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Kieran James Cunningham

Kieran James Cunningham is a climber, mountaineer, and author who divides his time between the Italian Alps, the US, and his native Scotland.

He has climbed a handful of 6000ers in the Himalayas, 4000ers in the Alps, 14ers in the US, and loves nothing more than a good long-distance wander in the wilderness. He climbs when he should be writing, writes when he should be sleeping, has fun always.

Kieran has taught mountaineering, ice climbing, and single-pitch and multi-pitch rock climbing in a variety of contexts over the years and has led trekking and mountaineering expeditions in the Alps, Rockies, and UK. He is currently working towards qualifying as a Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor and International Mountain Leader.

Kieran’s book Climbing the Walls—an exploration of the mental health benefits of climbing, mountaineering, and the great outdoors—released by Simon & Schuster in 2021.

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Whiteout, Fog and Darkness: How to Navigate in Low Visibility

While prevention is better than cure. Learning How to Navigate in Low Visibility is a useful skill. Learn how with our tips.
Kieran James Cunningham
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Topographic Map Hiking Symbols and Colors: Navigation Training 101

Key to knowing where you are is understanding the topographic map symbols in front of you. Check out our 101 guide to learn more.
Kieran James Cunningham
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How to Start a Fire With Ice: Step-by-Step Instructions

No matches, lighter, or firestarter? No problem! In this guide, we’ll teach you how to start a fire using nothing more than a chunk of ice, the sun’s rays, a little tinder, and a steady hand.
Kieran James Cunningham
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5 Excellent Reasons Why You Should Learn Map Reading

Thanks to smart devices, true map reading is becoming less prevalent - we give 5 reasons why learning to map read is still an important skill to learn.
Kieran James Cunningham
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The 19 Physical & Mental Benefits of Being Outside

It really should come as no surprise that we humans are spending less and less time outdoors and it's having an effect on our physical and mental wellbeing. We take you through 19 scientifically backed benefits of being outside to help convince you to get out there once in a while!
Kieran James Cunningham
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Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the USA’s premier hiking destinations. Discover how to see the very best of it in this guide, which features 19 of the park's most unmissable trails.
Kieran James Cunningham
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Camping With Kids: 27 Tips for Stress-Free & Fun Family Camping Trips

Going camping with your baby, toddler, kid, or teen? Don’t hit the panic button yet! Our comprehensive guide and game-changing tips will teach you how to survive (and enjoy!) your trip.
Kieran James Cunningham
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Setting Up a Campsite: Tips & Hacks

Throwing your bag down & pitching your tent on the first flat spot isn't necessarily the way to go - Learn how to setup camp the smart way with our guide.
Kieran James Cunningham
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Butt Chafing: Prevention And Cures For The Hiker’s Curse

Prevention and remedial treatments for chafing while hiking are easy to learn and apply, and in this article, we'll be taking you through each of them step by step.
Kieran James Cunningham
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