Aluminum Versus Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

There are basically two types of material that trekking poles are made out of, aluminum and carbon fiber.  The biggest difference between aluminum and carbon fiber trekking poles are the weight, although there are other factors to consider. If you are wondering which type of trekking pole is best for you, here are some considerations to help you choose the right set of poles for you and the difference between the two.

Aluminum Trekking Poles

• Pros

• More durable

• Longer life span

• Not temperature sensitive

• Typically less expensive

Aluminum trekking poles are more durable than carbon fiber, will generally last longer and are not affected in high heat or frigid cold temperatures.

• Cons

• Weight

The only real con to aluminum poles is the heavier weight. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a nice set of Aluminum Quick Lock poles at 20.8 ounces per set. There are times where a heavier pole will perform better, when carrying a heavy load or hopping rocks. The type of hiking and trails that you enjoy will help to determine the right set for you. 

Carbon Fiber Poles  

• Pros

• Lightweight

• Speed

Cascade Mountain Tech offers carbon fiber poles ranging from 11.2 ounces to 16 ounces per set. This is advantageous to the weight conscious hiker looking to go further, faster with less weight.

• Cons

• Less durable than aluminum

• Typically higher cost than aluminum

If you are looking for a lightweight, yet durable carbon fiber pole, check out the 3K Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole with many features and accessories to see you through the most challenging of trails.

Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of trekking poles and will help you choose the right set for you to reap the maximum benefits.  Trekking poles significantly reduce stress and tension on your knees, legs, feet and ankles and help propel you for a smoother hike.  Check out our camp bedding, lightweight folding camp chairs, and quality rotomolded coolers which are Bear resistant and hold ice for up to 10 days.

Cascade Mountain Tech has your outdoor hiking and camping gear and expert tips on how to get the most from your hike. We will help you evaluate and choose the right type of trekking poles for you. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of trekking poles and our new favorite, the 3K Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole.

Trail Etiquette for Hiking with Your Dog

Hiking with a friend can be a more enjoyable experience and that includes our four-legged, furry friends. If you want to take your trusted companion along with you when hiking some trails, there are rules you should be aware of when hiking with your dog. 

Follow these tips from the American Kennel Club for proper Trail etiquette when hiking with your dog to have a fun-loving, enjoyable experience for the both of you. Follow the rules of B-A-R-K for a fun hike with your dog: 

1)  Bag your pet’s waste

It is important to pick up after your dog, even in remote locations. While your dog’s waste might seem natural, it can impact the water supply or cause problems for local wildlife.

2) Always have your dog on a leash

Even a well-trained dog must be on a leash when on a trail. This is important for their own safety as well as courtesy to your fellow hikers. A dog that is not on a leash can quickly disappear out of sight and may encounter dangerous wildlife or a skunk. Even in areas where off-leash is allowed, only let your dog run free if you have control with verbal commands.

3)  Respect wildlife

Always keep your dog on the trail with you to protect plant and animal wildlife, except when stepping off the trail to allow others to pass.  

4)  Know where you can hike with your dog

Always check a reliable source to know the rules regarding pets in the Park or on the Trail you want to hike.  Some National Parks do allow dogs and some have restrictions for which trails they are allowed on. This is for the protection of your pet, other hikers and the environment. Dogs can have an impact on delicate ecosystems and a difficult trail may put a dog in harm’s way. Know before you go by calling the ranger station or checking a reliable trail source. 

Follow these rules whenever hiking with your dog and also make sure your dog is healthy enough for a safe hike with regular vet checkups. Avoid hiking in overly hot weather and know the signs of a dog overheating. Dogs do not sweat like people do, panting is how they keep cool. 

Bring your own water so your dog does not have to drink from streams and risk getting parasitic infections.  Always check your dog over after a hike and it is a good idea to give them a bath and check for ticks.

Cascade Mountain Tech encourages dog friendly hiking, it is good for the pet and the owner. Just make sure you follow the rules for the safety of your beloved canine friend and your fellow hikers. Contact Cascade Mountain Tech for all your hiking and camping gear such as quality rotomolded coolers that keep ice for 10 days, a wide selection of lightweight, durable hiking trekking poles, packable camp chairs, camp bedding and more. 

Cascade Mountain Tech was founded by avid outdoor enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest. We aim to provide affordable outdoor adventure to everyone. Contact us with any questions and for assistance in selecting the right hiking gear for you and for more tips on hiking with your dog.

5 Tips to Make Hiking with Kids Fun and Educational

Hiking and immersing children in nature is a wonderful way to burn some energy and instill a deep appreciation for nature from an early age. Hiking teaches children many lessons and offers a world of opportunities for educational experiences. Whether you are looking to spend some fun time outside and unplugged with your kids or searching for educational outdoor experiences, hiking provides both.

Here are some tips for a successful hiking adventure with your kids:

1)  Choose an appropriate trail or area

You can hike almost anywhere, depending on the age of your children. Toddler aged children cannot maneuver through wooded, forest terrain so a paved path would be better and they may not last very long. School age children love to climb over rocks and play in the creek. Older kids that can handle trekking poles will love to have their own set and it could help them to keep up with the grown-ups. 

2)  Offer rewards along the way

Challenge your kids to reach a certain destination like the creek or the picnic area and offer a reward for reaching their goal.  You can play a game like “I spy” and challenge your kids to find plants and wildlife, keeping track in a notebook or smartphone app.

3) Document your hike

Take a camera and a journal and encourage your children to take pictures, explore and document their journey. 

4)  Let them carry their own gear

Kids love to feel helpful and giving them a small job or something to carry heightens their feeling of importance.  Let them carry a small backpack or just a few items like a whistle or some snacks. Older children can carry their own trekking poles or binoculars. 

5)  Teach kids to respect nature and the principles of Leave No Trace

It is never too early to teach the younger generation how to respect the land.  Leave No Trace™ offers educational materials for kids to help them learn the principles of respecting nature and wildlife.  Our children are the stewards of this great planet, teaching them to be considerate of others, leaving things where they found them and disposing of trash properly can be instilled at an early age. 

Cascade Mountain Tech Has Your Outdoor Gear

Cascade Mountain Tech believes in outdoor adventures at any age and encourages you to get your kids involved in nature early on.  We offer a wide variety of outdoor camping and hiking gear to make your outing a huge success.  With our roto-molded coolers, you can rest assured your snacks and beverages will be cold when you need them and not soggy from melted ice.  Our coolers keep ice for up to 10 days.  

Our trekking poles come with a variety of options in lightweight, ultra-lightweight, carbon fiber and 3k carbon fiber, adjustable with quick-lock options, cork handles for comfort and more.  We can help you determine the best size for your child and give you pointers on the best way to use your trekking poles. 

Take along some folding camp chairs in case your children need to stop for a few minutes.  Lightweight, foldable camping chairs can easily be packed in your carry bag and will give you a reprieve if you need to take a break with kids or if you find a great spot to sit and watch nature, birds or the beach. 

Cascade Mountain Tech offers high-quality outdoor camping and hiking gear made to last.  Our company was started by outdoor enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest, dedicated to offering outdoor adventure to everyone. Contact us with any questions and for more advice on camping and hiking with kids.

Top Five Safety Tips when Hiking

Avid campers and hikers know that there is nothing better than being at one with mother nature while taking in spectacular scenery and fresh mountain air.  You can make sure that you have an amazing outdoor adventure without unexpected, unpleasant surprises by planning ahead and following these five safety tips. 

1)  Choose the best trail for you.  If it’s been awhile since you’ve hiked, choose a trail that matches your abilities where you can pace yourself.  Consider everyone in your group including children, pets or beginners.  Evaluate the full trail first for any crossings you may not feel comfortable with like crossing a stream with children. Make sure everyone’s trekking poles are adjusted properly to give the right support through your trail. 

2)  Check the conditions on your chosen trail.  You may think you have done your homework by finding the perfect trail, but there is nothing worse than arriving at your destination to find it closed. Trails can close suddenly for a number of reasons such as washed away bridges, downed trees, obstacles on the trail, snow or weather related closures. Call the ranger station first and check trip reports for hiker posted information when hiking in the Pacific Northwest. This is an important step to ensuring a safe hike. 

3)  Check the weather forecast. This might seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people get caught in dangerous situations, either in the wrong place at the wrong time or stuck without the gear they need.  You can check the weather including the mountain forecast, avalanche watch and snow depth report, even see live views on official Mountain Webcams at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA.  The weather in the mountains can be quite different than the weather at sea level.  Be sure to plan ahead for an enjoyable, and safe hike.

4)  Give a friend your hike itinerary.  Washington Trails Association offers a Hike Itinerary Form, that you should complete and leave with a friend who will contact authorities if you do not return when expected. Your itinerary will include pertinent information such as your trail plans, color of tents and clothing, parties in your group, type of vehicle and license plate, etc… Be sure to call your friend when you return. 

5)  Don’t forget to pack the essentials. 

There are some items than you should always take with you on a hike such as: 

• Map and compass

• Sunglasses

• Extra clothes and rain gear

• Flashlight and a headlamp

• First aid kit

• Water and a purification device

• Firestarter, matches

• Multi-tool with a knife

• Extra food

Cascade Mountain Tech has essential gear for the avid hiker such as:

• Lightweight hiking trekking poles

• Packable, folding camp chairs

• Rotomolded coolers

• Comfortable camp bedding

Cascade Mountain Tech was founded by avid outdoor enthusiasts who care about your safety and enjoyable experience on the trail.

Cascade Mountain Tech offers quality camping and hiking gear combined with exceptional customer support. We offer durable, long-lasting products and trekking pole repair parts to save you time and money. Contact us for quality hiking gear that improves your safety on the trail.

Best Spots for Fall Camping in the Northwest

Your camping days do not have to come to an end with the turn to autumn.  Camping in the fall is one of the best times to see stunning landscape as well as enjoy fewer crowds on the trails.  So grab your trekking poles and pack your super cooler to hit some of the best spots for fall camping in the Northwest. 

Washington boasts some of the most beautiful fall camping sites available, such as Illahee State Park located on a prime stretch of beachfront on Port Orchard Bay, open year round for day use and camping.  Bay View State Park and Beacon State Park also offer year round camping.  Check out the Winter Schedule for Washington State Parks and phone first to confirm accessibility. 

The Oregon Coast is famous for beautiful, breathtaking landscape. There are a number of State Parks that offer year-round camping, several amenities, daily activities and spectacular views.  Here are a couple that top the list for fall camping at Oregon State Parks. 

Beverly Beach State Park

Beverly Beach State Park near Newport, Oregon is one of the state’s largest Creekside campgrounds, hidden between Yaquina Head and Cape Foulweather. Enjoy beach access to one and a half miles of beautiful sands on the crashing Pacific from Yaquina Head to Otter Rock.  Beverly Beach State Park offers year-round camping, features a playground, a Welcome Center and is central to excellent whale watching viewpoints and the Oregon Coast Aquarium. 

Silver Falls State Park 

Silver Falls State Park offers boundless majestic beauty, featuring scenic trails and waterfalls you can walk behind.  Open for camping and daily activities year round, this is top of the list for fall camping. The Trail of Ten Falls is a spectacular 7.2 mile loop with views of ten waterfalls, four that you can walk behind and five that are more than 100 feet tall.  Bring your horse or take a guided horseback ride, enjoy a playground, horseshoe pits, picnic and barbeque areas and spacious lawns. 

Get Ready for Fall Camping with Cascade Mountain Tech

Cascade Mountain Tech has just the fall camping gear for you, with quality mummy sleeping bags with 0° ratings and camp bedding to keep you warm at night.  Pack your super roto-molded cooler and don’t worry about getting more ice for up to 10 days! 

Enjoy cozy nights around the fire with the most comfortable, durable camp chairs available.  The folding, high-back camp chair is lightweight and compact, with a weight limit of 250 lbs.  Packable camp chairs with sand feet keep you comfortable without sinking into the sand so you can take in the breathtaking view all night if you wish.    

Cascade Mountain Tech is your one stop for quality camping gear at an affordable price.  Our goal is to make outdoor adventure available to everyone, with high-quality hiking and camping gear that will last.  Contact us to learn more about the perfect camp gear and get ready for some spectacular fall camping in the beautiful Northwest.