LETTERS
An enduring love
A lifelong explorer and long-term TGO reader wrote to us about his childhood adventures with the Scouts – and his sources of inspiration into adulthood.
My love for the great outdoors traces back to my childhood in the Scout movement enjoying my spare time camping, exploring woodlands and beaches, and hiking the local hills, fostering a real connection with the natural world. It was during these years that I began acquiring fundamental outdoor skills, from the art of making a crackling campfire to crafting makeshift shelters, instilling in me a lifelong passion.
Several years on, long-distance and summit camping continues to capture my spirit. The draw of perching high in the mountains, far from the bustling world, surrounded only by the crisp mountain air, mountain wildlife and the gentle murmur of mountain streams never ceases to inspire me. My enthusiasm is fuelled by the experiences shared by fellow YouTubers and the captivating narratives found on the pages of The Great Outdoors. These channels of knowledge and inspiration continue to enrich my connection with the natural world, affirming that my passion for the outdoors is an enduring and ever-evolving journey.
Across the pond
As British hikers, our eyes are often drawn to great, wild landscapes across the pond. We were delighted to hear that, for some, the feeling is mutual. Responding to regular contributor James Roddie’s recent recollections of a winter’s day in Torridon published in the December 2023 issue of TGO, American photographer Jonathan Austen wrote to us. Here are his kind words, demonstrating the universality of a love of wild places.
As a US photographer, The Great Outdoors has been a constant source of inspiration. The captivating landscapes and adventures showcased have fueled my passion for capturing the beauty of my corner of the world in the rural towns of the White Mountains of Arizona. What sets your publication apart is its ability to offer helpful tips such as how to make your gear last 40 years, to providing insights on taking stunning photographs. You’ve introduced me to remarkable photographers like James Roddie, whose work I eagerly track.
I follow you on X (formerly Twitter) for that extra dose of inspiration. Thank you for consistently delivering content that captivates, educates and motivates photographers like myself.
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Wild camping: for anyone who has experienced the joy and simplicity of a night under the stars there’s no going back. But the concept of the perfec
