Saunter Through Nature and Get Re-connected to Its Wonders

Nevertheless, a hike or a saunter can expose you to the most natural, spontaneous beauty and re-connect you with the simplicity of nature. As John Muir stated “Now these mountains are our Holy Land, and we ought to saunter through them reverently, not ‘hike’ through them.”

To saunter through the mountains is the best means to experience the beauty. Nature is preserved through National forests, thanks to great conservationists like John Muir and Ansel Adams (to name a few) in its 193 million acres of land. In other words, the size of Texas is disbursed throughout the United States making nature within everyone’s reach.

Whether you are a speed hiker (and love the momentum) or prefer to saunter through the mountains, you’ll need high quality, durable clothing, outer wear, equipment and accessories. Check out bargain outfitters that sell the top name gear and outerwear at a fraction of the price in the retail markets. You’ll get great names including (but not limited to) Patagonia, Columbia, North Face, Bolle, Vasque, Burton, and Spyder.

You control your destiny with nature: how short, how long, how distant, or how near you want to saunter. Here is a recommended list of minimally what to pack for your day saunter through nature:

1. Topographical map and a compass (Check out altimeter watch)
2. Water: If you think you’ve packed enough, bring more. Or invest in a lightweight Katadyn water filter so you can pump, filter and replenish your own water source.
3. Sunglasses and Sunscreen. See Oakley sunglasses.
4. Layers of clothing: especially if climbing into the sub-alpine and alpine areas. The weather can change drastically. An altimeter watch, with a barometer reading is an excellent addition. Pack capilene and fleece underclothes, gloves, wool hat and rain repellant jacket and pants.
5. Snacks and food. A dehydrated low-fueled hiker is a doomed one.
6. Hike with someone-always! If you are determined to hike alone, be sure that you leave your hiking information and time of return with a friend. If you change your plans last minute, leave a note in your car. (Cell phones do not work in the great outdoors- so please don’t rely on them).
7. Safety items must haves: first aid kit, matches, and emergency blankets. The Garmin GPS is a great addition for you who have a tendency to saunter and miss the turn.
8. Litter Bag- you must pack out what you pack in.
9. Bug Repellant and even Buz Off clothing. Just wear the clothes that contain a bug repellant without saturating your skin with the foul smelling, tasting deet.
10. Pack these essentials in a backpack that is right for your venture and your back. See shopping for the right backpack.

Gear for an optimum saunter was put to the test before listing it on this site. The footwear will support your feet and legs as they carry you through varied terrain. The outer wear will protect you from the elements of rain and snow yet allow your body to breathe. The site also features reputable reviews by experts from Outside Magazine, Outdoor Magazine and National Geographic.

For an overnight saunter or camping trip in the backcountry be sure to be prepared with an adequate sleeping bag, tent, and cooking mechanisms. Overnight camping in the great outdoors can be a wonderful experience when prepared. See Camping checklists. It’s all here for you. It’s only you that’s holding the possibility back.

Fall in love again with nature. Saunter thru the mountains and be prepared. The options are endless. The choice is yours.