We’re not sitting inside lamenting the cold, wind, and rain as we daydream about the first blooms of spring or the warmth of the summer sun. We crave the elements. And we plan on being outside as much as we can between now and the end of the year. We’re going to finish strong!

Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather."

- John Ruskin, Art Critic and Philanthropist

The entire reason for GORE-TEX gear to exist is so we can be outside doing the things we love, no matter the weather. It’s why we invest in products made with GORE-TEX product technology. When adventure calls, we have to answer. It’s not a choice. It’s simply who we are. There are some amazing benefits that come with inclement weather. Casual hikers and backpackers often avoid popular trails, leaving us to enjoy the elements in solitude. And there’s a unique splendor that comes with the fall and winter landscapes. Blazing leaves of red, orange, and gold give way to serene palettes of gray, white, and brown. Though some might call those palettes drab, we celebrate the haunting beauty that occurs while the earth slumbers. And let’s not forget that as the temperatures drop, the insects disappear. But let’s face it. Weather isn’t the only thing that can stand in our way this time of year. With the holidays fast approaching our social calendars are going to fill up. As much as we love celebrating with family and friends (not to mention all the wonderful food), we refuse to lose focus. It’s why we put together an End of the Year Adventure List. We’re plotting out the hiking trails, and even a climb or two that we want to accomplish before the clock strikes midnight on December 31st. And we’ll continue to talk about finishing strong here on the blog, as well as our Facebook and Twitter accounts with the hashtag #FinishStrong. And we want to see how you’re finishing strong in 2015! Be sure to share photos on our Facebook page, or through your Twitter and Instagram accounts with the #FinishStrong hashtag so we can celebrate with you. Our gear is packed. The camera batteries are charged. And the clock is ticking. So let’s get out there and #FinishStrong! Here are some additional blog posts to help you #FinishStrong in 2015:

• Winter Camping and Backpacking Tips (from REI)
• Our Top 6 Backpacking Trips For Your Bucket List
• How to Plan a Family Backpacking Adventure
• Climbing Through the Seasons
• Best Hiking Trails Near You: Southeastern US
• Best Hiking Trails Near You: Northeastern US