Author Archives: Henricks Outdoors

How to Set Up and Use Your Garmin inReach Mini 2 for a Safe Outdoor Adventure

Picture yourself on day five of your multi-day Wonderland Trail trek when a sudden rainstorm turns the path muddy and slippery. It’s too risky to push to your next campsite by 5 p.m., and your phone shows “No Service.” With your Garmin inReach Mini 2, you message your friend monitoring your trip—‘Rain, camping early near […]

Garmin inReach Mini 2 vs. Top Satellite Communicators of 2025: Which Wins?

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator is a compact, feature-packed device that has become a go-to for hikers, backpackers, and adventurers needing reliable off-grid communication. Priced at approximately $400, it leverages the Iridium satellite network for global two-way messaging, SOS capabilities, and basic navigation, all in a 3.5-ounce package. But how does it compare […]

Oregon’s Proposed Tire Tax: What It Means for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Rural Life After the Hearing

A New Cost on the Horizon Imagine you’re gearing up for a weekend of chasing steelhead along the Deschutes River or hauling your kayak to the Owyhee Canyonlands. Your rig’s ready—except those bald all-terrain tires you’ve been meaning to replace. You head to the shop, and the bill’s already steep: $800 for a fresh set. […]

Osprey Atmos AG 65 vs. Top Hiking Backpacks of 2025: Which Wins?

The Osprey Atmos AG 65 is a standout in the world of backpacking gear, renowned for its innovative Anti-Gravity suspension system, robust feature set, and comfort on multi-day hikes. Priced at approximately $340, it’s a premium choice for hikers seeking a reliable pack that excels in ventilation and load distribution. But how does it stack […]

Standard Time or Permanent DST—How It Shifts Your Outdoor World

Daylight drives every outdoor adventure, from quick weekday hikes to epic weekend escapes. But what if we stopped switching clocks and picked one time for good? Standard Time (ST) offers early sunrises and sunsets, while permanent Daylight Saving Time (DST) stretches evenings at dawn’s expense. This choice reshapes your outdoor life—hiking, fishing, camping—across America’s wild […]

Best Mountain Biking Trails Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide

Picture this: It’s a crisp Saturday morning, the sun is just peeking over the horizon, and you’re itching to hit the trails. Your mountain bike is tuned, tires pumped, and helmet strapped on—but where do you go? Whether you’re a seasoned rider chasing adrenaline-pumping descents or a beginner looking for a scenic cruise, finding the […]

Beginner Skiing Techniques for New Skiers

Skiing is an exciting and rewarding winter sport, but for beginners, stepping onto the slopes for the first time can be intimidating. Learning the fundamental techniques will not only help you build confidence but also ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience. Whether you are tackling a gentle slope or preparing for more challenging terrain, […]

Reading Ski Trail Markers, Maps, and Signage: Navigate Ski Trails Confidently

Skiing offers both thrill and challenge, but getting lost on the trails can quickly turn an exciting adventure into a stressful situation. Whether you’re carving groomed resort runs or exploring backcountry terrain, understanding trail markers, maps, and signage is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Ski resorts use a standardized system to guide skiers, […]

Sketch Moving Subjects Like Animals or Water in Outdoor Painting & Sketching

Outdoor painting and sketching is more than just capturing landscapes—it’s about immersing yourself in the environment, learning its rhythms, and translating movement onto paper. Few things are as rewarding as sketching wildlife in its natural habitat or depicting the fluidity of moving water. However, these dynamic subjects present unique challenges that require a blend of […]

Mastering Plein Air Techniques and Styles for Outdoor Painting & Sketching

Plein air painting and sketching—a practice that dates back to the 19th-century Impressionists—offers artists the opportunity to capture the beauty and spontaneity of nature. The French phrase “plein air” translates to “out of doors,” emphasizing the practice of creating artwork in the open air rather than in a studio setting. Unlike working indoors, painting outdoors […]