Hiking Opal Creek (Oregon)Last weekend, my family and I had the opportunity to hike in the Opal Creek Scenic Area and Wilderness. It is located east of Salem, in the Willamette National Forest. Opal Creek runs through thousands of acres of protected old growth forest, crisscrossed with over 30 miles of hiking trails.
Beware of CocklebursWhile picking up litter, during my weekly walk on the roadside, I got into some cocklebur bushes and didn't know it. Later, as I was turning around and heading back home, I felt something sticking in me and discovered the back of my jacket was knotted up and filled with cockleburs. I was a sight to be seen.
Cobwebs as First Aid DisinfectantCobwebs contain many disinfectants, including penicillin. If you're in the wilderness and someone (or yourself) has been cut badly, wrap clean cobwebs around the wound and cover with a clean cloth.
Print Topographical Maps as Alternative to GPSIf you like to hike, camp, or do outdoorsy things, but don't want to spend a lot of money on an expensive GPS system, you might want to try printing out a free topographic map online. AnyplaceAmerica.com has maps of the US that you can sort by city, county, or by feature.
Prevent Backpack From Slipping When PackingTo help your Scout (Boy Scout or Girl Scout) keep his/her external frame backpack from sliding all over the floor while packing it, get a set of rubber chair-leg covers or crutch covers to put on the bottom of the "legs" of the pack.
Use Duct Tape on BlisterWhen one of our scouts or kids starts getting a hot spot ready to turn into a blister, especially when breaking in new shoes or boots or when hiking, we take a small piece of tape and cover the affected area. They are as good as new.
Leave No Trace HikingHiking is great way to get outside and enjoy nature. Day hiking costs practically nothing and it is easy to get started. All you need is some comfortable shoes, adequate clothing, and some water and you can go out and explore your surroundings.
