Exercise
There are a million programs out there that can help you get in shape for whatever adventure you are planning. Here are a few that I like:
Hiking
REI has developed a training program to target areas that power you up the trail mile after mile. It increases strength in your core and major leg muscles, and it helps build endurance in those same muscle groups.
Try it out HERE.
Kayaking
Another great REI training program that increases strength, endurance and balance in the upper leg, hip, abdomen and back. Multiple exercises target these muscles, with individual exercises mimicking motions you use for certain kayak strokes.
Try it out HERE.
Bicycle Touring
If you’re preparing for a long-distance, multi-day bike tour or a month of pedaling through France, arming yourself with a well-rounded preparation plan can help you successfully achieve your goal. REI has developed a program that considers all the elements needed, such as cardio, strength and flexibility training.
Check it out HERE.
Backpacking Gear List
Meal Planning Worksheet
Here is an example of a spreadsheet I put together for each trip. I can easily see what items I need to prepare and can check them off when completed. Add extra rows for longer trips.
Reservations
Recreation.gov – no matter where you are planning to go in the country, Recreation.Gov is your friend. Download the app on your phone, because you are going to use this one a lot!
From this site, you can purchase entrance to thousands of recreations sites including wilderness or climbing permits, campgrounds, day passes, national park entrance times and more. However, is does NOT take into consideration if you have any discount passes. For example, let’s say you want to go to the Rocky Mountain National Park and need a pass for a timed entry but have a Lifetime National Parks Pass. In this case, your entry should be free, however you would need to pay for a reservation fee to obtain the timed entry pass, which is not refundable. Each park is different, so you plan your trip accordingly. https://www.recreation.gov/
Senior Discounts
National Parks Pass – US citizens and permanent residents ages 62 and older can purchase an annual America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for $20.00, or a lifetime version for $80.00. Applicants must provide documentation of age and residency or citizenship.
- The Senior Pass may provide a 50 percent discount on some amenity fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, boat launch, and specialized interpretive services.
- The Senior Pass generally does NOT cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessioners.
- Passes may not be purchased as gifts since eligible recipient must show proof of eligibility.
- Be careful not to misplace or loose it. If you do, you will need to purchase a new one again. Take good care of this investment!
Here is a link to the Senior Lifetime Pass: https://store.usgs.gov/lifetime-senior-pass
State and Regional Camping Discounts – There are many states and regions that grant discounts for seniors.
Pacific Northwest Region Day Use Passes – Recreation passes provide access to Forest Service operated recreation sites in Washington and Oregon where a day use fee is required. Annual passes cover day-use or entrance fees all year, while single-day passes work for one day. More info at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/passes
California has the Golden Bear Pass, which is available for free to those who meet certain criteria. That pass provides free day-use entry to many state parks in California. Purchase online here: https://www.reservecalifornia.com/Web/
Washington offers two senior camping pass options: the Senior Citizen Limited Income Pass and the Off-Season Senior Citizen Pass. Both passes provide discounts for Washington residents aged 62 or older. The Limited Income Pass offers 50% off nightly camping or moorage fees, free day-use parking, and free watercraft launch and trailer dump use, while the Off-Season Pass provides free camping or moorage at one site per night during the off-season. More info at: https://parks.wa.gov/passes-permits/get-park-pass/season-senior-citizen-pass