Video: House Of The Sun - Timelapse Over Maui

I've posted some spectacular timelapse videos on occasion here, but few can rival this one. It was shot on Haleakala, a gigantic dormant volcano in Hawaii and what make it so spectacular is the dramatic shifts in light as the thick clouds and fog give way to a beautiful sunrise. It really is a sight to behold and should make for a perfect ending to the week. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did and a tip of the cap to filmmaker Dan Douglas for sharing with all of us.

In case I haven't said it recently, our world is an amazing place.

House of the Sun from Dan Douglas on Vimeo.

Video: Why Climb? - In Celebration Of 100 Years On Denali

Today marks the 100th anniversary of the first summit of Denali, the tallest peak in North America at 6194 meters (20,320 ft). A century after that first ascent the mountain remains a challenging and difficult climb, but one that is sought after by mountaineers from across the globe. The video below, which comes are way from the National Park Service, not only celebrates this occasion but also serves as a great reminder of why we climb. As if we need to be reminded! Excellent video for an important anniversary. Enjoy!

Video: Climbing Big Walls In Greenland

On a recent climbing trip to Greenland, Mike Libecki, Angie Payne and Ethan Pringle discovered a new route up a massive rock tower. With just three days to go until their boat arrived to pick them up, they decided to give it a go. It turned out to be a fantastic route and the short film below chronicles taht adventure, complete with nights spent bivvying on tiny rock ledges.

The video has it all. Beautiful landscapes, dramatic climbing and a big payoff at the end with the first ascent of a 3000-foot (914 meters) rock-face competed over about 60 hours. Excellent stuff and a nice look at what goes into a big wall climb.

The Journey | Three Whole Days from Mountain Hardwear on Vimeo.

Explorers Hope To Complete Scott's Fatal Antarctic Expedition

Two explorers have announced their intentions of completing the Antarctic expedition that famed British explorer Robert Falcon Scott never could. Veteran adventurers Ben Saunders and Tarka L'Herpiniere say they will attempt to follow in Scott's footsteps on an 1800-mile (2896 km) round trip journey to the South Pole that will follow the same route that the Terra Nova expedition took in 1911-1912. That is the same expedition that resulted in Scott and his men arriving at the South Pole three weeks behind their Norwegian rivals led by Roald Amundsen, before they all perished on the return trip to the coast.

Ben and Tarka intend to set off from the same cabin that Scott used when he launched his expedition more than a century a go. They'll get underway in October of this year with the hopes of completing the epic journey in approximately 110 days. They'll make the trip without resupply as well, which would make this the longest unsupported polar journey in history.

Scott, who remains a legendary figure in British exploration more than 100 years after his death, famously raced Amundsen to the South Pole to claim the honor of being first to reach that point. Using knowledge from his years spent in the Arctic, Amundsen and his men were able to move faster than the Scott party and as a result were able to plant the flag of Norway at 90�S several weeks before the arrival of the Brits. Dejected and defeated Scott and his men set out on their return journey with heavy hearts. That journey proved fatal to all of the remaining men, with Scott himself, along with Edward Wilson and Henry Bowers, perishing in a tent after getting caught in a blizzard that raged for days. Sadly, they were just 11 miles away from "One Ton Depot," a supply cache that would have given them food and fuel that would have allowed them to survive.

Saunders and L'Herpiniere won't be facing such dire consequences when they launch their expedition later this year. Still, it will take a herculean effort on their part to complete this journey. We haven't seen a lot of success on these round-trip expeditions to the South Pole and they will be taking a route that is far from the tried and true Hercules Inlet starting point.

The 2013 Antarctic season is still months away, but I'm already starting to look forward to it.

GoPro Mountain Games Underway In Vail

One of the largest and most popular event for outdoor athletes is now underway in Vail, Colorado, where the GoPro Mountain Games kicked off yesterday. These are the same mountain games that we've come to know and love over the past number of years, although this time GoPro has stepped up to be the title sponsor replacing Teva.

The events kicked off yesterday with a light schedule to get things started but things will pick-up considerably today as we head into the weekend. As usual, there are a number of great outdoor sports for athletes to take part in with bouldering, slacklining and slope style mountain biking taking center stage today. The number of events really ramps up tomorrow as climbing, kayaking, cycling and many other competitions begin, and of course the battle for the title of the King of the Mountain kicks into full gear as well.

Of course, there will be plenty to do for spectators as well. In addition to cheering on these amazing outdoor athletes, the Adventure Village returns to give kids an opportunity to learn more about the sports they're watching while Gear Town will be a great place to check out new outdoor equipment and possibly even score some killer deals. As always, there will be plenty of live music, parties, food and photo competitions to help keep everyone entertained.

For a full list of events and to get more details on the GoPro Mountain Games, click here. If you're in the neighborhood this weekend, it looks like this will be a fun event worth checking out. And if you're up to it, you might still be able to get involved in some of the competitions.

The Rest of Everest Episode 190: 5 Dudes In A Tent

In need of your weekly mountaineering fix? The latest episode of The Rest of Everest has arrived just in time to help with that addiction. This week we continue to follow climber Brian Block and his team as they start to acclimate to Broad Peak prior to setting out for their eventual target, the always imposing K2. The team has been busy getting ready for the challenges ahead, but bad weather is about to send them back to Base Camp for a time.

One of the things that I have always loved about this video podcast is how it shows all aspects of an expedition, even if that entails the team just hanging out in BC. It is all part of the process of climbing these big peaks, where patience is often rewarded.

Video: Connecting Adventurers And Scientists

Gregg Treinish is a 2013 Nat Geo Emerging Explorer and the founder of Adventurers and Scientists for Conservation. That organization connects outdoor enthusiasts, explorers and extreme athletes with scientists who are looking for samples or data to help them in their research. By working together, the outdoor crowd can help collect that data and get into the hands of scientists who may not have had an opportunity to get it before. It is a novel concept � kind of like crowd-research � and I think it is a brilliant idea.

The video below profiles Gregg and what he is attempting to accomplish with ASC. It is also the first in a new four-part series that will profile similar me and women who are having a positive impact on our world.

Gregg Treinish, A MoveShake Story from RED REEL on Vimeo.

Video: Timelapse Through Western Australia

Covering more than 2,529,875 square kilometres (976,790 sq mi), Western Australia is the largest state in Australia, covering nearly a third of the continent. With that much open space, you have to think that there are some pretty impressive outdoor playgrounds there and the video below pretty much confirms that. It is a timelapse film shot over five months and capturing some of the more memorable locations. Much like the rest of Australia, it looks wild, rugged and stunningly beautiful. Enjoy!


Made in WA, Australia from Eddie Peter Hobson on Vimeo.

Expedition Denali Heads To Alaska

One of the more prominent teams that has received media attention so far this year has been Expedition Denali, which I've written about on several occasions already. This is the squad of climbers that consists entirely of African-Americans who have set a goal to climb the tallest peak in North America in an effort to inspire young people of all ethnicities to connect with the outdoors and seek their own adventures. After months of planning and weeks of preparation, the climbers are about to kick off their climb at last as they make their way to Alaska before setting out for the mountain.

As the expedition name implies, the team has set its sights on the 6194 meter (20,320 ft) Denali (aka Mt. McKinley) in Alaska. The 2013 climbing season is already in full swing there with a number of climbers already topping out. After a nasty season last year, during which the weather prevented most teams from summiting, things have been much better so far this spring. Whether or not that continues to be true remains to be seen.

The Expedition Denali crew is now starting to gather in Palmer, Alaska, which will serve as their proving ground before heading to the mountain itself. It will be a few days before they actually reach Base Camp, but you can follow their progress on their blog, Facebook page and Twitter feed.

Prior to setting out the team was happy to announce that their Kickstarter campaign was fully-funded. They were looking to raise $107,000 to create a documentary film about their adventure and when the clock wound down on their fund-raising efforts, they actually exceeded their goal by bringing in $111,125. That means that we should see an excellent film about this project in the future.

Expect to hear a lot more about this team in the days ahead. As I mentioned, their efforts to increase diversity in the outdoors is making this a high profile climb for sure. That means we shouldn't have too much difficult following along with their progress on the mountain and getting updates throughout the Denali season.

Good luck to the entire team!

Adventure Tech: Samsung Announces A Ruggedized Galaxy S4

It seems that Caterpillar isn't the only company that sees potential in releasing a smartphone designed for the outdoor crowd. Yesterday, Samsung announced the new Galaxy S4 Active with a host of features designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts who tend to be very hard on their gear when out on their adventures.

As the name implies, the new Galaxy S4 is designed with the active user in mind. In addition to the usual host of features found on the standard S4 (1.9 GHz quad-core processor, eye tracking technology, 8-megapixel camera, etc.) this model has been built to withstand a little more punishment. For instance, it is dust proof and water resistant up to one meter for 30 minutes of time. It even comes with a water resistant earphone jack, allowing the user to listen to his or her music in more demanding environments. It has a long last 2600 mAh battery and a touch screen that can be operated even while wearing gloves. That comes in very handy while hitting the slopes with friends or simply heading out on the town in the colder months. A new "Aqua Mode" has been added tot he camera as well which gives you the chance to snap crisp, clear photos even while submerged in water. The S4 Active even has a built-in flashlight option that can help you find you way back to the trailhead at the end of the day.

The S4 Active runs the latest version of the Android operating system (4.2.2 Jellybean) which grants full access to the Google Play store, as well as numerous special apps directly from Samsung themselves. For instance, "S Travel" offers travel assistance and local information while on the road while "S Translator" helps interpret a variety of languages when visiting foreign lands. The phone tips the scales at 151 grams (5.2 ounces), which makes it slightly heavier than the standard Galaxy S4, but hardly something you'll notice while carrying it.

We've obviously seen ruggedized smartphones before but with Samsung throwing their hat into the ring, it is clear that his is a market that will be receiving more attention in the future. That means more options for those of us who absolutely must have our phones with us no matter where we go. Samsung makes the best smartphones on the market (outside of Apple) in my opinion, so having this as an option is a good things.

Pricing has yet to be announced but the standard S4 is about $200 on a new contract. the S4 Active will probably be a bit higher than that.

Video: This Is Africa

If you've read my blog for any length of time, you know that I am completely captivated by Africa. It is an incredible place with plenty of adventure for any one lifetime. The video below gives us a glimpse of the amazing landscapes, wildlife and people that can be found there. It was shot by filmmaker Benjamin Dowie, who recently visited Uganda and Tanzania. His short film captures many of the aspects of Africa that appeal to me and it makes me want to return again soon.

THIS IS AFRICA from Benjamin Dowie on Vimeo.

Paddlemag Website Gets A New Look, Comes To iOS And Android

One of my favorite online resources for news and information on kayaking, Paddlemag, has released its third issue, bringing a host of stellar articles and stunning images to readers. The e-mag always has excellent content available in a beautiful � not to mention free � .pdf file format that brings together all the slickness of a traditional magazine with the convenience and portability of a digital one. This time out, Paddlemag profiles Jason Beachcroft, who is attempting to circumnavigate Australia in a Kayak. Unlike Freya Hoffmeister's circumnav from a few years back however, Jason intends to include Tasmania in his expedition. The mag also takes a look at Ryan Fulton's Stand-Up Paddleboard journey along Australia's Gold Coas to Melbourne, traveling a distance of 2087 km (1296 miles) in the process.

A new issues isn't the only thing that the editors at Paddlemag have brought to the table. They've also launched a revamped website that is clean, easy to navigate and provides plenty of news and information from all aspects of paddling sports. It also provides access to the previous issues of the magazine, which are available to download as well.

Perhaps more exciting is that Paddlemag is now available in the Apple's App Store and Amazon's Kindle Store. The apps are free to download, but the individual issues are AUS $4.50 (US $4.28), which is actually a solid deal for a fully interactive digital magazine of this quality.

If you haven't checked out Paddlemag just yet, drop by the website and download an issue. I think you'll find that it is a fantastic magazine that will change your perceptions of what is being done in the digital arena.

Video: Saving Patagonia's Wild Rivers

A new web video series has just launched entitled "Rios Libres: Environmental Dispatches." The four-part series explores the threats to Chile's rivers and the unique challenges that the people of that country are facing in order to save their wild spaces, including Patagonia, one of the most spectacular wildernesses on the planet.

The issue is that large conglomerates are planning to place five dams along two major rivers in Patagonia. Those dams will have a massive effect on the rivers and the ecosystems that surround them. In the video below, which is Episode 1 of this new series, we meet some of the people that live in Patagonia and get their thoughts on what the Baker and Pascua rivers mean to them.

Episode 1- The People from Rios Libres on Vimeo.

The Coldest Journey Update: Horrible Conditions And Slow Progress At The Bottom Of The World

With all of the activity taking place in the Himalaya over the past month and half or more, it has been some time since we checked in on the progress of the Coldest Journey team. You may recall, this is the group of explorers who have set out to cross the Antarctic in the dead of winter, something that has never been done before. The members of the team knew that they were taking on an incredibly difficult task, but it seems that progress has been more challenging and slow than they ever imagined.

The expedition began back in late May with the team departing from Crown Bay along the Antarctic coast. The plan is to traverse the continent to the Ross Ice Shelf via the South Pole. Five members of the team are traveling on skis while others follow behind on tractors, which are fulling large sleds that serve as shelter from the harsh conditions and carry all of the team's fuel and food. This approach to traveling across the continent came about because of the complete lack of support the team would have along the way. Conditions are so bad there at the moment that no one would be able to provide a supply drop or come rescue them if they got into trouble.

And just how bad are the conditions? The team is routinely facing absolute temperatures of -50�C/-58�F. Wind chills have taken those temperatures closer to -70�C/-94�F however, which is almost unthinkably cold. Add in persistently snowy weather, the constant threat of crevasses and near-24 hour darkness and you begin to understand just what the men have been dealing with.

With that setting in mind, is it any wonder that they team has made very slow progress thus far? As of last Saturday, they were making their camp at S72 51' 13.5?, E023 33' 50.2?, which is still an awfully long way from the South Pole. Their ability to move forward has been hampered by blue ice, which is dangerous to cross, and the mechanical failure of one of the tractors. Repairs have been completed on the vehicle now, but they are still getting the expedition back on track.

All told, the journey is suppose to cover 2000 miles and take approximately six months to complete. That means that they aren't even to the half-way point, in terms of time or distance, just yet. That said, they will have to pick up the pace if they hope to finish the expedition on schedule and complete their stated goal of crossing the frozen continent during the winter. So far, not many things have gone their way and the finish line has to feel like it is an impossible goal right now.

You can follow the team's progress on their blog, through Facebook and Twitter. They post almost daily updates on their progress, which on some days is nearly non-existent. I'll bet these boys will be looking forward to some tropical weather once they have finished their mission.

Gear Closet: AKU SL Sintesti GTX Hiking Boots

Last summer I reviewed a pair of SL Trek GTX hiking boots from AKU and came away highly impressed. At the time, I lauded the boots for being comfortable, breathable and durable with great traction on a variety of trail conditions. Since then, I've only become more impressed with the boots, which continue to hold up well with many more miles of trail under their heels. So when AKU offered to let me try out their new SL Sintesti GTX hiking boots, I jumped at the chance, eager to see if the same level of quality could be found in a lighter and more affordable shoe. Considering the mountaineering legacy that the company brings to the table, I should have known that I wouldn't be disappointed.

AKU says that the Sintesti is designed for hiking and backpacking on a variety of terrain up to medium altitudes. Lightweight and comfortable, these are the kind of shoes that you can wear on your favorite local trail or take with you on a trek through the Himalaya or up Kilimanjaro. The shoe provides plenty of protection for your feet, keeping them well shielded from rocky trails. In fact, the ground here in Central Texas is actually very rocky, but the Sintesti had no problem keeping my feet from getting battered or overly tired, even on long walks.

These boots feature a Vibram Mulaz outsole that is tough as nails and provides excellent footing whether you're scrambling over rock or through deep snow and mud. When combined with a triple-layer internal midsole, it provides a rigid, yet comfortable ride that nicely cradles the foot and protects it from harm. Because of that rigidness, these shoes aren't quite as flexible as some lighter weight hiking footwear from the competition, although their performance is light years better.

Despite this outstanding level of protection for the foot, the Sintesti don't feel heavy or bulky when worn at all. On the contrary, they actually feel so good that you'll almost believe that AKU custom made them especially for you. The footpad molds itself nicely to the shape of your foot and the break-in period is quite fast, ensuring that your new pair of boots feels like a comfortable old pair of boots in no time.

Other features include a precision lacing system that extends to just above the toes, allowing you to cinch the boots to your liking. I personally prefer a snug fit when hiking, although I know others don't like their feet to feel confined. What ever your preference is, you'll be able to adjust the Sintesti to an optimal fit quickly and easily. The suede upper conforms nicely to your needs as well, wrapping the foot in an incredibly durable � not to mention good looking � shell.

AKU has incorporated a Gore-Tex liner which helps to keep the feet dry in a variety of conditions. When your they start to heat up, the liner wicks moisture away and when you're hiking through wet conditions, Gore-Tex will keep unwanted moisture out as well. As is typical with all products that use Gore-Tex, performance was excellent and my feet remained dry and happy at all times.

Like the SL Trek GTX boots that I reviewed last year, I am once again impressed with the high level durability that AKU has managed to instill in the Sintesti. These boots can take everything you throw at them and still come out looking just as good as new. I took them on muddy trails, across very rocky terrain, up and over boulders and through rushing streams, and except for showing a little dirt, they look like they've barely been worn. A good pair of hiking boots are an investment and this level of durability ensures that the Sintesti are a wise investment indeed. I would wager that anyone who buys these boots will have footwear to accompany them on their adventures for years to come.

AKU sells these boots for $249, which is about $80 less than the SL Treks that I recommended so highly last year. The Sintesti GTX delivers a similar level of performance with those boots but at a more affordable price. If you're in the market for a new pair of boots that can accompany you on nearly any hiking adventure, these are just the shoes you've been looking for. They are comfortable, durable and perform well even under the worst of conditions. Not all footwear displays that level of dependability, but you'll get all of that and more in AKU's SL Sintesti GTX hiking boots. And chances are, your feet will thank you.

Future In Doubt For Patagonian Expedition Race

The Patagonian Expedition Race has been a fixture on the adventure racing calendar for ten years. Over that period, the race has earned itself a reputation for being one of the toughest around while also earning rave reviews from athletes for the stunning courses that were created year in and year out. Now, it seems the future of the race is in serious jeopardy and the adventure racing community runs the risk of losing yet another classic expedition length event.

The news broke earlier today in a local Chilean newspaper (translation required). Race managers Stjepan Pavicic is suspending the race for 2014 due to lack of local support from the authorities in the Patagonia region. As you can imagine, putting on a race of this caliber on an annual basis, particularly in a remote setting, can be very difficult. From the sound of things, it seems Pavicic doesn't feel like his race is getting the support it needs to thrive. This is particularly disheartening considering the amount of exposure it brings to the region and the revenue it generates for the local economy.

Pavicic has said that he will wait until June 10 to make a final announcement on the fate of the race. The hope is that perhaps one or two of the sponsors will step up to lend a hand, or perhaps a new sponsor might be interested in joining the team. Barring some kind of miracle however, it now appears that there will be no Patagonian Expedition Race next year. He does say he'll reassess the situation in 2015 to see if it is viable to bring back the event at that time.

So?? Any outdoor-oriented companies out there looking for a little exposure want to step in and save this great race? I'm sure the race directors would love to hear from you.

Video: Alex Honnold Goal Zero Commercial

After being featured on 60 Minutes a year so back, not to mention appearing in numerous magazine articles, blog posts, YouTube videos and television commercials, Alex Honnold seems to have become the face of rock climbing in many ways. He is also featured in a nice new add from Goal Zero that shows him free climbing a route called Fine Jade on The Rectory near Moab, Utah while sharing his motivations for why he climbs. At the end, he even uses one of Goal Zero's solar panels to recharge his cell phone so he can call home and let mom know he's safe. All in all, a pretty nice video for a commercial.

Motocross Champ Ryan Dungey Leads Cycling Event For A Cause

Cyclists looking for a good, single-day summer challenge should check MN Major River-to-River Ride that takes place later in the month. The event, which is headlined by motocross champion Ryan Dungey, will take place on Sunday, June 28 and will provide two unique and scenic courses for riders of all ages and skill levels. It also serves as a fund raiser for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The MN Major takes place in Hastings, Minnesota and begins at the St. Croix River and runs to the mighty Mississippi and back again. The course winds through a scenic river valley that serves as a beautiful back drop for the cyclists, who can choose to ride either the full 100K (62 mile) length or a shorter 20 mile route. Both courses present unique challenges and are designed to be fun and interesting to ride.

While the event is not meant to be a race, those riding the Major Course will get a chance to compete with one another and show off their leg strength. At the mile 57 marker there will be a Hill Hauler challenge during which each rider's climb will be officially timed up a steep hill. The rider with the best time will take home a prize from one of the event's sponsors.

The event is one that is near and dear to the heart of Dungey, who lost his grandmother to cancer in 2005. In response, he wanted to do something to help a great cause while also combing his love for cycling and his home state of Minnesota. Because this event is so important to him, 100% of the proceeds go directly to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

If you're going to be in the area and would like to take part in the ride, registration is now open with an entry fee of just $50. All riders are welcome and you can even register onsite on the day of the event.

The GB Row Challenge: The Toughest Rowing Race On The Planet?

This past weekend one of the toughest rowing events on the planet, the GB Row Challenge, got underway at the Tower Bridge in London. It was from that point that seven teams set off on a 2000-mile long journey to circumnavigate the British Isles while rowing non-stop and unassisted. If history is any judge, most of them won't complete this journey, which is incredibly demanding both physically and psychologically.

The teams who have entered the race vary in size from as small as two crew members up to teams of six. Most are in traditional row boats designed for the challenges of open water, although one three man team is actually attempting to pedal a pedalo around the course. Some of the challenges they'll face will include rough seas, fast moving and ever-changing currents and unpredictable weather. They'll also have to navigate through some of the busiest shipping lanes in the world, while fending off the fatigue that comes with rowing a boat day in and day out for an extended period of time. All the while they'll be in sight of land, which presents a strong lure to quit when things get particularly difficult.

Just how long it will take to complete the race remains to be seen. The current record for completing the circumnavigation of the islands is 26 days, 21 hours and 14 minutes. That record was set by a crew of four men back in 2005. The women's record was set in 2010 and currently stands at 51 days, 16 hours and 42 minutes.

The GB Row does offer a substantial prize package for the winners. First place in any category goes home with �15,000 ($22,944), while second place wins �6,000 ($9177) and third place gets �4,000 ($6118). Additionally, any team that breaks the world record for the course will also receive an additional �100,000 ($152,960).

Each of the boats is carrying a Yellowbrick tracker that updates their position every hour on the hour. You can follow their progress on the race tracker page. Considering they've only been out on the water a few days, there is still a long, long way to go until someone reaches the finish line back at the Tower Bridge.

Thanks to Sylvia for sharing news of this race with me. It is much appreciated! Sylvia's friends Jason McKinlay and Josh Tarr are competing in the event as Team Savoir Faire. Good luck guys!

Adventure Kitchen: Sharkies Energy Sports Chews and A New Flavor From Clif Bar

I'm the kind of person who can't exercise on an empty stomach but also can't have anything too heavy before a workout either. As a result, I regularly find myself walking a fine line on when and what to eat in the lead-up to a run, bike ride or other intense aerobic workout. That's why I like to have some quick and easy pre-workout snacks that can provide the energy I need without filling me up. Recently I've had a chance to try two new, and very different, options in this department and I came away pleased with both of them.

Sharkies Energy Sports Chews
The first new option in my pantry are the tasty energy sports chews from Sharkies. These all-organic chews are designed to provide energy for our bodies for use in our favorite endurance sports. They provide a natural source of electrolytes, contain no trans fats or high fructose corn syrup. They also happen to be free of wheat, gluten and nuts, which means they are perfectly safe for those who have intolerances to any of those items.

The one thing these chews aren't lacking in is flavor. In fact, if I didn't know any better I'd swear these were gummy candies that you'd pick up from your local convenience store. That means they're sweet, tasty and good for you. They also happen to provide fuel for a workout without weighing you down in any way.

I've tested three different flavors of these chews � Watermelon Scream, Barry Blast and Fruit Splash � and it is a toss-up on which one I like best. I'm not even a big fan of watermelon flavored snacks, but these were a nice mix of sweet and tangy that I found I enjoyed quite a bit. The shark-shaped chews also have a nice consistency to them that makes them easy to enjoy as well. Other similar energy chews that I've tried in the past actually turned out to be a more challenging to eat than the actual workout itself.

Sharkies sells the chews in a box of 12 for $17.80, which works out to just $1.48 per pack. That's actually a very competitive price when compared to similar products on the market, many of which aren't nearly as tasty.

I've been munching on Sharkies prior to some longer runs recently and have been very happy with the results. Not only do they provide emergency fuel when I'm hungry before a workout but they do so without slowing me down in the least. The fact that manage to taste good while doing so is yet another added benefit.

Clif Bar Sierra Trail Mix Bar

By now, we're all familiar with the popular and ubiquitous Clif Bars. The company has been around forever and continues to refine their iconic energy bars. This spring they've introduced an interesting new flavor that is perfect for everything from a pre-run fuel-up or a mid-hike snack.

The new flavor is called Sierra Trail Mix and just like the iconic snack that it is named after, it contains plenty of peanuts, chocolate and raisins all in handy bar that you can carry with you anywhere. Like the other bars in Clif's line-up, this new addition is an excellent source of protein and fiber, contains 23 vitamins and minerals, but zero trans fats. That means it is a great source of quick energy when your batteries start to run a little low.

I have a confession to make. I haven't always been a fan of Clif Bar products. There were times in the past that I found them to be dry, hard to swallow and mostly tasteless. Those days are long gone however and now I find that I enjoy pretty much every flavor in the line-up. I can now add Sierra Trail Mix to that list too. This new flavor is everything you like about traditional trail mix, but in an easy to carry and eat package.

This new addition to the line-up is well worth taste. Pick some up where ever Clif Bars are sold, which is just about everywhere if your neighborhood is anything like mine.

Video: Mountain Biking Down A Volcano

Looking for a new place to ride your mountain bike? Perhaps  you should consider heading to the Spanish island of Gran Canaria. That's what pro riders Di Litta and Kilian Bron did recently and they found some surprisingly great terrain. The video below shows off their ride as they bomb down the side of a volcano. This is so good, you'll almost certainly be considering a ride of your own afterwards.

Everest 2013: Alan Arnette Recaps The Season That Was

It was another exciting, dramatic and wild season on the world's tallest peak. We saw some amazing feats performed on the mountain, including the possibility of a record number of summits. As always, there were some tragic deaths too, with the mountaineering community saying goodbye to some notable figures. There were epic efforts put out on both the North and South Sides and there were strange and incredible stories abounding throughout the season, some of which remain fresh in our minds, while others seem like distant memories.

With that in mind, Alan Arnette has written an excellent Season Recap which is a must read for those who have followed along this year. As usual, he does a great job of hitting the highs and lows of the season that just passed, offering up valuable insight and important nuggets of information that might otherwise slip past without much mention.

Some of the many things that get a mention include the record setting accomplishments of climbers such as David Liano, Kenton Cool and Dave Hahn. A new age record set by Yuichiro Miura and an outstanding year for female climbers in general. Of course, he also talks about the now infamous fight between Simone Moro, Ueli Steck and Jonathan Griffin and the angry mob of Sherpas that not only left the climbers bruised and battered but also gave mountaineering a black eye.

To say it was an active year would be an understatement, but in a lot of ways it was also a typical year too. Plenty of activity centered around the Big Hill and enough news to keep even the most ardent Everest junkies happy.

I was a little sad to see the season end as it always comes too swiftly and abruptly. The fall season in the Himalaya is a good distraction, but it just isn't the same. I guess we can all start counting the days until the 2014 season begins. Hopefully it'll be here before we know it.

Ladies Take Center Stage At Waikiki Classic

I don't cover surfing all that often on the Adventure Blog, mostly because it is a sport that I haven't had a lot of direct exposure to. But one thing I do appreciate is an event that goes out of its way to encourage people to get outside and try something new. Particularly if that event is aimed at young people who just might discover an activity that lights their own passion for adventure and outdoor pursuits.

One such event is coming up next weekend, June 8-9, on Queens Beach in Hawaii. That is when the Roxy Waikiki Classic is schedule to take place, pitting some of the best female surfers in the world against one another, including reigning Longboard champ Kelia Moniz. But what really sets this competition apart is that while the pros will be demonstrating their considerable skills out on the water, amateur surfers are invited to get in on the fun as well. The competition is open to all female surfers ages 6 and up and is absolutely free to enter. There will be appropriate categories for entrants, and prizes and awards will be given away too.

What I absolutely love about this event is that the organizers have eliminated all the hurdles for entry. Amateurs can surf the same waves as the pros and while getting a sense of what it is like to compete in front of a big crowd, all without having to pay a hefty entry fee. That lets them go out and have some fun without having a major investment in how well they do and where they place. If this approach allows the event to draw in just a handful of new surfers to the sport, than it will be a success in my book. The fact that the Waikiki Classic is aimed directly at getting girls more active is just icing on the cake. Event sponsor Roxy is an active and lifestyle apparel brand for ladies, and should be commended for their efforts in this area.

If you happen to be in Waikiki next weekend and you're looking for something to do, drop by the Classic and get in no all of the fun. Not only will there be plenty of action out on the waves, there will be games and activities taking place on the beach as well. Plus, it'll be a good chance to cheer on these athletic ladies, both amateur and pro.

2013 Pakistani Climbing Season Ramps Up

As I mentioned last week, now that the the spring climbing season in the Himalaya is over, the mountaineering community is turning its attention elsewhere. A considerable amount of that attention is currently focused on Denali in Alaska, but the summer climbing season in Pakistan is also starting to gain momentum. While the country doesn't have the number of 8000 meter peaks that Nepal has, it certainly is home to some of the more difficult climbs around. Over the next two months, some of the top alpinists in the world will surely be testing their skills on those mountains.

Chief amongst the Pakistani big peaks is K2 of course. Standing just 237 meters (777 ft) shorter than Everest, it is the second tallest mountain on the planet. It just might be the toughest to climb however. Due to its myriad of technical and logistical challenges, not to mention unpredictable weather, K2 has earned itself a reputation for being the "mountaineer's mountain." Its harsh and unrelenting challenges, which has resulted in the second highest fatality-to-summit rate (behind Annapurna), has also earned it the nickname of the "Savage Mountain." Successful summits are few and far between on this peak, although there will no doubt be several teams trying it again this year.

Other 8000 meter peaks in Pakistan include Broad Peak (8051 m/26,414 ft), Gasherbrum I (8080 m/26,444 ft) and II (8034 m/26,358 ft) and Nanga Parbat (8126 m/26,660 ft). Each of those mountains presents its own unique challenges that sets them apart from each other and the Himalayan peaks that are typically climbed in Nepal and Tibet. Nanga Parbat for instance is known for its incredibly difficult technical challenges while BP requires a great deal of endurance to summit. The Gasherbrums happen to be quite remote, even by the standards of these big mountains, which presents some difficulties just getting to Base Camp.

Throughout June and July we'll get updates from these, and likely other mountains in Pakistan. Some teams will go to acclimatize on Broad Peak then attempt K2. Others will be satisfied with taking on just one of these mountains. And while it won't be nearly as active as the Himalayan climbing season, there will still be plenty of news to report and interesting stories to tell. Hopefully I can do my best to help share some of them with you.

Stay tuned for more updates in the days ahead. Climbers are just now arriving in Islamabad and the Pakistani climbing season is just about to get underway.

Gear Closet: Cocoon Ultralight Air-Core Hood Camp Pillow

Remember the days when you would go camping and you would have to leave some amenities behind simply because they either didn't exist in a portable format or they were just too bulky and cumbersome to bring along? Those days almost seem laughable now considering how lightweight and compact our gear has become. Now days when we hit the trail, there are very few things we have to leave behind, making our time in the great outdoors more comfortable then ever. I was reminded of this recently while testing the new Ultralight Air-Core Hood Camp Pillow from Cocoon. It is a surprisingly comfortable camp pillow that takes up almost no room in your pack and weighs next to nothing, making it a no brainer to carry with you on all of your adventures.

The pillow is made of a durable nylon fabric that is designed to stand-up to the rigors of travel. Whether you're spending the weekend in a local campsite or thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, this pillow will be with you every step of the way. Best of all, you will barely know it is in your pack, at least until the end of the day when you're ready to curl up for a good night's sleep. The Ultralight Air-Core pillow weighs in at just 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and when stored inside its included stuff sack, it is smaller than a can of Coke.

Removing the pillow from the stuff-sack reveals that is bigger than I had initially expected. It covers an area of 12" x 16" (30 x 40 cm), which is large enough for all but the most restless of campers. In one corner there is a high quality air valve that allows you to quickly inflate it to its full size with just a few breaths. The valve also helps you to adjust the level of firmness as well, setting it to your personal level of comfort. I found it best to fill the pillow to capacity and then seal it with a quick twist of the valve.  From there, its a cinch to slowly release the air to get everything just right.

Cocoon has put quite a bit of thought into the design of this product that helps to make it easy to recommend to backpackers, campers and even adventure travelers. For instance, half of the pillow is covered in a soft microfiber while the other half remains nylon. The microfiber makes for a warmer sleeping experience, but if you get too warm, you can simply flip the pillow over for a cooler surface on which to rest.

The unique shape of this pillow (it is rounded across the top) makes it perfect fit for the hood of a mummy bag. I happen to be a fan of that style of sleeping bag and having a pillow that fits neatly and easily into the hood is a very nice option. The air valve that is so useful in setting the firmness of the Air-Core also helps in adjusting its size of your mummy bag hood as well. This adds a nice level of versatility to this pillow as well, as I feel it is large enough to be used outside of a sleeping bag, but can fit snuggly into a mummy bag when traveling through colder environments.

If you're in the market for a comfortable and durable camping pillow for your next backpacking trip, it's hard not to recommend Cocoon's excellent offering. It is everything you could ask for � small, lightweight and versatile. On top of that, it is also highly affordable. MSRP is just $25.95. At that price, how can you afford to not have one in your pack?