Wildfire in the Smokies - How To Help

Updated info as of 11/30 here: https://www.appalachiaandbeyond.com/2016/11/blog-update-wildfires-and-how-to-help.html

Most of you have heard about the devastating wildfires that have affected the East Tennessee area. Last night, Gatlinburg and the part of the National forest that stretches between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge - known as the Spur - was victim of an enormous, swift moving wildfire. Hundreds of homes and structures were damaged or destroyed and many, many people were displaced, some at this time still looking for family members including beloved pets.

It is sad, sad news. We are heartbroken for all of these victims, for all of the animals affected, and for our ancient mountains as well. Although as old as they are they've probably seen more fires than any of us could imagine, but in my lifetime, I've never seen anything like it in the Smokies.

There are more than 2000 people, at this time, that are in local shelters - more than 14,000 people evacuated. With this being #GivingTuesday, you may be wondering what you can do to help.

Want To Start Hiking? Plan Your First Hike With Ease

Image Courtesy of: Pixabay

Your first hike is an adventure you are likely to remember for the rest of your life. So the pressure is on to make sure you remember it for all the right reasons. Planning your first hike can be challenging when you’ve never been on one before. You might not know what to bring, where you should go and for how long. Not giving your first hike plenty of consideration beforehand can also increase the chances of you becoming lost or ill in the process. This is naturally something you want to avoid. So to help you plan a safe and unforgettable first hike, use these planning tips for beginners.

Be realistic

You might have dreams of completing a particularly difficult hiking trail that takes days or even weeks to complete. But this is probably not the best idea for your first hike. You need to be realistic about your current fitness levels and hiking abilities. This should strongly influence your choice of hiking trail. Look for trails in your local area that are designed for beginners and don’t take too long to complete. These trails will allow you to familiarize yourself with what hiking is like and ensures you don’t push yourself too much. Going on an extensive hike when you aren’t experienced could result in you becoming ill or injured. So always remember to be realistic when choosing an appropriate trail.

Making Camping A Year-Round Activity: Essential Items For A Winter Break

Are you a camping fan? Do you jump at the chance to get out and about and set up camp somewhere far from civilization? Camping is often regarded as a summer vacation option. But if you pack wisely and prepare thoroughly, you can make it a year-round activity. If you’re thinking of fitting in a few days away before the holidays, here are some essential items to take with you.

Clothing

Image via https://goo.gl/Ygh4Xn

If you’re freezing cold all the time, this is going to take the shine off your outdoor adventure. No matter how stunning the scenery, shivering will affect morale, and it could be dangerous for your health. Before you go away, make sure you have suitable clothing with you. Base layers are a good place to start. Pack thermals to wear under sweaters and fleeces. You’ll also need a heavyweight, waterproof jacket. You may need thermals to go under your trousers. Add hats, scarves and gloves for added warmth. Depending on what activities you’re doing, you may also need specialist shoes. If you’re going walking on ice sheets or scaling snowy peaks, for example, you may need crampons.

Xterra Panther Creek 2016

Dirty Bird Events to host “Xterra Panther Creek” featuring a new Trail Run in the Series Saturday and Sunday July 30-31, 2016 at Panther Creek State Park in Morristown, TN

June 23, 2016

XTERRA Panther Creek Trail Races – July 30 @ 8:00 am
XTERRA Panther Creek Triathlon – July 31 @ 8:00 am

Panther Creek State Park
2010 Panther Creek Park Road
Morristown, TN 37814

Event Description

In late July, for the third year running, Dirty Bird Events will be hosting one of the oldest off-road triathlons in East Tennessee, XTERRA Panther Creek. Newly added this year is another trail race in the XTERRA Tennessee Trail Running Series.

Making Traveling Enjoyable For The Older Person

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Traveling is a wonderful experience, and this goes for whether or not you are 1 or 100! So, whether you are an older person yourself, or are wishing to take older people away with you, read on. Here is a guide to ensuring they can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

First things first; be sure to pack all of the necessities that they need when they are at home. Having these with you will give you peace of mind, and them too. So, if you take daily medication, make sure it is packed. Also, have some spares with you, in case you lose the originals. This also means that you are covered if you decide to stay longer, or are forced to stay longer due to cancellations outside of your control. Once you’ve covered the things they need, how about the things they want. This goes for items that make the comfortable and happy when they are at home. So consider things like favorite pillows and familiar bedding. Is there are a certain type of tea they like to drink each morning? While little things, they can make a big difference.