Originally Posted: January 2021
Updated: November 2024
Over the course of rambling around the mountains for nearly 50 years, I’ve devised numerous equipment modifications, additions, tricks, procedures, and hacks to make things more functional. I’ve also learned (usually the hard way!) a few things to make trips more successful. This webpage summarizes a variety of tips and suggestions that other mountain travelers might find useful. Some of these apply only to wintertime activities, whereas many others can be considered as all-season tips. I’ve also recently added a page of suggested ski touring and snowshoeing destinations in the Interstate-90 corridor.
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All-Season Trailcat Tips
>>> How to make a spiral rug using an old climbing rope
>>> How to make personal tethers for use with climbing anchors
>>> What to put in a backcountry trouble kit
>>> How to make a simple climbing helmet holder for a backpack
>>> How to make an ultra-compact mountain notebook & pen set
>>> How to make a slip-sleeve for a hydration bladder
>>> What I typically eat on a multi-day mountain trip
>>> What happens when you initiate an SOS on a Garmin InReach
>>> How to deal with foreign currency when traveling outside the U.S.
>>> How to stay connected when traveling in foreign countries
Wintertime Trailcat Tips
>>> Where to go snowshoeing in the I-90 / Snoqualmie Pass corridor
>>> Where to go ski touring in the I-90 / Snoqualmie Pass corridor
>>> How to make an easy nose wipe for gloves and mittens
>>> What to put in a ski and snowshoe repair kit
>>> What to put in a ski accessory kit
>>> How to improve an A-frame ski carry system
>>> How to keep ski touring boots from over-flexing in cable/rod bindings
>>> How to keep cable/rod bindings from loosening during a ski tour
>>> How to keep stiff climbing skins from unfolding when drying
>>> How to improve the thermal efficiency of a vacuum-insulated beverage bottle
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