Matt Suwak

Matt was reared by the bear and the bobcat and the coyote of rural Pennsylvania. For the moment he lives in Philadelphia and is a gardener and freelance writer by trade.

Matt's free time is devoted to traipsing through forests, angling in creeks, and hunting for rare plants and mushrooms. He's got a soft spot for reading Steinbeck while in the outdoors and is quickly becoming a die-hard hammock camper.

Matt is fueled almost entirely by beer and hot sauce.

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Universal Edibility Test: Practice Caution When Eating Raw

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I spent my childhood eating weird things, but I was always fascinated with edible plants. Often returning from the woods with a sizable portion of roots, berries, and leaves, but I would never have made it very far without knowing the universal edibility test. Learn how to test plants are safe to eat with our guide.

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Backcountry Skills: How to Whittle

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If you like to work with your hands, you’re guaranteed to find something worthwhile when learning how to whittle. It’s a great past time in the outdoors, so read on and grab a knife, some wood, and let’s get to work.

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How To Make A Campfire The Right Way

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A campfire is the most iconic image we associate with overnighting in the great outdoors but can be a fickle master. Learn all the essential knowledge you’ll need to learn how to build a campfire, the right way.

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Tokopah Falls Hiking Trail Guide

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One of the best trails in Sequoia National Park is the Tokopah Falls Trail. It’s a short out-and-back trip that can easily be added to almost any travel plan. Check out our trail guide for the low-down on how to get there, what to expect & what to bring.

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Goldbug Hot Springs, ID: Hiking Trail Guide

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A hike to Goldbug Hot Springs is easily done within a day, but plenty of primitive campsites line the trail. Check out our guide for all you need to plan your trip from directions, to a trail description to what to pack!