Suzanne Downing

Missoula

Communications Manager and OU Editor at Outdoors Unlimited Magazine

Contributor at AgDaily

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Articles

Spring Gear Guide 2025: Fresh Picks for the Trail, Camp and Beyond

1 month ago | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

As the days stretch longer and you shed your winter coat, it’s time to extend your time outside. Whether you’re heading out for your first trail run of the season, mapping out a weekend camping trip or dusting off your favorite campfire recipes, the right gear can make your return to the outdoors smooth (and fun).
Comfort Food at Camp: 3 Easy Recipes for Your Next Campfire Cookout | ActionHub

2 months ago | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

If you cook outdoors at camp, you know the feeling of cooking a hearty meal over an open fire. And whether you’re adventuring solo or with a crew, a good campfire recipe is about more than just filling your stomach — it’s about comfort, flavor and the experience of cooking and eating in nature. For campfire cooking, you’ll need some firewood or charcoal, a reliable campfire, your ingredients and some cooking supplies.
5 Tips for Hiking with Kids (Without Losing Your Mind)

2 months ago | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

There’s nothing quite like hitting a trail with your kids in tow and the promise of an afternoon full of adventure. But if you’ve ever tried hiking with kids under 10 years old, you probably know it’s a whole different game than your solo or adult-only outdoor treks. Suddenly, your peaceful walk in the woods involves more snack breaks, more questions about bugs and more bathroom stops than expected.
Valor Provisions: Ranch-to-table model for American raised beef

Mar 28, 2025 | agdaily.com | Suzanne Downing

Patrick Montgomery doesn’t hesitate when asked about his favorite cut of beef. “Oh man, I have quite a few, but I’ve got to go with Picanha or the sirloin cap,” he said. “Cutting that roast into steaks and cooking it on a fire is a ton of fun and delicious.”As the CEO and founder of Valor Provisions and a former U.S. Army Ranger, Montgomery has a passion for beef that is evident even through a casual conversation.
Unpacked: Glerups' Cozy Wool Footwear from Farm to Feet

Mar 24, 2025 | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

There’s something soothing about slipping your feet into a pair of Glerups after a long day outdoors. Whether you’ve been hiking, paddling or simply gathering around a campfire, the feeling of comfort that these wool slippers bring is undeniable. And they’re meant to be worn barefoot. So your feet sort of get a hug and some post-adventure relaxation. Get Unpacked with this Danish brand that went from a tiny workshop to shipping their shoes internationally.
Spring Survival Skills: 5 Things to Know Before Heading Out

Mar 18, 2025 | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

Spring is one of the best seasons to get outside. You’ll typically see wildflowers blooming and trails thawing. The air seems to just smell different. But it’s also a season of unpredictable weather, soggy ground, and cold, damp nights — especially in higher elevations. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker, a casual day hiker or a weekend camper, knowing how to handle spring’s unique challenges can mean the difference between a great adventure and a miserable (or even dangerous) one.
Sleeping Cozy in the Backcountry: 4 Tips to Backpack in Comfort

Feb 27, 2025 | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

If you prioritize sleep in the backcountry over other comforts (like gourmet food and cooking gear), then you know how elusive a restful night can be when camping. For short overnight or two-day backpacking trips, weight savings are important — but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. With some basic backcountry knowledge, a bit of extra planning and the right combination of gear, you can create a cozy sleep system that feels like you’re floating on a cloud.
Plogging: An Eco-Friendly Workout for Hikers & Trail Runners

Feb 10, 2025 | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

Imagine stepping onto your favorite trail for a morning run. You get into the rhythm of your stride, but as you scan the path ahead, your eyes land on discarded plastic bottles, food wrappers and other litter. We’ve all been there. And it’s frustrating. What if there were a way to merge your passion for fitness with environmental stewardship? Enter plogging. Plogging, in simple terms, is a global movement that mixes trail running/jogging with picking up litter.
Kayaking in Cold Weather: Yes, It’s a Thing

Jan 23, 2025 | actionhub.com | Suzanne Downing

When you think of kayaking, you probably picture warm summer days, crystal-clear lakes, and short sleeve shirts or tank tops. But for those with an adventurous spirit, kayaking doesn’t have to end when temperatures drop. Cold-weather kayaking can be an exhilarating way to experience the beauty of nature in a different (raw) form. And it’s more accessible than you might think (with the right preparation).
Discover Chattanooga at the 2025 OWAA Conference this summer

Jan 16, 2025 | owaa.org | Suzanne Downing

The Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) invites you to join us in Chattanooga, Tennessee, from August 19-21, 2025, for our annual outdoor media conference. Known as the “Best Adventure Town in the U.S. to Live + Play” (National Geographic Adventure), Chattanooga is the perfect backdrop for outdoor media professionals to connect, learn and create.