Jim Rahtz

My name is Jim, though on the trail I'm occasionally known as Simba. When I retired a few years ago I returned to backpacking and found, for me, the sweet spot is long trails, but not that long. In the past few years I've thru-hiked the Colorado Trail, Long Trail, JMT, Tahoe Rim Trail, Sheltowee Trace and others. To me, these 200-500 mile trails can be life changing, without taking so long that I have to change my life to accomplish them. I think they're a great alternative for those that don't have the time, ability, circumstances, or need to hike one of the Triple Crown. I'm a Past President of the Outdoor Writers of Ohio and through the years have written other articles and a few books about backpacking. Much of my local hiking is covered at backpackohio.com.

Posts

REI Co-op Swiftland H2O Waterproof Jacket Review

REI Co-op Swiftland H2O Waterproof Jacket Review

REI's Swiftland H2O rain jacket is designed for running. Are we crazy for using it while backpacking? Our reviewer finds out.

Nov 8, 2023 : Jim Rahtz
REI Swiftland ½ Zip Run Pullover Review

REI Swiftland ½ Zip Run Pullover Review

The REI Swiftland Pullover is a midlayer designed for cool weather runs. How does it do when you slow down and bring a backpack?

Oct 10, 2023 : Jim Rahtz
[Book Review] Two Thousand Miles to Happy by Andrea Shapiro

[Book Review] Two Thousand Miles to Happy by Andrea Shapiro

Two Thousand Miles to Happy is an illustrated children's book that chronicles Earl Shaffer's historic thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail.

Jul 28, 2023 : Jim Rahtz
[Book Review] Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story by Clay Bonnyman Evans

[Book Review] Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story by Clay Bonnyman Evans

Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story Author: Clay Bonnyman Evans MSRP: $14 Publisher: Pony Tales Publishing Clay Bonnyman

Jul 7, 2022 : Jim Rahtz
Black Bears and Thru-Hiking: Your Questions Answered

Black Bears and Thru-Hiking: Your Questions Answered

On a recent hike through Glacier National Park, my wife, Michelle, and I encountered multiple bears. Michelle had a more than healthy respect for the

Sep 14, 2020 : Jim Rahtz
Help Wanted: Beer Drinking Appalachian Trail Hiker

Help Wanted: Beer Drinking Appalachian Trail Hiker

Yes, you read that right. Despite the recent surge in unemployment, there is a position available that requires hiking the Appalachian Trail and

Jun 22, 2020 : Jim Rahtz
The Foothills Trail: 77 Miles Through South and North Carolina

The Foothills Trail: 77 Miles Through South and North Carolina

The Foothills Trail runs from Oconee State Park to Table Rock State Park, both in South Carolina. In between, the path meanders through Sumter

Apr 10, 2020 : Jim Rahtz
Gear Review: Kammok Pongo Pad Air Mattress and Puffin Pillow

Gear Review: Kammok Pongo Pad Air Mattress and Puffin Pillow

It may be because I’m getting older, but a decent night’s sleep while backpacking is getting more and more important. Gone are the days of using

Aug 8, 2019 : Jim Rahtz
The Lakeshore Trail: Travel the Length of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The Lakeshore Trail: Travel the Length of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks is the setting for the Lakeshore Trail. The path runs the length of the park, approximately 43 miles, and is often within sight of

May 31, 2019 : Jim Rahtz
Gear Review: REI Magma 30 Sleeping Bag

Gear Review: REI Magma 30 Sleeping Bag

I’d been in the market for a new sleeping bag for a while. My 55-degree bag was light, but only useful for summer trips at lower elevations. My older

May 27, 2019 : Jim Rahtz