looking Glass Falls can gather some crowds during the summer months. In the winter, however, you’ll most likely be exploring the cascade alone. The ice formations that bloom alongside the veil and the rugged landscape of whipped, frozen whitewater that lays just downstream is a spectacular site. The sounds of falling water and cracking ice ring throughout the still, bare forest.

If you’re looking to make a day of exploring the marvelous ice formations around Looking Glass, nearby waterfalls nearby include Daniel Ridge Falls, Cove Creek Falls and Sliding Rock, just to name a few.

3. Crabtree Falls

Icicle collects in a curtain beneath Crabtree Falls.
Jdshepard

Thick with wildflowers in the spring and blazing with color in the fall, Crabtree Falls is a lovely site in any season. The diamond clear water of Big Crabtree Creek sifts 70 feet down mottled black rock, creating a gauzy veil as thin and fine as white lace. When the temperature dips below zero, ice glazes the edges of the rock and daggers of icicles cling to every surface in the dark emerald pool below. With the striking atmosphere of a leafless hardwood forest and the quiet solitude of the freezing mountains, this waterfall may be most enchanting in the winter. Just 45 minutes outside of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this moderate 3.5-mile (roundtrip) hike is the perfect remedy for a case of cabin fever.

4. Dry Falls

Ice feathers the rocks at Dry Falls.
Jenjazzygeek

Just about 80 miles outside of Asheville, the vast wilderness of Jackson County, North Carolina, makes for an epic winter day trip. The rivers become a maze of ice and rock with the current coursing beneath the surface, and the steep, cliff-studded hillsides are bright and quiet after a snowfall. Driving the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, which twists and turns past several waterfalls in Cullasaja Gorge, is a particularly dramatic experience in winter.

One of the most famous sites in the region, 75-foot Dry Falls, can be viewed from the byway. In the summer, it’s possible to explore behind the veil without a single drop of water landing on you. This becomes a decidedly dicier mission during the winter months, as that space is slick with frozen spray and decorated with icicles that could break off at any moment. Still, it’s worth descending the staircase that leads from the viewing platform and examining the walls of ice and frost formations up close.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Featured image provided by Justin Fincher

November 16, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

4 WNC Winter Hikes + Their Perfect Beverages

Among the many perks of winter hiking (fewer people, the sweet silence that a blanket of fresh snow brings to the mountains, the diamond sparkle of frost on the grass), none can compare to the bright taste of a well earned hot toddy, the rich indulgence of a hot buttered rum, or that first sip of a toasty winter ale. There’s simply no time to hibernate when there are so many trails to explore and so many cozy pubs to hole up in afterwards. Cheers to these four Western North Carolina mountain hikes, perfectly paired with a libation!

1. Devil’s Courthouse & Hot Buttered Rum

Windblown and snow-covered trees from the Devil’s Courthouse.
Alex Ford

Sometimes, the winter days of frost and weak sunlight demand an indulgent activity with little effort involved. For some, this might mean ducking under the covers for a movie marathon, but for outdoor enthusiasts whose sanity depends on escaping to the wilderness regardless of the plunging temperatures, the hike to Devil’s Courthouse fits the bill. The trail to the top of this somewhat sinister rock outcrop is only half a mile long, but the views from the top are simply decadent. North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee are all visible from the 5,719-foot summit, which is as steeped in folklore as it is in raw beauty.

Such a quick and rewarding adventure should be followed by an equally satisfying cocktail. Cover a pat of soft butter with brown and powdered sugar, tempered with the earthy-sweet flavors of freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Spiced rum and a float of homemade vanilla ice cream round out this rich winter favorite.

2. John Rock Loop & Salted Caramel Hot Toddy

A hot toddy is the ultimate cold weather cocktail.
Timothy Krause

John Rock Loop is a WNC classic that concludes with sensational views of the sprawling Pisgah Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and the Southern Appalachians fading into a blue haze on the horizon. At the beginning of the hike, set your sites on the rock face in the distance, as you’ll eventually be standing on its summit. A rugged 5.5-mile loop trail will lead you through a forest of tulip trees, white pines, and hemlock, past a small waterfall sheathed in sparkling ice and (eventually) the exposed brow of John Rock.

In the evening, seek out the Salted Caramel Hot Toddy, made with caramel moonshine, fresh lemon juice, and black lava salt. This classic winter cocktail (and cold remedy, they say) pairs remarkably well with the traditional distilled spirits of the Appalachian Mountains. And after your strenuous cliffside excursion, you’re entitled to a little extra sweetness!

3. Chimney Tops & Highland’s Black Mocha Stout

Approaching the rocky summit of Chimney Tops.
Shannon McGee

Reaching the rugged, dual-pronged summit of Chimney Tops, one of the few bare rock summits in the Smokies, is not for the faint of heart. This adventure is perfectly suited for anyone looking to spike their winter weekend with a healthy dose of adrenaline.

The trail begins with a series of freshly constructed bridges that crisscross over the cascading waters of Walker Camp Prong, before jutting upward for a steep and sustained climb to the ridge line. The journey is relatively short, but it packs a punch: in two miles, you’ll ascend 1,700 feet over an elaborate network of stone and log steps until you reach the even terrain and rewarding views of the ridgeline. The final leg of the hike is a highly exposed scramble to the top of the chimney, a nearly technical section of rock that is reminiscent of Colorado’s fourteeners.

Once you’ve returned to solid ground, treat yourself to a local beer that is just as bold and daring as the summit you so recently stood upon. Highland Brewing Company’s Kinsman Black Mocha Stout is part of their innovative Kinsman Project, where seasonal brews are infused with fresh and local ingredients. This warming winter ale is flavored with cacao nibs, cinnamon sticks, vanilla beans, and chipotle peppers for a finished product that is chocolatey-smooth with a kicky finish.

4. Biltmore Trails & Spiked Hot Chocolate

Sunset in the Biltmore forest.
Jonathan Goforth

Biltmore’s exquisite blend of open space and luxe amenities is especially festive when it’s decked out for the holidays. But even when the lights and trimmings are through for the season, 8,000 acres of meadows, forests, and gardens remain a lovely landscape throughout the winter, stark and dramatic or polished with snow. Although the micro-villages within the estate’s boundaries are always a hive of activity, there is solitude to be claimed along the 22 miles of hiking trails, particularly on the Deer Pond Trail and at the Lagoon.

Late afternoon is a lovely time to explore Biltmore, which is located so close to Downtown Asheville that you’ll never have to face a long drive home or navigate a tricky descent in darkness. Experience the peace and serenity of a winter twilight alongside the French Broad River or stroll through the walled gardens as the sky deepens with the colors of sunset.

When you’re ready to warm up, duck into the Biltmore Inn for a Pillow Mint, a decadent hot chocolate triple-spiked with Jameson’s Irish Whiskey, Bailey’s, and crème de menthe and topped with a pillow of whipped cream. As you sip your minted coco next to the roaring fireplace, descending into a state of sublime relaxation, you may find yourself wishing that winter never ends.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Featured image provided by Alexandre Normand

November 16, 2017/by RootsRated

Camping

Backpacking Mount Mitchell

There’s a bit of Tarheel pride in the fact that Mount Mitchell is the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River. So important is the peak that, in 1915, it was named the first state park in North Carolina.

Mt. Mitchell didn’t just help to create the N.C. State Park system, though. At 6,684 feet it’s also responsible for creating its own climate and weather.

Because of its height, the climate at the top of Mt. Mitchell more resembles that of forests in the U.S. Northeast and Canada. During the Pleistocene era (pronounced play-stuh-seen, so you can impress your friends), things were a bit colder in the region. Cooler temps allowed plants and animals normally found in northern climates to head south. Things warmed back up and these colder climate loving travelers were relegated to the highest peaks where altitude keeps things a bit chillier.

Lower average temps aren’t the only weather patterns that the mountain seems to control. On even otherwise clear days, Mt. Mitchell can be ringed by mist. Warmer, wetter air is pushed to the top and cooled, condensing ambient moisture and creating a cloud. Unpredictable storms and wind are a common result.

The chance to view the world from on top of the east coast and watch the sunrise over the mists that settle in the valley more than make up for the unpredictable weather. While the roughly 12 mile roundtrip is commonly completed as a day hike, the best way to experience the all that the mountain has to offer is by taking an overnight backpacking trip.

The trip starts at Black Mountain Campground, roughly an hour drive from Asheville. Operated by the Cradle of Forestry, this 46 site campground is a good accommodation alternative if you’d rather make the trek sans backpack. For this backpacking trip, though, you can park your car at the BMC lot at no charge.

From BMC, hit the Mount Mitchel Trail. After a steep climb you’ll get to, well, more steep climbing. The backcountry camping area is four miles in on Commissary Ridge. It’s easy to spot as the trail flattens and you break free of the forest. Walk a few steps on the double track path and the meadow, complete with several obvious fire rings, is on the left.

Look around. There are some really nice but less obvious spots to set up camp located just down a small hill from the meadow. The stream you walked through on the way to your campsite is your water source. Filtering is a great idea unless you’re looking for a quick way to lose some weight.

Once you’ve ditched your pack and set up camp, finish the final 1.6 or so miles to the top of Mt. Mitchell. There are a couple different trail options near the top, it doesn’t matter which you take. As long as you’re going up, you’re doing it right.

As soon as you pop out of the forest again you’ll step onto the parking lot. There’s a paved road that brings drivers to the peak. (This explains why you saw the guy in motorcycle gear carrying a 20 ounce soda on the trail a few minutes before).

At the top, you’ll find bathrooms, a nature center, and a snack bar. The near famous elevation sign is to the right and the trail to the observation tower is to the left when facing the buildings. The 360-degree view from the tower makes the entire effort worthwhile.

After you’ve had your fill at the top, return to your campsite using the same trail. Find a good seat for sunset. The mist settles in the lower valley for the evening and reflects the oranges and pinks of late afternoon. The best place to watch might be just past the campground on the dual track road. You can usually find firewood in this area as well.

Prepare for temps 20 degrees or colder than in Charlotte. Bring appropriate rain gear even on the driest of days (you don’t want to be the one who temps fate just to save 8 ounces in your pack). And most importantly, have a good hike to the highest point east of the Mississippi!

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Featured image provided by Rob Glover

November 16, 2017/by Diamond Brand Outdoors

Tips

How to Clean Your Chaco Sandals

It’s common knowledge that people who love their Chacos really love their Chacos. They’ll wear them anywhere while doing just about anything—from rock hopping, to running errands, to participating in life events as traditionally ‘non-Chaco’ as they come (like getting married, for instance). The original Chaco sandals were designed for river guides, and to this day they still perform exceptionally well in water. But true “Chaconians” love to wear them across all disciplines (hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, kayaking, to name a few) and in all seasons.

Yes, Chaco now makes closed-toe shoes and hiking boots constructed of high-quality leather and suede that offer additional protection for adventures you’re not willing to risk losing a toe for…but let’s talk about the sandals.

See, Chaco sandals have earned a reputation for exceptional durability and it’s not uncommon that a pair can go 10 years without the footbeds or straps needing to be replaced. But as any Chaco fan can tell you, all that relentless use over a long period of time can leave them with a pretty distinct and funky smell. Don’t act surprised. We know you know what we’re talking about, and we’re trying to keep your friends from having to host an intervention.

Here are some insider tips for cleaning your Chacos. Your feet will be happier for it—and your tent-mates will be happier too.

Jake Wheeler

Don’t be afraid to throw them in the laundry (but not the dishwasher)

Chaco recommends occasionally throwing your sandals—provided they’re not the leather kind—in with a load of laundry for a gentle cycle in cold water with a mild detergent (read: nothing that contains chemicals that might eat at the straps). Do not bleach! After letting them air dry, they’ll be good to go on your next outdoor adventure.

Between washings, you can try wearing them in the shower now and then to keep skin cells from building up in the grooves of the footbed. Yeah, ew. This sounds like the lazy-man’s version of actually washing them, but it works surprisingly well.

Whatever you do, do not put your Chaco sandals in the dishwasher or in the dryer, as the heat can cause the adhesive in the outsoles to break down. You can’t un-melt glue, and your sandals won’t be as fun to wear if the soles fall off (or halfway off), so heed our warning on this one. Just let them sit in a nice, sunny spot for a while and they’ll dry off pretty fast.

“Floss” the straps

Flossing isn’t just for teeth: This handy technique can also remove dirt that gets stuck where the shoe’s webbing and straps thread through the midsole, which can trap odor and cause the adjustable straps to stick. If that happens, the company suggests “flossing” the straps—squirting fabric softener into the strap slots and pulling the straps in and out to remove the offending grit. This is actually one of the primary reasons for smelly Chacos and why some sandals still retain an unpleasant aroma even after washing.

If you’ve never done it, or if the sandals are old, it can be pretty tough to move the straps, but just be patient and make sure the straps are thoroughly wet first. The Z-series sandals feature one (or more) continuous straps that pass through the sole multiple times, which is what allowed you to adjust the fit of the straps to your feet when you first bought your sandals. All you’re doing here is moving the straps in and out of the sole so you can clean whatever is building up down there.

Flossing the sandals also keeps sand and grit trapped in the footbed from slowly sawing their way through your straps. Some people do this every time they wash a pair of Chacos, but if you keep them generally clean we’ve found that you’ll only need to do it periodically.

Make an easy at-home solution for cleaning

Jonathan Morua

If your Chacos do come to elicit a persistent smell (because they’re comfortable enough to wear for 12-hour-stretches, which you do), don’t fret. Instead, scrub the footbed with a firm brush and a mix of water and baking soda. Many Chacos are sold with an antimicrobial-treated footbeds, but there are special sandal washes that can be applied after purchase as necessary.

Treat the leather extra-special

The leather in some Chaco models needs to be cleaned by hand. To get rid of any accumulated grime, use a damp cloth and a cleaning solution specially designed for leather goods.

That’s it! Like any other piece of essential outdoor gear, if you take care of your Chacos, they will take care of you as you hit the trail (or river or mountain) for countless miles full of adventure. That’s why you bought them in the first place, right?

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

This content was produced for your enjoyment, thanks to a partnership among OSM, Osprey Packs, Chaco, and RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Cody Myers

October 25, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

Hiking Devil’s Courthouse

Intro

Devil’s Courthouse towers ominously above the beautifully delicate pink beds of Pisgah National Forest. At its summit, a sinister looking rock formation is the stage for a devilish local legend. Folklore tells of a cave at the cliff’s base which the Devil himself used as a cliffside courthouse. He certainly did miss a heavenly view from the top, a view so grand it showcases four states! The Blue Ridge Parkway skirts the ridgeline near the Courthouse and gives view seekers a chance to access its summit by ascending a steep half mile trail. The paved trail begins at the Devil’s Courthouse overlook and ascends through lush mountaintop forestry on its way to the 5,720 foot summit.

What Makes It Great

The eastern side of Pisgah Ledge drops precipitously into the flat and sprawling expanse of River Valley. The gnarled rock formation that makes up the Courthouse’s summit juts out from the side of the ridgeline, providing uninterrupted views. From the peak, lucky on lookers can see South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. A plaque on the mountain’s summit commemorates this notable sight-seeing opportunity with directional arrows point to each of the states.

Who is Going to Love It

Devil’s Courthouse is a canvas that a photographer’s dreams are made of. This quick-hit is literally right off the side of the Parkway. Only a half mile walk gives way to long-range summit views of sunrises and sunsets, as well as lunar and stellar phenomena. Weather rolls up and over Pisgah Ledge with ferocity. The rapidly moving cloud cover and ever changing light at the tail end of a storm make for incredible photo-ops from the Parkway Overlook.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Reaching Devil’s Courthouse from Asheville involves a one hour scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take the Parkway south from Diamond Brand Outdoors’ Parkway Center location. After passing through Devil’s Courthouse Tunnel, a parking area will appear on your left at milepost 422.4. The trail to the Courthouse’s summit begins from the overlook.

There is no fee for use of the trail, but special regulations do apply to this area. A fragile, high altitude ecosystem exists on the rock face: rock gnome lichen, spreading avens, and peregrine falcons call Devil’s Courthouse their home. Please respect the delicate plant and animal life by staying on the trail at all times and restricting your summit experience to the pedestrian overlook.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Featured image provided by Joe Giordano

October 20, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

Hiking Sam Knob

Intro

Sam Knob stands tall above a high country meadow. The 6,050 foot summit is located near the confluence of the Western North Carolina “holy trinity:” Pisgah National Forest, Middle Prong Wilderness, and Shining Rock Wilderness. Views from the top of this semi-heath bald are expansive and interrupted only by the surrounding giants of the Great Balsam Mountains. Sam Knob Summit Trail leads hikers through a charming meadow before winding its way up the sides of the peak and rewarding ramblers with panoramic views.

What Makes It Great

Begin your journey on Sam Knob trail which will gain 570’ in elevation on its way to the summit. The first mile of trail brings you through a small patch of fragrant balsam firs and then gently downhill to the edge of a pristine mountain meadow. Spring and fall offer spectacular color shows through this section of trail with wildflowers and fall color abound. Saunter through this section, taking your time to enjoy the views and appreciate the aromatic wonder of a mountain meadow. After 1.1 miles, Sam Knob Summit Trail will branch off to your right. Wind your way up the trail through a series of switchbacks and a set of fortuitously placed wooden stairs. As you reach the summit plateau, the trail will split in two directions. If you choose left, you will be rewarded with views of the Middle Prong Wilderness and the Nantahala National Forest. The trail to the right offers views of the Shining Rock Wilderness, Black Balsam Knob, and a birds-eye view of the meadows below.

Who is Going to Love It

Want to embark on an overnighter in the North Carolina mountains? Bring your camping gear to enjoy a night amongst the stars on the summit. A few prized camp sites can also be found at Mt. Pisgah campground near Flat Laurel Creek on the lower edge of the meadow. These sites have easy access to water and ample trees to hang hammocks.

Love is always in the air in Appalachia. Bring a blanket, some nourishing food, and that special someone for a picnic in the picturesque meadow blow Sam Knob. Take along all the goods, but take extra care to pack them out!

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

From Asheville catch the Blue Ridge Parkway near Diamond Brand Outdoors’ Parkway Center location. Stop in and pick up your last-minute supplies and then head south on the Parkway. Your path will wind up a beautiful mountain grade until the Parkway begins to parallel a towering ridgeline with expansive views of Pisgah National Forest below. Just after mile marker 420 there will be a sign on your right for Black Balsam. Take a right on this road (816) and follow it two miles until you reach the trailhead for Sam’s Knob.

There is no fee and rudimentary restroom facilities are available at the trailhead. The ecosystem around Sam Knob is highly visited and extra sensitive. Leave No Trace principles should be followed at all times in this fragile environment.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Featured image provided by Steven Reinhold

October 20, 2017/by RootsRated

Events

Prayer Flags

Seen everywhere in the mountains, valleys, and sacred sites of Nepal, prayer flags are a symbol of peace, goodwill, and compassion. Originating in Tibet, early versions of prayer flags were used in battle. As time passed, the flags came to take on more spiritual meaning.

Each flag color represents one of the five elements.

Each of the five colors are always arranged from left to right in a specific order: blue, white, red, green, and yellow and represent the five elements: sky, air, fire, water, and earth, respectively.

Prayer Flags Sherpa Adventure Gear

Lung Ta (horizontal) prayer flags, pictured above, are square or rectangular shaped and are commonly hung on a diagonal line between two objects in high places such as the tops of temples, monasteries, stupas, or mountain passes. Darchor (vertical) prayer flags, pictured below, are usually large single rectangles attached to poles along their vertical edge.

Darchor prayer flags frame a statue of Tenzing Norgay near the village of Namche Bazaar in Nepal.

Over time, as the flags weather the elements, the bright colors of the flags fade to white. New prayer flags are hung alongside the old, acknowledging life’s continuous cycle. It is disrespectful to place flags on the ground or to use them as clothing. To dispose of old prayer flags, burn them, so that smoke may carry their blessings to the all.

As prayer flags are exposed to the elements, their colors fade. This process symbolizes a welcoming of life’s changes and an acknowledgment of a greater ongoing cycle.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

October 10, 2017/by Diamond Brand Outdoors

Camping

Cataloochee Campground

Intro

Imagine living on the untouched, beautiful lands of a national park. For centuries this was a reality for a wily community of Appalachia’s finest who called Cataloochee Valley home. At the time of the park’s inception, a community of 1,200 flourished in the lush valleys and hillsides of Cataloochee. On official orders, these settlers were forced from their homes upon the park’s coronation. Their history and heritage was frozen in time. They left behind a pristine valley surrounded by mighty mountains, rich with crystal clear streams and fertile meadows that stretch for miles. The community also left behind the rustic structures which they called home. Today, visitors flock to Cataloochee Valley to admire these historical buildings and the lush flora and fauna which still make a home in the Valley.

What Makes It Great

Cataloochee Campground is centered amidst the history and beauty of the high country valley. The campground sits on the banks of Cataloochee Creek underneath a towering canopy of Appalachian hardwoods. Camping season runs from early-April through late-October. They offer a total of 27 primitive sites, each equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Community restrooms are available with flush toilets and access to running water. The campground is ideally located for visitors to enjoy the hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and auto touring the Valley has to offer.

Who is Going to Love It

Hikers love the nearby access to hiking trails including: Caldwell Fork, The Boogerman Trail, Pretty Hollow Gap, Rough Fork Trail, and Little Cataloochee Trail. Kids and exercise enthusiasts love touring the flat and scenic road by bike that runs through the middle of the Valley.

Cataloochee’s remote location inside of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park gives anglers the opportunity to fish some of the most pristine waters available in the area. Spring months see large hatches of aquatic insects; the cool waters of Cataloochee Creek and its tributaries will be teeming with brook and rainbow trout. Make sure and acquire a North Carolina Fishing License before reeling in your catch.

Wildlife aficionados adore Cataloochee for its large population of elk reintroduced in 2001. The large fertile fields that carpet the Valley bottom come alive at dusk and dawn with herds of grazing elk.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Getting to the Valley is an adventure of its own. From Asheville, take Interstate 40 to exit 20, then travel .2 mile on Route 276 before turning right onto Cove Creek Road. Follow the signs for Cataloochee up a long and narrow winding road taht turns into gravel on its way into the Valley. Use caution and be courteous to oncoming traffic to ensure safe travels.

Reservations are required and should be made in advance before visiting this popular area. A one night stay at the campground will cost $20.

Featured image provided by Steven Reinhold

September 28, 2017/by RootsRated

Posts

Locations

About