http://www.step-outdoors.com A blog about outside activites! Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:51:15 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en The Portland-Metro area is starting to question, "how much security do we really need?" From repetitive attacks on Tri-Met, to hold ups in convenience stores, to hostage situations and bomb threats in public places--- Today, it seems like you can never really be too sure of your safety. You can't turn ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2012/01/portland-needs-a-boost-of-public-security/ It's hard knowing when the best time to find great deals on airfare could be. Rumor is that if you log on at the wee hours in the morning, that you can secretly score unbeatable deals on air travel that no one thinks to look for. But who has the ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/09/make-airfare-shopping-easier-find-the-people-who-will-do-it-for-you/ If you're looking for a quick getaway trip that's affordable, travel efficient, and full of experience, (and you're somewhere around the Northwest), traveling into Canada is one of the best things I've ever done as a traveler! I had never really thought of taking a quick, weekend trip up north, just ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/09/an-easy-journey-by-plane-taxi-ferry-and-moped-to-victoria-bc-and-san-juan-islands/ If you have been keeping up with my previous blogs, many products that I have discussed come from the US Outdoor Store or Altrec, but I am happy to say that I have become familiar with another company, CampSaver. I'm sure you've heard of CampSaver - as you should of! ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/08/campsaver-proves-to-be-loyal-to-its-fellow-hikers/ Not all of us our online buyers. For me personally, I love seeing and feeling the product before I decide to invest into it. Especially when it comes to an investment like a snowboard or a new, hefty, jacket, I want to make sure it's exactly what I want and ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/08/594/ I don't know about you, but I am super particular about my sunglasses! Of course, we are our own worst critics, but it's so hard for me to find a pair of shades that doesn't make my face look ridiculous! If you have a shorter, round face like me, then ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/07/when-the-rays-are-in-full-force-protection-in-style/ Whether you're a hiker, a biker, a climber, or all of the above, having the right shoes for all strenuous activities is critical. Most people will base their outdoor shoe selection primarily on price, which isn't always a bad thing (I know, I like my deals too!) But what about ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/07/the-perfect-summer-footwear-for-all-your-outdoor-adventures/ If you keep on my entries in Step-Outdoors.com, then you probably already know that I am an avid hiker and love the outdoors. Just in the past year, I have discovered so many new Oregon beauties, including trials, waterfalls, parks, etc. Since I am becoming more and more confident in ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/06/never-be-unprepared-on-another-hike-again-the-osprey-waypoint-is-a-pack-worth-backing/ Call me crazy, but I have never been so anxious for the summer months as I am this year. Perhaps it's because our delay of sunny weather has taken a toll on Oregonians. Or maybe it's because I'm finishing up my degree in two weeks and moving on to bigger ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/05/improved-personalities-efficient-supply-of-vitamin-d-more-daylight-to-do-more-summer-is-here/ I've grown up in Oregon  my entire life, and like most things that we have and are used to, I have not appreciated the northwest enough. Two things come to mind when I think of my home state: cold and rain. For someone who has experienced the infamous northwest rain ... http://www.step-outdoors.com/2011/05/spending-a-day-with-the-gorgeous-columbia-river-gorge/