Advice
The Journey Toward Ultralight
It’s not just about gear I used to think ultralight backpackers I met or heard of were totally crazy. These individuals were a special breed of super fast hikers who cared...
Nothing Weighs Nothing
Seven hundred miles into my 2011 Appalachian Trail thru-hike, I met Scavenger. From Germany, Scavenger exuded the look of the classic European mountaineer with a wide-brimmed brown felt hat, heavy
The Pains of Hiking Lite
The straps of my 46L pack dug deep, red, pressure marks in my shoulders. None of the 20-25lb loads stored in the nearly frameless pack, (a now-discontinued Osprey Hornet) was...
The Best Cameras and Lenses for Hiking and Backpacking
Although no camera can perfectly recreate the beauty of the backcountry, some do a much job than others. Once upon a time, using professional-caliber photography setup would've added several extra
Going Light Vs Being Comfortable
Before I started my thru-hike in 2015, I was obsessive about getting my pack as light as possible. I cut the tags out of my clothing, spent thousands of dollars...
Transfer Fuel to a New Canister with this Gadget
Let's face it, most of us use canister stoves. They're easy and convenient—a no-fuss, no-muss—way to cook! (what is muss anyway?) However, one of the little situations we might not...
2017 JMT Prep and Stove Testing
I’m getting ready for this year’s version of the John Muir Trail, beginning in August. The initial logistics are pretty intensive, but this being the third time around, it becomes...
Can I Thru-Hike in Chacos?
HALFWAY BABY Short answer, probs. Hiking the Appalachian Trail is chiefly a personal endeavor. From the gear you buy to the beer you pack out, it's 100% up to you. Some...
Digital media on the trail, part 1
Bored-nothing to do: 9 subscriptions to consider So you’ve made the leap - you’re thru-hiking (or maybe you’re hiking a section). The call of the wild and the woods was...
AT Hiking and Cell Service: Pay-as-you-go cell phones
On the trail, cell phones come in handy. They can be used to stay in touch with other hikers, to make calls to family and friends, putting in reservations at...