# OutdoorSkillz

> Paddle and Camp Happy By Being Prepared


## Posts

- [Making a Sand Water Filter - An Easy 4 Step Guide](https://outdoorskillz.com/making-a-sand-water-filter-an-easy-4-step-guide/): Safe water is a crucial necessity for human life; however, not everyone has access to clean, purified water. That’s precisely why it’s beneficial to understand the simple yet effective sand-water filtration method, which transforms murky, unsafe water into clear, drinkable water. This process not only quenches thirst but could also save lives in emergency situations. This narrative is perfect for those keen to explore the principles of filtration, gather the necessary materials, and assemble their very own sand-water filter. In the outdoors, using a water filter on the trail is considered standard gear. This article takes it a step further, explaining […]
- [Can Your Canned Food Last a Century? The 100-Year Question](https://outdoorskillz.com/can-your-canned-food-last-a-century/): In a world where food preservation is crucial, the concept if canned food last a century may seem far-fetched or intriguing. This illumination of canning, its purposes, and potential is intended to illuminate the art of canned food preservation. By comprehensively exploring its underlying principles, determining factors for shelf life, historical incidences of century-old edibles, expert opinions, and tips for long-lasting conservation, we can better understand and appreciate this unique aspect of food science. While canned foods are a commonplace, given their convenience and longevity, the notion that they could sustain over 100 years is a topic of much discussion […]
- [Top 10 Essential Items to Include in Your Survival Kit](https://outdoorskillz.com/items-to-include-in-your-survival-kit/): Regarding survival kits, being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. Imagine you’re hiking in the woods, miles from civilization, and an unexpected storm hits. The rain pours down, the wind howls, and you’re stranded. What do you do? This is where a well-stocked survival kit comes into play. This article delves into the top 10 essential items to include in your survival kit, ensuring you’re ready for any situation. Water and Purification Water is the most crucial element for survival. In a survival scenario, you might not have access to clean drinking water. Your survival kit should […]
- [We Spotlight 6 Top Hiking Trails in East Tennessee](https://outdoorskillz.com/hiking-trails-in-east-tennessee/): Ready to explore the 6 top hiking trails in East Tennessee? From breathtaking Smoky Mountain vistas to serene forest walks, find out why these trails are must-visits for every hiker.
- [6 Best Hiking Hammocks - Top Tips for Comfort](https://outdoorskillz.com/hiking-hammock/): Our hiking hammock guide offers insight into choosing the right hammock for your outdoor activities. Whether you're a novice or a pro, find your perfect hang to enhance every adventure.
- [Farm Lake Ely MN - 4 Superb Resorts Near Prestine Wildnerness](https://outdoorskillz.com/farm-lake-ely-mn/): Emerging from the heart of Ely, Minnesota, Farm Lake taps into the tranquil rhythms of mother nature, offering a serene escape from the industry-soaked civilization. This essay unwraps the little secrets of Farm Lake Ely MN, probing deep into its picturesque location, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Immersed in the alluring modesty of the seasonal town of Ely. Farm Lake, true to its name, is a haven for flora and fauna, a charming idyll where nature’s symphony is in perfect harmony with the collective aesthetic of its surroundings. Discover Farm Lake: Ely, Minnesota’s Best Kept Secret For those who’ve […]
- [The 5 Best Hikes in Zions National Park](https://outdoorskillz.com/best-hikes-in-zions-national-park/): Journey through the Best Hikes in Zion National Park, where each path leads to unparalleled natural beauty. From the vertiginous peaks of Angel's Landing to the tranquil waters of The Narrows, Zion's trails offer adventures that resonate with the soul, promising memories that last a lifetime.
- [Camp & Explore The Flathead National Forest - A Nomadic Montana Experience](https://outdoorskillz.com/flathead-national-forest/): Looking to unplug and immerse in nature? Flathead National Forest Camping offers an escape into Montana's wild heart. Discover sprawling landscapes, serene lakes, and thrilling wildlife encounters.
- [4 Bear Safety Tips - Are Black Bears More Dangerous Than Grizzly Bears?](https://outdoorskillz.com/bear-safety-tips/): Venturing into bear territory? Arm yourself with essential Bear Safety Tips. This article delves into the differences between black and grizzly bears, their behaviors, and how these affect safety strategies. Stay informed, prepared, and respectful to ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. Understanding Black Bears and Grizzly Bears When it comes to bear encounters, the level of danger often depends on the species involved. Black bears and grizzly bears are two of the most recognized bear species in North America, and they differ significantly in behavior, habitat, and potential for aggression. Understanding these differences is crucial for outdoor enthusiasts, […]
- [7 Of The Most Important Gear for Bank Fishing](https://outdoorskillz.com/gear-for-bank-fishing/): Master the art of bank fishing with the right gear and knowledge. From choosing the perfect rod to understanding seasonal strategies, our guide covers all you need for a successful fishing trip. Dive into the essentials of Bank Fishing Gear and tips today.
- [7 Tips On How to Make Dehydrated Food For Camping or Canoeing Tasty and Delicious](https://outdoorskillz.com/dehydrated-food-for-camping/): Dehydrating food makes it more lightweight and durable. It also shrinks the volume of food, so you can carry a lot more of it than you would have been able to carry fresh. Dehydrated foods are easy to pack and require less space in your pack or canoe than their fresh counterparts.
- [Camping Food Containers Discover 6 Top Choices for Safe Storage](https://outdoorskillz.com/food-containers/): Dive into our Food Container Guide and learn how to choose the right containers for your lifestyle. From health impacts to environmental considerations, discover how sustainable, BPA-free, and glass options can elevate your food storage experience.
- [Best Winter Walking Shoes - 5 Must-Have Features for Safe Strolls](https://outdoorskillz.com/winter-walking-shoes/): Find the ideal Winter Walking Shoes for your frosty adventures. Learn about insulation, waterproofing, and traction to make informed choices for your feet's warmth and safety.
- [Detecting Spoiled Canned Food - 4 Things To Watch For](https://outdoorskillz.com/detecting-spoiled-canned-food/): Dive into the world of Canned Food Safety. Understand how to interpret 'best by', 'sell by', and 'use by' dates, and learn the vital signs of spoilage. This guide empowers you to make informed decisions for your health and pantry.
- [Master Dehydrated Camping Meals - Essential Ingredients Guide](https://outdoorskillz.com/dehydrated-camping-meals/): Explore the fascinating world of Dehydrated Camping Meals! Learn how to prepare nutritious, lightweight, and delicious meals that are perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
- [Guide to Camping in California's Stunning Desert Landscapes](https://outdoorskillz.com/camping-in-californias-stunning-desert-landscapes/): Check out our guide to camping in California’s stunning desert landscapes so you can prepare for this stunning and unforgettable experience!
- [Best Seasons to Explore the Boundary Waters](https://outdoorskillz.com/explore-the-boundary-waters/):  Discover the magic of the Boundary Waters through the changing seasons. Whether you're an angler, hiker, or nature lover, this guide will help you find the perfect time to explore. Click to unlock the secrets of this wilderness paradise!
- [7 Best Coastal Camping Spots in California](https://outdoorskillz.com/7-best-coastal-camping-spots-in-california/): Ready for an adventure that combines sun, sand, and camping? Dive into our guide to the best coastal camping spots in California. Don't wait, start planning your unforgettable outdoor journey today!
- [How to Camp on a Budget and Still Have an Amazing Time](https://outdoorskillz.com/camp-on-a-budget/): If you want to get in touch with nature without spending too much, consider camping. Not only is camping a great way to spend time outdoors, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to take your friends and family on a low-cost trip to some of the best places in the country. Also, to camp on a budget enables you to reconnect with nature, sleep outdoors—even in your backyard—and promote mental and physical relaxation. The challenge is to enjoy an epic adventure while keeping costs down.  Aside from budgeting your hard-earned paycheck, there are other ways to help you enjoy your […]
- [Camping on a Budget - Embrace Nature Without Emptying Your Wallet](https://outdoorskillz.com/camping-on-a-budget/):  Looking for the call of the wild without the call of your credit card? Dive into the art of budget camping. With practical tips and tricks, we'll guide you on an outdoor adventure that's wallet-friendly and full of unforgettable memories.
- [Outdoor Personal Hygiene - 7 Hacks for Outdoor Activities To Stay Clean, Stay Healthy](https://outdoorskillz.com/outdoor-personal-hygiene/): Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, practicing good outdoor personal hygiene helps maintain your health and safety to ensure a pleasant experience. Prioritizing cleanliness and proper hygiene while you’re out and about also allows you to prevent spreading germs to others while protecting the environment. On that note, this article will explore a range of effective hygiene hacks to help you stay clean during your outdoor adventures. From checking your health condition to ensuring you wash up, these hacks will keep you fresh, comfortable, and ready to embrace the great outdoors. 1. Check Your […]
- [6 Ely Webcams - Elevate Your Experience of Ely, Minnesota & BWCA with Phenomenal Views](https://outdoorskillz.com/ely-webcams/): Ely, Minnesota is a city that truly embraces all four seasons. From the winter wonderland of snowmobiling and ice fishing to the summer adventures of boating and swimming, each season offers something unique and special. Whether you're planning a trip to the area or simply looking to experience the beauty and wonder of Ely from afar, the city's many webcams provide a unique and fascinating perspective into the heart of the city, the beauty of the surrounding wilderness, and the daily lives of local wildlife.
- [Explore the 5 Best Hiking Trails in Idaho's National Forests](https://outdoorskillz.com/trails-in-idahos-national-forests/): Idaho’s national forests are a haven for hikers of all levels, with breathtaking scenery and a wide range of hiking trails to choose from. This blog post lists some of the best trails in Idaho’s national forests, including options suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike. From the middle-ground White Pine National Recreation Trail to the challenging South Chilco Mountain Hike, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed hike through ancient cedars or a challenging trek up a mountain, Idaho has you covered.
- [Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Boundary Waters Canoe Trip - 10 Tips, Tricks, and Expert Advice](https://outdoorskillz.com/boundary-waters-canoe-trip/): Planning a Boundary Waters Canoe Area adventure? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from permits and entry points to safety precautions and Leave No Trace principles, ensuring a memorable and safe experience.
- [Lost in the Wilderness - 5 Expert Tips on How to Survive and Find Your Way Back](https://outdoorskillz.com/lost-in-the-wilderness/): As an outdoor expert, one of the most important pieces of advice I can give you is always to be prepared when heading out into the wilderness. Even the most experienced hiker or camper can find themselves lost in the wilderness or disoriented in the great outdoors, so it’s important to know what to do in such a situation. Stay Calm First and foremost, don’t panic. Panic can cause you to make rash decisions and exhaust valuable resources. Take a deep breath and assess your situation calmly. The first step is to try to retrace your steps and backtrack to […]
- [6 Amazing Canadian Camping Spots You’ll Love](https://outdoorskillz.com/canadian-camping/): Anyone who enjoys camping in the great outdoors will enjoy camping out in Canada. Canada is home to some of the most beautiful sights in the world, and camping in Canada is unforgettable. That said, as with any other place in the world, some camping spots are better than others. As such, a little bit of research beforehand is a must. Otherwise, you risk going to a spot that will completely ruin your view of camping in Canada. In order to make sure this doesn’t happen, we’ve put together a list of 6 amazing Canadian camping spots you’ll love. 1. […]
- [17 Items To Have In Your Survival Go Bag Right Now](https://outdoorskillz.com/survival-go-bag/): Recent events with a raging war in Europe and seemingly never-ending stories of natural and manmade disasters make one wonder if they are prepared for an emergency. A survival go bag is a collection of essential items your household may need in a crisis that can at least give you some peace of mind that you are doing the right thing in being prepared.
- [7 Days With The Boundary Waters Crew From Hell](https://outdoorskillz.com/boundary-waters-crew/): A young Charlie Guide's story of a Boundary Waters Crew from hell.  This is what happens when a scout troop is not prepared for a BWCA wilderness experience. 
- [Crisis Leadership: Evacuation Out Of Boundary Waters Canoe Area](https://outdoorskillz.com/evacuation-out-of-boundary-waters-canoe-area/): This is a  true story of a group of young Scouts who band together take a severely injured camper for an evacuation out of Boundary Waters Canoe Area.  Its a test of outdoor skills and leadership in a crisis.
- [A Black Bear Encounter Can Change Your Life](https://outdoorskillz.com/black-bear-encounter/): A new guide has a problem black bear encounter on this first trip with Scouts at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It changed his perspective of life.
- [You're Stranded In a Snowstorm and Your Smartphone's Battery is Dying](https://outdoorskillz.com/your-stranded-and-your-smartphones-battery-is-dying/): Social media is lighting with a suggestion to change their voice mail greeting when their stranded and the Smartphone's battery is dying. We have a better way.  
- [5 Canoeing Skill Videos For Your First Boundary Waters Trip](https://outdoorskillz.com/canoeing-skill-videos/): If you're planning your first trip in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, we found five wonderful videos to view and share to help make your first trip a success. 
- [7 Methods To Consider In Your Outdoor Water Filter](https://outdoorskillz.com/outdoor-water-filter/): Feeling confident that you can dunk your water bottle into your water source is a unique spot to be in. I only do it here and there in the Boundary Waters. Everywhere else, it’s good to have an outdoor water filter.   Here the types and methods I have tried with pros and cons for each.
- [Wild Boundary Waters Camping During Storm Season](https://outdoorskillz.com/boundary-waters-camping/): Boundary Waters camping during the typical "storm season" in July takes some forethought on setting up your camp in case of a severe storm rolling through.  Here is one story of a wicked storm in BWCA. 
- [How To Choose The Right Fishing Line Color](https://outdoorskillz.com/fishing-line-color/): Have you ever wondered why there are so many different colors of fishing line available? We found a great infographic on how to choose the right line for the environment you’re fishing.
- [40 Essential Items For A Perfect Wilderness First Aid Kit](https://outdoorskillz.com/first-aid-essentials-how-to-make-your-own-kit/): This list of essential items to consider when packing your own wilderness First Aid Kit. 
- [How to Pick a Chainsaw - 7 beneficial and Essential Questions To Ask First](https://outdoorskillz.com/how-to-pick-a-chainsaw-guiding-questions/): Ever thought of buying a chainsaw and didn't know where to start? This starter guide of 7 questions to ask on how to pick a chainsaw.
- [Boundary Waters Planning - When should I go?](https://outdoorskillz.com/boundary-waters-planning/): When planning a trip there are a number of factors to account for here is a shortlist of things to consider when beginning to plan for a trip in the BWCA.
- [How-To Guide: Make your Own Mittens](https://outdoorskillz.com/how-guide-to-make-your-own-mittens/): Mittens are an important piece of winter equipment. While there is an abundance of options to purchase, it is not hard to make a pair of mittens yourself. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a pair yourself.
- [Outdoor Guide Trail Stories #1 - Lessons Learned the Hard Way](https://outdoorskillz.com/outdoor-guide-trail-stories/): A rookie outdoor guide tells his story of a training disaster striking on the open water in Ima Lake in Boundary Waters Canoe Area. It yielded valuable tips.
- [Survival Skills - 8 Secret Tips Nobody Talks About.](https://outdoorskillz.com/survival-skills/): Shelter, water, fire, food are all tools of survival in the wilderness. However, these survival skills are useless unless you have honed one key skill
- [3 Best Boundary Waters Entry Points To Consider](https://outdoorskillz.com/boundary-waters-entry-points/): These are my favorite entry points. I have taken a number of trips from each spot and find that they have worked out great. That being said, here are my 3 favorite BWCA Entry Points with opportunities and obstacles. 
- [4 Types of Outdoor Gear to Upgrade First](https://outdoorskillz.com/outdoor-gear-to-upgrade/): Have a bunch of outdoor gear but want to step up your experience? Well, this shortlist targets the items to would upgrade first in order to have a more comfortable, enjoyable experience in the woods.
- [7 Tips for Black Bear Preparedness in the Boundary Waters - BWCA](https://outdoorskillz.com/black-bear-preparedness/): These tips are derived from Leave No Trace practices. Of the 7 principles of Leave no trace, the focus here is on respecting wildlife, disposing of waste properly, and being considerate of other visitors. All tips may not necessarily be spelled out in LNT guidelines, but they are aligned with the objectives.
- [Backpacking Stoves - Which works best for you?](https://outdoorskillz.com/backpacking-stoves-which-works-best-for-you/): When it comes to packable stoves there are lots of options. Most of them have their place, each with their own pros and cons. We cover three types to consider for your wilderness use. 
- [5 Key Features for the Best All Around Sleeping Bag](https://outdoorskillz.com/best-all-around-sleeping-bag/): I can confidently say that there are certain characteristics to look for in a sleeping bag to make the one you buy work comfortably for most outdoor camping.
- [10 Top Pieces of Backpacking Gear You NEED To Start With Right Now](https://outdoorskillz.com/backpacking-gear/): This backpacking gear list is meant to cut through the noise and tell you specifically what gear you need to hit the trail stress-free ASAP. 
- [3 Benefits of A Simple Camping Saw](https://outdoorskillz.com/camping-saw/): When weighing the pros and cons of bringing a saw on your next wilderness trip. Consider what you will be using it for besides the mere consideration of space and weight. The right saw in your kit can save a ton of work. 
- [10 Must-Have Outdoor Photos To Stand Out On Your Next Wilderness Trip](https://outdoorskillz.com/how-to-take-great-outdoor-photos/): When out in the wilderness take a bit of time to set up some key photos to tell your story later. These 10 hints will make your adventure memorable.
- [6 Tips For Increasing Your Chances for Great Wildlife Photography](https://outdoorskillz.com/wildlife-photography/): Over the last 15 years, I have been taking photos in the backcountry with everything from a cheap point and shoot, to a DSLR. Here are 6 tips for a great shot. 
- [3 Wilderness Outdoor Camera Options to Capture Your Outdoor Adventure](https://outdoorskillz.com/wilderness-outdoor-camera/): For years I did backcountry canoeing in the Boundary Waters. Its beauty was always difficult to capture without these three elements in the camera options
- [How to Pick the Perfect Axe](https://outdoorskillz.com/perfect-axe/): Select the right ax for your home or camp. Choose a tool that will fit your job or situation. From lightweight short axes for camping to heavy mauls for spliting.
- [4 Excellent Tips On Selecting a Canoe Paddle](https://outdoorskillz.com/best-canoe-paddle/): Selecting an ideal canoe paddle has several considerations. The type of canoeing you will be doing. The materials the paddle is made of and the ideal shape of the paddle for your adventures.
- [5 Easy Steps On How to Clean a Chainsaw](https://outdoorskillz.com/cleaning-chainsaw/): Cleaning your chainsaw after heavy use will ensure that your woodcraft investment will be in top shape for your next tree falling job.
- [2 DIY Methods For How To Sharpen Your Chainsaw Like A Pro](https://outdoorskillz.com/how-to-sharpen-your-chainsaw/): Spending a few minutes to sharpen your own chainsaw will reap benefits with improved cuts, faster cut times and improved safety.

## Pages

- [3 Snappy Things About Evan Hardy](https://outdoorskillz.com/about-evan-hardy/): Oh, hey there, my name is Evan Hardy. I have been working in a variety of outdoor professions for over a decade and have a passion for all things outdoors. I hope to make the outdoors more accessible to others through this site. The goal is to give tips, advice, share experiences, and create a space to learn and develop outdoor skillz. Credentials Here is a shortlist of experiences and educational background as a way to briefly provide some sense for why I would be credentialed to host such a site as Outdoor Skillz. A snapshot of my professional experiences […]
- [Privacy Policy](https://outdoorskillz.com/privacy-policy/): Who we are Our website address is: https://outdoorskillz.com 1. IntroductionWelcome to OutdoorSkillz.com. Your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit our website. 2. Information We CollectWe collect two types of information: 3. How We Use Your InformationWe use the collected information to: 4. Cookies and Tracking TechnologiesOutdoorSkillz.com uses cookies to enhance user experience and gather analytics. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but some website features may not function properly. 5. Third-Party ServicesWe may use third-party services, such as Google Analytics, to analyze website […]

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