Ever since the Marketing Office’s weekend trek through the Piedras Blancas region we have been thinking an awful lot about backpacking gear. What rain jacket would keep me the driest hiking through a torrential downpour? What hiking boot is both durable and lightweight? How can I bring the right amount of equipment without being weighed down? Let’s start there with this article that talks about backpack suspension systems. Very informative!

Get out there! This article focusing on several national parks in the United States let readers know that guided backpacking trips are available. Not only will these trips get your body in shape but are sure to make you feel refreshed mentally as well! This is because “experiences in nature can enhance feelings of energy and vitality,” says Dr. Richard Ryan, professor from the University of Rochester.

On Wednesday this week all Costa Rican residents (as well as many residents of neighboring Nicaragua and Panama) experienced the effects of an earthquake which measured 7.6 on the Richter scale. This quake, with its epicenter in the Guanacaste provide, was the strongest felt in Costa Rica in two decades. Luckily, everyone here at Outward Bound Costa Rica is just fine. Learn more about how earthquakes happen here.