Tag: outdoor activities

A Beginner’s Guide to Ice Fishing

Posted on Camille Smith
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It’s no secret that fishing is a favorite activity among lake homeowners. Whether you enjoy cooking a dish with your latest catch or prefer to catch and release, something is exciting yet meditative about this popular hobby.

However, fewer lake dwellers have tried the winter version of this sport. But with the right equipment and guidance, ice fishing can be just as fun — if not more — than the traditional canoe setting. If you live on a northern lake and want to give ice fishing a try, check out this beginner’s guide!

Get the Right Gear

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

To ice fish properly, you’ll need a different set of gear than for regular fishing. You’ll most definitely need to invest in an auger, a sled, an ice scoop, and a few jigs.

Unless you want to go old-school and use a spud bar or ice chisel to cut a hole in the ice, the most necessary piece of equipment is an auger. Fuel-powered and electric augers tend to work more quickly, while less expensive hand-powered augers take longer to drill holes. Either way, you’ll create a hole between 6 and 10 inches to use for fishing.

Besides this tool, a sled is necessary to transport gear from your car to the fishing hole, and the ice scoop keeps your fishing hole clear of slush. Although this gear can be a financial investment, it’s certainly possible to keep costs low and get started for around $200.

Because ice fishing is an extreme-weather sport, warm, dry clothing is essential. Remember to layer up as much as possible — you can always remove layers if you get too warm, but you can’t add more layers if you’ve left them behind. Also, don’t forget a personal flotation device (PFD) in case of an emergency. 

Finally, and certainly not least, invest in some ice claws, also known as ice picks. These are handles made from wood or plastic with metal spiked tips that anchor into the ice so you can pull yourself out of the water if you fall in.

Scout Out a Location

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

One of the biggest things that scares anglers away from ice fishing is the potential of falling through the ice. While this is a legitimate concern, it shouldn’t deter you from practicing this sport at all. Instead, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

First, according to anglr.com, you need at least four inches of clear, solid ice to go ice fishing. This ice type typically forms around a lake’s edges, which means you won’t need to sled too far. Once you’ve found a spot, it’s wise to drill a few test holes with your auger to see if fish are moving. If not, pick a new location! 

It’s also important to choose your lake or reservoir wisely. Jim Root, angler and guest writer for Deeper Sonar’s blog, says to avoid rivers, streams, and spring-fed lakes, which often have weak ice. Instead, pick lakes with large fish populations or ponds deeper than 10 feet.

The Perfect Technique

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

Finally, it’s time for the fun part — the actual process of ice fishing. At this stage, you have the possibility of catching trout, walleye, perch, and crappie, among others.

To catch these fish, you need to have good tools and techniques. While a traditional fishing rod and line can still work in a pinch, it’s worth investing in a jigging rod for ice fishing, which will allow you to catch fish at greater depths than a standard rod.

When ice fishing, keep in mind that jig color matters for catching fish. Just set up a simple trap with a sinker and minnow, then wait for the fish to come to you! If you don’t get any action for about an hour, it’s worth trying a different spot. 

If you’re an angler who doesn’t mind extreme weather, ice fishing may be your perfect sport! We hope you reel in some good ones this winter.

This article was originally published on January 29, 2021.

Sky Phenomenon to View from Your Lake House

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo by Visit Greenland

There’s something magical about the night sky. Valerie Stimeck, the author of the book Dark Skies, refers to the stars as “one of the few unifying features of human history.” 

Unfortunately, modern skies, shrouded in city lights, don’t allow for proper stargazing. It’s reported that 83% of the world’s population cannot see the stars at night, whereas over 90% of the European and United States populations live with significant light pollution. Given the pervasiveness of artificial lights, you’re probably missing out on more stars than you realize. 

If your lake house is in a rural area, you might be part of the lucky few. On the next clear night, venture to your boat dock and see if you can spot these five sky phenomena from your lake house. 

Constellations

By Roberto Mura – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

The prominence of constellations differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Planets

Photo courtesy of Sky & Telescope.

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

However, their prominence differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, simply point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Milky Way

By CUIZIANG – Own work, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

At one point in time, the Milky Way was always visible on every moonless night. However, due to light pollution, its appearance isn’t as consistent. It’s brightest in the southern hemisphere of the modern sky, but you can still view this sky phenomenon from your lake house. You’ll see dust lanes, nebulae, and star clusters within the constellation Sagittarius, making up the brightest part of the galaxy. Between June and August, our galaxy appears most brilliant, while December through February is when it’s invisible and too close to the sun. Right now, it’s a perfect time of year to look for the Milky Way on a clear night!

Comets

Photo courtesy of @alisonleedham via Twenty20.

According to NASA, comets are “cosmic snowballs of frozen gases.” As they travel close to the sun, they spew gas and dust, forming a tail that stretches millions of miles. On rare occasions, you may be lucky enough to spot a comet at your lake house. Typically, they appear just around sunrise or sunset. 

Although comets are rare to witness, some reliably appear in the night sky. You may have recently heard of Comet Neowise, which came closest to the Earth in late July 2020. Famously, Halley’s Comet reappears every 75 years, so it’s possible to see it twice in one average lifetime. Mark Twain was born in a year when Halley’s Comet was visible, and he died the year it was visible again. Other well-known comets include Comet Hale-Bopp and Comet Encke. Regardless of which comet you’ve set out to see, owning a lake home in a less light-polluted area increases your chances of witnessing this sky phenomenon.

Northern Lights

Photo courtesy of SUOMI PHOTOGRAPHY via Pexels

This one is for lake homeowners in the northern U.S. You likely won’t see the Northern Lights directly from your patio, but many of our markets with listings are close to parks where this sky phenomenon is visible. For instance, stargazers have witnessed the aurora borealis in the Panhandle National Forest in Idaho, Acadia National Park in Maine, and Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Michigan. If you’re lucky enough to witness this beautiful sky phenomenon, in which Earth’s gases collide with sun particles, your photos won’t do justice to its magnificence.

If you can’t see every sky phenomenon at your lake house, no need to worry. There are plenty of ways to tackle light pollution in your own home to increase visibility. So grab a pair of binoculars and start stargazing! 

This article was originally published on November 16, 2020.

The Best Stargazing Spots in Our Lake Areas

Posted on Camille Smith

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Photo courtesy of Pexels.

Experience the night sky like never before: free from light pollution. If you’re looking to witness the most spectacular stargazing opportunities, here are the top lake destinations:

If you’re new to lake living, there’s one stunning natural feature that may shock you — the abundance of stars visible at night. In the city, light pollution masks most stars, revealing only a few each night. According to NPR, light pollution hides the Milky Way from 80% of North America. It’s astonishing how much of the sky we’re missing each night. But at the lake, the number of visible bright stars is surprising.

You can even download apps to help you trace constellations while stargazing at your lake house. While most lake homes offer better stargazing opportunities than the city or suburban houses, some lake areas shine a little brighter than others. These locations tend to be situated in remote areas with higher altitudes. Check out our top five best lakes for stargazing! 

Priest Lake, ID

Photo courtesy of Visit Idaho.

Priest Lake is a tranquil space in Northern Idaho surrounded by cedar and hemlock forests. Its remote location makes it perfect for stargazing. As evidence of its beauty, one photographer took stunning photos of the night sky over Priest Lake. However, his phenomenon isn’t specific to this one lake. Some say that the state of Idaho is the gold standard for stargazing. It’s home to the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, where visitors can see not only stars but also the Milky Way and meteors. 

Lake Superior, MI

Photo courtesy of Pure Michigan.

According to Outside online magazine, Michigan has some of the best places for stargazing, due to its remote lakes and national parks. For instance, Isle Royale National Park, in the middle of Lake Superior, is renowned for stargazing opportunities. Due to its location in the lake’s center, it’s one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. The scarcity of unnatural light makes it perfect for enjoying the stars at night. 

Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Photo courtesy of VisitNH.com.

In the state of New Hampshire, finding a spot without light pollution isn’t too difficult. On a clear night, the chances are that you’ll be able to see plenty of stars, whether you’re at a lake house or not.

This enhanced viewing is especially true for the Lake Winnipesaukee area. Located in the White Mountain foothills, this is the largest lake in the state with a whopping 182 miles of shoreline.

Besides its status as one of the best stargazing spots, Lake Winnipesaukee is also a glacial lake. Its most recent glaciation reversed its water flow from southeast to west, where it flows today. 

Raystown Lake, PA

Photo courtesy of The Franklin Institute.

Raystown Lake is called the “Crown Jewel of Pennsylvania.” One of these reasons is its surrounding natural beauty. Its 8,300 acres of clear water is surrounded by 21,000 acres of tree-covered Appalachian mountains.

This remote location makes it one of the best spots in the country for stargazing. While you’re outside, you may even catch a glimpse of Raystown Ray, the lake monster that allegedly lives in its waters. 

Lake Eufaula, OK

Carlton Lookout – Lake Eufaula, OK.
Photo courtesy of Pinterest.

Lake Eufaula is the largest lake in Oklahoma, and it’s also one of the most peaceful. Its downtown area, comprising 20 blocks, is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, adding to its charm.

For a specific stargazing location, head over to Carlton’s Landing, named an incredibly starry spot by an Oklahoma travel website. Rent a cozy cottage and enjoy a stellar view of the Milky Way. 

Are you interested in a remote, rustic lake house with stargazing opportunities? Check out our listings on these five lakes, as well as hundreds of more lakes across the country. When you’ve found your dream home, enjoy the night air, and prepare to be starstruck!

Identifying Common Snake Types

Posted on Camille Smith

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Photo courtesy of fortheland.org

Here’s a list of the most common snakes found in the United States:

While most aspects of living at the lake are enjoyable, dealing with less-than-pleasant wildlife is not. For most people, coming across a snake in your backyard or while hiking through the woods is terrifying. It’s no wonder why—many snakes are venomous, and these reptiles are always portrayed in the media as vile creatures who are better off dead. However, not all snakes are harmful. In distinguishing friends from foes, it’s important to be able to identify these various types of common snakes. Developing an awareness of the most prevalent snake species in the U.S. will help you determine when to run for your life and when to simply walk by.

Garter Snake

Photo courtesy of Karsten Paulick from Pixabay

From the Thamnophis genus, this snake species is spread widely throughout North America, making it one of the country’s most common snakes. Although the common garter snake can be found in any region from Canada to the southern U.S., they prefer humid areas with lots of water, such as grasslands and forests. They can be identified by their vertical stripes, which extend longitudinally from head to tail. Typically, they’re characterized by lighter, yellow-ish pattern stripes with a darker background.

Coral Snake

Photo courtesy of North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

The coral snake prefers temperate and warm climates in the southeastern U.S. You’ll know a coral snake by its color-blocking pattern of alternating yellow, black, and red stripes. However, a certain famous rhyme comes in handy here: “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow. Red touches black, friend of Jack.” Coral snakes happen to be the former. Because they’re highly venomous, you’ll want to stay far away. It’s also worth noting that there are some exceptions to this rhyme, and it’s important to be aware of them.

Kingsnake

Photo courtesy of Karsten Paulick from Pixabay

The king snake is part of the Lampropeltis genus. From the Greek words “lampro” (shiny) and “peltus” (shield), these snakes are identified by their shiny, smooth scales. There are many subspecies of kingsnakes, such as milk snakes, the California kingsnake, and the Mexican black kingsnake. These creatures are non-venomous constricting snakes, so you don’t need to worry. Like coral snakes, the king snake is recognized by red, yellow, and black bands. However, a king snake’s red bands will be adjacent to black ones, as indicated in the second half of the rhyme (red touches black, friend of Jack).

Watersnake

Photo courtesy of arlingtonva.us

Native to North America, the watersnake can be found all throughout the eastern U.S. As their name suggests, they tend to live around bodies of water such as rivers, creeks, and marshes. Although they are non-venomous, they are often confused with the highly venomous cottonmouth snake. Additionally, these water snakes can be confused with venomous water moccasins which have heavier heads and stockier bodies. They share a brown, grayish shade with patches of lighter coloring– a look that was likely adapted through evolution to living in a water-based environment.

Rattlesnake

By derivative work: Victorrocha (talk · contribs)Crotalus_cerastes_mesquite_springs_CA.JPG: Tigerhawkvok (talk · contribs) – Crotalus_cerastes_mesquite_springs_CA.JPG, CC BY-SA 3.0

Perhaps the most infamous snake species, the rattlesnake belongs to the genus Crotalus which derives from the Greek word for “rattle.” With its thick body, triangular head, and diamond-shaped patterns, it’s one of the most recognizable snakes in North America. These nocturnal species have “heat vision” allowing them to thrive in desert regions with arid climates such as Arizona. Highly venomous, they use their large fangs to capture prey, hissing and rattling before they attack.

For more information about identifying which snakes are harmful, check out this resource.

Lake Olympian: Bring Home the Games & the Gold

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Photo Courtesy of Olympics

As the 2024 Summer Olympics commences in a few days, why watch when you and your loved ones can join in on the excitement? While not everyone can travel to Paris, you can bring the Olympic games to your own lake! With a bit of creativity and organization, you can transform your lake into a hub of thrilling activities. Here’s a guide to hosting your lakefront Olympics, featuring games and activities that guests can enjoy both on and around the water.

Setting The Stage for Olympic Fun

Photo Courtesy of Hoosier Homemade

Start your Lake Olympics with a community kickoff that captures the essence of the games. Gather family, friends, and neighbors for an opening ceremony with music, dance, and even a symbolic lighting of a homemade Olympic torch. This inclusive start sets the stage for a day of fun competition inspired by the grandeur of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Let’s first design a diverse lineup of events that will keep everyone entertained. From traditional Olympic sports to quirky lake-themed games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some fun ideas to get you started:

On-the-Water Events

Photo Courtesy of International Surfing Association
  1. Paddleboard Relay Races – In the spirit of the upcoming Paris Olympics, divide participants into teams and have them race across the lake on paddleboards. This fun and challenging event tests balance and teamwork, guaranteeing lots of laughter and excitement.
  2. Floating Obstacle Course – Create a floating obstacle course using inflatable platforms, buoys, and floating hoops. Participants navigate the course, jumping, climbing, and swimming their way to the finish line, reminiscent of an Olympic adventure challenge.
  3. Water Polo – Set up a water polo match in a section of the lake. Teams compete to score goals by throwing a ball into the opposing team’s net, emulating the fast-paced and exciting nature of Olympic water polo.
  4. Open Water Swimming Race – Establish a designated swimming course in the lake for an open water race. Swimmers compete over a set distance, showcasing their endurance and speed.
  5. Rowing Regatta – Host a rowing regatta with teams competing in traditional rowing boats. This event captures the essence of Olympic rowing, emphasizing teamwork, strength, and synchronization.

Shoreline Events

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
  1. Water Bucket Relay – Organize a water bucket relay where teams race to fill a larger container using smaller buckets. Participants run to the water, fill their buckets, and then race back to pour the water into their team’s container. The team that fills their container first wins. This event combines speed, teamwork, and a refreshing splash, making it a perfect addition to your Lake Olympics.
  2. Tug-of-War – Get teams together for a classic tug-of-war challenge. This simple yet exhilarating game is a great way to foster team spirit and camaraderie among participants, much like the team sports in Paris.
  3. Volleyball – Set up a net on the sand and host a thrilling beach volleyball tournament. Teams compete in matches, showcasing their skills in serving, spiking, and diving for the ball. With the beautiful lake as a backdrop, participants and spectators alike can enjoy the excitement and energy of this classic sport.
  4. Flag Football – Create a field on the lake for a lively game of flag football. Teams compete to score touchdowns by pulling the flags from their opponents’ belts instead of tackling. This fast-paced, non-contact sport is perfect for the sandy shoreline and encourages teamwork, strategy, and friendly competition.
  5. Water Balloon Dodgeball – Set up a dodgeball game using water balloons. Participants must avoid being hit while trying to eliminate their opponents, adding a refreshing twist to the traditional game.

Hosting the Olympics at your lake is a fantastic way to bring your community together for a day of fun, fitness, and unforgettable experiences. With these engaging activities and a positive, upbeat atmosphere, your Lake Olympics will be a highlight for everyone involved. Let the games begin and let your lake shine as brightly as the lights of Paris!

5 of the Best Waterfalls on Our Lakes

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor

The band TLC says in their famous song “Don’t go chasing waterfalls.” But as lake lovers, we simply can’t help seeking out these natural wonders. One of the best parts about living near nature is discovering breathtaking sights. However, traveling to Niagara Falls in New York is unnecessary to witness incredible falling waters. No matter what region of the country you live in, there’s an impressive waterfall on a lake near you. Check out the best waterfalls near lakes with listings on Lake Homes Realty!

Cumberland Falls, KY

Photo courtesy of Reddit

Located on the Cumberland River, which flows into Lake Cumberland, these falls are one of the top destinations for hikers in the south. It’s no wonder why, as Cumberland Falls is the largest waterfall in the state of Kentucky. On its 125-foot curtain, water tumbles 68 feet into the river. Its impressive size helped it earn the title “Niagara of the South.” But that’s not the only special quality of these falls. The Cumberland Falls are famous for producing lunar rainbows or “moonbows.” In this rare phenomenon, a rainbow is formed by the sun’s light reflecting off the moon’s surface. The moonbow at Cumberland Falls is one of two predictable moonbows in the world.

Tahquamenon Falls, MI

Photo courtesy of TahquamenonCountry.com

Near Lake Superior in Michigan, Tahquamenon Falls is the second most voluminous waterfall in the eastern U.S., behind only Niagara Falls. Every second, 50,000 gallons of water plunge 50 feet into the river. However, despite its size and power, the falls’ most noticeable quality might actually be its color. Since the river drains from cedar swamps, the tannins give off a brown hue, hence the fall’s nickname, “Root Beer Falls.” As one of the country’s best waterfalls, it certainly deserves a visit. Further, this waterfall isn’t frozen in the winter, so you can enjoy it year-round!

Whitewater Falls, SC

Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor

You don’t want to be caught standing on the edge of Whitewater Falls. It towers more than 400 feet, making it the tallest waterfall east of Mississippi. The incredible view is even better in autumn when changing leaves outline the cascading falls. Located on the Whitewater River which flows into Lake Jocassee, South Carolina, this waterfall is surrounded by plenty of mountains and hiking trails such as the Foothills Trail to explore.

Bushkill Falls, PA

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Many people vacation in Pennsylvania’s Poconos Mountains for the skiing, hiking, and scenic views. These mountains are also home to one of the country’s best waterfalls, Bushkill Falls. This series of eight total waterfalls is secluded in the forest, accessible by hiking trails and bridges. While you’re there, take a trip to the nearby Delaware River, home of George Washington’s iconic Revolutionary War crossing.

Anna Ruby Falls, GA

Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor

In addition to being the subject of a well-known Alan Jackson song, the Chattahoochee River in Georgia is also home to this impressive waterfall. Wedged in the middle of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Anna Ruby Falls is surrounded by several hiking trails, so you can enjoy a full day of nature on your way to the falls. One trail, Lion’s Eye Trail, has signs marked in braille for those with visual impairments. If you’re looking for a lake home near Chattahoochee, check out Lake Lanier and West Point Lake. From there, you can easily make day trips to this gorgeous forest. 

Which of the best waterfalls on our lakes are you most likely to visit?

What is Fly Fishing?

Posted on Oscar Gipson

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Photo Courtesy of Montana Angler

Fly fishing is a timeless angling technique that has captivated enthusiasts for centuries. Unlike traditional methods that rely on weighted lures to cast lines, fly fishing employs lightweight artificial flies made of feathers, fur, and synthetic materials. This unique approach requires anglers to delicately present the fly, mimicking the natural movements of insects on the water’s surface. Fly fishing is not just a sport; it’s an art form that demands patience, skill, and an understanding of aquatic ecosystems.

The Essence of Fly Fishing

Photo Courtesy of LOOP Tackle

At its core, fly fishing is about more than just the catch; it’s about immersing oneself in nature and embracing the serenity of the great outdoors. Whether wading through a pristine river or casting from the banks of a tranquil lake, fly fishing offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural world. The rhythmic motion of casting, the soothing sound of water flowing over rocks, and the anticipation of a strike create a sense of tranquility and mindfulness that is unmatched in any other outdoor pursuit.

The Craft of Fly Tying

Photo Courtesy of Old Town Canoe – Johnson Outdoors

Central to the art of fly fishing is the craft of fly tying. Fly tying is the process of creating artificial flies that imitate the appearance and behavior of natural insects and baitfish. Anglers meticulously select materials such as feathers, fur, and synthetic fibers to craft lifelike imitations that entice fish to strike. Tying is not only a practical skill but also a creative pursuit that allows anglers to experiment with different patterns and designs, customizing them to suit specific conditions and imitating the prey species that fish are feeding on.

Beyond its practical application, fly tying serves as a form of artistic expression for many anglers, who take pride in crafting intricate patterns and mastering the techniques of this ancient art. Whether tying classic patterns passed down through generations or inventing new creations inspired by nature, the tying process is a deeply rewarding aspect of the fly-fishing experience.

The Thrill of the Catch

Photo by Ljubisa Pokrajac

While the catch is undoubtedly exciting, the true thrill of fly fishing lies in the process itself. Whether casting dry flies to lure in trout on a summer evening or drifting nymphs through fast-flowing riffles, each scenario presents its own set of challenges and rewards. From reading the water and understanding fish behavior to selecting the right fly and executing the perfect cast, fly fishing offers a constant opportunity for growth and learning. It’s a sport that encourages anglers to push their boundaries, hone their skills, and embrace the joy of the chase.

Fly fishing is not just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that fosters a deep appreciation for nature and a sense of camaraderie among fellow anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a novice angler, this activity offers endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and connection with the natural world. So grab your gear, head to the water, and let the magic of fly fishing take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

Best Portable Water Filters for Backpacking

Posted on Mattison McWhorter
Man drinking from water bottle
Courtesy of CloudLine

Portable water filters are essential for backpacking. Here are some of the best in 2023: 

Backpacking has taken off as a long-term activity all over the world. It takes more commitment than hiking, as backpacking involves traveling while carrying your clothes and other things you need during your journey. Usually, those who are backpacking do so very affordably. However, it’s the preparation that takes time and money. 

A reliable portable water filter is one of the most important essentials for backpacking. A portable water filter is a unit used to purify water from untreated sources. This is extremely necessary, as when you’re backpacking or camping, you’ll need an easy way to treat the natural water near you. With harmful organisms living in water, this filter can keep you from getting sick and allow you to continue your backpacking journey.

Best for an Individual: Sawyer Squeeze and Katadyn BeFree

woman pouring purified water into water bottle
Courtesy of Sawyer

For those who travel solo or take a quicker backpacking trip, you will want a filter resembling a water bottle. The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter is constantly ranked high in this category. The Sawyer holds 32 fluid ounces and is very user-friendly. It comes with two ‘dirty’ pouches you fill with water. Then, after a few seconds, you can pour your clean water into the provided bottle. The Katadyn BeFree is another great competitor. The filtration for Katadyn is all within one bottle, so there is no transferring. It’s very lightweight and collapsible for easy packing—the two range from $40 to $45. 

Best for a Group: Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System

pieces of the platypus gravityworks filter
Courtesy of Task & Purpose

Multiple sources have ranked the Platypus GravityWorks Filter as the best for a group. A gravity filter uses gravity to push the water down through the filter and can be used for multiple systems. This specific filter is excellent for a larger group, considering it can hold up to four liters of water. Of course, it can be used in smaller groups for fewer trips to the water source. The one downfall is its size. More oversized and bulky, this filter is best if your backpacking trip makes multiple camping stops. The average price is $135.

Best of Chemical Purifier: Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs and Aquamira Water Treatment

water tablets for water purification
Courtesy of GearLab

Another filtration option is using tablets or drops to purify the water in your container. One of the best in tablet form is Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs, while one of the best for drops is the Aquamira Water Treatment. The best part of these filtration additions is that they can remove more than a bottled water filter. Specifically, the Micropur Water Tabs go a step further and remove viruses on top of bacteria and protozoa. They are effortless to use by just adding them to your water bottle or pot for cooking. The drop water treatment is similar and also kills viruses. With this, you have a two-part system that you drop into one liter of water. These purification methods are much more affordable, ranging from $15 to $20 for multiple uses.

Honorable Mentions

the lifestraw
Courtesy of Insider

Another device that has gone viral is the LifeStraw. The LifeStraw is popular not only for backpackers but also for emergency preparedness. It is, just as the name indicates, a straw. You can stick the straw in a body of water and drink right from the source. The water goes through a filter as it is brought up through the straw. You can get this straw for $20 to $50 depending on quantity.

Photo courtesy of REI

The SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier is a system in its own category. The SteriPen uses UV rays to destroy bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. All you do is place the device into your water bottle and stir it around until the pen tells you the process is complete. This process is fast, portable, and takes away the potential aftertaste that can come from using chemical filters. It is rechargeable using a USB but claims to have 100 uses in a full battery life. The price is $130.

A reliable water filter is paramount for those who backpack or camp often. It’s always important to know the source of your water and how it is treated. If you can’t answer these questions, consider one of the options above to ensure you stay safe and healthy. Happy backpacking!

For individual backpackers, two top-rated options are the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter and the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter. The Sawyer Squeeze offers a user-friendly design with two pouches for water filtration, while the Katadyn BeFree is a lightweight and collapsible filter that operates within a single bottle. Both filters are suitable for solo travelers and are priced between $40 and $45.

The Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System is highly recommended for group backpacking trips. This gravity-powered filter can hold up to four liters of water and is ideal for larger groups. While it may be bulkier than some individual filters, its capacity and efficiency make it an excellent choice, particularly for trips with multiple camping stops. The average price for this filter is around $135.

If you prefer chemical purification methods, two reliable options are Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs and Aquamira Water Treatment. The Micropur Water Tabs are tablets that eliminate not only bacteria and protozoa but also viruses, offering comprehensive purification. Aquamira Water Treatment, available in drop form, is similarly effective against viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. Both options are affordable, ranging from $15 to $20, and can be conveniently added to your water bottle or cooking pot.

Yes, there are a couple of specialized options worth considering. The LifeStraw is a popular device that functions as a straw you can directly place into a water source and drink through. It filters the water as you sip, making it useful for both backpackers and emergency situations. The SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier utilizes UV rays to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. It’s rechargeable, quick, and avoids the potential aftertaste associated with chemical filters. The SteriPen is priced at $130 and offers around 100 uses on a full battery charge.

Best Binoculars for 2022

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo by Jordan Spalding on Unsplash

Whether you’re observing wildlife on the lake, identifying constellations in the night sky, or just getting a close-up view of your surroundings, it’s essential to own a solid pair of binoculars. Depending on the activity, different features will be more important. For example, those interested in astronomy will want to pick binoculars with large objective lenses which produce powerful light-gathering abilities. However, for regular everyday use, you’ll want lighter binoculars with decent magnification. No matter your purpose, we’ve got a recommendation for you! Check out our top five best binoculars for Summer 2022.

Best for Day Hikes

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For all those relaxing daytime hikes near your lake house, we recommend the Pentax AD 8 x 25 WP. There is nothing too glamorous about this pair. They’re not designed for serious birding or for examining subjects with precise detail. Rather, their assets are their compactness, waterproof coating, and relative inexpensiveness. They also have a multi-layer coating to ensure maximum light transmission.

Best for Spotting Wildlife

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The Swarovski Optik SLC Series is an excellent option for viewing wildlife. At a higher price point, it’s certainly a worthwhile investment. The company that manufactures these binoculars created a signature quality lens called Swarovision, which offers a wider view for better peripheral vision. Another asset of the Swarovski is the sharp color and clear vision — perfect for getting detailed, up-close pictures of the wildlife in your backyard. Built with durable materials, these binoculars are also wear-and-tear resistant, so you can enjoy the views for years to come.

Best for Turbulent Weather

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If a little stormy weather doesn’t stop you from looking out at nature, you’ll want to try the Athlon Optics Midas MD. These durable binoculars can sufficiently withstand humidity, dust, and intense weather conditions. Further, its focus dial can adjust reliably across a wide range of depths, allowing for sharp, close-up views. Its advanced coated lenses allow for better light transmission as well. And of course, given its design to withstand less-than-ideal weather circumstances, these binoculars are waterproof.

Best for Stargazing

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Admiring the night sky is one of the great perks of owning a lake home. Away from the city, you can find much brighter constellations. For getting an even clearer view, the Canon 10X42L IS WP is a perfect choice. Due to the gyro-stabilization feature, they achieve an anti-wobble effect. According to Space.com’s review, this feature makes you “feel like they’re being held on an invisible tripod.” The downside to these binoculars is their bulkier weight, which is true for most binoculars designed for nighttime use.

Best for Sitting in Nature

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For everyday use, the Olympus 10×42 Pro is a great choice for simply observing the natural world around you. Compared to other binoculars, these are relatively compact, lightweight, and versatile. With top-notch high-performance optics, they have amazing close-up abilities. Specifically, you can look at subjects as close as 1.5m away. Further, they’re waterproofed and nitrogen filled which prevents fogging. Although the power isn’t quite as strong as more heavy-duty binoculars, they are perfect for everyday use. 

From wildlife to constellations, there’s no shortage of astounding aspects of nature. With these top binoculars for summer 2022, you can get a close-up view of all of it.