Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Family Camping - More Tips and Tricks (+ Giveaways)

Camping with young kids always takes a bit more thought and planning.  We've accepted the fact that the sleepless nights, dirty kids, bringing along a little potty and working hard to keep the mosquitoes at bay for our (apparently sweet) 3-year-old are just part of the game (which will change with time.)

To be perfectly honest, I dread the sleeping part of camping right now.

Laying awake I certainly spend some time daydreaming about years down the road where sleeping through the night is a possibility, even in a tent.  While it won't keep us from camping and getting out whenever we can, it certainly means built-in naps for Mama (because everyone else manages to sleep through the "struggles") in the hammock are a must if we want to do anything productive the following day(s).  I certainly won't claim to be an expert in everything, so this is my plea for anyone with tips to get a 1-year-old to be ok in a sleeping bag to send them on our way!

But, like I say often on here, the experiences are absolutely worth it and practice makes perfect.  While our summer adventures mean being open to the fact that they could be cancelled (very) last minute due to a wildfire (thanks to Mtn Papa's job) we are working hard to cram everything in we can (while still remaining sane!)  It's part of the "no excuses" motto we try to live by.

Yes, it takes more work.
Yes, it can be draining.
Yes, mistakes are made and lessons learned.
Yes, sometimes I want to bag it and head on home.
AND
Yes, it brings us closer as a family.
Yes, it is getting easier as our kids get older.
Yes, every kid is different (which means different perks AND struggles).
Yes, we will continue doing it (the big AND the little adventures.)

This past weekend we spent some time talking about our current favorite bring-alongs for camping.  The things we miss when we don't have them and may not have thought about previously.  This list is not comprehensive and is a bit random, but worth sharing.  It's the little extras (so does not cover the basics like tent and sleeping bags!)  Plus, read to the end for your chance to win some of them!


Wednesday, July 4, 2012

*Guest Post* Part 2: How to Choose the Right Trekking Poles

Adam Nutting from Hiking the Trail joins us again today for his second installment on his Trekking Pole series.  As always, feel free to leave him feedback in the comments! And Happy Fourth of July! I hope you are enjoying the outdoors with your family today!

In my last post The Importance of Trekking Poles I talk about the many reasons why so many people are using them these days.

When choosing the right trekking poles you need to first consider what you will be doing with them. Will they be for hiking or maybe used for snow shoeing? There are many different models out there that are for multiple sports. Once you have determined how you will be using your trekking poles you need to take a trip down to your local outdoor outfitter. Trekking poles are like shoes. Sure you can try them on at home and send them back or you can go to the store and try on lots of them and find out which ones you like and dislike.

Some of the features you will have to decide from will be:

  1. Grip type
  2. Shaft materials
  3. Locking mechanisms
  4. Shock absorbers
  5. Height
  6. Weight
  7. Cost
Let’s take a look at each one of these items individually.

Grip type: Having a comfortable grip is very important especially if you are going to be using your trekking poles for a long duration. You do not want to end up with blisters on your feet and your hands. Plus it makes the trekking poles an extension of your body if you are not constantly nagged by your hands at how painful they are.  There are several grip types on the market. Cork, Foam, and Rubber are the most common. Cork fits to your hands better and resists moister the best. Foam absorbs moisture and is the softest. Rubber is best suited for colder weather activities by insulating hands from the cold. Rubber also has the higher chance to cause chafing or blisters.

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

*I'm a Runner* (Plus Backing Bia Sport and Ibex Momentum Review)

I am a runner.  I am a runner.  I am a runner.
Wearing Ibex Momentum Jacket - see running trail along the Yellowstone River behind me!
I have to continue stating that to  myself to let it sink in because, quite honestly, I am not a natural runner.  I don't have a "runner's body", I am certainly not breaking any records with speed, I would much rather be in a body of water any day, and running while pregnant (which has been a large part of my life for the last few years) is completely impossible for me.

So, why bother?

Because it makes me feel good.  It makes me stronger.  I am "addicted" to the rush of endorphins, and it is a great catalyst for keeping me in shape for other adventures.

But, more importantly, my kids see that running (which I do at 5 am so it is "me" time instead of "push the massive double stroller time") is an integrated part of my life (among other activities.)  I want to be an example of healthy living for them.  Later in life, I want it to be natural for them to turn to exercise instead of (insert questionable outlet here.)  I want them to see that anything is possible, challenge is good and hard work pays off.

And, so I run.  I am a runner.

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Jackson Hole Packrafts and Rentals Review + Giveaway

Despite the fact that Mtn Papa and I both grew up on lakes, so far we have not been a boating family.  We both LOVE water and spent many hours growing up water skiing, boating, canoeing, paddle-boating and ice skating (on lakes, so it's relevent. :))  The simple truth right now is that we live in an area where water is just not easily accessible.  The wind (which I find myself mentioning often) is also a factor when you have children and white-caps are fairly common.


Long story short, when a friend of a friend contacted me about doing a review of her Packrafts, I was psyched!  (in case you missed it, Amy did a guest post last week.)   Located 70 miles away from us, Jackson Hole Packrafts and Rentals not only rents boats locally, but also has a program where they will send you a Packraft for rent and include a prepackaged return label and box.  The perks?  Not having to buy a raft with the ability to keep it long-term (the rates drop dramatically with time.) 


A great list from the Packraft Site about what the rafts are good for (besides the obvious):
A packraft can…
1. Easily fit into a backpack, small plane, boat, or the trunk of your car.
2. Be used to cross a river that would otherwise be impassable on foot
3. Provide shelter during a heavy down poor or during an all night rain
4. Serve as a heavenly, soft ground pad for an afternoon nap or full night’s sleep
5. Facilitate travel during endurance races
6. Get you to that hot fishing hole on the other side of the creek
7. Haul your bike or skis during a multisport adventure
8. Be paddled around a pristine alpine lake
9. Carry your sheep or caribou as you float out from a seldom visited hunting spot
10. Be filled with water and let to sit in the warm sun – voila, your very own hot tub
11. Our addition: They are REALLY fun coming down a hill on snow! :)


Tuesday, May 15, 2012

The Mountain Life + Women's Mountain Khakis Review and Giveaway

Growing up the Matanuska Valley in Alaska (carved by glaciers a very long time ago =) and living now in the Wind River Range in Wyoming, I honestly can’t imagine my life anywhere BUT the mountains.  I love feeling like maybe there are still some places in this world that remain uncharted and mysterious.
Matanuska Valley, Alaska
The truth is that I feel somewhat exposed in wide-open places with nowhere to rest my eyes (except maybe a moving heat mirage.)  I am always looking just a little bit further into the horizon and am often surprised by a nagging feeling of unsettlement. 

The mountains let me breathe, hold my heart, and have encircled the family I grew up in and now my own growing family.  They are home for me. 
Tetons - view from Slide Lake area
While no community is perfect, I admire hard-working men and wind-blown women fretting just a little less about their appearance and a little more about getting their family outside.  In the mountains it is ok for kids to be glowing from a breathless day outside in the dirt and smelling like a campfire all summer (or winter!) long.  Quality family time is spent hiking, skiing, biking and stocking up firewood.   

This is who I am, and despite attempts to change it during my teenage years, this is who I will remain.  I am truly proud to be a “Mountain Mama”. 

Monday, May 14, 2012

Camping + Outdoorsy Books for Kids

Get ready!  Camping and s'more season is upon us.... (unless you live at 7000 feet and then you may still be digging out from under the snow.)
One of our favorite wedding gifts - a moveable fire pit (so we can avoid the wind!)
Since books are a love of mine that I work hard to share with my kids, I thought I would highlight a couple of our summer favorites!

A great book full of poems all about camping.  It will make you want to pack up and head out.  This is the one I plan on bringing this summer to read to the boys in the tent or around the campfire.


My favorite poem from the book (because s'mores are an integral part of camping, of course!):

Toasting Marshmallows

                                                                            BY KRISTINE O'CONNELL GEORGE
I am a careful marshmallow toaster,
a patient marshmallow roaster,
turning my stick oh-so-slowly,
taking my time, checking often.
This is art---
a time of serious reflection
as my pillowed confection
slowly reaches golden perfection.
 
My brother
            grabs ‘em with grubby hands
                        shoves ‘em on the stick
                                    burns ‘em to a crisp
                                                cools ‘em off
                                                            flicks soot
                                                                        eats quick.
 
I’m still turning my stick.
He’s already eaten six.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

*Gear Review* Osprey Syncro 15

This is the time of the year when we really switch gears and end up spending most of our traveling time on our bikes.  While we are bound to still have snow, it is certainly warming up quickly.  Between higher temperatures, a drier climate and the elevation (nearing 7000 feet here,) hydration is a must.  Since moving to Wyoming six years ago, I feel as though I am constantly battling the dry climate.  A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a post focusing on staying properly hydrated and nourished on the trail (for all ages.)  Sometime in the next few weeks, I will be going into a little more depth about the Geigerrig Hydration System (which I personally think is the very best out there for numerous reasons.)

However, actual hydration aside, I think that the packs hydration systems are kept in are equally important.  Bottom line: if the pack is comfortable and you want to wear it, you will be much more apt to keep at the task of drinking lots of water.


I am pretty excited about this new pack from Osprey (the Syncro 15).  In fact, that is an understatement (which Mtn Papa could verify because he has to listen to me rave about it every time we go biking....daily...)

Friday, April 20, 2012

FREE Hydration Systems from Geigerrig? Yes, Please!

I am taking a break from our normal "This Moment..." post today to bring you some really exciting news that I thought was good enough to share right.now.

Let me introduce you to Geigerrig Hydration Systems.  

Relatively new to the market and taking it by storm, I am pretty excited to get my hands on one of these systems and review it for you (coming soon!)  In the meantime, check out what is happening (and make sure you read all the way to the bottom of this post!)

What's Different about Geigerrig:
- Pressurized (through a had-bulb) system allows for spraying (and therefore no sharing of germs, etc. from the sucking action that is required by all other hydration systems.)  If you have kids, this means NO FLOATERS in your water!  Whoop!  This also means the ability to use the water to cool down or clean up on the trail.
- Easy to clean (bladder can go in the top rack of your dishwasher)
- You can purchase a filter that attaches to the tube which means unlimited drinking water usage even in the backcountry (without having to carry an additional filter).
- Bladders are seemingly (see contained bomb video below...) indestructible



Tuesday, April 17, 2012

The Shoulder Season + *Polarn O. Pyret Gear Review*

There is seldom a part of the summer that we don't end up wearing a jacket at least part of the day.  It is one thing I love about living at 7000 feet - nights are cool (and perfect for sleeping!)

We call this time of the year the "Shoulder Season" because we are stuck in somewhere in the middle of winter and summer (depending on the day...)  Snow AND 70+ degree (F) days are definitely possible and should be expected.

In an attempt to find some great kid jackets to replace their (very) warm Patagonia winter ones, I ran across another great company I have been itching to share:  Polarn O. Pyret.  A Swedish company devoted to letting kids get outside and play thanks to well-thought-out clothing.  They work hard to make sure their clothing can be passed on from sibling to sibling, to cousin, to friend....

In short:  I am impressed.

PO. P very generously sent us jackets for both of the boys.  It is obvious in the photos they are both a little big for them yet, but I have no problem sizing up for kids (all the more to grow into!)

Best Basic Shell Jacket $119


This jacket is perfect for our colder springs and falls.  Since it has the capability to connect to a wind fleece, it could certainly be used throughout the winter also.  It has withstood some tough playing, jumping and mudding!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Simplifying Adventures + Camelbak Kicker Gear Review

It's easy to get caught up in the notion that hikes as a family have to be BIG events.  We are (finally) entering into that time of the year when the days are longer, evenings are warmer and getting kids to come  back inside is a little more difficult.  It is the perfect time of the year to squeeze in a mini hike after work (or everyone's home from school, etc.) or even at lunch time (if you are really brave...lunch time/right-before-nap-time is pretty crazy at our house.)

But a hike is a hike.  And a "walk" can certainly be a "hike" too!  Either way, it is an absolutely ideal opportunity to instill a love for hiking with kids without a big commitment that meaning traveling with children can be (because we find that if we are driving 5 minutes or 3 hours, the gear necessary is astounding.)
Looking at deer

Thursday, April 5, 2012

*Gear Review* Chariot CTS

I can honestly say that our Chariot was some of the very best money we invested in our children as far as being able to get outside and be active with them.  We recommend them to everyone with children.

We bought our Chariot (thanks to help from some awesome baby shower money) back in 2009.  I will say right up front that they are certainly not cheap.  Currently, the Cougar 2 base chassis runs for $685 at REI.  And then you have to purchase at least one attachment to make it work.  We get the most use out of the Bike Trailer Kit ($75) , the XC Ski Kit ($275) , and the Jogging Kit ($100) , though there certainly are other attachments out there (like strolling wheels and a hiking kit)

Before you faint from sticker shock, please note that this could easily be the only stroller you need.  It works as a jogger (BOB strollers run from $400-$600 by themselves), bike trailer AND a solution for skiing.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

*Gear Review* Liberty Bottle Works + Giveaway

*Giveaway Closed!* Congrats to #34, Kristie S; #5, Susan S. and #24, Tiffany.  Please email me at mountainmamatales(at)gmail(dot)com with your first, second and third choices!  
Water bottles are exploding out of our cupboards more often than not.  Or our car.  Or the bike trailer.  


We use them constantly in an attempt to stay hydrated in the dry climate of Wyoming.  The benefits of water are abounding (we'll save that information for another day), and we know that running out of water (or just plain not drinking enough) can have disastrous results.


Our local gear shop, Wind River Gear, carries Liberty Bottles and they got my attention right away.  I simply loved that the lid only required 1/4 turn to close it (instead of turning and turning and turning...)


I looked into the company a little more and was thrilled to have a chance to try some out (and give some away.)  


We what love (and what makes Liberty Bottles different):
- BPA-free ("our coating insures no heavy metal leaching or porous surface for bacteria build up.")
- Made in the USA
- Made from recycled aluminum cans, and recyclable too.
- Food-grade coated interior prevents chips from the aluminum entering your drinking water.
- Varying designs from "everyday" artists.  AND you can make bottles with your own logo (if you order a minimum of 72 bottles)!!  One day, when I am rich, maybe there will be "Tales of a Mountain Mama" bottles ;)  Donations accepted ;) HA!
- They fit in "normal" spaces like cup holders (SO annoying when your bottles don't fit in those spaces!)

Thursday, March 22, 2012

*Gear Review* Sport Science Smarter Basics T-Shirts

I have to admit, I am no fashion diva.  Yes, I want to look nice, but more importantly, I want my clothes to perform for me and hold up between regular day-to-day activities AND biking, running, hiking, etc.  If I can't be active in something I am wearing, I am honestly just not going to reach for it on a daily level.

When Sport Science (since 2005) reached out to us to review some of their basic tees, we were thrilled about the concept of living comfortably in clothes that perform (but don't feel like they are performance clothing.)

Their philosophy:  do more. enjoy.  Now THAT is something I can handle!

What we love about the Tees:
- They really do feel like cotton, despite being a dry-fit, moisture-wicking fabric.
- Their Fresh Guard technology keeps any smell at bay (which is usually a HUGE problem for technical clothing.)  Both Mtn Papa and I have been wearing them for numerous days between washes (and I have been working out in mine and sweating plenty.)  The smell remains neutral.
- The fit is great - relaxed without being sloppy and plenty of length to allow for movement.
- They are basic and seem like a "normal T-shirt", but keep their shape and perform well.

Monday, March 19, 2012

*REVISED!* Choosing a Kid Carrier (Deuter vs. Kelty)

**Please note: After posting this review, a representative from Kelty kindly stepped in and informed us of a feature of the pack that we had somehow missed....(amazing how that can happen!)  I have revised this post, but did not revise the video (because it is hard to get a house quiet enough to do that with two young kids!)  But, we now know that you can compress the Kelty more by releasing those yellow straps that lie against the back panel. This allows the area where the child sits to fold down. They MUST be tightened prior to use to make the design work, but if you needed it as "thin" as possible you would want to loosen those straps as well.**

We have gotten fairly swamped with people wanting a fair comparison between the Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 and the Deuter Kid Carrier III (both packs that we have reviewed previously - links lead to those reviews on this blog.)  I am honestly not too keen on comparing the packs because there is certainly a HUGE amount of personal preference, but I also believe in doing real, honest reviews here and so will happily give our opinion!  While I personally believe these are two of the very best on the market right now, Osprey's Poco is starting to hit stores now, and who knows where that one will stand in the line-up!  It seems pretty great, but I haven't tested it myself.  I will certainly update this when we do!
Comparing how far they open up.
Comparing widths when compact (this is a revised photo - see note at top of post)
Let me start with saying that both carriers are excellent.  In our family they have both served their purpose and we reach for them for different things and usually for different kids.  This is absolutely our personal preference and opinions and the best way for you to make a decision about a carrier is to go into a store and try one on.


If you prefer to watch the comparison (easier to see some of the features...though note that this video is nothing professional! ;))




Thursday, March 15, 2012

Gear Review: Ice Queen Skirt by Skirt Sports

Skirts are hitting the big time out in the athletic world.  I have been watching them change and improve over the past few years and continue to be impressed.  It is not uncommon to see gals wearing them for running races, out skiing or just around Jackson (which we consider the local ski town and people wear their gear to the bar.)  They bring functionality and femininity together for women who continue to be active (and hate changing their clothes numerous times throughout the day!)

I wrote a post a few months back about the Skhoop skirt and using it for winter sports.  Warm skirt, but definitely not super stretchy for lots of movement.  Skirts Sports has another version of an outdoor winter skirt that is definitely more forgiving when using it to be active.  The Ice Queen is essentially a winter athletic pant with a skirt for added coverage.  I also claim that extra layer of the skirt adds just a tad more warmth (which I find helpful!)


What I love:
- Windproof thigh panels and skirt (HUGE in Windy Wyoming!) The thigh panels extend past the knee making the coverage more than adequate. The rest of the piece (that is not the windproof panels) is stretchy and soft.
- The skirt doesn't get in the way of my movement, but still does provide a bit of "modesty coverage" especially for aerobic sports where tight-fitting clothes are more comfortable anyway (XC skiing, snowshoeing, skiing).
- They are great for running, snowshoeing, and XC skiing.  I did wear them backcountry alpine skiing once with long underwear beneath them, but they don't fit over the larger alpine ski boots quite as well and I felt as though I should be wearing a little more for the conditions.
- Their boot-leg shape and 9" boot zipper allows for fitting over nordic ski boots and running shoes.
- The attaching of the pants and skirt is such that no chafing will happen.  The construction of the skirt is absolutely secure and tough.
- Two small pockets (hidden under the skirt on both sides) hold an ipod/gel easily.  Love the music port too! (see photo below for sizing peek of pockets/music port)



Monday, March 12, 2012

Inspiration to Get Out There! (+ Gear Giveaway)

*Contest closed, Congratulations to Tanya, lucky #5! Don't forget to check out the promo code if you didn't win!*

It is no secret that we are huge proponents of getting outside and being active.  That is what this blog is all about....and it is the reason we put so much energy into it.  We believe whole-heartedly in the benefits of fresh air, exercise, and trying new things!  We want to inspire and be inspired.

Inspiration comes in all forms: challenges from those we love, challenges from those we imitate and admire, and challenges from nature as our bodies learn to move in different ways.

As a family, we tend to like to switch things up a bit with the seasons and on a whim.  We are ok with biking in the winter (because we can around here) and Mtn Papa always loves to get a ski in in June just to say he did (again, because we can!)
We also love to challenge each other with new interests....which also tends to result in more gear around here, but we live with the consequences...  I taught Mtn Papa how to skate ski, and he taught me all I know about backcountry alpine skiing.  We encourage each other to get a run in (or get back into running and hiking after babies) and individually and collaboratively support hikes off the trail, training for fun races and trying new sports.

Keeping things fresh and being supportive between spouses, family members and friends is key to continuing to get outside and remaining active.  I, personally, love the backcountry because it is always offering a new perspective, new views, and new challenges (and it is for the opposite reasons that I loathe the treadmill!)

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

A Week of SKI + Lucky Bums Ski Trainer Review

With very young kids, downhill skiing is nearly impossible, especially if you want to use the lifts at resorts AND ski with your spouse.  It's just a fact of life. :)  I look forward to the day when our whole family can ski together.   However, thanks to my lovely in-laws this past week, I was able to do both (in small increments of time, but skiing none-the-less!)  Unless you've been in the same position, there is no describing how wonderful just a few hours of a little freedom can be (as much as I love my kids!)

Not only did I get to ski with just the "older" family members we were with, I also got to join together with Mountain Papa one of the mornings to help J learn on his own skis.  It was great to get some time with just one kid AND help see him learn (because I can learn from that process too!)

We were fortunate enough to have a chance to test out a Lucky Bums Ski Trainer this week also.  If you have kids learning to ski, this is THE harness to have (in our humble opinion!)

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Snacks on the Hill + Go Go squeeZ Giveaway

*Congratulations to JLJMommy (#12), Blair(#2), and Connie(#4)!  Email me at mountainmamatales(at)gmail(dot)com to claim your samples!*

When you have kids and are outside and active, snacks are a must (for the sanity of all involved!)  A few weeks ago, I did a post about some of the food we regularly pack when we are out adventuring (which also includes a recipe for Homemade Pocket Sandwiches.)

As a general rule, we tend to stay away from a lot of the pre-packaged stuff.  If I had all the time and energy in the world, we would honestly eat completely from scratch.  However, reality sets in and the truth is that I would rather spend that time with my young boys and husband than in the kitchen all day long.

As a trade-off, I am picky about what we DO eat pre-packaged.  I try to limit sugar, unnecessary preservatives and waste from packaging.

A few months ago, I ran across GoGo squeeZ applesauce packets and they have turned into one packaged snack that we consistently use for the boys.  I believe in them enough to share them with you!

What we love about GoGo squeeZ:
- portioned out packets that result in no-mess (even when we are feeding them to P.)
- easy for on the trail, ski hill, car and general travel (we have to ration them out to J because he loves them that much - they are his "treat"...without all the sugar!)
- all natural and no added sugar
- gluton, dairy and nut free
- 100 % fruit
- resealable (J easily finishes a packet, but P usually is eating on it for a few feedings.)
- Plenty of applesauce-based flavors: apple, apple-stawberry, apple-peach, apple-banana, apple-cinnamon, and apple-berry.  We have only tried the regular apple, but would love to try the others!
- Their recycling system (see my corrections below!)

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

*Gear Review* Bogs Boots

I am always searching for a great pair of boots to keep my feet warm and dry.  I feel like you can definitely skimp with some gear, but boots and gloves are worth spending a little money for.  Bogs are certainly the rage right now in the outdoor world, and I was thrilled to have a chance to give them a try!


Truth be told, I have actually been putting off this review for a little bit because I was having troubles with my Bogs keeping my feet warm.  I wanted to be sure I tested them again and again before I posted my final results here (because that is only fair to you all AND to Bogs!)  Please note that this review is my own personal experience.  Your own experience could certainly be different (and I would LOVE to hear about it in the comments!) 


What I love:
- Easy-on (I grab them and go!)
- The handle (makes carrying them and putting them on a cinch.)
- They have incredible arch support and are very comfortable (not something I was expecting.)
- The width: Bogs are made with four-way stretch Neo-Tech that accommodates all shapes of feet.  Perfect.
- The height.  Plenty of room around the calf for tucking pants in, leaving the ability for lots of high-snow-pile jumping!
- The colors/patterns available.  
- The traction (I feel comfortable wearing them, walking on ice/snow AND carrying my kids.)

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Staying Organized with all that GEAR! (Transpack Review + Giveaway)

With two young kids, a dog, our skis, our boots, our warm gear, extra layers, food, etc. etc. our car is bursting with stuff.

It drives me crazy (and I refuse to post a picture here of what it looks like in reality!)

We are usually pretty organized as we leave home, but by the time we are done with our adventure and heading back, a gear tornado has taken over our vehicle.

We usually finish our ski (or hike, etc.) and throw the kids into the car, quickly take off gloves and boots to make sure extremities are warm, and give them a snack (and dig through quickly-shed jackets to get there) before they start getting really fussy.  Two minutes of craziness means no organization what-so-ever.

However, we have gotten better, thanks to being more consistent about our packing and trying to enforce a system (despite the madness!)

What we do for the shorter trips (in the area):
- All P's clothing (hats, gloves, booties) are zipped into his snowsuit and then put into the community duffel bag.
- J wears his snow pants and boots to the trail.
- Mountain Papa and I also wear our ski pants and ski boots to the trail.
- All our extra gear is thrown into a big duffle.

When we're going a little further:
- Everyone's gear goes into separate bags (though for now the kids share one bag.)
- Mittens are paired and stuck into hats and then into coat sleeves.
- Boots have their own pockets in said bags (wait for it....) to keep them separate from other stuff (avoiding mud and snow/water on everything.)
- We bring a bag specifically for snacks and water bottles.  All empty containers and fruit peels return to that bag (we usually carry a reusable trash sack for the garbage.)
- The car does not move until all gear (wet or not) returns back to its spot.  Because we usually are going to need that stuff again (coats for dinner later or hats and gloves and snow pants for sledding, etc.) we want to know where it is.
- When we get home, our railing is full of the wet stuff to dry!

THE bag(s) that helps keep that organization a little better:
Edge Jr. and XTW in Gray/Lemongrass Multi Floral