Activity for Restless Adventurer‭

Type	On...	Excerpt	Status	Date
Answer	—	A: Is there a way to light a fire in the wild using rocks? Yes you will need a special kind of rock. The spark is a tiny bit of burning iron struck off the source of iron by a really hard rock. So if you are only using rocks then you will need 1 iron rich rock and one harder rock. Iron Pyrite (fools gold) and quartz would be one combination. Common pra... (more)	—	about 6 years ago
Answer	—	A: How sophisticated a dust mask can one hope to improvise? There are a number of plans using 2 liter plastic bottles for improvised "gas masks". Note that they would not stop gasses but instead filter out particulates like from a dust storm, collapsed building, forest fire, pepper spray, etc. The basic gist is to cut a U shaped face hole or mouth/nose ho... (more)	—	about 6 years ago
Answer	—	A: Is there a backpacker's guide to edible plants that is very light? Short answer, yes. There are thin or even pamphlet sized guides to wild edibles. I doubt you would find any practical use with those. They simply don't have anything but the most well known plants and they often skimp on pictures and description or how to prepare. Longer answer, if you seriously ... (more)	—	about 6 years ago
Answer	—	A: Are there any natural materials found in the wild that can be used as an effective sunscreen? The white dust, technically "bloom", found on the trunks of aspen (Populus tremuloides) trees has been used as a sun block. Some trees have more than others. Rubbing a hand on the bark and transferring the dust to your skin does noticeably leave a whitened area so I'm inclined to believe it is some h... (more)	—	about 6 years ago
Answer	—	A: Philmont closed - any good places to go instead? You did not mention what you planned on doing. Was it strictly backpacking in the backcountry? One option would be Whittington Center which is near Philmont. There is hiking and camping in basically the same sort of environment though I'm not sure it would be enough backcountry for you. The other... (more)	—	over 6 years ago
Answer	—	A: How to fight bugs when hiking? Repellants containing DEET are the most effective and the only method I've been happy with. It is a harsh chemical but does NOT need to go on your skin. Spray 95%-100% DEET on the top and bottom of your hat brim, your backpack shoulder straps or the neck and shoulders of your shirt and socks. This ... (more)	—	over 6 years ago