When South Africa’s Kruger National Park was proclaimed in 1926, the idea of protecting vast landscapes for future generations was still taking shape around the world.  One hundred years later, Kruger has become one of Africa’s most celebrated conservation success stories, welcoming visitors while safeguarding extraordinary biodiversity across nearly two million hectares.

Its centenary offers an opportunity to reflect on something larger than a single park.

South Africa’s outdoor story stretches across an astonishing variety of landscapes.  Mountain trails wind through the Drakensberg beneath cliffs decorated with ancient San rock art.  Along the Cape coast, southern right whales return each winter to sheltered bays where they can often be seen from shore.  The Garden Route blends forests, estuaries, and rugged coastline into one of the world’s great scenic drives, while the Cradle of Humankind preserves fossil discoveries that continue to reshape our understanding of where we come from.

What connects these places is a shared commitment to stewardship.  National parks, marine protected areas, community conservation initiatives, and scientific research all contribute to preserving the landscapes that make South Africa unique.

For writers, photographers, birders, hikers, paddlers, and wildlife enthusiasts, South Africa rewards curiosity as much as adventure.  The country’s wild places reveal themselves gradually, often in quiet moments: the call of a fish eagle across a river at dawn, the slow passage of a whale offshore, the changing light across a mountain ridge, or the tracks of an animal disappearing into the bush.

A century after Kruger began protecting one remarkable landscape, South Africa reminds us that conservation is ultimately about ensuring these moments endure for generations to come.

To learn more about South Africa’s national parks, outdoor experiences, and travel inspiration, visit southafrica.net.

The post South Africa: A century of conservation, a landscape of stories appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

The transition from late summer into early fall in Chicago is anything but predictable. One day can feel like the height of summer, while the next brings cool mornings, steady rain and the first real hint of colder weather ahead. That variability makes the Chicagoland area an ideal place to put outdoor gear through its paces.

The gear in this review was tested across a wide range of conditions, from woodland field work and urban commutes to complete downpours and hot, sunny days. For me, testing gear in the Midwest is a great litmus test for versatility—especially heading into fall, when what you wear and carry may need to handle several different conditions in a single day.

This review is broken into five sections: shells and weather protection, shirts and layers, footwear, packs and travel, and accessories. Whether you’re squeezing in the last warm-weather adventures of the year or gearing up for cooler fall days, these pieces offer plenty of versatility for the changing season.

Shells and Weather Protection

Paramo Velez Jacket
This jacket is truly exceptional. This piece was a go-to for me throughout the wet Chicago spring and its light insulation is perfect for when it is cooler. The Velez uses Paramo’s Nikwax Analogy waterproof system instead of a traditional membrane, which helps with moisture management during movement. Large vents and an active fit make it particularly suited to wet-weather hiking and intense exercise.

Filson Shelter Cloth Waxed Anorak
Built with waxed cotton calling back to a more traditional style, the Shelter Cloth Waxed Anorak emphasizes durability and weather resistance over lightweight efficiency. These jackets can get passed down for decades and their heft is great comfort to me. You don’t need to be precious with this jacket and the old-fashion waxed jacket has a style of its own that I love.  

Stio Dawner Hooded Jacket
Built as a lightweight insulated layer for variable conditions, the Dawner Hooded Jacket bridges technical insulation and everyday wear. I love wearing this jacket at dawn! It is a perfectly appropriate name. This jacket has a low-bulk construction and is great for throwing in a weekender travel bag. The basic weather resistance of the jacket makes it a versatile piece for cool mornings and shoulder seasons.

Showers Pass Cloudburst Hoodie
Designed around breathability and mobility, the Cloudburst Hoodie combines lightweight waterproofing with stretch fabrics and ventilation features. The “it” factor for me is the stretch aspect of the hoodie which makes cycling and running comfortable. There is a wonderful balance of weather protection and active comfort with this piece. I also wore this jacket during a rafting trip through the Grand Canyon and it was a needed waterproof layer that really held up. 

L.L.Bean Trail Model Rain Jacket
Built as a straightforward rain shell, the Trail Model Rain Jacket emphasizes packability, affordability and lightweight weather protection. The simplicity of this jacket makes it easy to throw in a pack for uncertain forecasts and travel days. I keep this one in my car for easy access if rain comes. 

La Sportiva Discover Shell Jacket
The Discover Shell is designed for weather resistance and strong construction. This piece isn’t as mobility-friendly as some of the other jackets on this list, but it is very hearty. This jacket took hard days of field work, and with a quick rinse under a hose or sink, this jacket is back to new. This is a classic example of an exemplary shell. 

Salomon Bonatti Waterproof
Built for fast movement, the Bonatti Waterproof emphasizes low weight and packability for runners and fast hikers. This minimalist approach focuses on providing weather protection without adding bulk. This jacket also comes in excellent colors like Marlin and Coffee Bean. 

Fjallraven Keb Lätt Wind Jacket
On the lighter half of this category, the Fjallraven jacket is between a shell and a windbreaker. This jacket is built around breathability and packability and is the perfect “just in case” jacket. It is intended for changing conditions where wind resistance matters more than full waterproofing and this has proven to be a lifesaver on a few occasions. 

Shirts and Layers

FarPointe Sun Cruiser
I wore this sun hoody for 6 days while in the Grand Canyon on a rafting trip and I was so glad I had it. It is light-weight and very breathable. It doesn’t stick to your skin and allows for great airflow throughout the hoodie. I would highly recommend this piece in hot dry environments like in Arizona. 

Ibex GOAT Short Sleeve Crew
As highlighted in my last review, Ibex makes incredible Merino wool products. This is just another testament to the quality of the products. The GOAT Crew emphasizes temperature regulation and odor management, as wool is a naturally odor resistant fabric. I wear this one for everyday use, as well as intense technical hikes. 

Ibex Nomad Henley
Again, Ibex at its best, except this piece is a little heavier weight and is conveniently cut to be a Henley-style shirt. This long-sleave blends casual aesthetics with performance-focused materials as well, sporting the benefits of Merino wool well. This piece is optimal for travel and folks moving frequently between urban and outdoor settings.

L.L.Bean Comfort Stretch Performance Shirt
This button-down takes stretch fabrics and casual styling and blends it together for travel-friendly comfort. LL Bean makes trusty pieces and this shirt is evident of that. This shirt has a casual looking approach, while retaining performance features in the fabric.

L.L.Bean Comfort Stretch Everywhere Chinos
Rooted in a similar mindset as the performance shirt, these chinos also aim to bridge technical apparel and everyday clothing through stretch materials. I appreciate the wide variety of color choices and sizes, which can sometimes be limited in performance wear.

Fjallraven Hoja Hybrid Shorts
Fjallraven is a company that makes wonderful collaboration products, and this is an example of that. Fjallraven and Hoja have come out with a biking line of products that I have eaten up. I plan to cover more of their biking products in future reviews. The Hoja Hybrid Shorts aim to perform on and off the bike. Mobility and multi-use functionality define the design and I like the shorter, tighter cut as a style choice. 

Accessories

Shinola Canfield Sport Chronograph
This Shinola watch is in a league of its own. Its sturdy, immaculately crafted build leaves nothing to be desired in design. This Canfield Sport Chronograph combines traditional watch styling with sport-oriented features like a larger read-out and stopwatch. This watch doesn’t have all of the tech that some modern sport watches have, but it is a rock-solid watch that holds up in all conditions. 

Suunto Vertical 2
On the other end of the watch spectrum, is the Vertical 2. This incredibly high-tech piece is built for extended adventures where you will need technical support from a watch. The watches in this series emphasise navigation tools, battery life and mapping capabilities. As someone who loves long hikes and long runs, this watch has been a great training asset. It can support all sorts of data from blood oxygen to how high you get off the ground between steps when running. It’s pretty impressive. 

Smith Boomtown, Venture and Sliders
I’ve been wearing Smith sun glasses all summer. If I am out for a run, bike ride, work day, rafting trip or hike, I am wearing one of these pairs. Chromapop is a technology that Smith uses to truly make colors pop by increasing contrast. The Boomtown and Venture glasses also are conveniently polarized, which reduces glare and gives a sharp view when in the sun. 

Lupine Blika
The Blika is an incredibly powerful, immaculately designed lamp. It boasts German engineering, and whatever the Germans are doing is, it’s working. This design is a high-output lighting system with multiple mounting options. I used it as a headlamp most and it has high, low, incredibly high, green and red light functions.  You can control the light options with a small remote you can fit in your pocket if you mount the lamp somewhere out of reach. Its flexibility makes it useful across cycling, trail use and camping. 

Skida Sun Tour Neck Gaiter and Packable Run Cap
For both the neck gaiter and run cap, I love how light-weight they both are. They are very portable and offer a lot of sun protection for how much space they take up. These can both fit in a fanny pack and be forgotten about until you need them. The mesh on the side of the run cap allows for great breathability, and they come in many fun designs and colors like Calypso, Odyssey and Snow Cat. 

Darn Tough Men’s Frontrunner Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Socks

Darn Tough never disappoints and this time I wanted to try their ultra-light running socks. I ran a few 5-10ks in these socks and they were incredibly comfortable. They don’t grip the foot too hard while allowing for very little friction. With all Darn Tough socks, they also provide a lifetime warranty, so if they start to fail, mail them in to Darn Tough and you will get a new pair. Lastly, I also love the roadrunner on these. 

Packs and Travel

Cotopaxi Allpa 50L Adventure Travel Pack
The Allpa is a truly innovative pack, where the top unzips and becomes its own sling bag. The design and organizational layout is impeccable, with intuitive pockets and robust zippers and stitching. The Allpa 50L combines suitcase-style organization with backpack portability, and has the whimsy fun colors that Cotopaxi always offers. The large storage capacity and travel-oriented design make it particularly useful for longer trips, hostel-jumping and backingpacking. 

Buffalo Jackson Roosevelt Travel Duffle
Buffalo Jackson really puts out premium quality leather products, which is demonstrated with the Roosevelt. It is perhaps one of the most beautiful bags I’ve ever seen, which is complimented by its durability and functionality. Built from leather and metal fasteners, the Roosevelt Duffle favors durability and aesthetics over lightweight efficiency. But if weight is not your biggest concern, this is the Cadillac of travel bags. It feels designed for long-term ownership rather than minimalist travel.

Buffalo Jackson Roosevelt Laptop Bag
Similarly to the piece above, the Roosevelt Laptop Bag is simply a beautiful, sleek bag that combines traditional materials with modern organization. You can easily fit most laptops in here, which for OWAA, is a big plus. It is geared toward users who do some office work with a more rugged aesthetic.

Mission Workshop Control EPX Pack Kit 3
The Mission Workshop Control Pack is an urban commuter legend. Mission Workshop makes biking packs that are built to last with many innovative designs. This pack comes in different kits which satisfy different needs. I tested kit 3 which prioritizes extra space and waterproofing. This pack has been tested rain, shine and snow on the streets of Chicago and performed brilliantly. This pack is built around modularity and weather resistance, the Control EPX Pack targets users moving between city environments and outdoor use. The design emphasizes organization and adaptability.

Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60
The Mariposa 60 is an ultralight backpack benchmark. This nimble, sleek pack prioritizes lightweight efficiency without sacrificing carrying capacity. Large exterior pockets and long-distance comfort remain central to its design. I used this pack to train for future long thru-hikes, and the Mariposa has a very comfortable fit. The hip supports genuinely relieve weight in a balanced harmony with the should straps. On top of all the technical benefits of this pack, I love the mint green color it comes in. 

Gossamer Gear LT5 Carbon Trekking Poles
Alongside the Mariposa, I used these trekking poles for training in Chicago. These poles prioritize low weight with their carbon build and they pack up easily for backpackers and long-distance hikers who go in and out of using poles. The poles have a corky grip that prevent blistering and the straps are easily adjustable. 

RADL Pack 01
The Pack 01 is the perfect mix of reliability and comfort. While this pack isn’t ultralight, it has a hollow aluminum frame that is not cumbersome. From RADL, this pack was specifically designed not to fail, so if you are going on a long hike that could potentially rough up your pack, this would be the option to go for. This pack is intuitively designed with a floating lid specifically designed to hold a bear-canister. 

Stio Cacher Hip Pack 2L
The Cacher Hip Pack offers compact storage for quick outings, long bike rides and daily carry. The padded strap offers remarkable comfort compared to some other hip packs and it is easy to forget that you’re wearing it. With the weight distribution sitting on your lower back, this pack is very comfortable to wear when riding a bike.  Its size and layout prioritize accessibility over maximum capacity and it has become my daily adventure pack.

The post 2026 outdoor media travel and apparel gear round up appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

Even in the midst of urban surroundings, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in and around Madison—hiking, biking and taking in the beautiful views, to name a few. But there’s one surefire way to get out on the water here—and that’s fishing.

We’ve gathered the essential intel to help you quickly map Greater Madison’s fishing story—from the region’s diverse fish species to its mix of urban and rural waters, plus the local guides who can offer a true fish-eye view of the lakes and the culture that surrounds them.

Wisconsin fishing is some of the best in the nation, and it can all be found within Madison’s lake-city-lake landscape during this year’s conference.

Fishing in Madison, Wisconsin

Boasting five lakes, Madison is one of the top spots in the state to angle for walleye, bass and musky. In Lake Mendota, you’ll discover abundant panfish and largemouth bass, but also less common varieties like sturgeon. If you fish Lake Wingra, you’ll commonly scope out species like musky and walleye. 

Lake Monona is home to Northern pike, musky and catfish, and the same goes for Lake Waubesa. Lake Kegonsa and its state park is known for its year-round fishing opportunities, where you can find walleye, panfish, pike, bass, bluegill and crappie. 

While you may love casting a line on your own, it can help to be guided by a knowledgeable local professional as well. To really get in on the Madison fishing action and go straight to the best fishing destinations, turn to Madison Fly Fishing Company, Madison Musky Guide Service, Madison Angling Guide Service and Big B’s Guide Service.

Explore the waters

Water and Madison go hand-in-hand, which makes for unlimited fishing adventures. You can of course take to the lakes for fishing fun, like Lake Mendota that’s close to downtown and flanks the UW–Madison campus, and Lake Monona on the other side of the isthmus that offers skyline views along with lakeside vistas, but there are inland waters to discover as well. 

For instance, Brittingham Park and the accompanying Monona Bay offer a multitude of species to discover and can be fished year-round (and provides boat rentals through Brittingham Boats). Other Madison parks that are well-known to locals for their excellent fishing include Olbrich Park, Tenney Park and Warner Park. 

While you may want to soak up as much fishing as you can during your visit to Madison, there are lots of other ways to get out on the water, too. For instance, there’s Madison Boats at the Edgewater, which departs from the famed lakeside resort for a Lake Mendota excursion on a comfortable pontoon boat. 

While fishing is a favorite activity during the warm-weather months, Madison is just as famous for its longstanding ice fishing traditions. Warner Park rents out ice fishing equipment, and of course, the five lakes are frequently dotted with faithful ice anglers all winter long. You can even head out on a guided ice fishing excursion with local company Blue Ribbon Outdoors.

Other fun activities

If you’d like to be a landlubber for a while during your trip, look no further than Olbrich Biergarten, a real-deal outdoor beer garden that’s situated directly on the lakeshore. Grab a locally made pint (with flavors to savor like Delta Beer Lab’s Fusion Blueberry Blonde or the sour-meets-sweet Never Badmouth Synergy crafted by Young Blood Beer Company). And grab a partnering salty snack like a giant pretzel or fresh curds as you appreciate the skyline and Lake Monona scenery.

For a fishing-adjacent activity that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, go to Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop. With its charming red exterior that mimics a log cabin, it’s been a local favorite since 1960. Its throwback vibe will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time as you relish the tastiest ice cream around from Babcock Dairy (made on the UW–Madison campus) and Sassy Cow Creamery. And naturally, you’ll get stocked up on bait during your visit, too. 

Learn More

Attendees of the OWAA 2026 conference can visit Destination Madison’s travel resource page for transportation tips, itinerary ideas and more. And be sure to read our fishing blog post, which includes recommendations for the best fishing spots, including those under the radar. 

The post Experiencing Madison, Wisconsin’s fishing scene appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

Kelly Jo McDonnell is a Twin Cities-based outdoor/nature writer and producer with long-running outdoor series, Minnesota Bound.

What are your areas of Outdoor Communication? 

I have past background in working for a nature nonprofit and radio broadcasting, but my main jam is being a full-time TV writer and producer for Ron Schara Productions, an outdoor/nature production hub in the Twin Cities. I’ve squeezed in travel writing for the Minnesota Star Tribune and Explore Minnesota and others over the years. I joined Ron Schara Productions in 1996, so I chalked up my 30^th year this May! 

What drew you to the field?

It was all I ever knew, really. The outdoors was always part of my childhood, and my first few jobs were in that genre. I wanted to design a profession that I loved and that gave back to what was important to me. My father called to tell me that he heard through his grape vine (legend has it the grapevine was his friend Gary Roach) that Ron Schara was starting a nature show in the Twin Cities. I was working at a Mpls. PR agency at the time and trying to break into the Twin City TV market. He suggested I pick up the phone and ask Ron for a job and name drop him. I did. And Mr. Schara picked up the phone. 

What is your favorite outdoor activity and how did you get into it?

I grew up in small-town, northwest Iowa, and my father, Jim McDonnell, was an outdoor legend in his own right. I grew up fishing, camping, kayaking, morel mushroom hunting and trapping; he made sure I was exposed to it all! He not only guided on the Iowa Great Lakes, he also was a hall-of-fame Iowa girls BB coach, so I loved sports and played 4 years of basketball in college. Many nights, after bb practice, I had to head out on the trapline with “coach” dad to run night traps. But make no mistake, the OUTDOOOR sports took precedence; he made sure of that! So, thanks to my dad, I pretty much love anything as long as it’s outdoors!

What are you currently working on? 

The main show I write and produce for is Minnesota Bound, which airs #52 weeks a year, so I’m producing and writing year-around! We were all recently in Wabasha, Minnesota where we filmed a “MN. Bound Hits the Road” special. Mother Nature decided to drop icy rain on us the entire time, but that’s usually what she likes to do when we plan something like this. I’m setting up spring stories now to film in the field, while I’m logging video and writing summer stories from last year that are coming up for air. It’s a big, ever turning wheel. But a fun wheel.

What have you gained from joining OWAA? 

I believe it helped with my confidence level. I was awarded the John Madson Fellowship some years ago, and that was a great boost to attend some extra writing seminars to hone the craft. After my father passed, I started the Jim McDonnell Scholarship nonprofit; we award scholarships for students going into the conservation field. I’m President of the Board. OWAA has helped me not only with the craft of outdoor writing, but with networking and learning the ropes of outdoor business as a whole. 

What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone thinking of joining OWAA? 

Do it. Plain and simple. For me, the best way to learn was to jump in the deep waters with the best writer’s and try to swim with them. Scary? Yes.  Worth it? 100%.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’m married to an award-winning photojournalist and filmmaker (yep-he used to work at Ron Schara Productions back in the day), Cy Dodson. So, it’s fun to collaborate with him on projects, especially if he’s doing some freelance for us. Like many of the photojournalist’s I work with, he’s darn talented and uber creative, so it’s fun to learn from him on how to tell better stories!  He mainly works on documentary films now, so it’s been cool to see how that medium’s process is broken down, but how it shares a vein with what we do in outdoor television storytelling.

Below: Kelly Jo with her dad, Jim McDonnell, during one of their fly-fishing adventures while filming for Minnesota Bound.

Are you in the outdoor media industry?

Learn more and see if you qualify for an OWAA membership today!

The post Meet OWAA Member Kelly Jo McDonnell appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

OWAA is kicking off our 100th anniversary celebrations by heading to the midwestern outdoor mecca of Madison, Wisconsin! Save the dates of August 22-24, 2026 (and leave room for some pre- and post-tours too) and plan to join us in The Badger State for the Outdoor Writers Association of American annual conference. The core conference activities will be held in the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. 

In Madison, Wisconsin, water isn’t on the edge of the experience … it is the experience.

Set on a narrow isthmus between lakes Mendota and Monona, the city’s downtown is defined by its proximity to water in a way few urban environments can rival, with history that predates the Great Pyramids. Step outside a downtown coffee shop, and within minutes you can be on a paddle board. Bike a few miles, and you’ll circumnavigate an entire lake. Follow a wooded path, and you’ll likely emerge onto a quiet shoreline where herons stalk the shallows and the reflection of a sunset shimmers across open water.

Madison’s identity is inseparable from the Yahara Chain of Lakes. Mendota, Monona, Wingra, Waubesa and Kegonsa create a freshwater system that weaves together ecology, recreation, research and daily life. It’s a place where outdoor culture thrives, not in spite of urban life, but because of it.

As Mike Smale, watershed programs specialist with the Clean Lakes Alliance, puts it, “Madison’s Yahara Chain of Lakes is one of the only freshwater systems located in the middle of a metropolitan area in the country. Nowhere else in the country is urban life so proximate to lake life.”

For outdoor writers and adventurers, Madison offers a rare opportunity: to explore a dynamic freshwater landscape where accessibility meets ecological complexity and where every outing—whether paddling at sunrise or walking a lakeshore trail—tells a deeper story about how people connect with water.

A Living, Breathing Watershed

To understand the lakes of Madison is to understand the watershed that sustains them. The Yahara River system connects all five lakes, forming an interconnected network where water (and everything carried within it) moves continuously through the landscape. This connectivity creates both richness and responsibility.

“A lot of work is being done within the watershed to ensure our lakes are healthy and resilient,” explains Smale. “With phosphorus being the primary element impairing the quality of the five lakes, Clean Lakes Alliance works to have everyone work as stewards and reduce negative inputs.”

That stewardship takes many forms. Upstream, agricultural practices like buffer strips and cover crops help reduce nutrient runoff. In the city, efforts such as leaf removal and shoreline restoration play a critical role in protecting water quality. Collectively, these actions demonstrate a shared understanding that the health of Madison’s lakes depends on the choices made both on and off the water.

For visitors, this offers a meaningful opportunity. A trip to Madison is not only about enjoying the lakes but also about witnessing and participating in a community-wide commitment to conservation.

The Deep History

Madison’s relationship with its lakes stretches back thousands of years, a connection underscored by the remarkable discovery of ancient Ho-Chunk canoes preserved beneath the surface of Lake Mendota. Unearthed in recent years, these dugout canoes, crafted from single logs and dating back more than 5,000 years, offer a powerful reminder that the Yahara Chain of Lakes has long served as both a gathering place and vital transportation corridor for Indigenous peoples.

For the Ho-Chunk Nation, whose ancestral lands include this region, the lakes remain deeply significant, holding cultural, spiritual and historical meaning that continues today.

This rare archaeological find doesn’t just add intrigue to Lake Mendota’s already rich scientific legacy; it deepens our understanding of how people have lived with and relied on these waters for millennia, reinforcing that Madison’s lake-centered lifestyle is not a modern phenomenon, but part of a much longer human story.

The Science Beneath the Surface

Madison’s lakes are not only recreational resources—they are globally significant research environments.

Lake Mendota, in particular, holds a unique distinction and is regarded as the “most-studied lake in the world.” Situated alongside the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus, it has been the focus of continuous scientific study for more than a century.

“UW–Madison is often considered the birthplace of limnology,” says Smale, referring to the scientific study of inland waters. “Lake Mendota has become the setting for thousands of research papers within the limnological field.”

Early pioneers like Edward A. Birge and Chancey Juday laid the foundation for freshwater science here in the early 1900s, establishing Lake Mendota as a living laboratory. To this day, the lake continues to yield insights into everything from nutrient cycling to aquatic ecosystems, with even new species identified within its waters.

For outdoor writers, this scientific legacy adds a compelling layer to any experience on the lake. Every paddle stroke crosses not just a recreational space, but a body of water that has shaped our understanding of freshwater systems worldwide.

A Dynamic System in Motion

Spend enough time on the lakes, and you’ll quickly realize that no two days—or even two locations—are quite the same.

“The lakes are highly dynamic and unique systems,” notes Smale. “At one moment, different lakes—or even different parts of the same lake—may be experiencing very different water quality conditions. There very often is good water conditions somewhere on the five lakes at any given moment throughout the summer.”

This variability is part of what makes the Yahara system so compelling to explore. On a breezy afternoon, waves might roll across Lake Mendota while Lake Wingra remains calm and sheltered, offering a completely different paddling experience. In midsummer, while one shoreline may be affected by algae blooms, another may boast clear, swimmable water.

For those willing to explore, the lakes reward curiosity with constantly shifting opportunities, from wildlife sightings to ideal paddling conditions.

The Heart of Outdoor Life

If the lakes define Madison’s geography, they also define its culture.

“In Madison, the lakes aren’t just scenery … they’re the heart of the city,” says Tyler Leeper, president of Madison Boats. “The state’s capital city is an isthmus with water woven through the geography and throughout our daily life.”

On any given summer day, that reality is easy to see. Kayakers glide past the Capitol skyline. Fishers are at the waterside or in boats casting their rods. Paddle boarders navigate the Yahara River channel. Families gather at waterfront parks, while cyclists trace lake loops that link neighborhoods and green spaces.

This seamless integration of water into daily life creates a uniquely participatory outdoor culture. It’s not uncommon to see commuters paddling to work or entire communities gathering to watch the sun dip below the horizon from the shoreline. The watersports scene is less adrenaline-packed and more about deep connection.

“This isn’t a trend,” Leeper adds. “With the recent discovery of a thousands-year-old canoe, we know it has been the center of our community for over five millennia.”

Choose Your Own Adventure on the Water

Madison’s lakes offer an exceptional range of ways to get outside without ever straying far from the city center. Perhaps the biggest surprise for first-time visitors is how wild the lakes can feel.

“I would say Madison’s watersports scene is more about connection to nature, to each other and to the rhythm of the lakes,” says Leeper. “People are often surprised by how natural and intimate the lakes feel despite being in the middle of a city.”

That connection takes many forms. Paddlers might opt for a quiet exploration of Lake Wingra, a smaller, wildlife-rich lake bordered by the UW Arboretum. Others may prefer the broader expanses of Lake Mendota, where pontoon cruises and sailing offer a more social experience. For a mix of urban energy and water-based exploration, Lake Monona provides easy access to downtown views.

For those looking to immerse themselves further, structured experiences abound.

“At Madison Boats, we offer more than 500 paddle craft to rent and hold 110 public events throughout each summer season,” Leeper notes, including full moon paddles, concerts on the water, “Burgers on the Bay” and guided pontoon boat tours. They also offer adaptive boating experiences, ensuring the water is an experience for everyone.

No matter the approach, each outing becomes a story. A story shaped by weather, water conditions and the personal rhythm of the individual on the lake.

“Every day, every outing feels like a ‘choose your own adventure’ experience,” he says. “We love helping first-time paddlers or seriously seasoned paddlers have a wonderful outdoor story to look back on.”

Even beyond the water itself, access to nature is omnipresent. Madison boasts more than 70 lakefront parks, meaning that wherever you are, a shoreline is rarely far away.

For outdoor writers, this juxtaposition—urban setting, wild experience—offers endless narrative potential.

A Four-Season Experience

While summer may be peak season, Madison’s lakes are far from a one-season destination.

Autumn brings a quieter, more contemplative mood, with fall colors reflected in calm waters. Winter transforms the lakes entirely, opening the door to ice fishing, skating and even ice sailing.

“One of Madison’s biggest strengths is that the lakes never really ‘turn off,’” says Leeper. “Monona Bay turns from paddle boards to ice shacks. And in place of stand-up paddle boarding, you will find pick-up ice hockey games happening and ice boats sailing the frozen waves.”

Community events extend onto the ice as well, reinforcing the idea that these lakes are year-round gathering spaces, not just seasonal attractions. Clean Lakes Alliance holds an annual festival on frozen Lake Mendota called Frozen Assets to raise money to continue protecting the area’s waterways.

Then spring marks a return to motion, as thawing ice gives way to the first paddlers of the season.

Responsible Recreation

With opportunity comes responsibility. Visitors are encouraged to stay aware of lake conditions, particularly during the warmer months when harmful algal blooms can occur.

“Our lakes occasionally experience harmful algae blooms caused by cyanobacteria,” advises Smale. “These blooms can appear as green or blue-green slicks on the water’s surface and may produce a strong odor. If you suspect there is a cyanobacteria bloom, avoid contact with the water and ensure pets do not drink from this water.”

For those looking to give back, volunteer opportunities are abundant. Organizations across the region—from Clean Lakes Alliance to Dane County Parks—offer ways to get involved in restoration and conservation efforts through voluntourism.

“The Madison region has bountiful opportunities to volunteer to help the watershed and the quality of our lakes,” says Smale.

The Future of the Lakes

As Madison continues to grow, the future of its lakes will depend on the continued balance between use and protection.

“The future of our lakes depends on what actions we take today,” says Smale.

The vision is clear: lakes that are swimmable, ecologically healthy and free of harmful algal blooms, ensuring there are places where residents and visitors alike can fully enjoy the water. Beyond environmental considerations, the lakes also play a significant role in the regional economy.

“Economically, the lakes have been found to stimulate over $220 million in annual regional economic activity,” Smale notes, adding that this figure does not capture their cultural and personal value.

Indeed, for many, the true importance of the lakes lies in less tangible benefits: the mental clarity of a morning paddle, the joy of a shared sunset and the sense of place that comes from living in—or visiting—a city so deeply connected to water.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Madison offers countless ways to engage with its lakes, whether actively or passively. A paddle across Lake Monona at sunrise. A bike ride circumnavigating the shoreline. A walk through the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. A relaxed afternoon at the Memorial Union Terrace. Or simply sitting at the water’s edge, watching the interplay of light, wind and movement.

Visitors are highly encouraged to experience the lakes. Because in Madison, the lakes are more than a destination. They are a lens through which to understand a city, a community and an enduring relationship between people and water.

The post Where city meets water: Exploring Madison, Wisconsin’s chain of lakes appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

We’re kicking off our 100th anniversary celebrations by heading to the midwestern outdoor mecca of Madison, Wisconsin! Save the dates of August 22-24, 2026 (and leave room for some pre- and post-tours too) and plan to join us in The Badger State for the Outdoor Writers Association annual conference. The core conference activities will be held in the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. 

For OWAA members seeking stories that blend wildlife, conservation and community, southern Wisconsin (particularly the Greater Madison area) offers an exceptional birding landscape rich with narrative potential. Situated within the Mississippi Flyway and shaped by water, prairie, forest and urban green space, this region supports hundreds of bird species throughout the year, making it a fertile destination for reporting across all seasons.

“Birds connect people to nature,” says Kaitlin Svabek, Director of Communications at Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance (SoWBA). “Those who love birds want to protect them and their habitats, and that care flows outward to other wildlife, native plants and entire ecosystems.” That intersection between passion, place and protection is at the heart of birding stories here.Visitors to Madison don’t have to travel far—or rise especially early—to spot some of Wisconsin’s most familiar birds. Northern Cardinals are a year-round favorite, bringing bright flashes of red to backyards, city parks and woodland edges, even in winter. American Robins, Wisconsin’s state bird, are among the first signs of spring, often seen hopping across lawns in search of worms. Birders can also expect to see Black-capped Chickadees and Blue Jays at feeders, American Goldfinches flitting through open areas and Mourning Doves perched along fence lines. Thanks to the region’s mix of lakes, neighborhoods and green spaces, these beloved species make birding easy for beginners and seasoned birders alike.

A year-round cast of characters

Birding in southern Wisconsin is also defined by seasonal shifts, each bringing its own drama. Some species, such as Bald Eagles and Great Horned Owls, remain year-round, offering reliable subjects through winter and into the breeding season.

Spring migration typically begins as early as February, when melting ice opens the lakes and wetlands to large flocks of arriving waterfowl. In May, migration reaches its peak. The spring season delivers some of the most colorful and diverse birdlife of the year, including dozens of warbler species, orioles and tanagers. Some move quickly north toward boreal forests, while others, like Yellow Warblers, Common Yellowthroats or Baltimore Orioles, remain to nest locally.

Among spring’s signature scenes are the American Woodcock’s sky dance and the annual return of Sandhill Cranes. The latter is tracked through the Midwest Crane Count, a collaborative monitoring effort highlighting both conservation success and ongoing stewardship. 

Summer brings breeding activity and a spotlight on grassland birds, one of the most threatened groups in North America. Bobolinks, Dickcissels, meadowlarks and kestrels can be found in restored and protected prairies throughout the region. “Spring into summer is a great time to really understand how the habitat restoration work of local conservation organizations directly supports birds,” Svabek notes. 

Fall migration begins earlier than people might expect, with some shorebirds departing as early as July. Though often described as subtler than spring, fall offers its own unforgettable spectacles. Chimney Swifts, for example, roost by the thousands in Madison, swirling through the evening sky before funneling into a single chimney for the night. Some of the largest counts in the Midwest occur here as the birds begin their journey to South America.

Later in the season, Sandhill Cranes gather again, this time staging in large flocks before heading south. Meanwhile, geese, ducks and swans pass through as northern waters freeze. Swans may appear in the hundreds, or even thousands, at sites such as Goose Pond Sanctuary or lakes Mendota and Monona (which create the Downtown Madison isthmus).

Winter birding brings surprises as well: Rough-legged Hawks, sparrows, longspurs—and occasionally Snowy Owls or irruptive finches (like crossbills)—reward persistent observers willing to brave the cold.

Accessible laces and an inclusive culture

One of the most surprising aspects of birding in Madison may be how accessible it is. Birding doesn’t require travel to remote wilderness. Backyards, neighborhoods, city parks and even bus-line-adjacent green spaces like Tenney, Warner and Hoyt Parks provide excellent opportunities to observe activity.

Beyond the city, SoWBA sanctuary lands such as Goose Pond, Faville Grove, Fair Meadows, Hillside Prairie and Otsego Marsh offer immersive habitat diversity. Other standout sites include Pheasant Branch Conservancy, the University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum, Lunney Lake Farm County Park, Holy Wisdom Monastery, Cherokee Marsh and the UW–Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve.

Equally important is the region’s welcoming birding community. Alongside well-established clubs are newer groups such as the BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin and Feminist Bird Club–Madison, helping ensure birding is inclusive and accessible.

“If I’m being honest, I started birding by accident!” said member and Madison resident, Jasmine Banks. “I was listening to Madison podcast Black Oxygen with guest Dexter Patterson, Co-Founder of the BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin. His love of birds, nature and the outdoors was so contagious that, when the interview was over, I found the next event they were hosting and attended with my daughter and granddaughter … and I’ve been hooked ever since. In addition to the birds, the people and nature that keep me coming back—it’s the community! It is beyond welcoming to everyone, no matter if they are a new, seasoned or lifetime birder. All are welcomed and appreciated.”

Birding as conservation and community science

Southern Wisconsin’s birding culture is inseparable from conservation. The region has a deep legacy tied to Aldo Leopold and “A Sand County Almanac,” hosting numerous conservation organizations focused on land protection and habitat restoration.

This birding story also extends beyond the field and into global conservation through the presence of the International Crane Foundation in nearby Baraboo. The organization is the world’s leading authority on crane research and protection, working on every continent where cranes exist. For writers, the foundation provides an uncommon narrative bridge between local birds like Sandhill Cranes, whose seasonal movements are a defining spectacle in the region, and international conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding some of the world’s most endangered species. The result is a rare opportunity to tell stories that begin in Wisconsin wetlands and expand outward to a global stage.

SoWBA traces its roots back to 1935 (originally the Madison Bird Club) and is now both a bird conservation organization and a nationally accredited land trust. In addition to land stewardship, SoWBA and partners engage birders as community scientists. Platforms like eBird allow participants to document when, where and how many birds they encounter. This data helps researchers track population changes and unusual occurrences.

Large-scale initiatives such as the Christmas Bird Count, Great Backyard Bird Count, NestWatch, FeederWatch and Global Big Days coexist with regional efforts like SoWBA’s Bald Eagle Nest Watch, and Kestrel Nest Box Monitoring and Banding programs.

At the same time, Madison’s relationship with birds includes a playful and unmistakably local tradition: the plastic pink flamingo, which was officially designated as the city bird by the Madison Common Council in 2009. Originally adopted during a UW–Madison student prank in the 1970s, the plastic pink flamingo has become a lasting cultural symbol—one that reflects Madison’s bold personality and affection for public art, humor and civic identity. Its presence alongside the region’s very real birdlife underscores a recurring theme for writers: in Madison, birds are not just wildlife to observe, but characters embedded in storytelling and shared sense of community.

“Birding really is for everyone—no matter who you are or where you are from,” Svabek says. “Our birding community works hard to make sure people feel welcome, whether they’re longtime birders or just noticing birds for the first time.”

The post Birding in Madison, Wisconsin: A story-rich destination for outdoor writers appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

A city guided by its powerful conservation roots

With its five lakes, 307 parks and 200+ miles of scenic trails, Madison, Wisconsin offers endless ways to step outside. But underneath, there’s a deeper conservation story that shapes how people live, work and explore here.

The birthplace of American conservation

Madison greets outdoor writers with a landscape shaped by a conservation legacy that continues to define its character. This is a place shaped by giants: Just up the road in Baraboo, conservation pioneer and former University of Wisconsin–Madison professor Aldo Leopold penned the 1949 classic, A Sand County Almanac, laying the foundation for modern conservation ethics. Leopold lived, taught and worked in Madison, leaving an indelible mark on the city. 

John Muir, father of the U.S. National Park System, spent his formative years exploring Madison’s lakes and woods, experiences that were key to his growth as a naturalist. Muir studied at the UW in the early 1860s and lived in North Hall, with a window that looked out at a forested tract, later named Muir Woods.

Former U.S. Senator and Wisconsin Governor Gaylord Nelson is credited as the founder of Earth Day on April 22, 1970. This was the same year the UW’s Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies — a leader in interdisciplinary environmental research and education — was founded. He also helped advance legislation to build a nationwide hiking trail network, notably the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

The legacy of these conservation giants still pulses through Madison — its 200+ miles of hiking and biking trails, winding waterways, green-minded citizens and commitment to ecological stewardship — and offers visiting writers a chance to immerse themselves in a place where environmental history and destination resiliency meet.

Itinerary Ideas: 

• Plan a visit to Curtis Prairie, the world’s first restored prairie and part of the ecological restoration program Leopold designed at the UW Arboretum, which remains an important research site for plants, soil and wildlife. 
• Explore exhibits, programs and trails that embody Leopold’s land ethic at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center or take a short drive northwest to The Leopold Center in Baraboo. 
• Find inspiration on a walk through Muir Woods, visiting the less-traveled trails to the west. 
• Get in touch with the Nelson Institute for connections to their deep network of subject matter experts like Tia Nelson—conservationist, environmental education advocate and daughter of the late Senator Gaylord Nelson.

Teejop or “Four Lakes”

For the Ho-Chunk people, whose ancestral land encompasses the Teejop region, Lake Mendota, its shores and neighboring waters hold deep cultural significance. Thousands of Ho-Chunk effigy mounds—the largest concentration in the U.S.—were built along the shores of Madison’s lakes. There are 200 effigy mounds in Madison, including the largest bird effigy mound in the world. The area has yielded several remarkable archaeological discoveries, including 1,200‑ and 4,500‑year‑old dugout canoes, the oldest ever recovered in the Great Lakes.

Itinerary Idea: 

Book the award-winning First Nations Cultural Landscape Tour, available upon advanced online request. This walking tour provides an introduction to the 12,000+ years of human history along Lake Mendota’s shorelines, with an emphasis on the history of the Ho-Chunk Nation. The tour takes visitors through the UW campus highlighting culturally significant locations including the double-tailed water spirit burial mound near Agricultural Hall, Bascom Hill and more.

Science on the lakes

Lake Mendota, the largest of Madison’s five lakes, is the most studied lake in the world. In fact, the discipline of limnology (the study of the biological, chemical and physical features of lakes and other bodies of fresh water) was founded in the 1890s at UW–Madison. The Center for Limnology is a global leader in the field, offering research programs in limnology, aquatic ecology, fisheries and ecosystem science. The Center houses the limnology library and the Hasler Laboratory for Limnology, a working laboratory where research has taken place for over 120 years. 

Itinerary Ideas: 

• Profile limnologists, ecologists, UW faculty and researchers whose work is shaping the next century of conservation. 
• Join world leading freshwater scientists and researchers on a water expedition.
• Enjoy a peaceful paddle on the lakes by renting equipment or booking a private group experience at Outdoor UW on the lower level of Memorial Union. 
• Cap your adventures at Memorial Union Terrace with a local pint of Spotted Cow or a scoop of Babcock ice cream made on campus.

Green Practices

Fun fact: Madison launched the nation’s first municipal curbside recycling program in 1968. In addition to pioneering curbside recycling, the city of Madison has embedded sustainability into everyday civic life. It is one of only five Platinum-Level Bike-Friendly Communities in the U.S., recognized by the League of American Bicyclists for its low‑stress, all‑ages and all-abilities bike network. The city received global recognition by Destination Think’s 100 Travel Innovations for its modernization initiatives that help decrease the carbon footprint of travelers. 

Madison is also home to Dane County Farmers’ Market, the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the nation. It’s not uncommon to spot the city’s top chefs shopping the market early Saturday mornings, eager to infuse local flavors and just-picked ingredients into their seasonal dishes. 

Itinerary Ideas: 

• Book reservations at Graze, a farm-to-table restaurant on the Capitol Square whose menu reflects seasonal ingredients sourced from the region’s farms and producers.
• Rent an electric BCycle from one of the 100+ stations located throughout the city. 
• Take the Monona Terrace bike elevator down to the Lake Monona Bike Loop, a scenic, 13-mile paved trail with lake views, unique architecture and connections to larger trail systems. 
• Don’t leave without trying Stella’s hot and spicy cheese bread, a staple at the Saturday farmers’ market on the Square. 

REGISTER NOW to Celebrate 100 Years of OWAA!

OWAA is kicking off our 100th anniversary celebrations by heading to the midwestern outdoor mecca of Madison, Wisconsin! Save the dates of August 22-24, 2026 (and leave room for some pre- and post-tours too) and plan to join us in The Badger State. The core conference activities will be held in the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. 

First, how are we going to kick off the celebration of our 100th year? We will:

• Have a 1920’s themed closing event (our awards night) where attendees are encouraged to dress in period clothing
• Recreate the menu (as best we can) that our founders signed when they decided to found OWAA in 1927
• Exhibit display cases with our own historical artifacts, along with those of our members and perhaps some local outdoor gear from that time period
• Present 100 fun facts about OWAA on our social media, starting after our 99th birthday on April 9th
• And share various fascinating historical blog posts, a press kit, branded ‘merch’, a new webpage about the anniversary and more!

About Madison:

This capital city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering five lakes, 307 parks and 200+ miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, plus access to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and stunning Driftless region.  Madison is nationally recognized for its outdoor recreation and culture: 

• Gold Rated for Walkability (Walk Friendly Communities)  
• 1 of only 5 Platinum-Level Bike-Friendly Communities in the U.S. (League of American Bicyclists)
• #8 Greenest City in the U.S. (EcoCation, 2024) 

What else makes this destination so unique? Thousands of Ho-Chunk effigy mounds—the largest concentration in the U.S.—were built along the shores of Madison’s lakes. Approximately 200 remain present, offering a profound connection to Indigenous history and storytelling. Just a short drive away in Baraboo, conservation pioneer and former UW–Madison professor Aldo Leopold penned A Sand County Almanac, laying the foundation for modern conservation ethics. John Muir, father of the U.S. National Park System, spent his formative years exploring Madison’s lakes and woods, experiences that were key to his growth as a naturalist.  

Together, these threads of cultural heritage, ecological thought and natural beauty weave Madison into a uniquely powerful setting for outdoor writers to learn, gather and be inspired. 

We are so excited to be the host of the 2026 Outdoor Writers Association of America Conference. We are thrilled to welcome attendees from around the world to the one-of-a-kind destination experience Madison has to offer. We hope you enjoy your stay!

The post Step Into Madison, Wisconsin: A writer’s guide to conservation, culture and outdoor inspiration appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

 

Spring doesn’t look the same everywhere, especially when assignments take you from mild cities into mountain towns, alpine terrain or northern regions still holding onto March cold. 

This round-up reflects that reality. Damp Midwest chill, lingering snow at elevation in places like Park City, and urban wind that cuts just as sharply as any ridgeline. As an outdoor media professional, you don’t wait for perfect conditions. You go where the story leads. That means packing gear that transitions seamlessly from trail to town, from fieldwork to travel days. 

Wool earns its place in that system. It’s reliable, adaptable and built for the unpredictable cold that continues to define early spring across the Mountain West and beyond.

The wool pieces in this round-up were primarily worn in Chicago during the Midwest winter, with a couple of appearances in the beautiful peaks of Park City, Utah and the streets of New York City. These pieces were tested on forest hikes, apres-ski, city commutes and many other venues. 

This is a review of field-tested classic and contemporary wool pieces, from heritage Mackinaw to alpaca blends and insulated hybrids. There is a lot of variety in this round-up and I have found wool products to do very well in many settings. I liked all of these products, so you can’t go wrong with any of them. I detail what each is best for so you can match it to your needs.

Field-tested Wool Outerwear

 

Robert W. Stolz – Loden Field Coat (Olive)

The Loden Field Coat is equal parts piece of art, and trusty all-winter jacket. This piece is cut from authentic Austrian loden wool and it embodies what the brand calls “traditional craftsmanship” and “timeless alpine design.” Loden’s tightly woven, naturally water-resistant wool did well in Chicago’s wet snow and its long cut helps with wind gusts. From the well-stitched seams to the soft fabric, this piece is expertly crafted. The coat has a smart look that holds up during field work (its namesake), giving this coat an amazing versatility. This piece is an investment, but you are getting what you pay for as it is heirloom quality. 

 

Filson – Mackinaw Wool Work Jacket

Filson’s Mackinaw Wool is renowned, and it holds that distinction deservedly. The Work Jacket, built from 100% virgin Mackinaw wool, delivers what the company has described as highly durable and simply functional. In regions where there is humid cold, keeping warm when you’re wet is a huge leg up, and this jacket does that. This jacket is shorter and trimmer than the Cruiser, but the Work Jacket is easy to maneuver in (for outside work or physical activity) and comfortable for daily wear. 

Filson – Mackinaw Wool Cruiser Jacket

Sharing some qualities with the Work Jacket, this piece has been iconic for more than a century. It was originally crafted for foresters and it features many utility pockets and a hip-length cut. There is even a pocket that goes across your back (which I learned is called a game pouch), which was a new feature that I enjoyed.

This piece is substantial (24oz of Mackinaw wool) without being cumbersome. It is simply a very warm jacket that has a century-worth of field testing by outdoors professionals. They have honed in this jacket and I can only say good things about it.

 

Johnson Woolen Mills – 100% Wool Traditional Mackinaw

Johnson Woolen Mills has been crafting wool garments in Vermont since 1842, so again these coats have stood the test of time. This Traditional Mackinaw is cut larger for layering and is exceptionally warm and dense. With loads of pockets and reinforced construction, this is an excellent all-winter jacket that will last you years, sometimes decades according to some folks. If you find yourself visiting Vermont, you can stop by the factory store. I would love to see it myself!

 

Johnson Woolen Mills – Double Cape Jac-Shirt (Red/Gray Muted Plaid)

This Double Cape Jac-Shirt is another heritage piece. The double-layer shoulder cape adds warmth and durability, and I think it is just a cool look. The piece toes the line between shirt and jacket very well. I love wearing this piece on cool morning walks, as it is still breathable and layers well. This piece is blended with nylon to have a comfortable feel against skin. These Jac-Shirts come in many colors, so you have your pick at what style you’re going for. 

 

Buffalo Jackson – Wesley Wool Jacket

Right off the bat, I love the look of this jacket, and it is remarkably comfortable. Buffalo Jackson describes the Wesley as a refined, everyday wool jacket that is form-fitting and timeless in style. Its tailored profile is robust enough to wear out in cold weather conditions and still fit layers beneath. You can tell there was careful construction with getting the fit right in regards to length and snugness, and it really worked for me.

Sweaters and Mid-layers

 

Overland – Mitchell Alpaca Wool Sweater

Alpaca brings a softness that is noticeable at first wear. It even looks like it’s soft, and has no itchiness that is sometimes complained about with wool products. The Mitchell Alpaca Wool Sweater is very lightweight and has a high cut in the neck that gives it a distinguished look that I love. This piece can be worn right against skin, and as a mid-layer, this piece can heat your right up. On its own, it is quite breathable. 

 

Barbour – Pateley Striped Crew Neck Jumper

This sweater is a nod to British sweater tradition. The Pateley Striped Crew Neck Jumper is a classic crew length with a blended-style striping and a weight that is perfect as a mid-layer outside, and on its own indoors. This sweater is 83% Wool, 17% Polyester and is also comfortable against skin. The stripes are gently textured, giving a comfortable, smart look. 

 

L.L.Bean – Bean’s Classic Ragg Wool Sweater, Rollneck

Ragg wool is a coarser knit than some other wool blends, and its rich texture offers a heavy-weight sweater. This sweater feels like getting a hug, and you don’t have to be particularly careful with the piece, as it is quite durable. This piece is a wonderful middle layer, and the rollneck is a look that is well complemented with ragg wool. This heritage sweater offers insulation with its bulkier weave, and kept me plenty warm. 

 

L.L.Bean – Waterfowl Sweater with WINDSTOPPER by GORE-TEX LABS

This piece, as it says in the name, is second to none for stopping wind. The inside lining blocks even the strongest gusts, while the wool exterior maintains a classic look. From looking at the piece on the outside, you wouldn’t know that it has a robust warmth from the lining. While the piece keeps wind out, it also keeps heat in. It is a slightly less breathable option, but incredibly warm, which is sometimes entirely necessary. This piece can also be worn as an outer-layer.

Technical wool and hybrids

 

Smartwool – Men’s Smartloft Hooded Jacket

Smartwool is very good when it comes to blending wool into more technical products, from specialized socks to athletic wear. This piece blends merino wool with targeted insulation and wind-resistant panels. This innovative approach creates a highly breathable jacket that regulates temperatures well during intense physical activity. 

Smartwool – Men’s Second Cut Fleece Jacket

This fleece is part of Smartwool’s circularity initiative, the Second Cut.  Smartwool uses reclaimed wool scraps to create this insulating fleece, which is soft and has many of the benefits of comfort that Merino wool offers. I love this piece as a mid-layer when traveling as it is comfortable for all day wear and can easily be layered with a shell for a colder environment. 

Ibex – Men’s Wool Aire Hoodie

Ibex was included in my last review, and I liked their products so much I wanted to see what they had for colder-weather products. The Wool Aire Hoodie is lightweight, breathable, and insulated and does very well during intense movement. It is a flexible piece that comes in many fun and unusual colors. Sabrewing is my personal favorite color that this piece comes in. This piece is great to grab for situations that have quick changing weather – mountains, lake-effect, etc. 

Final thoughts

I get a lot of enjoyment testing outdoor products, mostly because I just love being outdoors. Writing these roundups encourages me to approach outdoor activity from different angles and try new activities, hopefully to benefit readers. Everything I mentioned in this review was rigorously field-tested and well loved. I tried to get a wide variety of products to reach the wide variety of outdoor communicators in OWAA. Wool has become a staple for my cold-weather wardrobe and I am excited by the number of brands that are putting out very high quality products. 

The post Spring assignments, cold conditions: Field-tested wool for early-season travel appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.

Photo by Phil Levin

There’s a reason the Outdoor Writer’s Association of America (OWAA) leadership team chose Madison, Wisconsin for its annual conference this August 22–24: let’s just say it came down to numbers. 

Five lakes. 270 parks. 200+ miles of biking and hiking trails.

Stats like these make Madison THE Midwest mecca for outdoor adventurists. Not to mention, it’s one of only two U.S. cities located on an isthmus, creating a one-of-a-kind, lake-city-lake landscape that blends stunning natural beauty with urban amenities. 

So you can spend a morning fishing for walleye and perch, then cool down at a State Capitol tour just steps away from the lake. Enjoy a sunset paddle to the sounds of live music from the UW–Madison student union on the shoreline. Or bike from downtown to rolling hills in a matter of minutes.

As you make your 2026 conference arrangements, plan to linger longer and discover all the places that prove that in Madison, you never have to choose between outdoor adventure and city center—just choose an adventure that matches your passions.

Blue Mound State Park Tower | Photo by Divergent Travelers

Impressed by iconic landmarks: Ice Age Trail

There are only 11 National Scenic Trails in the U.S. And the Ice Age Trail, contained entirely in Wisconsin, is one of the longest and most diverse. This 1,000-mile footpath was carved during the Wisconsin Glaciation period that ended 10,000 years ago. Today, its trails run through rocky terrain, open prairies and peaceful forests, offering hiking adventures that range from after-work strolls to once-in-a-lifetime thru-hikes.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance (IATA) headquarters is located in nearby Cross Plains, where you can access the Cross Plains segment of the trail, a 9.9-mile stretch of woods and restored prairies. If you begin in Verona, try the 6.3-mile segment that passes through three county parks and features several kettle ponds—remnants of the area’s glacial history—found in the Moraine Kettles Preserve.

Getting there: Verona is just six miles from Madison and Cross Plains is 15 miles away. Check the Verona and Cross Plains itineraries for ideas on local spots for eats, shops and stops to refuel on your journey.

Heads up for hunters: You can hunt deer, turkey, small game and waterfowl depending on the season. Be sure to check IATA’s helpful tips on hunting regulations and “blaze orange season” safety practices for hikers.

Monona Terrace Convention Center and Monona Loop | Photo by Sharon Vanorny

Do it all in a day: Devil’s Lake

If you’re looking for a spot where the terrain can change from stride to stride, check out Devil’s Lake State Park. This 10,000-acre park is situated on ancestral Ho-Chunk lands, who know it as Tee Wakącąk (Sacred Lake), where many culturally significant ancient effigy mounds remain to this day. From climbing rock formations and bluffs to hiking wooded paths and grassy trails, there are more than 29 miles of paths for varying skill levels that wind through this park.

But that’s not all. There’s swimming and watercraft rentals by the hour at the North Shore and South Shore beaches. Mountain biking on the Upland Trail where you can traverse a combination of grass and dirt terrain that climbs 350 feet in elevation. There’s also a one-mile interpretive nature trail and 1.5 miles of accessible trails for people with disabilities.

Getting there: 45 miles from Madison, an easy day trip with the option to stay and camp at one of the 423 individual sites in the park.

Stunning side trip: The waterfall at the end of Parfrey’s Glen, located just four miles east of Devil’s Lake State Park.

Devil’s Lake State Park | Photo by Destination Madison

Put in some miles: Military Ridge Trail

Military Ridge Trail is a 40-mile crushed limestone trail that connects bikers from Madison to Dodgeville, starting at the eastern trailhead at the Quarry Ridge Recreation Area in Fitchburg to the western trailhead at the DNR Dodgeville Service Center. 

Along the way, you’ll pass through Verona, Riley, Mount Horeb, Blue Mounds, Barneveld and Ridgeway. Whether your cycling level makes this a “Half-Century” or a “Long Ride” journey, each community offers plentiful places to stop for restrooms, restaurants and refreshments.

Know before you go: A State Trail Pass is required for cycling and inline skating on this trail ($5 daily, $25 annual).

While you’re there: Military Ridge Trail runs along the southern borders of Governor Dodge and Blue Mound state parks, and both park entrances are available just off the trail. 

Madison trails mountain biking | Photo by Sharon Vanorny

Best views: Blue Mound State Park

If you’re looking for sweeping views as far as the eagle-eye (or camera lens) can see, don’t miss the observation towers at Blue Mound State Park. The towers are 40 feet high, affording panoramic views of the Lower Wisconsin Riverway and Baraboo Bluffs, which are particularly phenomenal in fall when the leaves are changing. 

If you’re up for more of a challenge, the trails are top-notch, taking you through forest and geological formations. Mountain bikers love the dolomite and chert outcroppings that are both beautiful and challenging.

Getting there: 25 miles west of Madison, an easy day trip with the option to stay and camp at one of the 77 wooded sites or 12 bike/hike-in sites. There’s also an accessible cabin for people with disabilities.

Fun fact: Blue Mound is located atop the largest hill in the southern half of Wisconsin, thanks to a geological “quirk of fate” that left Southwest Wisconsin untouched by glaciers (now called the “Driftless Area”). On a clear day, you can see Iowa from one of two observation towers in this park.

Madison lakes ice fishing | Photo by Sharon Vanorny

A Park for Every Season: Governor Dodge State Park

Governor Dodge is one of the state’s largest parks, covering 5,000 acres of the Driftless Area. Its sandstone bluffs date back 450 million years and it’s home to wow-worthy topography: steep hills, deep valleys, two lakes and a waterfall. 

It’s also why Governor Dodge is known as the most winter-friendly park: Several hills offer family thrills for sledding, cross country skiers get 12 miles of groomed trails, and snowshoeing is allowed anywhere that is not designated for skiing or snowmobiling. In summer, the park offers biking, boating, camping, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, hunting and swimming.

Getting there: 48 miles from Madison, with the option to camp overnight at one of 300 sites. This park also boasts an equestrian campground and remote backpacking sites.

Selfie-worthy spot: You can view Stephens’ Falls from above and below, via a quarter-mile, paved trail with accessible parking at the trailhead.

Ice Ridge Trail | Photo by Sharon Vanorny

Give back before you go: Drop-In voluntourism opps

Sustainability is a tradition in Madison: Conservation pioneer and UW–Madison professor Aldo Leopold wrote  A Sand County Almanac at his farm in neighboring Baraboo, Wis.. Madison offered the first curbside recycling program in the country, starting in 1968. And Earth Day originated in Madison, inspired by former Wisconsin governor Gaylord Nelson in 1970.

So it felt natural to launch a voluntourism portal that allows visitors a chance to give back and leave our city a little better than they found it. The portal offers visitor-friendly, drop-in opportunities for activities like lake cleanup, invasive species removal and food pantry support.

No matter which of these locations you choose, one thing always remains true: Madison is THE Midwest gateway to adventure—no matter the weather. With direct flights from across the U.S. and four seasons of fun, we can’t wait to welcome you to our walkable, bikeable, hikeable destination.  

Register for the conference today!

Are you an outdoor media professional or outdoor organization? Registration is now open for the OWAA conference.

Learn more and register today!

Madison rolling hills | Photo by Jason Lindsey

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Cowgirl Candace is a fourth-generation Georgia farmer, award-winning agriculture and outdoor adventure writer, and cultural storyteller redefining how rural America is seen, heard, and understood worldwide. Raised on her family’s centennial homestead, Edward Hill Farm, Candace brings lived experience, historical grounding, and creative rigor to every story she tells, bridging agriculture, outdoor life, and Black cowboy culture with authenticity and care.

A longtime member of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, Cowgirl Candace’s work spans brand partnerships, editorial features, and multimedia storytelling rooted in the American South. During 2025, her personal essay celebrating farm heritage and cowhand culture featured in Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour Book, traveling the world as part of one of the most influential cultural moments of the year. Profiling modern land stewards, collaborating with legacy outdoor brands, or helping to mentor women writers through OWAA’s group calls, Cowgirl Candace is committed to elevating stories that honor farming history, the people who work it, and the futures they’re building.

Before we step into the mechanics of craft, platforms and professional milestones, it helps to return to the place where Candace’s storytelling begins. Not at a byline or a brand brief, but in red Georgia soil. In family footsteps worn into the land. In the quiet education that comes from watching generations work the same fields in different ways. Her global reach is built on local memory.

The questions below move past résumé and recognition to the lived experiences, values and moments that shaped how she sees the world, and how she teaches it to see her back.

Tell us about your personal journey. How did your multigenerational farming background and connection to Black cowboy culture shape your identity as a storyteller and outdoor communicator?

Edward Hill Farm raised me. It’s the homeland my farming family still owns, stewards, and protects today. I grew up watching four generations move across our farmland in different but equally powerful ways. My Great-Grandma GG baked from scratch, ran a tight household, and was often found clotheslining in the backyard. My Grandpa Amos, a former USDA professional, shared his regenerative agriculture knowledge with me long before those practices became buzzwords. And my parents (true rodeo lovers) spent evenings in our home arena working calf roping and barrel racing drills.

My childhood wasn’t siloed. It was multitasking, a lot of movement, outdoor adventure, and joy, which was lived through multiple interpretations of homesteading and cowhand culture. That upbringing shaped how I tell stories today. I don’t romanticize the land. My editorial work honors it. I understand agriculture, outdoor life, and Black cowboy culture as lived systems, not mere aesthetics. My grounding is what allows me to communicate these stories with honesty and authority.

Your story was featured in Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour Book, a project that traveled the globe with one of the biggest cultural phenomena of 2025. Walk us through how that opportunity came together … from idea to execution … and what it meant to you personally and professionally.

GG always said: “You never know who’s watching.” That wisdom has guided my entire career. As a 20-year marketing and communications professional, intention sits at the core of my storytelling. My website, cowgirlcandace.com, is a digital front porch and space that invites conversation and collaboration while reflecting my real cowgirl and agricultural background. 

Well, I check my business email routinely. During March 2025, I saw a message from the executive editor of Saint Heron Press, the creative agency founded by Solange Knowles (Beyoncé’s sister). The agency discovered my work and fourth-generation farming story. The Saint Heron team asked me to write a paid feature within a 72-hour turnaround centered on my American South lifestyle and themed “BEEN COUNTRY.” I was like: “Let’s Deep South do this.” We negotiated, contracted, and I delivered both the story and photography on deadline. 

What I didn’t know was that the “luxury art publication” mentioned during our email exchanges would ultimately become the official Cowboy Carter Tour Book. My story traveled globally as part of a historic tour that grossed more than $400 million across 30-plus shows. I first found out through Instagram DMs — friends, family, and strangers messaging me screenshots from around the world. Saint Heron followed up with the good news as well. I felt fuzzy wuzzy in the best way. To know my farm family’s legacy was being celebrated on a global stage was deeply affirming. Professionally, it validated my belief that authentic, place-based storytelling can move through the world without losing its soul.

How do you approach telling stories about agriculture, outdoor life, and cultural heritage in ways that resonate both within niche communities and on global platforms? What techniques or philosophies guide your work? Give me one solid example of a specific piece you crafted and walk us through your process. 

I go into every story from a human stance first. I’m not chasing trends at all. I’m translating universal experiences. Agriculture and outdoor life are about love, family, responsibility, resilience, and care. Those themes resonate everywhere. My narratives are “Sunday best” (how we stylishly show up for church) service to the world — researched, fact-checked, reported, interviewed, and written with purpose. 

One example is my long-standing collaboration with Justin Boots. Together, we document Deep South farming and cowhand culture. During the height of the Cowboy Carter tour, I profiled Georgia farmer Kaneisha Miller. This farmers market mom is raising preschool twins while sustaining multigenerational land. I spent time on her farm; observed how she blended community, motherhood, and modern agribusiness; and translated that lived experience into a story that felt intimate, relatable, and scalable. The result? A Justin Boots × Cowgirl Candace feature that sparked meaningful engagement and showed what legacy land ownership can look like in today’s digital economy.

Representation matters, especially in traditionally underrepresented spaces like country culture and outdoor media. How has your work helped broaden audiences’ understanding of Black cowboy culture and the diversity of rural America? What challenges and opportunities have you encountered? Give us an example of at least one challenge and one opportunity. 

I have the privilege of reintroducing — and sometimes correcting — the narrative around Black cowboy and agricultural contributions. We’ve always been here. What’s changed is visibility. One challenge is navigating stereotypes that still linger in editorial and brand spaces. There’s often an assumption that these stories are “niche,” when in reality they’re foundational. The opportunity, however, is immense. Digital platforms have allowed my work to reach global audiences and opened doors to brand partnerships that respect cultural truth. The sincere stories I publish expands the frame, showing multicultural rural lifestyles as innovative, joyful, skilled, and deeply rooted.

Visual imagery plays a significant role in outdoor and cultural storytelling. How do you collaborate with photographers, designers, and creative partners to craft images that elevate your narrative? Can you share a moment when visual storytelling changed how people engaged with your work? And what’s one photo you particularly love and why?

I study visual storytellers across social platforms, especially those rooted in authenticity and edge. Many of my strongest and coolest collaborations come from creatives in America’s Black Belt Region because these stories are their grandparents and neighbors, too. One pivotal moment for me was modeling for Wrangler alongside my farming friend Sedrick Rowe of Rowe Organics in Albany, Georgia, as part of an Earth Month 2021 campaign project. Seeing us represented — natural hair, denim, land-stewarding, fully ourselves — shifted how audiences engaged with my work. That imagery by Ivan McClellan (creative colleague, professional photographer, and now rodeo boss of the 8 Seconds Rodeo) told a bigger story: modern Black farmers as healthy, hip, and heritage-driven. It invited new audiences into a creative South they hadn’t fully seen before.

In your experience, what are two key elements of building trust and credibility (especially across cultures, communities, and industries) that might initially seem worlds apart)?

First: Show up prepared and consistent. Trust is built when people see you do what you say you’ll do. Repeatedly. Second: Honor the source before the spotlight. When communities know you’re protecting their story — not extracting it — credibility follows naturally.

For OWAA members and outdoor professionals who want to push beyond traditional markets and pursue unconventional or high-profile opportunities, what two pieces of advice would you offer? Are there mindsets, skills, or practices you believe are essential for success?

One: Build your digital front porch. Your online home should speak for you when you’re not in the room. Two: Practice saying yes before you feel “ready.” Skill grows through execution, not perfection. My mentor and marketing guru Lisa Bourne reminds me: “Progress over perfection.”

Looking ahead, what kinds of stories are you most passionate about telling next, and how do you see your work contributing to evolving the narrative of agriculture and outdoor life on both national and global stages?

I’m deeply invested in documenting modern land stewards: farmers, foresters, and outdoor professionals who blend heritage with innovation. I want to continue evolving the narrative of agriculture and outside adventures as dynamic, culturally rich, and globally relevant.

Follow Candace Cowgirl’s work

Instagram: @thecowgirlcandace

cowgirlcandace.com

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The post Cowgirl Candace, fourth-generation farmer: Turning heritage into high-impact storytelling appeared first on Outdoor Writers Association of America.