All Posts

CDA—Compulsive Descender Acquisition—is the canyoning condition no one admits but everyone has. Crux McFluffin reports on the irresistible urge to test every descender, justify an ever‑growing gear wall, and call it “research.” From friction obsession to late‑night comparison videos, CDA turns a harmless hobby into a full‑blown lifestyle—and there’s always another device to try.

When a trail is closed, it’s not a suggestion—it’s a hard stop. Ignoring it accelerates erosion, stresses wildlife, and risks turning a temporary closure into a permanent loss. Closed routes hide real hazards too: unstable slopes, washed‑out sections, and unpredictable terrain. Skipping the sign might feel bold, but respecting it is what actually keeps our trails—and our community—alive.

Today’s unseasonably warm winter weather had me out on a gravel bike ride 🚴‍♂️, soaking in the rare sunshine, when I watched a drone pilot launch straight into restricted airspace 🚁🚫. As a recreational pilot myself, it was frustrating to see — not because I’m against flying, but because one careless decision can ripple through the entire drone community. When someone ignores the rules, public trust erodes, regulations tighten, and responsible pilots end up paying the price

Music at the crag is best when it supports the space rather than fills it. A little volume goes a long way, and checking in with the folks around you keeps the whole zone feeling welcoming. When climbers treat sound like shared gear—something we adjust together—the day flows smoother, the focus stays intact, and everyone gets to enjoy the rhythm of the rock.

Via ferratas are climbing‑hiking hybrids using fixed cables and ladders. Once a European tradition, they’re now booming in the U.S., with routes from California to Virginia offering safe, thrilling exposure for adventurers of all levels.