Articles by Dylan Silver
Jurgen’s ashes
Issue 95 : Mar/Apr 2014 “For the truth is that I already know as much about my fate as I need to know. The day will come when I will die. So the only matter of consequence before me is what I will do with my allotted time. I can remain on shore paralyzed with fear. Or I can raise my sails and dip and soar in the breeze.” –Richard Bode When we finally pulled into Santa Barbara Harbor, we still had the ashes. We’d never committed them to the Pacific. We hadn’t let them swirl in the cold sea winds.
Letter to the Editor: Preserve Mollie Joyce Park
I am writing to express my concerns about the cell phone tower being considered for Mollie Joyce Park. This project is not appropriate for this area and should be considered for an alternate site. The project’s documentation clearly states that signage indicating exposure of up to 5,000 percent of the recommended RF Radiation levels near the tower is required.
5 Ways to Save Your Skin on a River Trip
The most epic skin aberration I have ever experienced from spending time on the river was during a winter Grand Canyon rafting trip. The combination of damp skin, extreme hot and cold temps, and micro detritus coating every surface imaginable, weathered my epidermis to shreds. The little bits of sediment and sand riddled throughout the Canyon’s nooks and crannies seemed to wear away at the tips of my fingers daily, eroding and cracking them into little mini canyons of their own.
The Best Sun Shirts for River Trips
Being on the river almost always means being exposed to the sun and elements for long periods. Boaters’ best protection is a solid sun shirt. They can keep you warm in a squall or cool through the heat of the day. Plus, these lightweight, breathable shields offer better sunblock than pasty mineral-based sunscreens (though you should wear some of that too!).
5 of the Best Whitewater Rafting Trips in the Midwest
When most people think about the best whitewater rafting in the U.S. it’s typically the big-water rivers of the West and the creeky warm waters of the Southeast that come to mind. It’s bucket list trips like the Colorado River through Grand Canyon, Idaho’s scenic Salmon River, and the popular Gauley River in West Virginia. Yet, if you’re from the oft-underrated flyover states, you don’t have to go far to find world-class whitewater rafting in the Midwest. Is There Whitewater Rafting in the Midwest?
Making a Deep Difference
Written by Dylan Silver Posted at 02:30h in Environment, People, Summer 2021 | Photography by Clean Up the Lake 0 Comments Clean Up the Lake founder Colin West motivates hundreds of volunteers in Tahoe’s largest underwater cleanup Volunteer divers have already removed thousands of pounds of trash from Lake Tahoe On a sunny Friday morning in May, 11 scuba divers clad in trilaminate drysuits and thick rubber wetsuits walked to the water’s edge near Edgewood Tahoe’s 17th hole.
14 Binge-worthy Travel Shows to Stream Right Now
The Best Travel Shows & Documentaries to Add to Your Watchlist When it comes to travel, the past year has been like none other. The global coronavirus pandemic has kept most of us close to home, and much longer than any of us would have guessed. Luckily, there have never been more movies, documentaries, shows, and shorts to keep us inspired until we can get back out there again. Check out a river guide’s guide to the best adventure and travel shows to stream right now.
This Photo Book Explores Lake Tahoe from Below
Photojournalist Dylan Silver had been shooting his adventures on and around Lake Tahoe for four years when, in 2014, he bought his first waterproof camera housing and began training his lens not at the lake but into its clear waters. In the six years since, Silver has amassed a colossal photo archive with thousands of images that document its underwater world and shoreline environments.
Paddle Easy with Our Favorite SUPs of 2020
Surf, glide, and explore (Photo: Inga Hendrickson) Surftech x Prana Catalyst Tuflite V-Tech 11'2" ($1,399) (Photo: Courtesy Surftech) The Catalyst may not be the flashiest board, but its versatile shape, simple features, and low weight add up to a SUP that glides well on flatwater and is capable and responsive on small waves and in variable ocean conditions. The board absolutely cruised in the calm of California’s Monterey Bay.
The Best Stand-Up Paddleboards of 2019
When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. Outside does not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy. Tahoe SUP Tahoma 11’ ($999) (Courtesy Tahoe SUP) Paddleboard makers have experimented with countless designs and features over the years. But it’s unusual for an odd shape to gain our trust. With the inflatable Tahoma, Tahoe SUP delivers a novel catamaran-inspired board that’s stable, fun, and packed with possibility.
How to Buy a Stand-Up Paddleboard
Shape A paddleboard’s shape determines how it will perform and the conditions it will excel in. Designs have been tailored for everything from fishing to navigating whitewater, so before you buy a board, consider what you want to do on it. For speed and efficiency when paddling, the pointed nose and flat underside of displacement hulls are best. For maneuverability and stability, the low-profile curves and wide, upturned nose of planing hulls are a good choice.
The 2019 Summer Buyer's Guide
Dylan Silver May 15, 2019 The Best Stand-Up Paddleboards of 2019 A space-age-looking inflatable with versatility to spare leads this year’s picks Jill Robinson May 15, 2019 Jonah Ogles May 15, 2019 The Best Men's Fly Fishing Gear of 2019 Gear so capable, the trout will practically come to you Jen Ripple May 15, 2019 The Best Women's Fly Fishing Gear of 2019 Gear so capable, the trout will practically come to you Matt Skenazy May 15, 2019 The Best Surfboard of 2019 An asymmetrical board with a...
The Best Surf and SUP Essentials of 2019
When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. Outside does not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy. Now’s the time when we start dreaming about getting out on the water, whether it’s the surging ocean or placid lakes. Trust this kit to serve you well on any day at the beach.
The Right Onesie for Every Winter Occasion
There was a time when we could all run around in Fred Flintstone footsie pajamas and feel completely at ease. For most of us, those days are long gone. But there are one-piece suits that make sense for adults. So drop your drawers, lose the shirt, and slip into the future of clothing. The North Face Himalayan Suit ($999) (Courtesy of The North Face) Best for: Climbing Ama Dablam Serious mountaineers ditched seams a long time ago.
Rising with the sun: Balloon tours above Lake Tahoe offer unmatched exhilaration
What also becomes chillingly clear from this vantage is that all that prevents one from tumbling into that perfect cerulean is a waist-high wall of wicker. I gripped the edge of that basket with white knuckles and smiled as a marriage proposal unfolded sweetly 18 inches from my face. Up until then, I just thought the guy was more scared of heights than I was. One morning last summer, before dawn, I’d stumbled out of a messy bed and made the call to Lake Tahoe Balloons.
Our Guide to Hawaii’s Most Beautiful Island
Hawaii's most beautiful island is probably one you've never heard of. Located just east of Oahu, Molokai offers an untamed look at the state’s natural charms, including pristine beaches, clear water, and, best of all, uninterrupted solitude. Read our guide to the place, then go book a trip. There aren’t any stoplights on Molokai. There aren’t freeways or resorts either. There’s no fast food, no Walmart, no ABC stores. Most of the roads don’t have lines.
This Is the Best Paddleboard Gear of 2018
Light, sturdy, and sustainable, bamboo makes a solid shaft for a SUP paddle. The Green Grass has a durable fiberglass blade that works equally well on whitewater runs and mellow cruises. With a bug-deterring coating and a large hood, the Kaliani is a solid partner for afternoons on the water. Thumb loops stop the sleeves from riding up, and there’s a zip pocket for keys. Croakies let you avoid overboard catastrophes, and with its Conservation edition you can do good, too.
The Best Stand-Up Paddleboards of 2018
Paddleboarding is a young sport, and each year boards seem to become lighter, cheaper, and more finely tuned. This year, I spent 13 days testing a collection of boards new for 2018 and came away impressed with several that specialize in river trips, tandem paddling, or lake cruising. But it was Surftech’s new Aleka that was my favorite stand-up paddleboard of 2018. The Aleka is as comfortable navigating rivers as it is surfing small waves off the coast of Northern California.
The Best Coffee Tools for Backpackers
When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we earn an affiliate commission that helps pay for our work. Read more about Outside’s affiliate policy. Many hikers develop a fondness for their gear. Maybe it's a comfortable shirt or a worn-in pack. But for some, a steaming cup of black gold in the morning is as indispensable as a trusty old pair of boots.
The Best Water Accessories of 2018
Tried and true gear for river, lake, and ocean play. Get wet and wild without worrying about sun-damaged skin. Buff’s simple tube-shaped designs are popular for a few good reasons: they’re versatile, they’re unobtrusive, and they shield your head and neck from getting burned. Plus, the graphics are flashy and totally on-theme. Water and electronics don’t mix—most of the time. H20’s Surge+ Bluetooth headphones are an exception.
The Best Stand-Up Paddleboards of 2018
Versatility is the name of the game. Surftech’s Aleka takes home our Gear of the Year award for one deceptively simple reason: in nearly all conditions, it shone. Designed for SUPers focused on fitness, it’s lightweight, it’s durable, and it held its own on distance outings, through choppy short trips, and in small waves off the Northern California coast.
Seven wine bars, shops offer winter vintage in Truckee and Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is not what you’d call wine country. But the area does boast a smattering of wine bars and shops dedicated to the craft. And there are few seasons better to enjoy these cozy hideouts than winter. Below are Tahoe Magazine’s lucky seven spots that are sure to satisfy your urge to imbibe: The quaint South Shore refuge celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. Billed as “creative California cuisine,” Nepheles is perfect for visitors looking for a quiet upscale escape.
Winter vintage | nnbw.com
Lake Tahoe is not what you'd call wine country. But the area does boast a smattering of wine bars and shops dedicated to the craft. And there are few seasons better to enjoy these cozy hideouts than winter. Below are Tahoe Magazine's lucky seven spots that are sure to satisfy your urge to imbibe: The quaint South Shore refuge celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. Billed as "creative California cuisine," Nepheles is perfect for visitors looking for a quiet upscale escape.
Tahoe Magazines lucky seven spots for a great glass of wine
Lake Tahoe is not what you'd call wine country. But the area does boast a smattering of wine bars and shops dedicated to the craft. And there are few seasons better to enjoy these cozy hideouts than winter. Below are Tahoe Magazine's lucky seven spots that are sure to satisfy your urge to imbibe: For a truly impressive variety, winos must visit Uncorked, which has locations in Tahoe City, Squaw Valley and Historic Downtown Truckee.
Aprés ski at Lake Tahoe
Let's be honest. Skiers and snowboarders come to Lake Tahoe for more than just the snow. The area is famous for its entertainment, dining and, of course, a lively aprés scene. From fully stocked breweries to rowdy pizza bars, the area is full of fun for those who have energy to spare after a day on the slopes. Below is a look at Tahoe Magazine's top five aprés ski bars to check out this winter: It's hard to miss Le Chamois.
The Best Stand-Up Paddleboard Gear
Stand-up paddleboarding offers a fun alternative to traditional boating. Here's the gear you need to break into the sport. With a relaxed fit and full UV protection, the 24/7 Tech is an easy choice for a paddling shirt. The polyester fabric dries quickly and is breathable and stretchy, and it fits as well underwater as it does atop your board. Call it a simple and stylish amphibious shoe.
DIY Surfboards - The Dirtbag’s Guide
Author’s note: As a journalist, I feel I need to be transparent about my credibility. I don’t want to give the impression that I’m good at making surfboards. If you’re looking for a serious how-to on shaping and glassing, visit Surfer Steve (surfersteve.com). What I can provide is the experience of someone who’s almost made three boards. Two of these boards surf without going in circles. The third might surf if the smoldering chemical fire in this shitty trailer does not spread.
2017 Summer Gear Guide: For Women
From sleeping bags to GoPro cameras to trail guides — and just about everything else in between — our summer 2017 gear guide has a little bit of everything for everyone. Check out this year's offerings, available at a variety of retail outlets across the Tahoe-Truckee region. Happy Summer! You can't do the Tahoe Rim Trail with a fanny pack. Trips through Desolation or Granite Chief Wilderness require a bag with some space. The North Face's latest design is tailored specifically to women.
2017 Summer Gear Guide: For Men
From sleeping bags to GoPro cameras to trail guides — and just about everything else in between — our summer 2017 gear guide has a little bit of everything for everyone. Check out this year's offerings, available at a variety of retail outlets across the Tahoe-Truckee region. Happy Summer! The Tahoe summer sun can be relentless. A good sunshade is easy way to protect yourself and family from the heat. It's also useful when staking your claim on busy beaches.
Tahoe-Truckee shopping: Check out these 5 gear gift ideas for men
As another winter falls from the sky — and the holiday season approaches — you may want to add a few upgrades to your equipment closet. Whether you’re sledding, snowshoeing or snowboarding, this year’s round of gear will surely keep you warm, dry and happy on Tahoe’s chilliest days. Check below for five holiday gear gift options for the men in your life. And click here if you missed last week’s guide for gifts for the ladies.
Tahoe-Truckee shopping: Holiday gear gift ideas for women
NORTH TAHOE-TRUCKEE — As another winter falls from the sky — and the holiday season approaches — you may want to add a few upgrades to your equipment closet. Whether you’re sledding, snowshoeing or snowboarding, this year’s round of gear will surely keep you warm, dry and happy on Tahoe’s chilliest days. Check below for five holiday gear gift options for the women in your life. Look to SierraSun.com next week for guy gift ideas: Helmets aren’t just for safety anymore.
Lake Tahoe’s backcountry isn’t all fun and games, highlighted by these 5 gnarly runs
With the Tahoe region still longing for its first legit snowstorm of the season, several Tahoe ski areas had adjusted their projected opening dates. Below is a recap of the most recent information for most of our world-class resorts: Backcountry skiing and snowboarding is inherently dangerous. Always check weather and avalanche conditions at sierraavalanchecenter.org” target=”_blank”>Bold”>sierraavalanchecenter.org , the website for the Tahoe-based nonprofit Sierra Avalanche Center.
TahoeDailyTribune.com
The mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe are full of excellent terrain for backcountry enthusiasts. From the basin’s tallest mountain, Freel Peak, to some of the more accessible zones like Powder House, there are tours for every ability level. Though the area isn’t on par with Alaska for steep, technical runs, a few of Tahoe’s peaks are worth any expert’s full attention. That’s to say, there are a few gnarly spots here. If you’re an expert, you’ll find the lines listed below challenging and fun.
TahoeDailyTribune.com
As another winter falls from the sky, you may want to add a few upgrades to your equipment closet. Whether sledding, snowshoeing or snowboarding, this year’s round of gear will surely keep you warm, dry and happy on Tahoe’s chilliest days. When the wind is howling and the snow is piling up, you’ll want outerwear that doesn’t mess around. Patagonia’s Refugitive Jacket is made of nearly airtight, three-layer Gore-Tex. The fabric allows heat and sweat to escape, but won’t let the cold in.
TahoeDailyTribune.com
The arrival of another winter also means the chance to upgrade your equipment. For the ladies that love the outdoors, this year’s latest gear offers both style and function for Tahoe’s winter. If you haven’t experienced the wonder of Gore-Tex in outerwear, it’s about time. The fabric is nearly waterproof but breathes like mesh, perfect for Tahoe’s bipolar weather. The North Face has applied the high-tech textile in their stylish new NFZ pant.
The hard way down: Backcountry skiing in Lake Tahoe
The mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe are full of excellent terrain for backcountry enthusiasts. From the basin’s tallest mountain, Freel Peak, to some of the more accessible zones like Powder House, there are tours for every ability level. Though the area isn’t on par with Alaska for steep, technical runs, a few of Tahoe’s peaks are worth any expert’s full attention. That’s to say, there are a few gnarly spots here. If you’re an expert, you’ll find the lines listed below challenging and fun.
Explore Tahoe: Check out these 5 gnarly backcountry runs (for once it snows)
With the Tahoe region still longing for its first legit snowstorm of the season, several Tahoe ski areas have adjusted their projected opening dates. Below is a recap of the most recent information for most of our world-class resorts: Backcountry skiing and snowboarding is inherently dangerous. Always check weather and avalanche conditions at sierraavalanchecenter.org” target=”_blank”>Bold”>sierraavalanchecenter.org , the website for the Tahoe-based nonprofit Sierra Avalanche Center.
Tahoe athletes: Josh Daiek thunders into the professional freeskiing scene
This article is adapted from the winter 2016-17 edition of Tahoe Magazine, a joint publication of the Sierra Sun, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza, Tahoe Daily Tribune and Lake Tahoe Action. The magazine, which features loads of features and advertisements about all that the Tahoe winter has to offer, is on newsstands now across Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Reno. Click here to read the digital edition , or be sure to pick up a copy today! Visit joshdaiek.com to learn more about the life journey of Josh Daiek.
Flipping out: Kirkwood local Josh Daiek thunders into the professional freeskiing scene
Professional skier Josh Daiek’s Instagram account is a virtual handbook to hucking the biggest backflips known to man. From bridges to antenna BASE jumps, cliffs and huge booters, the 33-year-old South Lake Tahoe local loves to be upside down. Heading into his 15th Tahoe winter, Daiek — originally from the outskirts of Detroit — remembers back to where he first learned to launch himself.
Move over, Lake Tahoe: Many local tiny lakes well worth a hike and a visit
A few years ago, San Francisco resident Mike Mullen began photographing the small lakes around Lake Tahoe, particularly the lakes of Desolation Wilderness. He counted close to 90 named lakes and has now collected images of almost all of them on his website, lakesofdesolation.com. Almost every lake in Desolation is worth the hike out, Mullen says. “Somebody asked me, ‘If you could do anything, what would you do?’ I said I’d photograph all the lakes of the Sierra,” Mullen recalls.
Move over, Lake Tahoe: Many local tiny lakes well worth a hike and a visit
A few years ago, San Francisco resident Mike Mullen began photographing the small lakes around Lake Tahoe, particularly the lakes of Desolation Wilderness. He counted close to 90 named lakes and has now collected images of almost all of them on his website, lakesofdesolation.com. Almost every lake in Desolation is worth the hike out, Mullen says. “Somebody asked me, ‘If you could do anything, what would you do?’ I said I’d photograph all the lakes of the Sierra,” Mullen recalls.
Hot springs around Reno-Tahoe region offer warm respite from winter
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — Sierra Nevada winter weather can be vicious. The snow can be wet and heavy, capable of soaking anyone who’s in it through to the bone. The wind can bite like an invisible demon. Even on sunny days, the cold can be relentless. When it’s at its worst, we all need somewhere to hide. Hot springs in the Lake Tahoe-Truckee region are the perfect escape from winter weather. From full-service spas to basic soaking pools, there are springs for everyone.
Soak it in | TahoeDailyTribune.com
Editor’s note: This story first appeared in 2015-16 winter edition of Tahoe Magazine, a product of the Sierra Sun, North Lake Tahoe Bonanza, Tahoe Daily Tribune and Lake Tahoe Action. The magazine is available now on newsstands throughout the greater Reno-Truckee-Tahoe region. Sierra Nevada winter weather can be vicious. The snow can be wet and heavy, capable of soaking anyone who’s in it through to the bone. The wind can bite like an invisible demon. Even on sunny days, the cold can be relentless.
Genius Idea: Rollick Hotels Mobile Shipping Container Units
A city’s capacity to host a massive event (think the Olympics or World Cup) is only as large as its number of hotel rooms. Once those brick-and-mortar accommodations fill up, guests are turned away. But one Houston-based startup aims to change that. Rollick Hotels plans to build mobile hotel rooms in shipping containers. The units can be set up at major sporting events or music festivals to boost lodging options. When the crowds leave, the rooms can be packed up and shipped to another locale.
On The DL - a web series
This campaign started on Dec 16 and will close on January 21, 2015 (11:59pm PT). This campaign will receive all funds raised even if it does not reach its goal.
Surfing For Change - High Fives
Surfing is loaded with young guns that can huck air reverses while texting and can ride while posting to Instagram simultaneously. While this group is inspiring in their talent, the sheer volume of great surfers makes it hard for any one to stand out. So, what does it take? Ask Kyle Thiermann. The 24-year-old has made a name for himself not only as a great surfer, but also as a surfer that’s doing something extra.
Secret to Perfect Coffee
There's science behind the perfect draw for your espresso. Photo: Dan Lacher/Flickr With the World Barista Championships going down June 9-12 in Rimini, Italy, a UK scientist and a Bath barista champion believe they have concocted the formula for the perfect brew—and, potentially, victory.
The Best Spring Hikes in Yosemite
Best For: Experiencing Vertigo Aside from Half Dome, the Yosemite Falls Trail is one of the park’s most popular strenuous trails. It’s also one of the oldest. As snow begins to melt, North America’s tallest waterfall is an amazing spectacle. On cold spring days, mist ices the granite wall around the falls, creating a white halo. As the sun warms the rock, the giant sheets of ice crash to the ground.
The Best Spring Hikes in Yosemite
Yosemite National Park offers arguably the most scenic hiking in the country. The only challenge? Picking which trail to hike. With spring in full swing, here are a few tried-and-true options. Vernal Falls Trail Best For: Getting Wet On warm spring days, hiking the Mist Trail is a fun way to cool down. Starting at the footbridge, expect the spray of the falls to soak much of the trail. Set off from the Happy Isles trailhead and continue past the John Muir Trail split.
The Best Spring Hikes in Yosemite
Get full access to Outside Learn, our online education hub featuring in-depth fitness, nutrition, and adventure courses and more than 2,000 instructional videos when you sign up for Outside+. Yosemite National Park offers arguably the most scenic hiking in the country. The only challenge? Picking which trail to hike. With spring in full swing, here are a few tried-and-true options. Vernal Falls Trail Best For: Getting Wet On warm spring days, hiking the Mist Trail is a fun way to cool down.
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