Courtney Johnson is a book author, freelance writer and teacher based in Erie, CO. Most of her days are spent chasing her 7-year-old daughter on hiking trails, down the hills on a mountain bike and up climbing routes. You can follow her adventures at: https://adventureswithmylittleray.com/.
Articles
An overnight backpack trip in Rocky Mountain National Park has been on my bucket list for a few years now. This year, I decided to make it happen.
The BearVault 450-Jaunt canister is just one of a variety of different-size bear canisters offered by Colorado-based company BearVault.
Whether you need to feed several people or you are looking to make a bigger meal quickly in the backcountry, the Primus Lite XL Stove System is a great choice to fit your needs.
Looking to save money on your next national park visit? We have the simple seven ways to help you plan accordingly.
Colorado is home to some of the most extensive dinosaur history in all of the United States. At Dinosaur Ridge, in Morrison, Colo., you can find the No. 1 tracksite in North America, according to paleontologists. Dinosaur, Colo., is the gateway to Dinosaur National Monument, where over 5,000 fossils have been found. The mascot of […]
For breathtaking views and wildlife encounters, consider hiking the trails at Rocky Mountain National Park.
Whether you call it boogie boarding or bodyboarding, catching some waves is a summer rite of passage. Adults and kids of all ages can enjoy the adrenaline rush of catching a wave. These simple tips will help you make the most of those first boarding experiences.
If you are looking for tips on how to incorporate out{side} time when school is back in full swing, this is the article for you.
Throughout the U.S., from the Great Smoky Mountains to the coast of Hawaii, you can hike to a grotto for some exploring and maybe even a dip in the water.
Summer solstice is the longest daylight day of the year in our Northern Hemisphere. Here are some ideas to make the most of it.
Mesa Verde National Park is filled with artifacts, ancestral homes, and petroglyphs. Take a trip to learn about the Puebloans who inhabited this area for more than 700 years.
Here are seven tips for making biking to school an activity you can participate in on National Bike & Roll to School Day and beyond.
Once considered to be more of a hidden gem, Mary Jane is one of the few slot canyons in the area that doesn’t require rappelling or special equipment.
Here are {simple 7} ways to have your kids involved with the setup, maintenance, and break down of your camping tent.
Huts make for a great winter “camping” option. Follow along with the Johnsons on their latest experience.
One of the world’s biggest marvels, viewing the night sky offers the opportunity for stillness and peaceful quiet.
Paddle through the mangroves in Florida where there are plenty of unique views and wildlife to see along the way.
Whether you love a great powder day, the beauty of a field of colorful wildflowers or scenic single-track, you can find something to peak your interest when visiting Crested Butte.
Check out these citizen scientist opportunities to help scientists around the world protect our natural world.
Nordic skiing offers a great opportunity for winter recreation that provides a full-body workout, both physically and mentally. Some skiers prefer to stride forward on skis in the classic style. Some may prefer to glide side to side to skate ski. Whatever style you choose, these seven tips will help you have a successful first […]
Make holiday dreams come true for the hiking enthusiast in your life with a gift that inspires them to get outside and on the trail.
Our family holiday kicks off in early December when we head to a national forest to cut down our yearly Christmas tree.
Fly fishing is an exciting activity for the whole family. Learn how to get started in these seven easy steps.
Colorado is home to 58 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet. Commonly referred to as a 14er, climbing one of these peaks is a summer rite of passage for both Coloradans and outdoor enthusiasts who come to visit the state.
Whether I am on a hike close to home or miles from home, I have come to rely on apps for knowledge and safety. These are the top seven apps in my arsenal that I use most when I am out on the trails.
From mid-September into October, male elk begin their yearly search for a mate. Here are some places around the United States where you can catch this fascinating display of machismo.
Here are five ideas for enjoying fall color and some of the places to do these activities around the country.
This new platform from the Montana-based company features GPS technology along with approximately 650,000 miles of trails, 450,000 points of interest and 24,000 topographic maps.
Climbing to the top of your first mountain is exhilarating. Before you hit the trail, check out these seven simple tips for a safe and memorable experience.
A traditional summer activity on the Carolina shores is for beachgoers of all ages to head to the beach and go crab hunting.
Bouldering is an easy and accessible outdoor activity if you start with the right gear and the right training. Get started with these seven steps.
The West is one of the best places to view wildflowers and these eight hikes from various states showcase some of the best color to be seen from the trails.
Try out birdwatching for the first time with these simple seven steps. Stay close to home and discover all the bird species around you.
Seven easy campsite games and activities to try! These ideas will add even more fun and adventure to your camping trip. You can compete or relax and have fun day or night. The options are endless.
Keeping kids happy and motivated while hiking can sometimes be a tall task. Try any or all of these seven activities when a meltdown is soon to happen or trail boredom sets in.
The American West is home to predatory animals, dry climates and high elevations. But the hikes are beautiful and worth it. Here’s seven things to know before planning a hike out west.
Use this list of the top six most common types of campsites and campgrounds to decide which is right for your family.
