Mary Beth Skylis

Hi, I'm Mary Beth (Mouse). I'm a Freelance Writer who specializes in personal narratives, gear reviews and adventure stories. I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2015, part of the Annapurna Circuit in 2016, and the Colorado Trail in 2017. I am now destined to life as a trail urchin.

Posts

Gear Review: Shamma Mountain Goat Sandals

Gear Review: Shamma Mountain Goat Sandals

Shamma Mountain Goat Sandals MSRP: $99 Footwear is in a constant state of metamorphosis. As athletes collect data about the most efficient

Jul 15, 2017 : Mary Beth Skylis
Gear Review: Vargo Dig Dig Tool

Gear Review: Vargo Dig Dig Tool

Weighing in at 1.25 ounces, it’s lighter than many competitive products and has a serrated edge to make it easier to slice through roots.

Jun 20, 2017 : Mary Beth Skylis
Superior Wilderness Designs: UL Backpacks You Should Know About

Superior Wilderness Designs: UL Backpacks You Should Know About

The masterminds behind SWD: Stitch and Good Lady The Ultralight Backpacking industry’s future began to change in January of 2016, when Brandon

May 5, 2017 : Mary Beth Skylis
Gear Review: Mountain Hardwear Lithosphere

Gear Review: Mountain Hardwear Lithosphere

Rain-wear can save your life. It's an important part of your set up. But it can get a little overwhelming figuring out what works for you. Do you

Mar 31, 2017 : Mary Beth Skylis
Overcoming Disabilities On The Annapurna Circuit

Overcoming Disabilities On The Annapurna Circuit

Freedom Innovation's Renegade AT What kind of foot do you have?" Danika Viola wondered aloud. "A Renegade," Mukesh Singh flicked his heel with

Feb 17, 2017 : Mary Beth Skylis
Dyneema: The Future of Backpacking?

Dyneema: The Future of Backpacking?

The advances that DSM Dyneema and Cuban Technologies are making has allowed tent and backpack weights to be sliced in half.

Nov 21, 2016 : Mary Beth Skylis
Karel Sabbe Claims New Supported PCT Speed Record

Karel Sabbe Claims New Supported PCT Speed Record

On August 13th, Belgian UltraRunner, Karel Sabbe, claimed the new supported speed record when he stepped foot on the cement monument at the Northern

Aug 17, 2016 : Mary Beth Skylis
Paralyzed Woman Hikes the Appalachian Trail

Paralyzed Woman Hikes the Appalachian Trail

Every year thousands of ambitious hikers set out to traverse the Appalachian Mountains. This year, Stacey Kozel shares this inconceivable dream. But

Jul 22, 2016 : Mary Beth Skylis
The Trouble With Trail Magic

The Trouble With Trail Magic

"A good traveler leaves no footprints"- Lao Tzu Random acts of human kindness breathe life into the Appalachian Trail, marking the long distance

Jun 27, 2016 : Mary Beth Skylis
Gear Review: Sierra Designs Nightwatch 2 FL

Gear Review: Sierra Designs Nightwatch 2 FL

The length of this tent makes for the perfect Long Person Haven. The spine of the tent is tall, allowing my 6'3 partner to sit comfortably inside. Goliath was impressed with the tent's ability to house him comfortably, with an inch or two to spare at either end of him.

Jun 25, 2016 : Mary Beth Skylis