The Lowdown on the Newest Chicago-Area Camping Getaways

Known for climbing hotspots like Sex Cave, lots of people know how good Milton Reimer’s Ranch is for its rock formations. Mountain bikers and hikers also know it well for its 20 miles of trails (and growing), including everything from beginner-friendly strolls to pro-level, Triple Black Diamond singletrack. It’s even a great destination for horseback riding, as it features several equestrian-only trails. With its access to the Pedernales River, Reimer’s Ranch also offers a great relief for swimmers seeking an alternative when they get turned away from the easily crowded Hamilton Pool, just down the road. And at only about a half-hour from Downtown Austin, it’s an easy day trip for anyone wanting to get out of the city and into Hill Country nature. Reimers Pool in the fall Dave Brown First opened in 2005, Reimer’s Ranch is a relatively new Travis County park that has a lot to offer. They’ve recently added new facilities and continue to improve their offerings—including a new observatory that will begin providing star-gazing sessions in 2015. But since its opening, beyond its regular attractions, hardly anyone has seen all the rugged backcountry and adjacent tracts of native land that surround the park. When the summer crowds thin out, however, the park offers guided tours of its sacred backcountry, which includes walks on unnamed, undeveloped trails—many of which aren’t as much trails as they are just paths of least resistance. As you walk, park guides will tell you the natural history of the place and point out some of the native flora and fauna that have inhabited the land for thousands of years. Reimer's Ranch guide Nathan Kaplan points out ferns in a creek-side cliff in the park's rarely seen backcountry. Dave Brown They’ll also tell you about its more recent history as ranchland. Things like how the Reimer family used it for grazing goats until the goat industry bottomed-out, when they shifted to sheep grazing. And how Mr. Reimer bought it from Mr. Hamilton, who owned it in the 1800s and grazed cattle there. You will see evidence of its ranching past in things like partially hidden, really old homestead and ranch equipment: remnants of an old wood burning stove in a bunch of bluestem grass over here, or an old horse-drawn plow laying permanently at rest in a cactus patch over there. You’ll also learn how before its days as a true Texas ranch, native tribes called the land home, including the Apache, Comanche, and other tribes. If you look closely where the soil has been disturbed, there’s even a chance you just might find an arrowhead, or at least a chert rock that was worked by an Apache perhaps 300 years ago. As evidence of how little known these tours are, I was the only guest on this guided hike. I had basically a private tour, led by two guides who showed me around their backyard—a very big backyard. They took me past the boundary gates, and into the Pogue and Hogue tracts, the rugged stretches of land between Reimer’s Ranch and Hamilton Pool Preserve. There, they brought me to Pogue Creek and down to Pogue Pool, which, even though it remains technically unnamed, that’s what they called it, “because, well, it just makes sense.” I saw the seeps from which the creek originates, and the clear, deep water which is populated by perch and bass; I saw cypress trees that are probably 500 years old; and sycamores stretching their roots into the cool waters; and at least three different species of ferns clinging to the cliffs that wall the creek. There was also a large snake skin, either from a rattler or a cottonmouth, and lots of other wildlife. This is the rarely seen backcountry at Reimer’s Ranch, where you can get a real experience of old land, where not everything is named or landscaped or paved or made easily accessible. Where hardly anything is controlled. Where almost everything is wild. If you want to enjoy rugged, Texas Hill Country land in its true natural state, you must make a visit. Backcountry tours are included in the $10 park entrance fee and run fall through spring, October through May, Saturdays only, at 10:00 am. The gathering point is in the mountain biking trailhead’s parking lot. Just pay your park entrance fee to the ranger at the main entrance booth, and they’ll tell you where to go. The tour lasts between one to two hours, depending on your group’s pace. The guides are pretty casual about it. Just be sure to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes – no heels or flip-flops – because you will be walking off-trail, surrounded by things that can poke and bite. Enjoy!

Locals know that the Lost Maples State Natural Area East Trail is one of the most challenging day hikes in the area. The 0.8 mile climb required is demanding, to say the least. But it's also very rewarding and worth the effort, even for rookies and novices. After your heart rate has recovered from the punchy 400 foot gain in elevation, you are rewarded with a phenomenal view of the Sabinal Valley below. To commence with this challenge, park on the northeast parking lot of the park and take the aptly named East trail. Hike 1.29 miles to Monkey Rock to pump yourself up for the climb. The simian resemblance of this rock is uncanny. You can also take the Maple trail which connects back to the East trail. After the first bend, you may choose to free climb a bit and explore near a large crevasse. You can't miss the crevasse because of it’s attention-grabbing size.   Around the first bend at Lost Maples Chrstine HershKeep hiking about 2.7 miles along the relatively flat East Trail until you hit the warning sign. Pro tip: If you see a warning sign, 100% of the time it means you absolutely should take that trail. Warning sign = Go for it! Christine HershOnce you hit the warning sign, you can start mentally preparing yourself to ascend 0.8 miles up rugged terrain to the top. At first, you will see the trail stairs. You will quickly pass the trail stairs and use Mother Nature’s stairs (read: rocks), for the remainder of the way. You can always stop for a breather, turn around and look at the view behind you, or chat with other hikers until you get to the top. Many hikers turn around before getting to the top. Do not despair! Once you see the bench, you're almost there. This entire stretch is a great sunrise location. Only one way...Up. Christine HershWhen you reach the top, you are graced with a beautiful vista of the Sabinal Valley below. Walk south towards the scenic overlook (point of interest number three on the LMSNA map) for another inspiring view. This overlook is a great panoramic lunch spot for large and small groups with plenty of space to sit. Turn around due north and walk the return 0.3 mile path back to the East Trail. You will pass another scenic overlook (point of interest number four on the map).   View from the top. Christine HershMake sure to take a picture at the scenic overlooks before you descend the 0.35 miles down the valley on the rocky terrain. Be careful as the rocks can slide.   The way back down is rocky -- watch your footing. Christine HershThe base of the valley reveals a pond with plenty of shade. This is another pleasant spot to stop for a lunch break, located near Primitive Campsite C. At this point, you can either take the East/West Trail 1-mile back to the parking lot or take the West Trail to add on more miles. Since you are here for the hills and not the flats, you will likely take the West Trail 2-miles through dried up creek beds and woods. Make sure to stop hiking for a minute and listen; it's quite a relaxing experience. Most of the other hikers return to the parking lot via the East/West Trail, so along the West Trail, you won't have to see or hear crowds of people (and their cell phones). After about 2-miles, you will find another 400 foot ascent (this time without a warning sign!). The grade isn't as steep as the East Trail’s climb, but it is still a challenge and is just as rocky as the descent from the previous climb. The top of the incline provides a little bench to take a breather, a snack, or a nap. The trail continues on the top of the plateau and then quickly descends into the valley via another rocky trail. In fairness, Lost Maples does not have the steepest inclines in the world, but it is a good challenge in Central Texas that is easily accessed by Austin and San Antonio locals. The park is busy during November when the maple leaves change color but is rarely traversed in the off-season. Expect to see 15-20 people in the off season throughout the hike, particularly on the West Trail. During the inclines, your thumping heart and lungs will be thankful that no one else is around to hear you panting.

Backpacking season may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean it’s over yet. While we’ve now lost summer’s long days and t-shirt temperatures, fall camping trips have benefits of their own: scenery speckled with red and gold trees, fewer crowds, and more permit availability. But with winter just around the corner, you’ll want to get on one of these trails soon (and don’t forget to bring that extra layer and rain cover for your pack). Here, five of the best late-season backpacking trips in Washington —because there's still time to get in one last hurrah before you have to wait for next season. 1. The Enchantments The Enchantments offer some of the best scenery in Washington. Nate B With sparkling blue-green alpine lakes, granite peaks, waterfalls, and mountain vistas, the Enchantments are filled to the brim with some of the most inspiring scenery in the Pacific Northwest. Which is exactly what makes winning a permit via the lottery system to visit during the high season so competitive. But there is a way around the whole permit hassle: Visit between mid-October and mid-June, and you won’t need one. Going to the Enchantments in autumn also means the forests will be all the more spectacular thanks to the larch trees, which are conifers with a deciduous-esque twist. Around mid-October the larch pine needles turn from green to gold, before they are blown off by winter’s storms. 2. Iron Peak Loop The view of Mount Stuart from Iron Peak is impressive. brewbooks Even when fall's showers drench Seattle, it is sometimes possible to find drier ground just on the other side of the Cascades. The 14.5-mile Iron Peak Loop , near Salmon La Sac, is a great option for a weekend backpacking trip when other hikes closer to the city seem too drippy. The trail ascends to a rocky ridge, from which you’ll be able to take in mountain views as you scramble along, including ones of Mount Stuart. Or, if you’re looking for something shorter in the same area, try the 9-mile hike to Lake Ingalls , one of the most popular treks in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. 3. Navajo Pass Also on the other side of the Cascades by way of Snoqualmie Pass, Navajo Pass is another good option if you’re looking for clearer skies. The 11-mile hike will take you alongside the bubbling Safford Creek, up a series of steep switchbacks, and through forests flavored with red and yellow fall foliage. And then comes the views from the top of the pass, of Mount Stuart and the surrounding Stuart Range. The best place to camp is the large meadow about five miles from the trailhead, from which you can scramble up other peaks in the area if you want an additional challenge the next day. 4. Blanca Lake Blanca Lake's turquoise waters draw quite the crowd in the summer. For a more peaceful experience, try visiting in fall. Amy Salowitz Blanca Lake ’s turquoise-blue water is no less than stunning. In summer, its beauty attracts some of the biggest crowds found on any trail in the area, so if you prefer a little more solitude while on the trail, try visiting in fall instead. The 7.5-mile hike is easily done as a day trip from Seattle, but the area is so pretty that it also makes for nice weekend retreat. There are camping sites all around Virgin Lake, which is about 0.6 miles from Blanca Lake. Just keep in mind that the trail’s high point is 4,600 feet, so you’ll want to get out here before the winter’s snow hits. 5. White Pass to Chinook Pass Soak up fantastic views throughout this 28-mile excursion. Robert Ashworth These two mountain passes are two of the prettiest in the state, and the 28 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail that connect them are among the best of the whole route. Hike from White Pass to Chinook Pass in the autumn and the fiery maples and cottonwoods you’ll encounter along the way will add to the visual splendor. While 28 miles is quite a lot to pack into one weekend, the trail is relatively flat and well marked, and there are plenty of places to camp along the way. Plus, you’ll be treated to glorious alpine vistas, including views of Goat Rocks, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier, which is sure to keep the stoke running high. The National Forest Foundation promotes the enhancement and public enjoyment of the 193-million-acre National Forest System. By directly engaging Americans and leveraging private and public funding, the NFF improves forest health and Americans’ outdoor experiences. The NFF’s programs inform millions of Americans about the importance of these treasured landscapes. Each year, the NFF restores fish and wildlife habitat, plants trees in areas affected by fires, insects and disease, improves recreational opportunities, and enables communities to steward their National Forests and Grasslands. Learn more at www.nationalforests.org. Written by Samantha Larson for RootsRated.

Winter’s arrival in Seattle may mean gray skies, chilly temperatures, and shorter days—but the cold season doesn’t mean a shortage of fun for those of us who love adventures in the outdoors. From snowy peaks to holiday festivities, now that it is December some of the area’s best perks are ready to be taken advantage of in the months ahead. Here, our top recommendations for winter adventures in Seattle, from an icy plunge in Pontiac Bay, to snowshoeing in the North Cascades, so you can get the most out of the season this year. 1. Night ski at Snoqualmie Pass. Just an hour’s drive from downtown, The Summit at Snoqualmie is Seattle’s most convenient way to get a quick fix of powder. And if you want to really maximize your time on the slopes, visit at night: It will mean less time in line, so in just a few hours you’ll feel as if you’ve gotten in a full day. The Summit stays open until 10 pm, so it's also a great way to get in a mid-week adventure after work. 2. Go for a run in your holiday best. We know you've been waiting all year to bring out your holiday rally. RVWithTito.com Nothing makes a footrace festive like the collective jingling of bells tied to the feet of fellow runners. Join for Jingle Bell walk/run, Run Run Rudolph 5K, or Street Scramble at the Market, and you’ll get in the holiday spirit while dashing through a sea of Santa hats. 3. Chow down at Winter Feast. One of Seattle’s favorite outdoor markets, the Fremont Market, held every Sunday, is a perfect place to pick up last-minute holiday gifts. Come December 13, you’ll be able to sample the local grub, too, as 20 food trucks will be parked near the  Burke-Gilman , serving up delicious dishes at the annual Winter Feast . 4. Soak up the lights at Leavenworth. Holiday lights add some extra festive flair to Leavenworth. Travel Weaver LLC Leavenworth is not only a kitschy Bavarian-themed tourist town but also the launching pad for weekend excursions full of climbing, hiking, or biking in the summer, and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Come see it during Bavarian Icefest, held MLK weekend, January 17-18, and the village will take on an extra-festive flair. You'll be able to make snow sculptures, sled, and see fireworks from the village decked out in lights. 5. Take the Polar Bear Plunge. Take 2016 head-on by throwing yourself into Lake Washington’s frigid winter waters at the annual January 1 Polar Bear Plunge. There's a few options for how to do it: Run into the 49-degree water in the company of hundreds of other crazies at the official event at Matthews Beach, warm up by jogging the Resolution Run 5K through Magnuson Park before jumping off the park’s boat launch, or take the challenge even further by rounding up some friends to submerge yourselves in Puget Sound’s 43-degree water at Golden Gardens or Alki Beach. 6. Cycle Chilly Hilly. Chilly Hilly will take you up, down, and around Bainbridge Island. Alejandro Gil A decades-old tradition, Chilly Hilly is a much-loved annual race that circles the perimeter of Bainbridge Island. Jump on the ferry with your bike, and join over 5,000 other cyclists for the tough 33-mile ride on February 28. There may be a lot of hills to climb, but stick with it and you’ll be treated to Puget Sound views, a fun vibe, and hot chili and baked goods at the finish line. 7. Warm up at an outdoor fire pit. When you find yourself longing for summer’s sweet campfires, do yourself a favor and head to a restaurant or bar equipped with an outdoor fire pit. Westward ’s fire pit overlooking Lake Union has the best views, Quoin  boasts the best atmosphere, and the Shelter Lounge will let you satisfy your cravings when you inevitably want to start roasting s’mores. 8. Tromp in the snow. Snow play makes you happy. Molly O. While Seattle doesn’t usually get snow in the city, there’s usually ample of it to be found in its nearby hills. Strapping on a pair of snowshoes or cross country skis and exploring the evergreens blanketed in white is a Pacific Northwest experience that can’t be missed. Head to the North Cascades, Snoqualmie Pass, or Lake Wenatchee State Park and you’ll quickly find yourself in a winter wonderland. 9. Sample the brews at Winter Beer Fest. So many beers, so little time! traveljunction One of the best things about getting outside in the winter is sipping on a dark, spicy seasonal brew at the end of the adventure. But with so many local breweries to choose from, how to know which one to choose? Come to Winter Beer Fest on December 4-5 at Magnuson Park and you’ll be able to sort out the conundrum by sampling varieties made by more than 50 Washington breweries. 'Tis the season for tasting, after all. 10. Visit a state park—for free. From Bridle Trails to Saint Edward to Wallace Falls , Seattleites are lucky to have a lot of beautiful state parks nearby. They’re well worth the price of admission (the Discover Pass is required to park in the lot) any day of the year, but the deal is especially sweet when that price is free—which it will be this winter on January 1, January 17-18, and March 19. Consider it a present to yourself and put one (or all) of those dates on the calendar. Written by Samantha Larson for RootsRated.