My top five tips for better wildflower photos: use a tripod, shoot at a fast shutter speed, shoot on the same plane as the flower, shoot on cloudy days, and use a telephoto or macro lens.

After a recent trip up Algonquin, I began wondering what impact this new line of traction devices is having on our mountains. On the one hand, they have lowered the cost and skill thresholds needed to ascending many peaks. On the other, they don’t provide the level of traction necessary for the harshest conditions and more difficult ascents.