Girl vs. Wild NewsOK.com Blogging Community

Down versus synthetic is the debate of the century and perhaps far more entertaining than the current political affairs, at least for the outdoorsy type that spend their free time talking shop at the local outfitter over arguing the McCain Obama debate.

If you walk into any outdoors store and ask the time told question down versus synthetic you will get varied answers, but each with carry a fast and strong opinion and after an evening intense debating of which fill was the best I decided it was time to weigh the options!

Each contender in this battle royal has pros and cons to tilt or sway your opinion and since I am Girl vs. Wild lets get debating!

First up in the debate is down. Now down is said to be the warmest insulation on the market which does make since. Think about it, God didn’t make ducks or any fowl for the matter out of synthetic. They are all protected by fluffy down feathers and they stay warm in the coldest of temperatures.

Down will also hold its shape or loft better over time, but you must keep in mind the care instructions for down do require a bit more effort. You can not throw a down bag or jacket of any sort into the washing machine at home like you can synthetic. They do require special care at a dry cleaners.

Down wicks moisture away and does allow it to evaporate, however once the down is wet it does take awhile to dry. If you find yourself in moist, wet, or humid conditions down, basically anywhere in Oklahoma down might not be your friend.

Down packs compact as well and in most cases weighs less that it’s synthetic counterpart. When backpacking for me every ounce counts and if I can shed weight in certain areas of my pack I will take every opportunity I get.

For synthetic the facts top of the mark as well so before jumping on the down ban wagon take these into account.

Test have shown synthetic is more water resistant than down and dries relatively quick. Synthetics pride themselves in the Primaloft technology that coats each fiber with a permanent water repellant agent.

Synthetic usually costs less than it’s down equal. I did some research to see how the prices might vary and a 15 degree bags with down fill on Marmot.com starts at $199 and the synthetic 15 degree bags start $89. If price is important to you this might be a deciding factor.

Synthetic is also hypo allergenic. People do have allergies and some are allergic to down making the option of a synthetic best for them.

The facts are out and now it’s time to decide wether its pack weight, ultimate warmth, water repellence, or the bottom line price! Make you vote and get camping!

For more on the down versus synthetic debate head to Newsok.com/multimedia and listen to the featured Outdoors & Environment podcast.

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

This past Monday I decide to be adventurous in OKC. It was time to get my hands dirty and see what fellow Oklahomans do for jobs. I decide to take a trip to the Oklahoma City Zoo and job shadow a Galapagos tortoise animal caretaker. Yes you read right a tortoise animal caretaker and a very knowledgeable one at that. I met with Blake Bauer to start the duties of this adventure of the tortoise kind.

First things first this was an extremely fun, yet dirty job! I adorned gigantic knee high rubber boots and was geared for the duties ahead. Feeding was first and with the special fall holidays pumpkins were the treat of choice and let me tell you these tortoises were not afraid to chomp down. With a mix of grapes, bell peppers, squash, and of course pumpkins this was a colorful mix of fruits and veggies. An interesting fact, these tortoises are reptiles and are also ectothermic meaning cold blooded so they don’t need to eat several times day like one might expect. Generally they are feed once a day or every other day to fill their dietary needs.

Since Oklahoma has such a dry climate next on the day’s duties was polishing their shells. A Galapagos tortoise’s shell is very similar to a humans’ skin and with Oklahoma’s dry days and windy weather their shells get dry and need to be moistured just like our human skin does. With cotton gloves on hand we rubbed mineral oil onto their shells to protect them from the dry air. Not only does this moisturize their shells it also makes them shinny for visitors to admire. Shell polishing is done about once a month and I was lucky enough to join in! This part of the job was not dirty, but was a big undertaking since the tortoises don’t exactly hold still for beauty time.

An interesting fact, the five tortoises, two males and three females at the Oklahoma City Zoo have been there since the 40’s and 50’s, and when they arrived at the Zoo they where already of adult age. This makes them in the age range of 80 – 100 years old and these guys show no sign of getting tired soon either!

With the leaves changing and the temperatures feeling like fall this is an ideal time to take a trip to the Zoo. If your looking to be spooked for Halloween the Oklahoma City Zoo is having it’s 25 Annual Haunt The Zoo. Haunt the Zoo runs from October 26th through October 31st 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. nightly rain or shine. Find your creepiest or cutest costume and head to the Zoo for a goulish good time while stuffing your pockets full of candy!

For more on my time at the Oklahoma City Zoo head to NewsOK.tv for the latest Girl vs. Wild video.

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

Welcome To Horseshoe Hell

A lot can happen in 24 hours such as an entire day! For rock climbers across the US though the 24 hours owned by last Saturday to Sunday was a full 24 hours of climbing. When I say 24 hours of climbing I mean exactly that. A full 24 hours of solid non-stop rock climbing. The 3rd annual 24 Hours of Horseshoe Hell took stage last weekend at the Horseshoe Canyon Ranch near Jasper, Arkansas.

This was the 3rd year for the event with 190 climbers in teams of two at the start. These numbers are up from previous years showing that more and more climbers are coming to the event and not only that they are also training for this athletic feat. Horseshoe Hell is no small task with big names like Sonnie Trotter and Brittany Griffith from team Patagonia competing in the event. 24 hours of climbing is not for those weak in the mind or who might tucker out fast. This is a true competition of endurance of both mind and body.

The start gun went off at 10 a.m. Saturday with climbers dispersing across the ranch in teams of two. Knocking out routes in a fast and steady pace. Climbers stretched as far as the eye could see. Trekking back and forth across the ranch marking routes off their score cards. A real excitement could be felt in the air as teams were making headway.
Towards the strike of midnight a different song was being sung. Exhausted climbers were starting to question themselves asking if they really wanted to push forward. Some second guessing their intentions and begging partners to let them throw in the rope knowing there were still 12 more hours to go.
Teams climbed through the night with routes lit by headlamps and lanterns. Some groups were singing songs and telling jokes to keep each other awake. Various dance parties broke out to excite the sleepy mood. Tired teams would even take quick naps while waiting to tie into their next route.
Into the wee hours of morning climbers moved forward with glazed eyes and exhausted bodies pushing for the goal of making the full 24 hours of Horseshoe Hell. When the finish gun went off at 10 a.m. Sunday 131 climbers finished the competition.
Oklahoma climbers made a great showing in this year’s Horseshoe Hell with 39 climbers participating and three climbers taking wins in the end. Jonathan Stranger got second in the recreational division and Sky Checotah and Rusty Blackmon tied for third in the intermediate category.

Severe fatigue, dehydration, bloody fingers and raw skin was felt by all the climbers, but in the end no matter how beaten their bodies and minds were the 131 climbers that finished can say they beat hell!

Girl vs. Wild,
Jacquelyn Farris

Oklahoma actually has mountains! I still find this very hard to swallow even though I am a native to this state. I spent my college years in Colorado taking in the vertical and all that height can offer a person. Oklahoma seems very flat to me except when I am holding on to a inch sliver of sandstone on a rock face making my way up. Its those moments I go ahead and except the fact that this state has mountains. In fact we have 8 rock formations or ranges that are classified as mountains according to Oklatravel.net.

The Quartz Mountains located in Lone Wolf, OK in the southwestern part of the state is a historical spot. This region saw many different regimes in the 1800’s and in 1869 General Custer even marched his troops through this area.

The Wichita Mountains located in Lawton, OK are the oldest mountain range in North America and apart of the Wichita Wildlife Refuge’s 59,020 protected acres.

The Arbuckle Mountains located in Davis, OK at one time were over 20,000 feet tall and over 200 million years old are one of the oldest mountains in America.

The Glass Mountains are located in Fairview, OK in the Northwestern part of the state. These mountains received their name because of the sparkling selenite crystal that cover it’s surface.

The next four mountain areas are located in the southwestern part of the state. The Jack Fork and Sans Bois Mountains in Wilburton, and the Winding Stair in Hodgen and the Kiamichi Mountains in Antlers. These mountains create the lush and remote world of southern Oklahoma.

Fall is officially here. It might still feel like summer days out, but sooner or later we will start seeing crisp mornings and cool nights. The leaves will start changing and the days will get shorter. The hustle and bustle is upon with school back in session and the holidays just around the corner. I have noticed people are loosing the time loved by summer days to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

Recently I was pondering how we all need a city escape. That is what has led me to rediscover one of my favorite places to go on an Oklahoma adventure, and it’s right here in Oklahoma City. Martin Nature Park located at 5000 West Memorial Road is the perfect place for a day adventure when you feel too busy to get away.

Living in the city we sometimes forget that we are surrounded by many different plants and animals that call this place home too. Now I am not referring to the pesky possum that tosses your trash can in the night or the squirrel that plays chinese fire drill with your car when you’re always rushed to get somewhere. I am talking about birds, butterflies, owls, coyotes, deer, or even bobcats. Martin Nature Park is home to many of these wild animals and on a typical day it is not uncommon to share the trail with some of them.

With 3.5 miles of hiking trails winding through through Oklahoma woods and grasslands this an ideal place for an outdoors escape. The Park also features one graveled trail that is wheelchair accessible making sure to meet the needs of all nature fans. These natural trails consist of gravel and packed soil with short stretches of moderate slopes and occasional steps.

Martin Nature park even has Sunday Nature Hikes where guests can learn about the nature of the season. In my opinion Fall is the most amazing season with the colors changing and animals preparing for winter. This would be a perfect time to load the family in the car and have a beautiful Sunday hike at Martin Nature Park.

Martin Nature Park offers guided park tours and nature hikes every Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Guided tours are just $2 per person and reservations are recommended, call 755-0676.

Special programming is also offered such as the upcoming 2nd Annual Fall Into Art Day on November 1st. Local artists will share nature inspired works of art and also share their techniques. There will be live music and snack all will enjoying the backdrop of the leaves changing colors.

Martin Nature Park is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The park is closed on holidays and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.

Every time you visit Martin Nature Park it’s a new experience. Animals and their tracks can always be found on the trail. Wether is be the middle of winter with fresh deer or bobcat tracks or the heat of summer and the woods are filled with singing birds. Martin Nature Park is the perfect place for a nature escape!

Happy Trails from Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

It has been raining cats and dogs, and even elephants for days now. The ground is soaked and swamp like. This weather is not friendly to a fun outdoor adventure. Mother nature has decided that you are staying inside for a weekend of great outdoor adventure flicks! Grab the popcorn, candy, soda and hit the couch with the remote in hand. It’s time for the Girl vs. Wild’s top six outdoor adventure movies.

•Into the Wild: Directed by Sean Penn and based on author Jon Krakauer’s true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who gives up all his worldly possessions and his life as he knew it to trek into the deep Alaska back country to live in the wild and become Alexander Supertramp. This film is my all-time favorite film and has the honor of Girl vs. Wild’s top pick. (R)

•Out Cold: Epic adventure comes to mind when I think of Out Cold. I have spent many a night watching this one, dreaming of my days as a snowboard town thrill-seeker. I spent several years working at Wolf Creek Ski area, all for the treasured employee mountain pass. Out Cold is a hilarious film that captures exactly what it is like to be a mountain town snowboarder, while also telling the tale of the town’s beloved Bull Mountain being in jeopardy when corporate tycoon Lee Majors attempts to move in. (PG-13)

•A River Runs Through It: A fly fishing classic that tells a nostalgic story of a father and his sons as they grow up fishing the Montana waters. As the brothers near adulthood, they choose different paths as they struggle to live up to their father’s high standards, but both always come back to the waters they loved with their father. (PG)

•Aspen Extreme: This is a classic ski adventure. Two snow-struck friends from Detroit chase the ski-bum dream of being Aspen ski instructors. The guys soon realize the Aspen ski scene is cutthroat, and through several challenging turns the friends are tested with money, temptation, and fame nearly tearing their friendship apart. (PG-13)

•Alive: This true story is the account of 35 rugby players whose team plane crashes in the Andes mountains on a barren glacier. Stranded with no food, no water, and no rescue coming, the 35 athletes must decide how far they will go to survive. (R)

•Vertical Limit: Siblings Annie and Peter grew up climbing with their father until a split-second decision ends their father’s life and tears the siblings apart. Years later they are reunited at the K2 base camp and must face the life and death decision to survive the dangers of K2. (PG-13)

When out on the trail it is very important to stay hydrated.

Water is the one thing you have to have to stay alive — even more than food. No water means no life.

Recently, while on a climbing trip I under-estimated how much water I would need. I was out on the rocks in Quartz Mountain, and my good friend Michael and I ran out of water. Of course, all we had to do was climb down and refill, but the feeling of needing hydration with none available is not a good feeling, especially in the afternoon heat.

Its best to always over estimate the amount of water you will need while out on the trail. There is nothing more dangerous than finding yourself lost and without ample hydration! It’s just not wise to be out on any length of hiking trip without water. Even if its just a stroll around the trail, you have to pack water. The simplest situations are usually the ones that get off track fast and land you in one of those worst-case scenarios you imagine are never going to happen to you.

Packing extra water is always important, but so is being prepared for the situation when you know you will need to collect water or, worst-case situation, run out. The simple solution is water Iodine tablets. They’re very inexpensive and pack light. Just take your collected water and add the suggested amount of tablets to make it safe for drinking. I found them on various Web sites ranging from $6-$10 dollars. Inexpensive and easy.

If you’re like myself and love new gadgets, head to your local outfitter and get the SteriPEN. This tiny little tool weighs only 3.6 oz with batteries. This makes it ideal for backpacking where every ounce counts. It’s the only portable water purifier that uses ultraviolet light to destroy waterborne microbes. Just wave the wand in the water in your collected container, and like magic the water collected is safe. This cool new gadget lets you make your water safe while channeling your inner Luke Skywalker. Now, the SteriPEN does cost more than the tablets, ranging from $90-$140, but the simplicity of it makes it worth the price.

If collecting water from a source that has leaves and particles, be sure to run the water through a piece of cloth or mesh screen to remove the loose particles. Make sure to do this before purifying it, regardless of what method you use to do so.

The bottom line is that water is a necessity to insure a happy time on the trail. With the Oklahoma heat already kicking above 100 degrees — and its not even July — you have to stay on top of your hydration! Happy trails.

You can follow Jacquelyn Farris’ continuing adventures in her Girl vs. Wild blog, which is now fetured in the “Know It: Travel” at http://newsok.com/vacations..

have spent most weekends except for the random few in the wild since last October, and I have loved every bit of it. This also means I have grown quite accustomed to eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

Lets see, if I ate at least three pb&j’s a weekend, that adds up to about 100 peanut butter jelly sandwiches since last October. Thats a lot of peanut butter and jelly.

I am striking against my basic camping meals of pb&j. Don’t get me wrong. I have a very special place in my heart for peanut butter and jelly, but it’s time for some exciting dining in the woods. I have realized that just because I am roughing it, this doesn’t mean I have to settle for a simple sandwich. Recently I have whipped together some fancy meals in the woods and thought I would share my Girl vs. Wild chef secrets with you.

With these three tricks you won’t have to settle for the typical pb&j dinner any longer. Unless you want to!

Chicken & rice tinfoil dinner
Take 14-inch square of foil.

Add 1 chicken breast to each piece of foil. This recipe yields 4 servings, so have 4 chicken breasts ready.

Mix 1 (10

-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup and 2/3 cup uncooked instant rice together and divide among the 4 packets.

Add spice for desired seasoning.

Wrap securely in foil, rolling up the edges, and place on grill 5 inches from hot coals. Cook about 40 minutes or until done, turning once.

Serves 4.

Campfire biscuits
Before hitting the trail, mix 2 cups biscuit mix, such as Bisquick style mix, and cup powdered milk in a large zip seal plastic bag.

When ready to prepare add 2/3 cup water to bagged mixture — just enough to make a stiff dough.

Next, collect sticks about inches in diameter and 2 feet long. This is your cooking utensil.

Form the dough around the end of the stick, making ball-shaped biscuits about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide.

Toast the biscuits over the campfire until golden brown.

Last, slip biscuit off the limb and you’re ready to eat.

Serves 4-6.

Apple pie on a stick
Take a large red or green apple and push a stick through the center.

Turn the stick over the coals of a campfire. This is just like roasting a marshmallow. When the apple peel starts to loosen, carefully peel the skin off.

In a bag, mix together equal parts cinnamon and sugar.

Roll the roasted apple in the mixture until evenly coated on all sides.

Lastly, roast the coated apple over the fire for a few more minutes.

Let the apple cool and enjoy!

You can follow Jacquelyn Farris’ continuing adventures in her Girl vs. Wild blog, which is now featured in the “Know It: Travel” at http://newsok.com/vacations.

Here in Oklahoma, we’re no strangers to severe weather. In fact, we seem to be on a first-name basis with our favorite local weatherman.

Think about it. Other than family, who else is able to yell at you in times of danger? That’s right, the weatherman. When heading into the great outdoors this Memorial Day weekend you can’t pack your big TV or the weatherman, but you can be informed, prepared and have peace of mind.

Here are a few weather safety tips to use on your next big outdoors adventure:

• Before you leave home, check the weather several times. Check and double check various weather sources to make sure you have the most up to date — and accurate — predictions before you head out.

•The most important item you can have outdoors during severe weather season is a weather radio. Having a weather radio can take the guess work out of predicting if severe weather is approaching.

•While traveling to your destination pay attention to road signs that have the area’s weather station posted. Dial into the station in your car to hear weather projections.

•Just look to the sky. Do your best to pay close attention to the weather patterns that could be developing above.

•If you get caught in a thunderstorm, seek shelter in a low-lying area that is protected by thick growth and small trees. If caught in an open area, get to the lowest point possible, such as a ravine or valley.

•When lighting strikes, it usually hits the tallest point in an area. Stay clear of tall trees. If you can get in a car, do so. Roll up the windows and do not touch anything metal. If a cabin or trailer is close, get inside but do not touch any electric appliances.

•If caught in a wooded area your tent will be a safe shelter. However, if your tent is in an open area leave the tent and move to low ground. If your tent is the tallest point around, leave it.

•If you find yourself outside with a tornado approaching, do not go for shelter in your camper or car. These both are dangerous spots to seek shelter.

Try to find the nearest man-made structure, such as a concrete restroom or camp shelter. If that is not possible and you are in an open area, get in the lowest spot and lie as flat as you can.

Pay attention to your senses and trust your instincts, and remember to stay calm so you can think and react clearly.

By Jacquelyn Farris, Girl vs. Wild

Outdoors folk are taking their four-legged friends everywhere with them. Camping, hiking, climbing. You name it.

But before you take your pooch out for a hike there are a few things that need to be covered before leaving home and hitting the trails:

* Make sure Fido’s shot records are up to date. A dog that is not vaccinated is a danger to himself, as well other animals on the trail.

* Dogs will need water and a trail snack. A good rule of thumb is for every trail break you take, the dog will need one, too. Of course you won’t consume the same amount of water or food, but you will both need to stay hydrated and nourished. Dehydration and a general sluggish behavior can sneak up before you know it. You have to remember your dog is burning energy just like you are.

* Be prepared to administer first-aid treatment for your furry friend. Dogs are just as susceptible to trail injuries just as we are. Most injuries occur to dog’s paws. Since a dog’s footpads are in direct contact with the ground when they run, walk, and play, this makes them prone to injury. Cuts, blisters, and burns are very common in active pups and they need to be treated. In most cases cleaning the injured paw and applying antibacterial ointment and a bandage will do the trick. Be sure to keep and eye on it because a simple cut can lead to an infection, and in that case you need to see the vet as soon as possible.

* If striking out on an overnight trip keep in mind your dog needs shelter, too. Sure, letting your dog sleep outside is fine in most cases, but wind and rain can wear a pup out. If you’re not up for sharing your sleeping bag, be sure to pack a blanket or mat to protect them from the ground.

Local climber and proud dog owner Shane Seaton says, “you have to remember to pack enough food for each meal that you will be gone, and remember to pack bowls for food and water, and also pack a leash and something for your dog to sleep on.

“I always packs treats to reward (his dog) Happy when she is doing commands in a new environment, but before you even leave home you have to make sure your dog is trained to follow those commands.”

Happy has become an outstanding trail dog with just nine months of training. Happy is proof that any dog with a little love and care can be a perfect trail dog.

“Happy is happiest when we go climbing together,” Seaton said. “She loves it just as much as I do.”

I have shared the trail with both Shane and Happy, and the trail is always happier with Happy tagging along.