Driven by a passion for delivering exceptional single-pour, packaged coffee, Higby and his co-founders, Allison and Mark Drucker, are on a mission. Their dedication to quality has earned them acclaim, with FA emerging as the clear favorite in a recent SNEWS poll, securing 46% of the votes.

Higby’s journey into the world of coffee began at 26, during his tenure as an Outward Bound mountaineering and climbing instructor in the Colorado Rockies. It was there that he and his colleagues established a coffee ritual, enjoying French press breaks amidst the scenic trails—a moment of mental reset before tackling the day’s challenges.

For Higby, coffee isn’t just a beverage; it’s a ritual that sets the tone for his adventures. Recalling a memorable cup of Ethiopia Yirgacheffe brewed on a Clover coffee maker at a Salt Lake City cafe in 2008, he emphasizes the transformative power of the coffee ceremony in preparing for the day ahead.

Despite holding esteemed positions in the outdoor industry, Higby felt a calling to pursue his passion for coffee. In 2013, he took a leap of faith and cold-emailed Boxcar, a renowned coffee shop in Boulder, seeking employment. Starting as a dishwasher, he immersed himself in the craft, eventually earning a promotion to shift lead.

Little did he know, this experience would pave the way for a pivotal role at FA. After joining the team as a barista manager, Higby became a business partner when FA transitioned its focus to instant brew. Today, he oversees production and events, while his partners handle roasting and marketing, respectively.

Through his journey from mountaintops to coffee workshops, Higby’s dedication to crafting the perfect brew remains unwavering. With FA, he continues to share his passion for coffee, offering enthusiasts a taste of excellence with every sip.

The post Coffee Sage Sam Higby Brews the Perfect Trail Boost appeared first on Adventurepro.

Although many cranes have embarked on their journey northwards to nesting grounds, a lingering presence can still be observed amidst the verdant fields and tranquil wetlands.

The Main Event

Standing tall at four feet with a wingspan stretching up to seven feet, the sandhill crane stands as one of the valley’s enduring symbols. Spring ushers in a spectacle of courtship displays, with the resonant call of the cranes filling the air—a mesmerizing ballet of nature’s beauty for all who witness it.

“Spring offers a unique opportunity. Through year-round management of wetlands and barley fields, efforts are made to attract larger gatherings of cranes, and these majestic birds have learned to flock to these designated areas,” explains Ruthanne Johnson, a Monte Vista Crane Festival committee member.

“The sight of thousands of cranes gracefully dancing and calling amidst the fields is truly awe-inspiring, almost spiritual,” Johnson adds. “With the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range, the experience becomes nothing short of breathtaking.”

For those who miss the springtime spectacle, the fall migration offers another chance to witness the majestic flight of these magnificent creatures.

Beyond the Cranes

While the cranes take center stage, the Monte Vista area also offers a diverse array of avian delights, including waterfowl such as ducks, geese, coots, and various songbirds. Exploring the wild expanse during spring unveils an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural splendor of the region.

For those eager to delve deeper into this avian paradise, the Monte Vista Crane Festival provides a comprehensive platform to learn more about the cranes, the refuge, and the annual migration.

As spring breathes new life into the San Luis Valley, it beckons both seasoned birdwatchers and curious enthusiasts to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of migratory birds in their natural habitat.

The post A Birding Paradise Awaits in the San Luis Valley appeared first on Adventurepro.

Thankfully, armed with a modest toolkit and a rudimentary understanding of your bike, you can undertake these repairs independently, circumventing the need to hike your bike home or incur expenses at a bike shop.

Let’s start with the assumption that you’ve come prepared with a toolkit containing the necessary implements for your bike. For repairing a broken chain, ensure you have the appropriate quick link for your chain type and a chain-breaker tool. Addressing a flat tire requires a compatible tube (even for tubeless tires), a tire tool, and a compact multi-tool. Just as you wouldn’t leave home without your phone, don’t venture out on your bike without these essentials.

Repairing a Broken Chain:

1. Identify the broken link in the chain and remove it using the chain-breaker tool to push out the pin. Ensure you have two “female” ends available to accommodate the quick link.
2. Retrieve the quick link from your toolkit, ensuring it matches your chain type (e.g., “11-speed” as indicated on the package).
3. Position the “male” ends of the quick link opposite each other, paying attention to their orientation in relation to the direction of force exerted while pedaling.
4. Insert the male ends through the corresponding openings in the chain links.
5. Confirm that the indentations on either side of the quick link are aligned correctly, then exert outward pressure with both hands to secure the link. If necessary, pedal to cinch the link together, ensuring proper alignment.

Double-check the alignment before resuming your ride.

Addressing a Flat Tire:

Encountered a flat tire? Let’s remedy that:

1. Utilize your multi-tool to remove the wheel with the flat tire. If it’s the rear tire, expect a bit more complexity and grease in the process.
2. Shift gears to position the chain on the smallest gear of the cassette, facilitating easier wheel removal.

The post Basic Bike Repairs: Fixing a Broken Chain and Flat Tire appeared first on Adventurepro.

I felt deflated.

The initial stretch of our hike unfolded amidst breathtaking desert scenery, adorned with lush greenery and vibrant flora. Towering saguaros loomed above us, their majestic crowns reaching heights that dwarfed even my own stature. A kaleidoscope of blooming colors danced around us, while a crystalline spring glistened against the backdrop of silver boulders.

As we ascended a hill adorned with desert vegetation, the burn scar revealed itself in all its melancholic splendor. A haunting tableau of saguaro skeletons stretched as far as the eye could see, juxtaposed against charred remnants of once-thriving vegetation. The landscape wore a cloak of monochrome hues—shades of brown, grey, and black painting a somber portrait of destruction.

With each crest we conquered, hope flickered within me, yearning for a return to the vibrant abundance of the desert we had left behind. Yet, disappointment awaited us at every turn, as burnt valleys and desolation continued to unfold before our eyes, plunging my spirits into the depths of despair.

I hadn’t embarked on this journey to pitch my tent amidst the remnants of a scorched desert. I craved the vitality of unique flora and the melodious symphony of desert dwellers—a stark contrast to the eerie silence that now enveloped us.

We found a semblance of solace in a spot shaded by half-burned bushes, where we pitched our tent and sought respite from the harsh reality that surrounded us. Despite our efforts to explore and discover the promised springs, blackened landscapes persisted, serving as grim reminders of nature’s fragility in the face of adversity.

As night fell, we lay beneath the half-charred branches, determined to embrace the following day and its adventures, regardless of the desolation that loomed over us.

To our astonishment, a shift occurred the next day.

Venturing further along the trail in search of new springs, we were greeted by tender shoots of vibrant green peeking through the charred remnants of bushes. Despite the harsh conditions of the past year, life found a way to persevere—a testament to nature’s resilience and unwavering spirit.

With each step, we witnessed signs of renewal and rebirth. We stumbled upon flowing springs surrounded by resilient cottonwoods and lush reed forests—a testament to the enduring resilience of life in the unforgiving desert landscape.

As we continued our journey through the scorched wilderness of the Superstition Mountains, we were reminded that even in the face of devastation, hope and rejuvenation can emerge from the ashes, breathing new life into the barren landscape.

The post Backpacking Through a Burn Scar in the Superstition Mountains appeared first on Adventurepro.

In the midst of this crisis, I hold onto the hope that there’s a silver lining—a valuable lesson waiting to be learned. Perhaps we’ll emerge from this experience with greater empathy and compassion, or a renewed commitment to staying connected with our loved ones. Maybe, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, we’ll learn to love a little more deeply. And through it all, gratitude remains a steadfast lesson—a reminder to appreciate the things we often take for granted.

I find solace in the passionate community of outdoor enthusiasts, whose shared love for adventure transcends physical limitations. Even when we can’t embark on expeditions, we can find joy in sharing stories, reminiscing about our favorite outdoor haunts, and finding creative ways to bring the outdoors into our homes.

The current circumstances have spurred a surge of creative energy, as evidenced by the myriad photos, essays, and videos being shared within the outdoor community. These creations serve as a welcome distraction, inspiring us to stay home while nurturing our shared love for adventure. After all, none of us want to stay cooped up indoors—we’re all itching to hit the trails once more.

Amidst the uncertainty, finding moments of sanity on local trails has become paramount. As we navigate the new normal, we’re faced with the challenge of balancing our need for outdoor recreation with the imperative of safety. While crowds pose a potential risk, especially in parks and open spaces, we adapt by exploring during off-peak hours and practicing caution on narrow trails.

For me, the simplicity and beauty of local trails have become a source of solace. Though they may lack the grandeur of iconic vistas, they offer a different kind of adventure—one characterized by quiet moments of reflection and newfound appreciation for the familiar.

Reflecting on my travel aspirations, I’m drawn to two distinct motivations. On one hand, there’s the desire to visit picturesque destinations immortalized in photographs—a yearning to witness their beauty firsthand. Yet, equally compelling is the urge to explore the unknown, to discover secluded corners of the world untouched by mass tourism.

While iconic locations hold undeniable allure, there’s something profoundly transformative about standing alone in a vast, uncharted landscape. These moments of discovery offer a sense of connection with nature that is both humbling and invigorating.

Looking ahead, I’m uncertain what the future holds or when we’ll be able to travel safely again. However, I’m hopeful that this period of self-reflection will instill in us a newfound appreciation for the undiscovered and the untamed. Perhaps, in spreading out and seeking solace in the unknown, we’ll discover a deeper, more meaningful connection with the world around us.

The post Beyond Iconic Trails appeared first on Adventurepro.

My journey into the realm of backcountry skiing wasn’t a direct path. Like many, I succumbed to the allure of snowboarding during my teenage years, influenced by the desire to fit in and keep pace with my peers. Always striving to keep up, I embraced mountaineering during college—a pursuit characterized by its paradoxical blend of suffering and exhilaration. Yet, it was during one arduous expedition that I had an epiphany: amidst the toil and exhaustion, there existed the potential for joy and fulfillment.

While trudging along in snowshoes, grappling with the frustration of every step forward met with two steps backward, I witnessed a group of skiers effortlessly gliding past me. Their laughter echoed across the landscape, a stark contrast to my inner turmoil. In that moment, I realized that skiing offered a unique blend of challenge and enjoyment—a revelation that would alter the course of my adventures.

With the guidance of Marc, my then-boyfriend and now husband, I embarked on a journey to embrace backcountry skiing. Equipped with the essentials—avalanche safety training, new gear, and a rekindled skiing prowess—we set out to explore the untamed wilderness of Colorado’s backcountry. For us, the decision to pursue skiing over splitboarding was a strategic one, driven by a desire to maximize our enjoyment amidst life’s myriad responsibilities.

Living in Colorado has afforded us the luxury of a backyard playground, where rugged peaks and pristine powder await just beyond our doorstep. Unlike the crowded resorts and congested slopes, the backcountry offers a sanctuary of solitude and serenity—a place where we can carve our own paths and savor the untamed beauty of nature.

As I glide through the trees, my heart sings with exhilaration. Each turn is a testament to the rewards of perseverance and the unrivaled joy of exploration. My line is not predetermined but discovered—a meandering path that leads me to breathtaking vistas and moments of unbridled bliss.

While others may endure the chaos of crowded slopes and lengthy lift lines, I find solace in the simplicity of earning my turns, forging my own path through the wilderness. For me, backcountry skiing is more than just a sport—it’s a journey of self-discovery, a celebration of the boundless beauty that awaits those willing to venture off the beaten path.

The post Backcountry Skiing in Colorado appeared first on Adventurepro.

Brenda’s journey into the heart of the Southwest began decades ago, fueled by a deep-seated curiosity and a thirst for exploration. From the rugged canyons of Utah to the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains, she has traversed some of the region’s most iconic landscapes, each step imbued with a sense of wonder and reverence for the land.

One of Brenda’s most cherished tales recounts her expedition into the depths of the Grand Canyon. Venturing along winding trails that carve through the canyon’s ancient walls, she found herself immersed in a world of geological marvels and timeless beauty. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and gold across the canyon walls, Brenda felt a profound connection to the land—a connection that would endure long after her journey had ended.

But Brenda’s adventures extend far beyond the confines of the Grand Canyon. From the sweeping deserts of Arizona to the lush forests of New Mexico, she has roamed far and wide, uncovering hidden gems and secret oases tucked away in the Southwest’s rugged terrain.

Yet, for Brenda, the true essence of the Southwest lies not just in its breathtaking landscapes, but in the stories of the people who call this region home. From Native American tribes preserving ancient traditions to modern-day pioneers forging new paths in the wilderness, the Southwest is a tapestry of cultures and histories, each thread adding depth and richness to the fabric of this storied land.

As Brenda continues her journey through the Southwest, she remains committed to sharing her experiences with fellow travelers and adventurers. Through her stories, she hopes to inspire others to embark on their own explorations, to discover the magic and wonder that await amidst the red rocks and sun-kissed vistas of the American Southwest.

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice explorer, take a moment to immerse yourself in the stories of Brenda Bergreen. For in her tales, you’ll find not just adventure, but a deep appreciation for the timeless beauty of the Southwest and the enduring spirit of those who roam its rugged landscapes.

The post Stories by Brenda Bergreen appeared first on Adventurepro.

Yet, amidst the unanticipated snowfall, we found an unexpected silver lining: an opportunity to capture the park in a new light. Winter transforms Arches, painting its iconic red rock formations with a brilliant contrast of white. And the solitude? That’s a luxury reserved for winter visitors, offering uninterrupted moments of awe and wonder amidst nature’s splendor.

While summer and fall often bring congested roads and lengthy queues at park entrances, winter unveils a different scene. With vehicle traffic reduced to a fraction of its summertime peak, visitors can explore Arches without the hassle of crowds. Imagine, instead of grappling with traffic tips, immersing yourself in the sheer majesty of Arches’ unique geological wonders.

So, while our plans may have veered off course, the snow-covered Arches National Park presented us with a captivating spectacle, reminding us that sometimes, the most memorable experiences arise from the unexpected.

The post A Snow-Covered Arches National Park appeared first on Adventurepro.

After four years of captivating audiences across the Southwest, we’ve concluded that the best course of action for us now is to take a breather. Starting November 1st, Adventure Pro will be taking a hiatus.

This isn’t a farewell, merely a “see you later.” Be assured, the brand will resurface when the timing aligns.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our readers for your unwavering support throughout the years. You’ve been the driving force behind our curiosity, motivating us as we witnessed your adventures unfold. You, our readers, are the reason why we tirelessly strived to deliver a publication teeming with captivating and enlightening content.

We owe immense thanks to our photographers and writers, whose passion breathed life into our pages through their captivating images and evocative prose. Their diverse styles and personalities infused Adventure Pro with vibrancy and dynamism.

And, of course, we are indebted to our editors—past and present—who steered our intrepid team to this juncture.

Adventure Pro has always been and will forever remain “For the Adventurer in All of Us,” and we are eternally grateful for the friendships forged, the lessons learned, and the stories that will forever resonate within our hearts.

The post Time to Recalibrate: Adventure Pro Takes a Break appeared first on Adventurepro.