Archive for the 'Hunting Lodge' Category
There are many definitions for the term ‘wilderness.’ Wikipedia describes it as a ‘natural environment on earth that has not been significantly modified by humanity.’ In a sense, then, wilderness lodging could be considered an oxymoron. However, definitions aside, wilderness lodging does exist, and for good reason. It allows people to experience the wilderness in a short period of time, with a minimum of negative impact and personal discomfort. Even if you love camping in the wilderness, you may want to take advantage of wilderness lodging when it is available.
Humans are having a great impact on planet earth, and it would be a daunting task to find any place completely devoid of human influence. From bits of micro-trash to traces of chemicals in our water, our presence can be found everywhere – from the jungles of Borneo to the Arctic glaciers and the bottom of the ocean. Whether we like it or not, wilderness only exists in a relative sense. So, if the lodging doesn’t significantly modify the surrounding area, wilderness lodging is a viable concept. Not only that, it makes sense.
Having an appreciation for wilderness will help motivate us to decrease our impact on the natural environment. So, the more people we can get to enjoy clean air, quiet, natural beauty, and the wildness of the natural world, the better. Wilderness lodging is a key component of this, especially for people who aren’t willing or able to walk long distances and camp out of doors.
For those who enjoy hiking and camping, it still makes sense to take advantage of wilderness lodging when it is available. You will lower your negative impact on the environment and the creatures residing therein. There are some fantastic places out there to explore, and wilderness lodging is an option nobody should discount. See you out there!
Outdoor environmental author Edward Abbey has been quoted as saying “Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.” Abbey valued wilderness, and shunned development in wilderness areas. The concept of a wilderness lodge would have sparked a lively conversation with Mr. Abbey, to be sure.
A modern wilderness lodge allows visitors to experience wilderness without having to endure the hardship and tedium of camping. In some respects, these lodges actually protect the surrounding wilderness by constraining human impact to a small geographical area. Getting in and out can require effort, and there will likely be some creature comforts missing. But overall, staying at a wilderness lodge can be the perfect way to experience the great outdoors.
A wilderness lodge can often be accessed by car, usually on a dirt road. Other lodges require boat, plane, float plane, or helicopter access. Some require a long hike or a ride on horseback to get to the lodge. These methods of access lend credence to the saying that ‘getting there is half the fun.’ Once at the lodge, you will usually find comfortable beds, a warm fire, food and drink, and other modern conveniences. Electricity may be a precious resource if it comes from solar panels or a generator. Latrines may be composting toilets without running water.
Overall, wilderness lodges can have less of an impact on an area when compared with regular camping. This is a good thing. Imagine what 1,000 campsites and bathrooms would do to a pristine meadow! Also, these lodges allow access to visitors who normally wouldn’t be able to handle a back country camping expedition. The best part about a wilderness lodge is going to sleep and waking up in a wild place. This is truly satisfying for the human spirit, and Edward Abbey would certainly value that!
When traveling with your hunting buddies, it’s nice to have a place to sleep in a bed, sit by a warm fire, and eat a hot meal, while also being able to trek out into the wilderness first thing in the morning. Staying at a hunting lodge is the solution for a memorable hunting experience that you’ll want to continue year after year. Unlike a regular wilderness lodge, hunting lodges cater to hunters, ensuring you’re in good company to reminisce about your favorite hunts and even discuss hunting tactics. You’re sure to meet all kinds of new people who will share the same passion as you for the outdoors and for hunting game.
You might even meet a new batch of friends! Hunters know how difficult it can be to relate to people who don’t also enjoy hunting, and by staying at a hunting lodge you’re sure to find common ground with everyone.