Backcountry Water Filtration VS Purification
To Filter or Purify? That is indeed the question! A conundrum many that are new to backpacking face. So how exactly do you decided which safety measure to take when there are countless options available to you? It is actually very simple if you bre...
Finding the Right Snowshoe Boot
Are you that Backpacker/Hiker that loves to play in deep snow? I am. So when I wanted to buy my snowshoes and snowboots I automatically look lightweight. There are many choices out there when buying a snowshoe boot. However, with the hundreds of c...
The Truth about Mentally Preparing for Long Distance Hike
When I set out to Thru-Hike the entire Appalachian Trail in 2003, one of the things I first did was get in shape. I mean, you are walking over 2,000 miles up and down every day right? However, not that long into my hike I realized I wasn't battling...
What I’ve learned in 20 years of backpacking
Wow! 2017 will mark 20 years of backpacking for me. That's crazy!!! No wonder I make sounds when I get out of a chair. What I've learned from all those years out on the trail? Backpacking is hard! I've been on this earth for 50...
Avoid Mistakes in the Backcountry
In recent post's, I've posted on some common mistakes new backpackers have made while wandering into the backcountry. While it's important to make sure you have proper equipment, it's even more important to let people know where your going, and how...
For the Love of Exploring
This weeks inspiration comes to you from Mountainsmith Gear. It's truly a awe inspiring video shot in some rarely seen areas "between the three political and economic powerhouses of Iran, Russia and Turkey called the
How to buy the 10 Essentials on a Budget
When someone first try's out backpacking for the first time, often they get a "sticker shock" when they start pricing out gear. Of course, the first thing they get is the 10 essential list that they run out and buy at REI or their local outfitter. ...
Backpacking Clubs: Should you join one?
As technology has brought us more connected, is often why we head for the wilderness also. It's often argued that we are becoming desensitized to our surroundings. Often we want to just get away and renew our soul with nature. However, with all t...
What if I get lost in the Wilderness?
One of the more popular comments we get when we teach backpacking is "what happens if I get lost"? It doesn't happen often, but it does happen. Any Search and Rescue person would tell you it's normally day hikers, but on occasion it happens to bac...
How to Choose a Backpacking Stove for YOU
Wow! Lot's of info on how to choose a backpacking stove right? What's the best, which one is the lightest, or the fastest too get water to a boil. It really is a daunting process if you are new to backpacking. We put this video together to explain ...
Essential Tips For Reducing Weight
You might be surprised how fast you can overpack your backpack. There are 3 "big ticket" essentials as I call them, that are not only important, but impact your total pack wieght. Keep in mind, though, it is a process. You have to be willing to be ...
Backpacking Trail Etiquette Stay on the Trail
Trail etiquette is huge! It separates you from knowing what you're doing, from people not liking you. I have seen this a hundred times on the trail. For example: If you bring your dog, leash it during meal time. Some other questions I get such as, ...