Weekend reading: Gritty adventure video and photos

I am blatantly stealing an idea from the DNR. Every week, they do a roundup of “Recent research, discoveries and other news about forests, climate, energy and other science topics” on their blog. I love this feature. It always has several fascinating articles.

So, here’s my roundup of interesting/crazy/funny/absurd stuff I’ve come across on the Internet recently.

The video above is from Backcountry.com. It shows gorgeous scenery, exhausted climbers, spectacular falls and crashes. In short, it shows the highs and lows of outdoor adventures. “You already know how bad it can hurt, but then you remember how damn good it can be.” This video makes me want to climb a mountain.

Andrew Skurka, an adventure guide and writer, wrote up his thoughts on the recent Fastest Known Times set on the Pacific Crest Trail. I love Skurka’s blog and it was interesting to get his perspective.

Red Bull organizes an annual photo contest of action and adventure sports. Alan Taylor at The Atlantic has collect some favorites here. A bunch of the photos are from the Northwest, including No. 24, a gorgeous shot in the North Cascades.

The Washington Trails Association has an important reminder. Aug. 1 was the beginning of bear hunting season. And in some areas elk hunting is open. They have good tips to stay safe on the trail during hunting season.

Here’s another reason to go camping. A week away from electric lights can reset your circadian rhythms.

A puffin cam took up more of my time recently than I’d like to admit. The little chick is expected to fledge soon. Pufflings fledge at night, and I can’t deny I’m tempted to stay up and watch.

Empty and full. A Swiss photographer, fascinated by contrast of jam-packed New York and the empty and open Grand Canyon, created a series of photos of each and then put them together. The images are startling and stunning.

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