eXpLoring the
state parks
Rick Bodenhamer, Operations Manager, Wichita, KS
I’m always inspired when I read The Journals of Lewis
V
olume
and Clark. It’s an opportunity to look back in time
when only Native Americans inhabited the lands west
of the Mississippi. These are the lands that I love to
II, 2009
explore. My favorite place is the four corners region
Photographer: Cathy Blaies, Utah
that encompasses Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and
Arizona. I especially enjoy exploring the archaeology
CHACO
of the region, and learning about the people who once
25
Dog Leash—$16
inhabited the area. There’s a thrill that comes every
Dog Collar—$12
time I spy a ruin tucked into the side of a cliff, blend-
ing in almost perfectly with the nature surrounding it.
Keep your furry friend close on that afternoon trail run with dog
Working at Backwoods gives me the freedom and
accessories made from Chaco’s trusted high-quality webbing.
motivation to explore, and I love to escape every
chance I get. I love to load up my Osprey Talon 22
MARMOT
daypack with just the essentials: water, map and
TEVA
Women’s Oracle Women’s
compass, first-aid kit, matches, knife, flashlight, and
Jacket—$165 Omnium—$80
an energy bar. With my pack loaded, I like to get away
from the crowd to just watch and listen to the nature
Misty rain or brisk wind won’t Great for any water adventure
around me: the wind rustling the leaves; the clouds
ruin your day thanks the Omnium features added
to the Oracle—a coverage for protection, quick-
drifting by; the birds hopping through the brush; and
value-oriented, high- drying materials to keep you
everything in between. These are the moments that
performance comfortable, and Teva-tested
I need, the moments that get lost when I reluctantly
PreCip™ shell Spider Rubber® to keep you on
that’s ideal your feet. return to civilization.
for hiking or
For me it’s also important to include family in the
venturing
abroad.
adventure. This summer my wife and I will be taking
our two boys on their first family vacation, exploring
the state parks of Central Missouri. They can’t wait
to explore some caves with high hopes of discovering
bats and salamanders.
Live Boldly