You can view a park map here. Arches National Park is one of the most unique and vibrant national parks of the U.S. The top hike in the park is the Devils Garden Loop, which is 7.2 miles long, and hits great views of eight awe-inspiring arches.

Arches National Park - Photo by J. Mays

You can view a park map here. Arches National Park offers very accessible hikes, so expect the shorter hikes to be somewhat busy. The Devils Garden Loop is the least frequented hike and takes you away from the busier areas of the park! In the not-to-distant future, Black Rucksack will be travelling to Moab, UT once again to travel and test some less frequented hikes!

Arches National Park - Photo by J.Mays

Best time of the year (with moderate temperatures and generally clear) to visit? April, May or October, with April being the wettest month. If you love the heat and lots of visitors, then June, July and August often offer temperatures over 100. Bring your water!

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It’s plays like this that demonstrate why the word “Datsyukian” needed to be [...]]]> For those of you who haven’t seen Pavel Datsyuk in action this video is your introduction to an extreme hockey talent. The man is a magician.  Be sure to note the time on the clock…

Pavel the Magician

It’s plays like this that demonstrate why the word “Datsyukian” needed to be created.  Datsyukian indeed!

Editor’s Note: Welcome back to Black Rucksack! We took a hiatus and we’re back now; we’re moving on down the trail.

Attention adventurers!  Attention hikers!  Attention trail runners!  Attention bikers! Remember that hot, muggy summer day that suddenly turned into a cool (almost cold), muggy summer night?  Remember starting your dune climb in [...]]]>

Stand-up to the wind...

Editor’s Note: Welcome back to Black Rucksack! We took a hiatus and we’re back now; we’re moving on down the trail.

Attention adventurers!  Attention hikers!  Attention trail runners!  Attention bikers! Remember that hot, muggy summer day that suddenly turned into a cool (almost cold), muggy summer night?  Remember starting your dune climb in a blistering heat at the bottom and then upon arrival at an overlook for the ocean or a Great Lake, getting hit with a cool from-the-water wind?  Well, say goodbye to not having an easily packable piece of wind gear to protect from cool nights and lake or ocean breezes.  Meet the GoLite Dakota Wind Shirt…

This shirt has three stand-out features.  First off, this “GoLite” product really is lite; it’s only 4 ounces (103 grams) and packs down into its own (apple sized) pouch.  That makes it convenient for bringing along on any outdoor exploit or stowing in the car with other emergency gear.  Second, the stretch nylon side panels allow for maximum mobility; you’ll be able to climb, paddle and adventure with ease.  Third, the Dakota Wind Shirt’s fabric perfectly blends durability and breathability.  It’s tough enough to be worn through a trail ride spill and it won’t cause you to overheat even when you’re at 110%.  That is a rare combination, indeed.

Really, there is only one slight con to this jacket, and it’s based on a personal preference… the 3/4 zip should simply be a full zip.  A full zip would improve mobility and allow for quick, hassle-less on and off.  All in all though, we recommend this jacket.

Bottom Line:
Worthy of howling back at the wind!

Specifications:
-4 oz. (103 grams)
-3/4 Zip
-Recycled, anti-static fabric
-Stretch Nylon side panels for improved fit
-Self-stowing lower back pocket
-Reflective logos

Get the GoLite Dakota Wind Shirt:
-at Amazon.com

For example, the home bar can be the focal point of a night [...]]]>

For getting that cold one open ASAP...

Gone are the days of treating your home bar as if it were yours and yours only. No, these in-house-drink-serving-places-of-relaxation can be more than just an extra room to kick back and play pool; they can be shared and enjoyed by many.

For example, the home bar can be the focal point of a night of entertaining guests, family or otherwise. If you’re stuck with the neighbors who you didn’t really want to invite over but had to, at least you have liquor.  Or, it can be the place to getaway from it all and play five card stud or the ‘ol Army game with your five closest buddies, surrounded by cigar smoke and fine whisky.  Regardless of how you enjoy your home bar it always needs a few bold, powerful drinking tools.

Enter the ZACK Wall-Mounted Bottle Opener. It’s bold, it’s tough as hell and it’ll fit in seamlessly onto a wall in your bar. Made of 18/10 stainless steel, it has that perfect shine that’ll blend with all the rest of your stainless steel bar tools. It’s not the classic cast iron bottle opener, then again, it’s not snobby either.  It mounts easily with the included screws and adds more bottle opening power to your bar.

The ZACK Wall-Mounted Bottle Opener is a welcome addition to the world of bar tools. Get one for your home bar or as an early Christmas gift for a friend today! It’s simple, effective and faultless for cracking open pilseners, lagers and ales for all.

Get the ZACK Wall-Mounted Bottle Opener:
-at Amazon.com

There are some guys that from the moment you meet them, you know they have what it takes to succeed. I met Damian back in 2000 at in Internet company [...]]]> Damian Rintelmann, the Director of Interactive Business Development for integrated marketing communications firm Hart Associates is the June 2009 Black Rucksack Polestar!

There are some guys that from the moment you meet them, you know they have what it takes to succeed. I met Damian back in 2000 at in Internet company in East Lansing, MI and knew immediately that he was one of those guys. And for the past nine years, he has proven to be exactly that. Damian is an industry leader in digital marketing, a well-regarded community organizer and one of the fastest guys I’ve ever seen on the ice.

Check out the interview here!

Excerpt:
What is one adventure or event that you’ve experienced that shook you at your core?
-There was one trip in particular that shook me to my core. I was backpacking with a relative out in Arizona. We were up in the mountains, 60 miles from the closest town and there was an unexpected snowfall. We didn’t have the right gear, and found out really quickly what a mistake it was.

These headphones use silicone ear-cushions to accomplish noise isolation and provide [...]]]>

Finally, ear buds that are actually comfortable...

Earphones, specifically ear buds, have come a long way in the past few years and recently they’ve taken another big leap. The Logitech Ultimate Ears 700 skillfully blend comfort and performance into one small bundle.

These headphones use silicone ear-cushions to accomplish noise isolation and provide a nice in-ear fit. Most ear buds that claim to be “comfortable” and to “fit well” are just BS’ing for their marketing literature. The Logitech Ultimate Ears 700′s however, really are comfortable.

Unless you’re an audiophile, it can be hard to justify spending more than $50 on any set of headphones. But, if you’re looking for a set worth every penny, then check out the Logitech Ultimate Ears 700.

This [...]]]>

It's grillin' time!

It’s officially grilling season here in Michigan and grilling at the park, on the road or at the beach has never been easier than this. Coleman has a grill, the Coleman RoadTrip Grill LXE, that is perfect for throwing in the truck or SUV and hitting the road.

This grill is propane fed, has two 10,000 BTU burners and has 285 square inches of cooking surface area. That’s a little more than 1/2 the space on an average size deck grill and good size for grilling for two to four people.  The grill also has two side tables that attach easily for extra food preparation space (or a place to set down your favorite beer).

Fully expanded, the Coleman RoadTrip Grill LXE measures 46″L x 18″D x 35″H. Collapsed, the grill measures 36″L x 18″D x 13″H and weighs about 44 lbs (without extras).

There are several additional add-ons including optional grill surfaces and a grill bag available from Coleman. And, if you need tools for this grill, check out the Black Rucksack article Grill Tools for Grilling Right.

EDIT: After posting this article a good friend of mine (Brad) e-mailed me to tell me that his experience with this grill was less than good.  Brad pointed out that the grill is definitely not “manproof”.  That said, from my usage of this grill I believe it is road trip suitable but I think Brad has a damn good point… it’s not tough enough for everyday use or for two-trackin’ deep into the Michigan woods.

Get the Coleman RoadTrip Grill LXE:
-at Cabela’s
-at Amazon

As we all know, a flashlight typically has at least a few fragile components. Therefore, often it is essential to take close care of your flashlight. That does not work for me because I treat my [...]]]>

Turn the light on...

Leatherman, known for their multi-tools, also produces an LED flashlight worth noting… the Serac S3.

As we all know, a flashlight typically has at least a few fragile components. Therefore, often it is essential to take close care of your flashlight. That does not work for me because I treat my flashlight just like any other piece of gear. And therefore, I was breaking a lot of flashlights. Thankfully, my Leatherman Serac S3 has held up very well to the many tests I’ve put it through, ie. hiking, boating, camping and road tripping.

The Serac S3 has three settings and can put out up to 100 Lumen on high. Granted, set that high a full battery will only last about an hour but, the high setting is great for signaling and other short uses. The medium setting pushes out 43 Lumen for four hours per battery and the low (normal) setting 7 Lumen for up to thirty-six hours. The low is plenty bright for most uses including map reading, hiking, setting up a tent, etc.

Also of note, the flashlight body is made of a hard-anodized aluminum, has a 10 year warranty and is resistant to humidity, corrosion and shock. Tough… as… hell.

Get the Leatherman Serac S3 Flashlight:
-at Cabela’s
-at Amazon

Every single [...]]]>

Doc Martens… they’re like a vacation for your feet. I don’t consider Doc Martens the quintessential footwear but they do make a lot of choice gear. And one such piece of gear that is perfect for this summer season is their Robson Ringo Open Toe Sandal.

Every single pair of Docs I’ve owned have been durable beyond that of any other brand. These open toe sandals are no exception to that rule. The stitching is tough, the footbed is very comfortable and the fit is ideal.

A constant problem that I’ve had with sandals is that they are unwearable for an entire day, especially if there was a lot walking or hiking to do. On the rock, these sandals perform better than expected. On sand, cement and underwater they perform well enough to be worn every day.

I have a water dog (1/2 Labrador Retriever, 1/2 Rhodesian Ridgeback) and these shoes are perfect for taking her into the nearby Bear Lake for a swim.

Editor’s Note: Happy Birthday to the youngest Swider, William!  He’s four!

In a world of IPAs, lagers and whisky it’s easy for a guy to ignore wine. That said, we want to make something clear… do… not… ignore… wine. We won’t go into all of the merits of wine here.  Just remember, there is [...]]]>  

Wall-mounted and out of the way!

Editor’s Note: Happy Birthday to the youngest Swider, William!  He’s four!

In a world of IPAs, lagers and whisky it’s easy for a guy to ignore wine. That said, we want to make something clear… do… not… ignore… wine. We won’t go into all of the merits of wine here.  Just remember, there is a lot of good damn wine out there, perfect for just about every social occasion. Note: There is no acceptable wine to drink while watching a hockey game or while fishing. For those activities, you’ll be best served by something brewed or distilled and from Canada.

In a future post we’ll get into what wines are for what occasions. For now, buy a bunch, find what you like and rack it in the Blomus Wall-Mounted Wine Rack.

The biggest problem with most wine racks is that they tend to be obtrusive and inconveniently occupy some needed area. Since this wine rack is wall-mounted it takes up very little space and is perfect for those of us in small houses, condos or apartments.

This rack is made of stainless steel and is incredibly solid and durable.

First off, most of the downtown area and especially the “Arena District” is well organized, easy to navigate [...]]]>

Rivals...

Downtown Columbus, Ohio has a lot to offer for the guy who just loves to travel or the guy who is looking for a simple vacation with the big city feel but without the big city hassle.

First off, most of the downtown area and especially the “Arena District” is well organized, easy to navigate and densely populated with quality restaurants and bars. We ventured to Gordon Biersch Brewery, Frog Bear & Wild Boar Bar and Buca di Beppo’s. Of those three restaurants Buca di Beppo, a family Italian eatery, had the best food, Gordon Biersch Brewery had the best drinks and Frog Bear & Wild Boar Bar had the best atmosphere and was the perfect place to close out a night. All were quality establishments and are worth a visit.

The Arena District is so named for Nationwide Arena, home of the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets. The Blue Jackets have been in Columbus since 2000 and by the looks of it, they’ll make the playoffs this year for the first time in franchise history. Personally, I’m a Detroit Red Wings fan but, it’s always fun to catch a game in another city; especially if you can get tickets like we had… one row off the glass. Sitting that close you’ll better understand the speed and the grit that is the NHL. See the previous Black Rucksack article on the NHL experience and get tickets from StubHub!

More rivals...

Another feature in Columbus a few miles outside of downtown is the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium; one of the best zoos in the country. It’s a good place to relax and enjoy a sunny Spring afternoon. A zoo typically isn’t the place for a hardcore adventure (unless something escapes) but, a lot of the kids, girlfriends and wives you guys have will enjoy it.

This is just a taste of what downtown Columbus, Ohio offers… find a hotel and book it now!

Gordon Biersch Brewery – $$$
3.5 out of 5 Rucksacks
-

Frog Bear & Wild Boar Bar – $$
4 out of 5 Rucksacks
-

Buca di Beppo – $$$
4 out of 5 Rucksacks

If an [...]]]>

Breathe right...

Snowboarding is one way I know I can relax. I snowboard mostly in Michigan but, many years ago I ventured to Durango, Colorado. I learned a lot from that experience including how the difference in the snowpack was drastic. One concern in Colorado, that we don’t see hardly ever in Michigan, was avalanches.

If an avalanche did occur and you managed to get yourself buried, Black Diamond, a company largely known for their snow gear, has a simple item that could save your life… the Black Diamond AvaLung II.

The AvaLung II is meant to extend your breathable air supply once trapped in an avalanche. When you inhale through the AvaLung’s tube, you’ll receive oxygenated air from one area of the snowpack. Upon exhaling, the AvaLung diverts the airflow to another part of the snowpack, not contaminating your breathable air supply and extending the time you can survive until a rescue team locates you. And, to help that rescue team find you sooner rather than later, consider carrying a locator beacon such as the SPOT Satellite Personal Messenger.

Get the Black Diamond AvaLung II:
-at MooseJaw
-at Amazon
-at EMS

Solace is sometimes hard to find...

Quantum of Solace is the chronicle of a man on a mission of revenge.  His love was struck down in the previous movie, Casino Royale, and this movie picks up immediately after.  What then unfolds is a tough, angry all-out action feast and of course, contains much of the necessary style, gear, (fast) women and (fast) cars.

It’s a jolt of adrenaline and highly kinetic from the start to the finish… and every bit the Bond we need.

4 out of 5 Rucksacks

James Bond: Quantum of Solace DVD
$17

James Bond: Quantum of Solace Blu-Ray
$25

Ducati is a prominent brand of high performance motorcycles and likewise, they hock quality apparel and gear. As an Italian manufacturer typically associated with racing bikes, they’ve also achieved notoriety for their sport/street bikes.

The Ducati Meccanica Hooded Sweatshirt is one of the many faultless ways to show [...]]]>

Ducati is a prominent brand of high performance motorcycles and likewise, they hock quality apparel and gear. As an Italian manufacturer typically associated with racing bikes, they’ve also achieved notoriety for their sport/street bikes.

The Ducati Meccanica Hooded Sweatshirt is one of the many faultless ways to show your affinity for the brand. It’s one of the nine items in the Meccanica apparel line and is embroidered with the Ducati logo and  Ducati Meccanica in writing.

The sweatshirt is stylish and the perfect weight for an outside layer in cool and warm weather or an insider layer in cold weather.

You can find this hooded sweatshirt and the rest of the Ducati offered gear at the Ducati website.  And if you have time, be sure to check out the bikes too… not just the apparel.

Ducati Meccanica Hooded Sweatshirt
$114

When my brother and I were kids, we lived on 20 acres of property on the western side of Michigan’s lower peninsula. We first moved to the heavily wooded property when I was six and my younger brother was four years old. For fun we often riled up the [...]]]>

Spotted...

Editor’s Note: Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

When my brother and I were kids, we lived on 20 acres of property on the western side of Michigan’s lower peninsula. We first moved to the heavily wooded property when I was six and my younger brother was four years old. For fun we often riled up the dogs, built tree forts and explored (or wandered) the property and adjacent property until we would inadvertently (and inevitably) get lost. Now that we’re adults, we still enjoy riling up the dogs, we build decks and garages instead of tree forts and we never get lost… at least not without a GPS and/or a SPOT Satellite Personal Messenger.

The purpose of the SPOT is simple… location, location, location. In a two step process it will locate you via GPS satellites and then use commercial satellites to send out your location. You can send out a request for an emergency response using the “Alert 911″ function or you can simply send a “Check in” location update. Using the location update, you can tie-in Google Maps plotting to chart the path you’ve taken.

The SPOT Satellite Personal Messenger requires a $99 annual subscription which seems inexpensive for what the unit offers; a return home. It weighs approximately 8 ounces and is very rugged, capable of surviving extreme temperatures and being submerged up to a meter deep.

SPOT Satellite Personal Messenger
$150

at Amazon
at Eastern Mountain Sports
at REI

Man vs. Wild just wrapped up its [...]]]>

Bear necessities...

Watching Man vs. Wild with Bear Grylls is almost like being on an adventure but from your home. The host of the show, Bear, is mind-blowing to watch as he goes through many extreme challenges in some of the most remote places on Earth.

Man vs. Wild just wrapped up its third season with a jaunt through the Carpathian Mountains in Romania. Amongst his other terra-triumphs from season three are the Yukon in Canada, Belize and Hells Canyon in Oregon, USA. Bear perfectly balances information and entertainment all whilst eating things most of us will never have to eat and facing tough physical challenges.

In some cases, Bear enters into a situation to demonstrate specific survival techniques.  His shelter craftsmanship is quite impressive as is his climbing ability. Though there are a lot of things that you’ll learn from Bear, it is important to keep in mind that a key part of survival happens before you even embark on the adventure; research is critical to going into the field.

Enjoy this show… it’ll take you around the world and you’ll be able to glean some knowledge from it as well!

Man vs. Wild
Monday at 10pm ET on Discovery

This coat has several features that make it ideal for most day-to-day [...]]]>

Rugged... resilient...

The Filson company has a long, reputable history among “hunters and fishermen, engineers and explorers, mariners and miners” alike. Their gear is well-known as being among the toughest gear for the outdoorsman; the Filson Shelter Cloth Packer Coat is no exception.

This coat has several features that make it ideal for most day-to-day outdoor work and travel. It is made of a ‘shelter cloth’ which is named after military shelter tents due to its durability. The oil finish and is paraffin treated to aid in repelling water. There are pockets-a-plenty on this jacket as well; perfect for tools, knives, or any impromptu item you may need to carry.

Critical to any jackets performance is its hardware. The zipper, grommets and snaps on this coat are damn high quality and will themselves last longer than the coat. With all of the above features and a moleskin-lined collar, this coat will always keep you well-protected and comfortable!

Filson Shelter Cloth Packer Coat
$275