Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.gadling.com/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Impact of climate change on the Himalaya far less than estimated]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/impact-of-climate-change-on-the-himalaya-far-less-than-estimated/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/impact-of-climate-change-on-the-himalaya-far-less-than-estimated/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/impact-of-climate-change-on-the-himalaya-far-less-than-estimated/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Climate change in the Himalaya is far less than previoiusly thoughtA new climate change study, released this past Thursday, has surprised some experts and blown some major holes in the doom and gloom predictions that have been given out in recent years. In fact, the new study, which was published in the scientific journal Nature, found that there has been virtually no ice lost in the Himalaya over the past decade, which runs contrary to reports that many climatologists have given over that same time period.

In this new study, satellites were used for the first time to track the loss of ice in glaciers and the polar ice caps. Previously, teams of scientists would have to visit the glaciers themselves, and measure the changes manually. This was a time consuming and challenging process, and only allowed them to visit a few locations. The satellites gave researchers the opportunity to see the big picture more fully, and what they found was quite surprising.

Previous climate change studies estimated that the loss of ice in the Himalaya Mountains was quickly approaching 50 billion tons per year, but the satellites showed that the actual loss was closer to 4 billion tons annually, which one scientist in the study labeled as insignificant. That means that while the glaciers are indeed still melting, they are doing it at a far less alarming rate than we've been led to believe in the past. Researchers went on to say that the contribution to rising sea levels, from these melting glaciers and the ice caps, was less than half what had been predicted by other recent reports.

This research project began in 2003 and ran through 2010, giving the scientists involved an opportunity to observe changes over a substantial amount of time. Their findings fly in the face of predictions from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which once predicted that the Himalayan glaciers could be completely gone by 2035, a statement they were forced to retract later.

All of these different climate change reports just indicate to me that we really don't know what the hell is going on with our planet.

Impact of climate change on the Himalaya far less than estimated originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelclimate changeclimate change himalayaClimateChangeClimateChangeHimalayaglaciershimalayahimalayan mountainsHimalayanMountainshimalayassatelliteSun, 12 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate 50 years of skiing Breckenridge with great deals on lodging]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/11/celebrate-50-years-of-skiing-breckenridge-with-great-deals-on-lo/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/11/celebrate-50-years-of-skiing-breckenridge-with-great-deals-on-lo/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/11/celebrate-50-years-of-skiing-breckenridge-with-great-deals-on-lo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Skiing Breckenridge is easy with good deals on lodgingBreckenridge is celebrating its 50th anniversary this winter, by offering a number of great deals on lift tickets and lodging alike. Now that winter has finally arrived in Colorado, bringing plenty of powder along with it, it is a perfect time to hit the slopes at last.

As we mentioned last week, ski resorts across the western United States have finally been receiving healthy doses of snow, and Breckenridge is no exception. So far this season, the area has had more than 150 inches of powder dumped on it, and currently Breckenridge has a base of about 51 inches. That means that all of the lifts, and nearly all of the runs, are currently open for business.

To entice visitors to come ski or ride some of the best snow in North America, several of the lodges there are currently running some great specials. For instance, the Village at Breckenridge, which is a ski-in/ski-out resort, is offering up to a 30% discount on double occupancy rooms through April 15. Similarly, the near by Mountain Thunder Lodge has a great weekday rate that allows travelers to book two nights and get a third one free, which also runs through the 15th of April. Even the Doubletree by Hilton is getting in on the action by offering bonus points for their HHonors members who stay there through the end of April. For a complete rundown of these deals, and others, click here.

The snow may have been late in coming this year, but there is still plenty of time left to enjoy the ski season. Breckenridge is truly one of the best destinations around for doing just that, and in its 50th year of operation, there are some good discounts to help skiers and snowboarders enjoy the mountain.

Celebrate 50 years of skiing Breckenridge with great deals on lodging originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Teva Winter Mountain Games Being TodayThe first-ever Teva Winter Mountain Games get underway today in Vail, Colorado, where some of the top pro and amateur outdoor athletes have gathered to compete in a variety of sports. The event, which lasts through the weekend, will also feature a number of concerts, gear giveaways, clinics, and more.

Some of the sports that the athletes will be competing in including ice climbing, Nordic and telemark skiing, snowshoeing, and on-snow cycling. Even man's best friend can get in on the action, as there are several events for dogs to compete too. But the biggest event of the weekend is the Ultimate Mountain Challenge, which features three different sports spread out over three days. In order to be crowned the King or Queen of the Mountain, a single athlete will have to fend off all the competition in a Nordic Freestyle race today, than follow it up with an up-hill cross country skiing competition tomorrow. On Sunday, those same competitors will then square off in the toughest stage of all - a skiing race up, over, and back down, Vail Mountain.

A large group of spectators are expected to be hand over the three-day event, cheering on their favorite athletes. That crowd won't have to sit on the sidelines without getting the opportunity to join in on the fun however, as they'll get the chance to take part in photo competitions and clinics, test out some gear, and hone their own winter outdoor skills. They can also enjoy an adventure film festival, listen to some live bands, and join the celebration at several parties.

The inaugural Teva Winter Mountain Games is a natural extension of the summer Mountain Games, which will be taking place later this year. If you're an outdoor enthusiast who loves to run, ride, or climb, you'll certainly find a lot to love at both events.

The Teva Winter Mountain Games begin today originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureadventure-travelClimbingcoloradoIce ClimbingIceClimbingmountain gamesMountainGamesoutdooroutdoor gamesOutdoorGamesskiingsnowsnowboardingsnowshoeingTevateva mountain gamesteva winter mountain gamesTevaMountainGamesTevaWinterMountainGamesvailvail coloradoVailColoradoFri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ski resort offers Valentine's Day speed dating on the lift]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/ski-resort-offers-valentines-day-speed-dating-on-the-lift/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/ski-resort-offers-valentines-day-speed-dating-on-the-lift/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/ski-resort-offers-valentines-day-speed-dating-on-the-lift/#commentsValentine's Day speed dating at Snowbird Ski ResortAre you a lonely skier looking for love this Valentine's Day? If so, the Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort, located in Utah, just might be able to help you find that special someone you've been looking for. Next Tuesday, February 14, the resort will play host to a unique speed dating event, during which skiers and snowboarders will get a chance to get to know one another while riding the chairlift up the mountain.

To entice single skiers and riders to visit Snowbird for Valentine's Day, the resort is offering all-day adult lift tickets for just $40. But that is just the start of the fun, as they've also designated one of their lifts, the aptly named Peruvian Express, as "single's only" for the day. Speed-daters will then have the opportunity to hop on the lift together, chat on their way to the summit, and then ski back down the slope. If a love connection is made, they can elect to spend the rest of the day getting to know one another better, or simply get back on the lift and give it another go. At the end of the day, they can also gather at the singles social in the El Chanate restaurant, where the new Snowbird love-birds can enjoy two-for-one appetizers and entrees.

If you've already found your significant other, Snowbird has you covered as well. The resort is offering specials for couples looking for a romantic escape, with packages including options for a romantic dinner, a visit to the spa, and a night's stay at one of the onsite lodges.

And in case you're wondering about the conditions on the hill, never fear. Snowbird has had more than 170 inches of powder already this winter, and is maintaining a base of 63 inches as well. In other words, it is business as usual, with plenty of great skiing on tap.

So, whether you're looking to treat your sweetie to a romantic getaway, or meet a new one on the slopes, Snowbird has you covered for Valentine's Day this year.

Ski resort offers Valentine's Day speed dating on the lift originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rei Adventures offers up some great winter escapesLooking to add a little activity and adventure back into your weekends now that the football season is officially over? Then REI Adventures may have exactly what you need. The company, which is the travel arm of the REI gear stores, has introduced several new winter weekend getaways that will get you out playing in the snow this February and March.

These excursions are short - most are just three or four days in length - but pack plenty of activity into the itinerary. Local guides lead groups of active outdoor enthusiasts into some of the more remote, and beautiful winter playgrounds in the U.S., giving them the opportunity to visit those locations at a time when crowds are non-existent.

Amongst the new trips for 2012 is a three day snowshoeing excursion into the Adirondack Mountains, where travelers will stay in a rustic log-cabin while spending a long weekend hiking some of the more scenic trails in the region. Similarly, REI offers a four day snowshoeing trip to Michigan's Upper Peninsula during which visitors will trek past frozen waterfalls and visit caves along the shores of Lake Superior. And for those looking for something even more adventurous and active, there is a three day escape to the Catskills to do some ice climbing.

These short, but active trips are proof positive that we don't have to stay inside all winter waiting for the warm weather to arrive. REI Adventures will give you a reason to dig out your warm clothes and boots and head outside for some much-needed winter fun.

REI Adventures offers winter weekend getaways originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adirondacksadventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelCatskill MountainsCatskillMountainsClimbinghikingIce ClimbingIceClimbinglake superiorLakeSuperiormichigannew yorkNewYorkreiREI AdventuresReiAdventuressnoeshoeingtrekkingUpper PeninsulaUpperPeninsulaWed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pacific Rowing Race announced]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/pacific-rowing-race-announced/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/pacific-rowing-race-announced/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/pacific-rowing-race-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Pacific Rowing Race will launch in 2014!Adventurers and extreme sports athletes looking for a new challenge may well find what they're looking for in the newly announced Pacific Rowing Race. The event, which isn't scheduled to take place until June of 2014, will cover more than 2100 nautical miles, beginning in Monterey Bay, California and ending in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Organizers of the event expect that it will take around 30 to 35 days for the fastest two- and four-person crews to row the entire length of the course. The current record for an individual rower is 64 days, and was set back in 1997, but due to advances in technology and better boat design, a solo racer could easily break that record. On the other hand, teams who are more interested in enjoying the experience of being out on the ocean, and aren't trying to set new speed records, could take as much as 100 days to reach the finish line.

Along the way, racers will face a host of weather conditions, ranging from clear, calm days to potentially dangerous storms. They'll also have to contend with seas that can be both extremely turbulent or smooth as glass. And while they're out on the water, they'll experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets and a peaceful solitude that is broken from time to time by a passing dolphin, whale, or other sea creature.

Some of the details on the race are still being worked out, but if you're interested in taking part in the event, there is an online form that you can fill out by clicking here. Completing that form will ensure that you receive the latest news on the event and keep you updated on any announcements from the race organizers.

Online entry for the Pacific Rowing Race is scheduled to open on April 2nd of this year, giving participants more than two years to prepare.

[Photo credit: Roz Savage]

Pacific Rowing Race announced originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelcaliforniahawaiihonolulumonterey bayMontereyBayocean rowingOceanRowingPacific Oceanpacific rowing racePacificOceanPacificRowingRacerowingTue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a Nikon CoolPix AW100 digital camera]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/06/win-a-nikon-coolpix-aw100-digital-camera/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/06/win-a-nikon-coolpix-aw100-digital-camera/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/06/win-a-nikon-coolpix-aw100-digital-camera/#commentsWin a Nikon CoolPix AW100Now that you've read our review of the Nikon's rugged new CoolPix AW100 digital camera, you have the chance to win one for yourself. We think you'll love this waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof camera, that also happens to come packed with all kinds of great technology.

The contest is open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older.

To enter, leave a comment below.

The comment must be left before 5PM Eastern Time on February 10th, 2012.

You may enter only once

One winner will be selected in a random drawing.

One Grand Prize Winner will receive an Nikon CoolPix AW100 digital camera (valued at $300).

Click Here for complete Official Rules.

Win a Nikon CoolPix AW100 digital camera originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Nikon Coolpix AW100Buying a digital camera is no easy task these days. As cameras have grown in popularity, the market has become flooded with dozens of models, all with a dizzying array of features and specs, and few ways to distinguish one from the next. Aside from minor variations in shape and color, most of them all look about the same, and it is difficult to know which one is the best fit for each of our individual needs. That simply isn't the case for the new Nikon CoolPix AW100, which not only has a unique look, but an identity all of its own. This is a camera that is built for travel, and will have a great appeal to adventure travelers in particular.

After removing the AW100 from its box, the first thing you'll notice is how solid it feels in your hands. The ruggedized body conveys the sense that this is a camera that can take a lot of punishment, which makes it a great option for those excursions that take us to the far flung corners of the planet. The AW100's tough shell keeps it waterproof to 33-feet, while allowing it to withstand temperatures down to 14ºF and survive drops up to five feet in height. Those qualities alone help to set it apart from nearly any other digital camera on the market and make it an attractive option for scuba divers, climbers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who demand a high level of performance out of their gear.

Don't let this camera's rugged body fool you however, because under the hood, it has plenty of brains to go along with its brawny exterior. This CoolPix features a 16 megapixel CMOS sensor that not only takes fantastic photos, but also manages to capture video in full 1080p HD as well. It has a vibrant 3-inch screen, an easy to use (and understand!) interface and Nikon's new Action Controls, which make the AW100 a snap to operate, even while wearing gloves.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Nikon CoolPix AW100 camera

Gadling gear review: Nikon CoolPix AW100 camera originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelcameracamerasdigital cameraDigitalCameragearNikonNikon Coolpixnikon coolpix aw100NikonCoolpixNikonCoolpixAw100Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Man arrested for stealing glacier in Chile]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/05/man-arrested-for-stealing-glacier-in-chile/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/05/man-arrested-for-stealing-glacier-in-chile/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/05/man-arrested-for-stealing-glacier-in-chile/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A glacier thief has been arrested in Chile. Late last week, law enforcement officials in Chile detained a man for allegedly stealing part of a glacier from inside Bernardo O'Higgins National Park, located in the Patagonia region. It is believed that the thief intended to sell the ice to various clubs in the capital city of Santiago, where it would be put into expensive designer drinks.

Police stopped the man, who was driving a large refrigerated truck, for a routine traffic violation, but were surprised to find that he had five tons of ice hidden in the back. Upon further examination, they discovered that the ice had come from the Jorge Montt Glacier, which is located not far from where the man was apprehended. So far, the driver has only been charged with theft, but officials are considering extending the charges to violating a national monument as well, since the ice came from inside a national park.

It is estimated that the five tons of ice would have sold for about $6300 had the man been able to deliver it to is buyers in Santiago. That doesn't seem like a lot of money for harvesting so much ice.

Global climate change has played havoc on glaciers throughout Patagonia, and the Jorge Montt is no exception. Scientists say that is is currently retreating at a rate of about a half-mile per year, which is an alarmingly fast pace. The question now of course is how much of that is due to these nefarious ice thieves?

Man arrested for stealing glacier in Chile originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A view from the Negev DesertTravel can be such an incredible, life altering, experience, both for us, and the people that we interact with on our journeys. But seldom is that more clearly defined than in the case of an upcoming special trip from an organization called Bustan, which works closely with indigenous Bedouin tribes of the Negev Desert, a rocky, arid region located in southern Israel.

Starting in March, Bustan is launching a five-month long project in the Negev that will be a unique and intensive mix of education, cultural immersion, and desert adventure. Over the course of the time spent there, those joining the expedition will get the opportunity to live with the Bedouin people, while learning about their way of life and picking up practical skills on how to live simply and sustainably with the desert. They'll also gain extensive knowledge of the history of the Middle East, while also sharpening their Arabic language skills and discovering the unique landscapes of the Negev Desert.

But this journey also has a larger purpose as well. Participants will be living in the village of Qasar A Sir, which remains without many basic amenities that most of us take for granted, such as running water, electricity, or a sewer system. While there, travelers will be a part of Bustan's permaculture and sustainability program, which will help to create a more permanent community for the Bedouin people. They'll learn eco-building techniques, help create water harvesting systems, basic waste management facilities, organic gardens, and more permanent structures, all under the supervision of a team of educators who specialize in desert culture.

The cost for joining the trip has still not been posted on the Bustan website, but you'll find a lot more information about this opportunity by clicking here. This is one of those unique opportunities where you know before you go that you'll be a part of something that can truly impact the lives of those living in the place you visit.

[Photo courtesy Free Israel Photos via WikiMedia]

Adventure travel with a purpose in Israel's Negev Desert originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yosemite Half Dome permits could be reduced in number for 2013The number of permits available on a daily basis for Yosemite's popular Half Dome hike could be reduced in number starting next year - if a National Park Service proposal goes into effect. The move could be made in an effort to make the hike up the iconic mountain less crowded, and therefore safer, following the death of a hiker this past summer who fell while descending on the steep slopes.

The Half Dome hike is amongst the more popular attractions in Yosemite, despite its strenuous and daunting nature. The trail to the summit is 8 miles in length and wanders up the side of the massive rock slab, requiring hikers to use metal cables to help stabilize them both on the way up and down. It can be a treacherous walk, particularly if bad weather sets in, and traffic jams, like those seen in the photo to the right, are not uncommon along the way.

Last year, the Park Service began requiring a permit for the hike, limiting the number of people on the trail to just 400 per day. That was way down from the 1200 that it would sometimes see on busier days before the permit system went into effect. Under the new proposal, which is currently open for public comment, the number of permits issued would be reduced to 300, cutting crowds even further.

Cutting back on the number of people on Half Dome will have the added benefit of helping to protect the environment there as well. Large crowds can have a adverse effect on any ecosystem, and by reducing the number of visitors, the region is more likely to stay protected and viable for future hikers to enjoy as well.

We'll have to wait and see if the number of permits available does indeed get cut for 2013, but it almost seems like a foregone conclusion at this point. All around, I think it's a good move, although travelers will have to plan further ahead if they hope to hike Half Dome.

Number of permits for Yosemite's Half Dome could be cut originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ski resorts across the western U.S. get snow at lastIt has been a very tough season so far for many of the ski resorts across the western United States. Warmer than normal temperatures and little snowfall had conspired to make it a challenging start to the winter. But things have started to change out west, and a few big storms over the past few weeks have made now made it possible for skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes at last.

The Jackson Hole Ski Resort in Wyoming, for instance, got hit with a massive winter storm last week, resulting in 80 inches (that's 6.5 feet!) in just eight days time. That brought their snow base up to 80 inches on the mountain, and their total seasonal accumulation to 198". As a result, all runs are open and skiers are taking advantage of the great conditions at last.

Similarly, Mammoth Mountain in California had a big snow storm in late-January as well, getting more than four feet of accumulation in just a few days time. That brought their total base to 40-60 inches, depending on where you are on the slopes, and they currently have received over 107" of powder so far this year. After a bit of slow start to their season, Mammoth now has all lifts and runs open for business too.

In Utah, Alta and Snowbird now have over 165" of snowfall for the year, bringing their bases to 69 and 65 inches respectively. In Colorado, Vail has grown their base to more than 35 inches, with a foot of new snow falling in the past week alone. Montana's Big Sky Resort now has a base between 45 and 69 inches in depth, while Sun Valley, Idaho reports similar numbers.

What does all of this mean for skiers? Winter is now officially here! Take advantage of it while you can, as it could be fleeting, but it seems that at long last, there are some excellent snow conditions for those eager to hit the slopes.

[Photo courtesy Mammoth Mountain]


U.S. ski resorts get much needed snow at last originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Barefoot on the summit of KilimanjaroLast week we told you about a group of climbers from South Africa who were attempting to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa, without wearing shoes. Over the weekend, these barefoot adventurers completed their climb, but not without overcoming plenty of challenges along the way.

The team, which calls itself the Barefoot Impi, made their final push to the top of the 19,340-foot Kilimanjaro early Saturday morning. Setting out from the Kibo Huts, they trekked for more than four hours before reaching Gilman's Point, one of the more famous landmarks on the way to the summit. At that point, they had walked barefoot for hours in below-freezing temperatures while dealing with steep slopes littered with loose volcanic scree. The next stage of the hike wouldn't be any easier however, as two feet of fresh snow had hit the top of the mountain a few days ealier, and they had to make the rest of the climb in icy-powder - sans shoes.

Eventually they did make it to the top, and all five members of the team who had set out on this barefoot quest managed to complete the trek without any kind of natural or artificial protection on their feet. That's a fairly remarkable accomplishment considering the temperatures and surface conditions they had to endure to get there. You can read all about their final day on the mountain in a blog post here.

As we mentioned in our original story, this charity climb was undertaken to raise funds for the Red Cross Children's Hospital in Cape Town, which is one of the first of its kind on the entire continent. No word on whether or not the Barefoot Impi team reached their fund raising goals, but clearly they were successful on their venture to scale the mountain.

My feet hurt just thinking about it.

[Photo courtesy BarefootImpi.org]

Barefoot Kilimanjaro trekkers complete climb originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There is no question that Patagonia is amongst the most beautiful and wild places on our planet. Stretching out across southern Chile and Argentina, it has long been a popular destination for adventure travelers, who are continually drawn to the snow capped peaks and crystal clear lakes that dot the landscape there. It is a breathtaking environment, and one that the timelapse video below captures incredibly well.

While only three minutes in length, this video still manages to mesmerize viewers with amazing images and equally beautiful music. It is also likely to inspire more than a few to want to visit the place for themselves.


PATAGONIA - ARGENTINA - TIMELAPSES from Ignacio Leonardi on Vimeo.

Witness the wonders of Patagonia in timelapse originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Keen Howser slipper is a sleeping bag for your feet.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to wear a sleeping bag on your feet? That's exactly how Keen bills their Howser Wool slippers, which are designed to be comfortable and warm, both at home or while out and about around town. The shoes more than live up to that billing and make an excellent option for travelers as well.

In designing the Howser Wool slippers, Keen incorporated recycled quilted felt on the outside and super-comfortable microfleece on the inside. The former gives the shoes a unique look that is all their own, while the latter plays a big part in making these slippers something you'll want to wear everywhere you go. Of course, no shoe dubbed a "slipper" would seem like something you'd want to wear out in the elements, but the Howser's rubber outsole gives them an unexpected ruggedness that makes them perfect footwear for all kinds of environments.

Travelers will appreciate that the Howser slippers are lightweight and very packable, making them a great choice whenever you're hitting the road. Better yet, they are very easy to slip on and off, which is much appreciated when passing through TSA checkpoints at the airport. The fact that they are warmer than their weight would imply only adds to their versatility, and the memory foam footbed molds itself to your feet, making them more comfortable over time.

In my mind, Keen has built the perfect pair of casual shoes. After all, who wouldn't want to wear a pair of comfy slippers all day long? I love how lightweight these shoes are, while still keeping my feet warm and dry in winter weather. Because of this fantastic combination of qualities, I find myself regularly slipping into my pair of Howsers without even thinking about it. Whether I'm running to the store to pick up groceries, or heading to the airport to catch a plane, these slippers have become a favorite option for footwear.

With a price tag of just $65, you'll be hard pressed to find a more comfortable shoe for the money, and I think you'll discover that it won't take long for them to become one of your favorite pair of shoes too.

Gadling gear review: Keen Howser Wool Shoes originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Win a year's supply of beer at the Whitefish Winter CarnivalFor more than five decades, the Whitefish Winter Carnival has been an annual tradition in Whitefish, Montana. The 2012 edition of the event takes place next weekend, and will once again feature parades, ski competitions, a dip in the frigid waters of the nearby lake, and prankster Yetis out to kidnap the Snow Queen. The Carnival will also play host to a unique, one of a kind, competition known as the Black Star Barter, which asks competitors what they would do - or trade - for a year's supply of beer.

On Saturday, February 4th, a group of daring, wild, and downright crazy contestants will gather at the Great Northern Brewing Company, where they'll be given a chance to convince a panel of judges that they deserve to win 52 cases of Black Star Beer. They'll show off amazing hidden talents, offer up prized possessions, and generally try to charm the judges into awarding them the prize. Competitors will be rated on creativity, thoughtfulness, enthusiasm, and overall awesomeness.

Last year, more than 1000 spectators gathered to watch the Barter, which featured a five-year-old harmonica player and his singing dog, a man who turned his nose into a piggy bank, and a family of four who were willing to part with their two egg-laying chickens and a hog. In the end though, the year's supply of beer went to a creative duo who came up with a series of hilarious radio commercials extolling the virtues of Black Star.

So, what would you be willing to trade or do to win a year's supply of beer? Do you have an impressive talent or precious item you'd be willing to give up for 52 cases of Black Star? If so, there is still time to get yourself to Montana in time to compete in the 2012 edition of the Barter. You just might go home with enough beer to stock your fridge for months to come.



Win a year's supply of beer at the Whitefish Winter Carnival originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelblack starblack star barterblack star beerBlackStarBlackStarBarterBlackStarBeermontanawhitefishwhitefish montanawhitefish winter carnivalWhitefishMontanaWhitefishWinterCarnivalSun, 29 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Discovery Adventures announces 8 new tours for 2012]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/28/discovery-adventures-announces-8-new-tours-for-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/28/discovery-adventures-announces-8-new-tours-for-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/28/discovery-adventures-announces-8-new-tours-for-2012/#commentsDiscovery Adventures introduces new options for 2012Discovery Adventures, the travel arm of the Discovery Channel, has announced that it is expanding its line-up of for 2012, adding eight new options to their already impressive catalog. These new tours include several new destinations, as well as revamped itineraries to Tanzania and Southern Africa.

Amongst the highlights of the new trips is an eight day journey through Jordan that includes visits to such iconic destinations as Petra and Wadi Rum, as well as a swim in the Dead Sea. The new Spirit of Nepal tour gives travelers the opportunity to experience spiritual and natural wonders in the heart of the Himalaya, while the Cultural Treasures of Vietnam itinerary includes cooking lessons and a visit to the famous caves of Halong Bay. Travelers to South America will enjoy the Ecuador Volcanoes and Cloud Forest tour as well, which sends them on birdwatching and hiking excursions into the breathtaking Andes Mountains.

Each of these tours has been designed in conjunction with G Adventures, one of the best adventure travel companies in the world, to provide travelers with a great mix of active escapes and cultural immersion - something the Discovery Channel is famous for. The trips include comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and a number of other amenities based on the destination.

These new tours bring the total number of Discovery Adventures to 37, giving them options to nearly every corner of the globe and ensuring they have something for every kind of traveler.

Discovery Adventures announces 8 new tours for 2012 originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The National Parks Conservation Association has a new blog!The National Parks Conservation Association, a non-profit organization whose mission is to protect and preserve America's wild and historic places, officially launched their new blog earlier this week. The site, which can be found at ParkAdvocate.org, went online just as America's first Summit on National Parks was getting underway.

As you would imagine with any new blog, content is a bit sparse at the moment, but already filing in nicely. Eventually the site will be home to a wide variety of news stories and features on the parks and NPCA efforts to protect them, as well as photos and videos from those amazing places. The blog already features a four-minute video tour of Yosemite and a great overview of the proposed Lone Star National Recreation Area, which we told you about last week, with plenty more content to come soon.

The blog's first official post came from NPCA President Tom Kiernan who discussed America's Summit on National Parks, a symposium that wrapped up yesterday in Washington, D.C. At the Summit, a number of leaders in conservation, tourism, education, and a variety of other fields, came together to discuss the future of the national parks in the U.S. as we approach the 100th anniversary of the Park Service in 2016. The parks currently face a variety of threats, including climate change, pollution, and massive budget cuts, just to mention a few, and the attendees of the conference discussed ideas on how to continue to preserve America's wild places for future generations to enjoy, while meeting those challenges.

Judging from the attendance numbers - which continue to rise to historic levels - travelers see the value of protecting the national parks too. Now, thanks to this new blog, they have a tool for staying connected to parks and staying informed of the efforts to protect them.

National Parks Conservation Association launches official blog originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New travel regulations for the Galapagos Islands go into effect next week.On February 1st, a new set of travel regulations will go into effect in the Galapagos Islands, which are designed to help protect the environment there, while simultaneously presenting travelers with a better experience. These new rules have already had an impact on available itineraries, but visitors can expect the same overall options for visiting this amazing destination.

The new rules are actually quite simple. The Ecuadorian government, which oversees operation of the Galapagos National Park, has passed regulations that state that no vessel operating in and around the archipelago will be permitted to visit the same site more than once within a 14 day period. The purpose for this change in operation is that it should help disperse the ship traffic throughout the region, thereby keeping overcrowding to a minimum, while also protecting the unique and fragile ecosystems there. By reducing crowds, the overall experience of the Galapagos should be preserved for visitors as well, keeping it one of the top destinations for future generations to enjoy too.

When the new regulations were first announced there was some concern that tour operators would do away with the shorter itineraries in favor of those that were 14 days in length or longer. That hasn't been the case however, as companies recognize the fact that they must cater to the needs of all travelers, including those who don't have two weeks to spare for their getaway. As a result, they've had to get a bit creative with their itineraries in order to operate within the 14-day rules, but there are still plenty of 7, 10, and 12 day Galapagos adventures available to go along with the more extended trips.

Adventure travel company Metropolitan Touring, for example, operates three ships in the Galapagos and made the switch over to the their new itineraries earlier this week. Their options can all be combined to create trips of various lengths ranging from 10-15 days, and guests have the ability to extend their stay further by booking rooms at an eco-lodge located on Santa Cruz Island. Other travel companies offer similar flexibility in their schedules, giving travelers the ability to find the right itinerary to fits their needs.

The Galapagos Islands are truly one of the most unique natural environments on our planet, and are home to a host of wildlife that isn't found anywhere else on Earth. These regulations will help to ensure that the islands, and the creatures that live there, stay safe and protected for years to come.

New Galapagos Islands travel regulations go into effect next week originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Climbing Kilimanjaro barefoot!A team of South African climbers has traveled to Tanzania, where they hope to climb Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain on the African continent, without wearing shoes. Over the next few days, these barefoot adventurers hope to scale the mountain in an effort to raise funds for a children's hospital back home.

According to the group's website, the team of five climbers, and their support crew, arrived on the mountain yesterday and started their ascent. Early on, they passed through a pine forest, which provided a soft surface for their bare feet, but as the day wore on, they entered a tropical rainforest, where the trail gave way to gravel instead. While that proved to be a more challenging surface to hike on, they still managed to reach their first camp without too many problems.

In the days ahead, things won't quite be so easy however. Today, they'll leave the forests behind completely and move into the alpine marshlands of Kilimanjaro. That zone is punctuated with lush grasses and strange plants, which, aside from a few thorny bushes, shouldn't offer too much of a problem either. After that, it is on to the alpine desert, which is much rockier and harder to walk on, even while wearing boots. The final push to the summit will include plenty of volcanic scree, not to mention snow and ice. The cold temperatures on the final approach to the 19,340-foot summit may actually numb their feet from the pain - that is if they don't lose a toe or two to frostbite first.

In order to make this barefoot climb, the team has established a set of rules that will govern their approach. Those rules dictate that they must walk or climb every meter of the mountain without wearing any kind of artificial or natural substance on their feet. Furthermore, they pledge to walk each day between their camps in this fashion, although it seems likely they'll put on some comfy slippers when they reach their end point for the day.

By undertaking this trek, the team is hoping to raise funds for the Red Cross Children's Hospital in South Africa. 100% of the proceeds generated from the climb will go to that organization, which is one of the first of its kind in Africa.

Having climbed Kilimanjaro myself, I can't imagine attempting it without shoes. My feet hurt at the end of a long day as it was, and that was while wearing a good pair of hiking boots. Going completely barefoot seems crazy to me, and I'll be incredibly impressed if they actually make it.

Climbers attempting Kilimanjaro barefoot originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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