Do you have an adventurer on your gift list? Someone who’d rather be outside, no matter the weather? If so, here are some ideas to keep your adventurer safe and happy. (And yes, it’s also totally fine to add these items to your own wish list.)
Maps: Every outdoor enthusiast loves maps. Green Trails recently updated their folded maps and they’re great. I’ve used them on a number of hikes this year and they lived through the horrible things I do to my maps. For the record, you probably shouldn’t use your map to keep your butt dry while you eat lunch on a snowy log. But, with these maps, you totally can. Check them out at greentrailsmaps.com.
Headlamp: A flashlight that attaches to your head is endlessly useful. And, at least in my case, they also apparently defy physics. Mine constantly vanish into some sort of black hole. So maybe buy two. You can find these at pretty much any outdoors store. Look for one with at least 80 lumens if it’s going to be used for hiking or running at night.
Personal locator: For anyone who is really serious about adventuring, a locator beacon could save their life. It’s like 911 for the wilderness. Read more about the options here.
Hiking skirt: How genius is this idea? You can stay dry while hiking without the suffocating feeling of rain pants. Just slip the skirt over your regular hiking pants, and you’re golden. Conveniently, these would double nicely a small ground-tarp for sitting down. I like the look of these. For something even simpler and lighter, try a Rain Kilt.
Access: What about a Discover Pass for state parks or a Northwest Forest Pass, for Forest Service land? Give the gift of outdoor fun all year long.
Learning: The North Cascades Institute is offering gift certificates to use toward programs in 2015. NCI offers a wide variety of classes for all ages at its learning center on Diablo Lake and around the state. Until Dec. 22, $80 will get you $100 worth of classes or other programs. Purchase them by calling 360-854-2599 or emailing nci@ncascades.org. (Hint: You can also buy for yourself.)
Membership: You could give a membership for any group that fits your recipient’s interest. Two of my favorites are the Washington Trails Association and The Mountaineers. Either of those memberships comes with a subscription to the group’s magazine.
Thermos: For anyone who likes to play outside in the winter, a good thermos is a necessity. Consider one with a wide mouth to make it easier to bring along soup.
Water filter: Because giardia is no fun at all. I just heard about the Sawyer mini-filter and now it’s on my wish list. It’s light and versatile and only costs $25.
LifeProof case: LifeProof offers a variety of cases for smartphones or other devices. They’ll protect spendy gadgets from drops or unexpected swims. Check out the options here.
“Fit for Life” book: This fitness guide focuses on outdoor fitness and was written by a Seattle athletic trainer. Check it out here. (We wrote a story about this book a while back.)
Cozy chair: I haven’t had the chance to try it yet, but I hear great things about the REI Flex Lite Chair. I’ve got to say, it would feel like quite a luxury to not be sitting on the ground.
A flask: Filled with the recipient’s favorite liquor, of course. Here’s one option. Similarly, check out these wine bladders. I use them frequently and they work great. And if you prefer, you can put liquor in them. Or any liquid, really.
I owe thanks for many of these ideas to the Washington Hikers and Climbers group on Facebook. If you haven’t yet, you should really check them out. They’re a lively and entertaining group. Just beware, a few minutes there and you’ll have added a dozen hikes to your to-do list.
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