Alex Marshall
Alex was born and raised wandering the mountains of central Idaho. He spent his 20’s working in the outdoor industry as a river guide, ski patroller, and in wilderness therapy. Currently he is a paramedic with an interest in wilderness medicine and he dabbles in photography and writing. He enjoys long days in the mountains trail running, fast packing, rafting, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, and fly fishing. His newest passion is introducing, some might say indoctrinating, his three children into the outdoor sports that he loves.
hiker with Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50

Gossamer Gear Gorilla Review (Why You May or May Not Like It)

The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 is a great lightweight pack designed for long-distance backpacking when keeping weight to a minimum is key. ...
hiker carrying an Osprey Levity

Osprey Levity 45 Review (If You’re Serious About Ultralight)

The Osprey Levity 45 ultralight backpack is like a prizefighter, ruthlessly cutting weight.  It is the lightest weight pack that I have ...
Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor Review

Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor Review (Flexible but Limited)

The Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor is a well-made pack by a company that has been making quality packs for a long time, ...
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction Ultralight Backpack Review

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Junction Ultralight Backpack Review

Let’s start with the fact that lightweight backpacks are not for everyone. If you plan to carry outlandish loads, please buy an ...
hiker carrying Gregory Focal overlooking reservoir

Gregory Focal & Facet Pack Review (All the Fixins, No Fat)

The Gregory Focal 48 is a great lightweight pack with more bells and whistles than most packs in this category. It fits ...
Zoleo Satellite Communication device

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator Review

One of the basic tenants of safe outdoor recreation is always taking a buddy with you. For multiple reasons, I have, over ...
Alex caught a big fish from a lake in Idaho

Why Do Fishermen Let Fish Go? (Angler’s Take on Catch & Release)

I have been a fisherman for the past 20 years. I love fishing, but I have a secret: I don’t like the ...
Man in river fishing in a kayak

What Makes a Kayak a Fishing Kayak? (Main Features and Considerations)

Despite the many types of watercrafts available today, the humble kayak has emerged as a favorite fishing platform. They are light, versatile, ...
grundens solstrale hoodie fly fishing

Grundéns Solstrale Hoodie Hands-on Review: Favorite Fishing Shirt?

I have yet to find the perfect sun shirt so I was excited to receive the Solstrale Hoodie from Grundéns.   I had ...
hiking boots vs shoes

Avoid Blisters: Choose Hiking Shoes or Boots That Fit Right

I was 70 miles and 24 hours into a 100 mile race, and I was starting another big climb at the Idaho ...