Tag: outdoors

  • Garmin inReach Messenger Plus: Satellite Communication with Photo & Voice Messaging

    Garmin inReach Messenger Plus: Satellite Communication with Photo & Voice Messaging

    Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

    Garmin, a leader in GPS technology and outdoor devices, has once again raised the bar with the inReach Messenger Plus, launched on 18 September 2024. Packed with advanced features, this new satellite communicator offers adventurers a more versatile way to stay connected beyond the limits of cell service. Whether trekking through remote wilderness or navigating oceans, the inReach Messenger Plus ensures communication is more robust and personal than ever.

    Revised inReach Messenger Plus Stands Out

    This device builds upon Garmin’s previous model by introducing photo and voice messaging, making it easier for users to share updates with loved ones and emergency responders. The two-way texting, global satellite coverage, and SOS capabilities continue to make it an essential companion for adventurers. However, the new features push the boundaries of what users can expect from a satellite communicator.

    The IPX7-rated water resistance, rugged design, and exceptional battery life (up to 600 hours in low-power mode) ensure that the inReach Messenger Plus is built to withstand the toughest environments.

    New Features in the inReach Messenger Plus:

    • Photo and Voice Messaging: Users can now send photos of their location or 30-second voice messages, giving friends and family a clearer sense of their adventure. Voice messaging is especially useful in emergency situations where a quick verbal update can communicate more than text.
    • Enhanced Group Texting: Through the Garmin Messenger app, users can engage in group texts, send emojis, reactions, and even initiate chats of up to 1,600 characters.
    • Interactive SOS: This feature is a lifesaver. In emergencies, the device transmits interactive texts, photos, and voice messages to Garmin’s 24/7 emergency response team.
    • GPS and Route Sharing: For those who want to keep family and friends updated, real-time GPS coordinates and route sharing offer peace of mind during an adventure.
    • Weather Forecasting: Receive detailed weather updates directly on the device or via the app to avoid unforeseen weather risks.

    Comparing the inReach Messenger Plus with the Previous inReach Messenger Model

    Garmin’s inReach Messenger was release in 2022, but the inReach Messenger Plus introduces several new features and improvements that set it apart. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two models.

    FeatureinReach Messenger (Previous Model)inReach Messenger Plus (New Model)
    Text MessagingGlobal two-way text messagingGlobal two-way text messaging up to 1600 characters, now with photos, voice messages, emojis, and reactions
    Photo MessagingNot availableAvailable—send location photos
    Voice MessagingNot availableAvailable—send 30-second voice messages
    Group MessagingLimitedExpanded with support for group texts and emojis
    SOS FunctionalityYes—interactive SOSYes—interactive SOS with photo and voice capabilities
    Battery LifeUp to 28 daysUp to 600 hours in low-power mode (over 25 days)
    Water ResistanceIPX7 (1 metre for 30 minutes)IPX7 (1 metre for 30 minutes)
    Price$299.99 USD
    $399.99 CAD
    $499.99 USD
    $679.99 CAD
    inReach messenger & messenger plus spec breakdown

    Key Improvements Over the Previous Model

    • Richer Communication: While the previous inReach Messenger offered reliable two-way text messaging, the inReach Messenger Plus enriches this by adding photo and voice messaging, making communication more personal and effective in emergencies.
    • Enhanced SOS Functionality: The addition of photo and voice messages in SOS situations ensures that emergency responders can better assess the situation and coordinate an appropriate response.
    • Longer Battery Life: With a 600-hour battery life (in low-power mode), the inReach Messenger Plus significantly extends usage time compared to the 28-day maximum of the earlier model.
    • More Group Messaging Features: Group chats, emojis, and reactions were not available in the original inReach Messenger, making the Plus version a more versatile and engaging tool for staying connected.

    Conclusion

    The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus is a major upgrade from its predecessor, combining enhanced communication capabilities with Garmin’s proven satellite technology. It’s the perfect device for adventurers who need to stay connected in the most remote locations—whether for safety or sharing their journey with loved ones.

    At $499.99, it’s an investment worth making for those serious about off-grid communication. The addition of photo and voice messaging, extended battery life, and expanded group messaging options truly make the inReach Messenger Plus stand out as the ultimate tool for any explorer.

    This model and the supporting Garmin apps like messenger and Explore, gives competitors like ZOLEO a run for its money.


    FAQs

    Q: Can I use the Garmin inReach Messenger Plus without a smartphone?
    A: Yes, it works as a standalone device. However, pairing it with the Garmin Messenger app unlocks additional features like group texting and media sharing.

    Q: Does the inReach Messenger Plus offer real-time GPS tracking?
    A: Yes, you can share your real-time location with others and send GPS coordinates.

    Q: What is the cost of a Garmin satellite subscription plan?
    A: Subscription plans start at $14.99 USD per month, offering flexibility depending on your communication needs.

    Q: How long does the battery last?
    A: The inReach Messenger Plus offers up to 600 hours in low-power mode, or over 25 days, making it ideal for long expeditions.


  • ATV Trails Between Folly Mountain and Nutby Mountain

    ATV Trails Between Folly Mountain and Nutby Mountain

    In this video, my riding partner and I wanted to make the drive up towards Cumberland County to the Fundy Snowmobile Club in order to ride the trails and do a counterclockwise loop starting from Folly Mountain and have lunch at Nutby Mountain’s warming hut, then finishing off the run via North Shore Clubhouse and down towards Old Debert Rd.

    🧭GPX track can be found here 🧭
    GPX Track

    The track was based on an ATV rally in 2022, and we made some changes along the way based on time and access. But basically, we were on the 104 trail for the majority, other than the outbound way where we jumped on the 302, 301, and 401 trails to create the loop. Considering that the trails here are primarily for snowmobiles, not all trails we found were passable or even some were gated.

    The area’s trails are maintained mainly by the Fundy, North Shore, and Sutherland Lakes snowmobile groups.

    Folly Mountain: This area features several well-maintained snowmobile and ATV trails. The Fundy Snowmobile Club manages a significant portion of the trails here, ensuring they are kept in good condition during the winter months. In the summer, ATV enthusiasts enjoy the rugged terrain and scenic views. The trails around Folly Mountain are known for their challenging terrain, including steep ascents and descents that offer a thrilling experience for both snowmobilers and ATV riders.

    Nutby Mountain: Nutby Mountain’s trails are managed by a combination of local snowmobile and ATV clubs, including the North Shore Snowmobile Club. In winter, the trails are used extensively by snowmobilers, and in the warmer months, they transition to ATV routes. The area’s transition to wind energy with projects like Wind Ridge and Kutmut may impact trail access temporarily during construction, but the ongoing maintenance ensures that these trails remain a key destination for outdoor activities.

    Warwick Mountain: While not as prominent as Folly or Nutby, Warwick Mountain offers a network of trails that are used by both snowmobilers and ATV enthusiasts. The trails here are maintained by local clubs and offer a more secluded experience compared to the busier areas. The terrain varies, with some sections being relatively flat and others providing more technical challenges, making it a versatile spot for different types of riders.

    Cellular service is 99% unavailable; there were two signs indicating that cell reception could be possible depending on your carrier. I was using Bell, and coverage was barely usable in these spots. InReach or ZOLEO would be something to pack.

    Trail conditions overall were really good. The majority of the trails were a combination of old camp roads, government dirt roads, or woodlot roads. The section around Clear Lake would be the only one where we found things to be more technical, but it is not an issue.


  • Navigating the Year: ZOLEO’s Satellite Communicator Highlights

    Navigating the Year: ZOLEO’s Satellite Communicator Highlights


    Ahoy, adventurers! As we set sail into the sunset of another incredible year, it’s time to drop anchor and take a look back at the exciting developments that unfolded in the world of ZOLEO satellite communicators. Grab your compass, because we’re about to navigate through a roundup of news that rocked ZOLEO’s boat in 2023.

    1. ZOLEO Partners with AerisWeather – Weathering the Storms:
    In the first leg of our journey, ZOLEO joined forces with the weather wizards at AerisWeather. This dynamic duo created a synergy that allowed ZOLEO users to ride the winds of precision. With real-time weather updates integrated seamlessly into the communicator, adventurers can now stay ahead of storms and make informed decisions. From sunny hikes to stormy seas, ZOLEO and AerisWeather have you covered. Read More

    2. ZOLEO Partners with The Global Rescue Companies – SOS: Secure On the Spot:
    As we sailed further into the year, ZOLEO dropped anchor with The Global Rescue Companies for an SOS partnership that spells security. When the waters get rough, ZOLEO users can rest easy knowing that Global Rescue’s monitoring prowess is at their service. From remote mountain peaks to deep-sea dives, help is just a call away. ZOLEO and Global Rescue – a match made in the emergency response heaven. Read More

    3. ZOLEO Announces Partner Integrations – Bringing the World to Your Fingertips:
    Midway through our adventure, ZOLEO made waves by announcing a lineup of partner integrations, expanding the user experience horizon. From navigation apps to adventure planning tools, ZOLEO became the ultimate companion for every explorer’s toolkit. Connect, navigate, and conquer – ZOLEO’s partner integrations redefine the meaning of staying connected on the go. Read More

    4. ZOLEO Launches Medical Assist Service – Health at the Helm:
    In the heart of the year, ZOLEO unveiled a groundbreaking service – Medical Assist. Beyond communication, ZOLEO now doubles as your on-the-go health advisor. With medical guidance just a button press away, adventurers can tackle unexpected health concerns head-on. From altitude sickness to insect bites, ZOLEO has your health compass pointing in the right direction. Read More

    5. ZOLEO Launches ZOLEO Track for Enterprise Users – Tracking Success in Every Venture:
    Closing out the year on a high note, ZOLEO set sail with a specialized offering for enterprise users – ZOLEO Track. Designed for businesses navigating remote territories, ZOLEO Track ensures that no venture goes uncharted. With location tracking and communication in one, ZOLEO Track is the captain of enterprise success stories. Read More


    As the sun sets on another year of ZOLEO adventures, it’s clear that this satellite communicator is not just a device; it’s a companion, a lifeline, and a navigator through uncharted territories. Here’s to a year of seamless communication, enhanced safety, and countless stories of exploration. May your signals be strong, your connections even stronger, and may 2024 bring even more exciting voyages with ZOLEO at the helm. Sail on, adventurers!

  • Exploring the Scenic Trans Canada Trail on Your ATV: Tatamagouche to Pictou Adventure

    Exploring the Scenic Trans Canada Trail on Your ATV: Tatamagouche to Pictou Adventure

    Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

    Welcome back, fellow ATV riders! Today, we’re embarking on an exciting journey as we venture through the picturesque Trans Canada trail from Tatamagouche to Pictou, aboard the reliable Can-AM Defender Side by Side. This segment of the trail promises breathtaking landscapes, converted rails to trails, and plenty of interesting stops along the way. So, let’s buckle up, rev our engines, and get ready for an unforgettable off-road experience!

    GET THE GPX FILE HERE

    The Scenic Route: Tatamagouche to Pictou

    In this thrilling video, we’ll be taking the scenic route from Tatamagouche to Pictou, a journey that contrasts the previous one we took towards Oxford. Brace yourself for an immersive experience, crossing vast farmlands and encountering numerous points of interest along the Trans Canada trail.

    The Trans Canada Trail – Rails to Trails Conversion

    Part of the adventure lies in traversing the Trans Canada trail, which has undergone a remarkable transformation from rails to trails. This conversion ensures a smooth and flat ride, making it ideal for ATV enthusiasts seeking a thrilling yet comfortable journey. Sharing the Trail: A Buzzing Atmosphere As we venture closer to Tatamagouche, expect to encounter a vibrant atmosphere. The trail is abuzz with walkers, runners, bikers, and, of course, fellow ATV riders. You’ll need to take it easy through Tatamagouche, Scotsburn, and Lyon’s Brook as you share the trail with other outdoor enthusiasts. But fear not, this provides an excellent opportunity to soak in the surroundings and appreciate the journey at a leisurely pace.

    Trailside Amenities: Relaxation Spots Abound

    Throughout the route, you’ll come across numerous places to take a breather. Whether you’re in need of a quick snack or wish to enjoy a serene moment in nature, there are plenty of designated areas with picnic tables, shelters, and benches along the trail. So, don’t forget to pack some snacks and make the most of these inviting spots.

    Nature’s Resilience: A Post-Hurricane Landscape

    Mother Nature often leaves her mark, and the forest along the trail showcases this in a unique way. Hurricane Fiona left its impact in 2022, resulting in a beautiful yet rugged terrain. The hardwood forest displays fallen trees and remnants of the storm’s aftermath, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the journey.

    The River John Train Bridge: A Scenic Highlight

    One of the highlights of this adventure is crossing the River John train bridge. While the platform might show some signs of wear and tear, the views it offers are simply breathtaking. Take a moment to soak in the scenery and capture some memorable photos.

    Journey’s End: The Unforeseen Barricade

    As we approach Pictou, our journey’s end is unexpectedly halted by a barricade at the foot of the old bridge. While it’s uncertain when it will be repaired, this minor setback allows us to reflect on the unforgettable ride we’ve had so far.

    Conclusion

    As our exhilarating ATV adventure from Tatamagouche to Pictou concludes, we’re left with lasting memories of stunning landscapes, shared trails, and the resilience of nature. The Trans Canada trail has once again proved to be a haven for ATV riders seeking an extraordinary experience. Until next time, keep exploring, keep riding, and keep the spirit of adventure alive! Happy riding, fellow ATV enthusiasts!

  • Two Days Of Side by Side Trail Riding In Mersey Bowater Nova Scotia

    Two Days Of Side by Side Trail Riding In Mersey Bowater Nova Scotia

    Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

    After Christmas, the weather got cold for a few days, so I thought it would be a good opportunity to get out and do two days of riding with the side by side up in the Mersey Bowater.

    Day one – Pipeline Road Side Trails

    Went solo up on pipeline road, starting from Mersey bowater road off of route 3. Here I spent a few hours adding waypoints to the GPS, mainly the stone fire rings people have setup over the years. Also checked out side trails since the trails were muddy before it froze.

    Gave me a good idea if something was used recently. Plus the off reading crowd are also up in here, so anytime I saw truck tire tracks, then I’d follow it. Crossed a pack of riders and found a spot to make some lunch. I hauled out the OG firebox stove to cook up a foil pack meal (Taco Taters) and some tea to warm me up.

    Day two – Yamaha Viking Joins A New Route

    Had a riding partner this day, this time we opted for new route where we started from the same spot as Day one, but followed the rails to trails to Hubbard and took the trail under the 103 and up towards the Ellerhouse windmills.

    The trail was had sections of rock and sand, which made it interesting. I cracked my right fender flare while crossing the bridge, I forget that I’m a few inches wider than the 60” now with them on. We found a fantastic camp site for lunch, and I guess it is the only spot as a group of none machines came to join us. We had a fire going, so a few came over to chat and warm up for a bit. They were doing a 100km loop, we did a 65km loop on that day.

    The little bit of snow made the trail a bit smoother so we could make up any lost time in the rough sections. This loop I prefer doing in winter as during normal times, it looked to be fairly muddy.

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  • Searching For iOverlander Primitive Campsites While Side By Side Riding Can-Am Defender

    Searching For iOverlander Primitive Campsites While Side By Side Riding Can-Am Defender

    Estimated reading time: 1 minute

    One area that I do the most of my Side by Side riding is within the Mersey Bowater woodlands. The vast network of logging roads around the dozens of lakes make it perfect for primitives camping while overlanding.

    So I decided to search out some campsites that I was seeing on my Garmin Tread as it contains iOverlander waypoints along with pubic track information on Gaia GPS, I got out for the day to check things out.

    🧭GPX OF THE RIDE 🧭
    https://www.gaiagps.com/public/n8PB1eg5jQGP3112v9Bi8BKe

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  • Wallace to Leicester NS Side by Side Ride

    I hauled up the Side by Side and paid a visit to my buddy Keith up in the Tatamagouche area of Nova Scotia for a ride along the trails.

    If I was going solo, I would have unloaded at Tatamagouche Train Station trailhead, which is a large lot that hosts a trans canada trail kiosk and is generally very popular multi-use trail from here up to Pugwash.

    🚨🚨Check out my Can-am Defender Gear List🚨🚨

    But today, I started at Wallace about 18km from Tatamagouche en route to Oxford where we were planning to find a spot for lunch. So we were not sure how far to head out until we needed to turn around.

    Overall Route Description

    We first crossed over the Wallace train bridge which offres some greats sights and has a rich history from the sandstone quarries and local talent. There are a few unloading spots along this section of trail, but other wise you will find this to be a wooded rail to trail that is well maintained but does not have many turn off to stops or other views.

    Once we approach Oxford, we will ride on the old station rd. You will cross another unloading zone & kiosk. From here we’ll find ourselves parallel the 104 highway where we cross a bridge and go under the overpass. We have a side trail where you can re-fuel either at Irving, Tims or Subway.

    We follow the trail until we hit a logging road and can reach Springhill or go along snowmobile route 104 towards Leicester shelter which is where we opted to stop for lunch and stretched our legs. This was a 100km ride that took about 4 hours to complete.

    I consider this a grade 2 out of 5 in terms if difficulty as we are on rails to trails most of the way and with some elevation with loose rocks or water crossings. Meaning you can do this solo without getting stuck.

  • How Does Iridium Satellite Communications Work When Using the Garmin inReach and Zoleo for Communicating With Family and Friends

    With the increase in popularity of outdoor activities, Garmin and Zoleo have made it easier to stay connected with friends and family. Satellite communication devices like the Garmin inReach mini and embedded products and Zoleo Satellite communicator can now send text messages, GPS locations, SOS alerts for emergencies, as well as tracking data from these devices back home to those who are concerned about them. However, there is a lot that goes into satellite communications technology before this type of device works properly. This blog post will outline how Iridium satellite communications work when using these types of devices so you can make an educated decision on whether or not they’re right for you!

    Iridium Satellite Network

    First thing is to know about the Iridium satellite network. The Iridium satellite constellation is a network of 66 low-Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites. These satellites orbit the Earth at an altitude of 48 degrees north and south latitude, which means they are able to provide service to two-thirds of the globe. This also includes much of the polar regions where other satellite networks do not have coverage. This means that you can use satellite phone or text devices that use the Iridium network to communicate from anywhere around the globe except for these location:

    • The poles
    • Underwater
    • Inside a building or cave

    The Iridium satellite network was designed for use in the most extreme environments and is the only satellite network that has coverage over both the North and South Poles. This also makes it an ideal choice for marine applications as well as other outdoor activities where cell phone service is limited or non-existent.

    Obviously when using a satellite communication tool, your device needs a clear line of sight to the sky. Garmin InReach and ZOLO satellite devices both use the Iridium network.

    For an emergency it is a great tool to have when you need help. This device allows you also both tracking and navigation even in remote areas, which makes this tools a must for hikers, climbers or mountain bikers that venture into the wilderness alone.

    Another interesting feature worth mentioning of these devices is that they can be paired with your smartphone.

    What Happens when you trigger a SOS?

    Your emergency contacts will receive an email or text message with your GPS coordinates and a link to a tracking page where they can see your location in real-time. They will also be able to communicate with you through the two-way texting capability of the device. And, if help is on the way, they can follow your progress until you are in safety.

    GEOS is the main emergency response monitoring service found on both Garmin inReach and ZOLEO. They have a team of highly trained professionals who are available 24/365 to coordinate emergency responders in your area.

    If you’re ever lost, injured, or stranded and need assistance from GEOS, just push the SOS button on your device and help will be on the way.

    Remember that an activated SOS is not only going to notify your emergency contacts, but GOES will also triage down to the local authorities.

    Getting Weather Forecasts From inReach and ZOLEO

    Both inReach and ZOLEO offer weather forecasts provided by DarkSky.

    DarkSky is a weather forecasting service that provides hyper-localized forecasts for specific locations.

    Their entire forecast system operates on an algorithm which calculates the local temperature, humidity levels, wind speeds and direction, pressure readings from multiple sources (including NOAA), cloud coverage percentages throughout the day, precipitation amounts/type over time as well as sun rise and an outlook over 3 to 5 days. DarkSky was purchased by Apple a dew years ago so it remains to be seen if they will continue to provide access to the API.

    Sharing your location while hiking

    Another feature of these devices is to allow your friends or family to track your progress by viewing your position on a map. This is done by sending an “I’m OK” message from the device which will include your location coordinates. You can also share your location with specific contacts for a period of time, or indefinitely. This can be helpful if you want someone to know where you are in case of an emergency.

    Check Out Our Tutorials

    Want to know more about inReach or ZOLEO? Just watch our short how-to tutorials.

  • What To Consider When Buying A Tilley Hat

    I want to talk about the three main areas when considering a Tilley Hat. I’ll be using three styles of hats from my collection to demonstrate Build Quality, Sizing & Maintenance along with a few tips how to clean and wear your Tilley hat.

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  • Thomas’ Cove Coastal Preserve

    Thomas’ Cove Coastal Preserve

    (Originally posted june 9 2012) We hiked 8k within this coastal preserve, just before you reach Five Islands, Nova Scotia. You have two loop to choose from: Headlands & Economy.

    (more…)