My journey into the realm of satellite communication devices began unexpectedly during a 2018 thru-hike of the Continental Divide. A simple mishap—accidentally activating the SOS feature on my outdated Delorme GPS—set off an extensive and unnecessary search and rescue operation in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming. This incident ignited a curiosity within me about the various satellite communication and GPS devices available in the market, their capabilities, and the diverse range of options at our disposal.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to test and review a wide array of devices, from basic personal locator beacons (PLBs) to advanced handheld units like the Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus. Each new device I encounter continues to impress me with the rapid evolution of technology in this field.
About Dean Krakel
Among those who share a passion for exploration and storytelling is Dean Krakel, a distinguished three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist, photographer, and photo editor. His work has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as National Geographic, Rolling Stone, Cowboys & Indians, High Country News, National Wildlife, Outside, Time, Yoga Journal, Newsweek, and Life magazines.
With over four decades of experience, Dean’s early documentary-style photographs, including his iconic images of the Marlboro Man for the Leo Burnett Agency, gained international recognition. He has authored three notable books: Season of the Elk, Downriver, and Krakel’s West. In 2015, he transitioned from his role at the Denver Post to embark on a 500-mile journey along the Colorado Trail, which inspired the award-winning film The Long Haul, honored with a Heartland Emmy Award.
Dean’s fine art prints are highly sought after by collectors and have been showcased in galleries across Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Santa Fe, New Mexico. Notably, large exhibition prints of his work are permanently displayed in the Denver Justice Center. Currently, Dean resides in Crested Butte, Colorado, where he continues to create and share his artistic vision. For those interested in exploring more of Dean’s work, his author page on Treeline Review offers a glimpse into his impressive portfolio.
