Outdoor brands you might not know, but you should — Mountain Gazette.
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Blog Series: 08/12 | Mountain gazette
Mountain Gazette/Issue 202
I love quality, well-made products. Working in advertising as a creative, from the giant agencies to the boutiques, has given me a unique perspective. It's not always about the big names you know; sometimes, it's the ones you don't that capture your eye.
Now, stepping away from agency life with Overland Girl, I'm spotlighting the brands that ignite my passion and confidence. With my creative roots and a career that's crossed paths with both the well-known and the obscure, I'm excited to share the brands that stand out—not just for their products but for their stories, commitment, and undeniable spirit. This blog is part of a series where I highlight some of the most unique and inspiring outdoor brands. Let’s dive into the world of these hidden gems, exploring what makes them tick and, perhaps, finding the one that speaks to you. You might already know these brands; if so, that’s great: Mammut, Black Crows, Wild Rye, Stio, Snow Peak, Dragon Alliance, Big Agnes, Mountain Gazette, Wild Sam, HipCamp, Rumpl, and Rovr Coolers.
Today, I’m excited to focus on Mountain Gazette, a publication that has become a cultural icon in the outdoor community. It offers a blend of storytelling, breathtaking photography, and authentic voices that celebrate the spirit of the mountains and the people who live and play in them.
The Revival of Mountain Gazette.
Mountain Gazette, a magazine beloved by mountain enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, has a history of passion, resilience, and a deep connection to mountain culture. Recently revived by a new owner, the magazine has returned to its roots, continuing to captivate readers with its unique blend of stories, photography, and cultural insights.
The History Behind Mountain Gazette.
Founded in 1966 as Skier’s Gazette, the magazine was initially a niche publication catering to skiers. In 1972, under the visionary leadership of Mike Moore, it was rebranded as Mountain Gazette. Moore’s editorial approach emphasized authenticity and depth, exploring critical issues facing the West alongside art and literary offerings. This made the magazine stand out from other outdoor publications, focusing on substance over style and advertising dollars.
Despite its influence and popularity, the magazine faced financial difficulties, leading to its closure in 1979. It experienced a brief revival in the early 1980s and again in 2000, each time striving to maintain its original spirit of honest and insightful journalism.
Why the New Owner Bought the Magazine.
In January 2020, Mike Rogge, a seasoned journalist and film producer, acquired Mountain Gazette through his media production company, Verb Cabin. Rogge’s vision for the magazine was to preserve its legacy while making it relevant to contemporary readers. He aimed to publish stories that other publications wouldn’t, reflecting diverse voices and the modern dynamics of mountain towns.
Rogge’s commitment to high-quality, long-form storytelling and stunning photography mirrors the magazine's original ethos. He believes in the power of storytelling to capture the essence of mountain life and culture, making Mountain Gazette a unique counter-voice in the outdoor media landscape.
Below is an excellent video with Mike Rogge talking about the history, why he purchased the magazine, and the future of Mountain Gazette - I love his passion for this editorial masterpiece.
Mountain Gazette Content.
Mountain Gazette covers many topics related to mountain culture and outdoor adventures. Its content appeals to readers who seek depth, authenticity, and a connection to the mountain lifestyle. Here’s what you can expect:
Long-Form Essays:
In-Depth Explorations: The magazine features comprehensive essays on Western culture, life in high-elevation towns, and critical environmental issues. These essays often span thousands of words, thoroughly examining topics that matter to mountain communities. For example, previous issues have included explorations of the environmental impact of tourism on mountain ecosystems and detailed profiles of mountain town characters.
Authentic Narratives: Writers share personal stories and experiences, offering readers a glimpse into the unique challenges and joys of mountain living. These authentic mountain stories give readers an intimate look at life in the mountains.
Art and Photography:
Stunning Visuals: Each issue is filled with photographs that capture the raw beauty and ruggedness of mountain landscapes. The high-quality paper and large format (11x17 inches) enhance the visual impact, making it a collectible item. As a mountain photography magazine, it features both professional and amateur photographers who convey the splendor of mountain environments. Past issues have showcased portfolios from renowned photographers like Dick Dorworth and visual essays on the changing seasons in the Rockies.
Artistic Contributions: The magazine also includes artwork from various artists, reflecting the creative spirit of mountain culture.
Personal Stories:
Diverse Voices: Mountain Gazette prides itself on featuring a range of voices, from seasoned adventurers to residents. These stories offer diverse perspectives on what it means to live and thrive in mountain communities.
Engaging Anecdotes: Readers will find engaging and often humorous anecdotes that bring the mountain experience to life. These outdoor adventure stories provide inspiration and practical insights for those looking to explore the mountains themselves.
Critical Commentary:
Thought-Provoking Articles: The magazine includes articles that challenge mainstream outdoor media and the commercialization of natural spaces. It addresses the environmental and social impacts of tourism and development in mountain regions.
Honest Criticism: Mountain Gazette has a tradition of speaking truth to power, often addressing controversial issues with a straightforward, no-nonsense approach.
Environmental and Cultural Insights:
Environmental Stewardship: Articles often focus on conservation efforts, sustainable practices, and the importance of preserving mountain ecosystems.
Cultural Heritage: The magazine delves into the history and traditions of mountain communities, celebrating their unique cultural heritage.
Why Subscribe to Mountain Gazette?
Print Ain’t Dead t-shirt from Mountain Gazette Shop
I have been dying to order my subscription. I finally had the funds to do so, and my first issue just shipped out hot off the press. I love anything about the mountains, discovering more about mountain towns, and learning about the culture. As an Art Director, I miss print and greatly appreciate what Mike Rogge has done. He often says in his social content and even has a t-shirt that reads “Print Ain’t Dead.” There is nothing like holding printed material in your hands.
Spread from Mountain Gazette Issue 201
Exclusive Content: Mountain Gazette offers content that is unavailable in other outdoor magazines. Its focus on long-form storytelling and cultural insights provides a rich, immersive reading experience.
Collector’s Item: Each issue is a collector's item due to its high-quality production values, including large format and superior paper quality. You can even purchase past covers to hang on your wall. If you have a cabin in the mountains, these would be great on one of your walls.
Support for Independent Media: By subscribing, readers support an independent publication dedicated to authentic journalism and the celebration of mountain culture. A Mountain Gazette subscription gives access to rich content and supports the continuation of a legacy publication.
The subscription is for two magazines a year for $70. A lot of heart and soul goes into each issue with a craft I miss in the digital age. The magazine is large format, so it is not a toss-to-the-side kind of magazine. As stated above, it is a curated, touchable art that is a statement for the mountain life.
Mountain Gazette: My First Issue Has Arrived.
Sitting in Overland Girl headquarters in Illinois reading Mountain Gazette.
I have been dying to subscribe to this magazine since I heard of it. Once I saw Mountain Gazette join my affiliate program, I said, "Yes!" The magazine is worth the $70 subscription fee. If you appreciate photography, the mountain lifestyle, long-form storytelling, and high-quality paper that feels nice, then this large-format publication is for you. It's a rare find today. By subscribing, you'll support a publication dedicated to the art of journalism through photography and the substance of the content. Subscribe to Mountain Gazette and experience the difference.
