Advice

The Best Backpacking Stoves of 2024

The Best Backpacking Stoves of 2024

There's nothing quite like the simple luxury of a hot meal after a grueling day on trail. It's one of those things that make us love thru-hiking despite the aches...

Feb 29, 2024 : The Editors
Lessons Learned: Going into my 2nd Thru-Hike

Lessons Learned: Going into my 2nd Thru-Hike

New Year, New Trail After a year away from thru-hiking, it's time to get back onto the trail. Since immersing myself in thru-hiking culture in 2017, it's been a significant...

Feb 26, 2024 : Thomas Allie
Rockin’ in the Bedrocks: Long Distance Hiking in Sandals

Rockin’ in the Bedrocks: Long Distance Hiking in Sandals

Importance of Footwear Selecting the right footwear for the trail is undoubtedly one of the most crucial decisions a hiker can make. The wrong shoes can significantly hinder your hike,...

Feb 13, 2024 : Thomas Allie
The Best Backpacking Quilts of 2024

The Best Backpacking Quilts of 2024

Quilts are all the rage these days, and it's easy to see why. They're more streamlined than sleeping bags, and when used correctly, they can still be incredibly warm and...

Jan 23, 2024 : The Editors
Essential Gear for a 4,400-Mile Thru-Hike

Essential Gear for a 4,400-Mile Thru-Hike

Embarking on a thru-hike is no small feat. While the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail have secured their place as two of the most popular long-distance trails in the...

Jan 19, 2024 : Kendra Slagter
Wind Shirts + Alpha Direct: The Next Layering Revolution for Thru-Hiking?

Wind Shirts + Alpha Direct: The Next Layering Revolution for Thru-Hiking?

The best and lightest backpacking gear seems to change by the week. Every time I go online, there's a new tent or backpack making waves in the hiking community. Certain...

Dec 27, 2023 : Alex "GPS" Brown
GPS Watches: Which Are Best For Thru-Hiking?

GPS Watches: Which Are Best For Thru-Hiking?

Interested in rocking a GPS watch the next time you go thru-hiking? Here's a breakdown the most popular choices and their features.

Aug 29, 2023 : Katie Kommer
The Slow Descent and Ascent Into Erwin, I-19, and Madness

The Slow Descent and Ascent Into Erwin, I-19, and Madness

Day 31 Today felt great! Hiking by myself without having to feel like I need to catch up with others or meet them based on plans is so freeing. I...

May 13, 2023 : Guinevere Drabik
Day 30 – Lessons learned in 30 days

Day 30 – Lessons learned in 30 days

As I sit here in bed listening to the possum that lives in the motel ceiling, it dawned upon me that today is a full month on trail. I thought...

May 5, 2023 : Guinevere Drabik
DEET vs Picaridin vs Natural Insect Repellent for Backpacking

DEET vs Picaridin vs Natural Insect Repellent for Backpacking

My husband and I were in the Sierra Nevada right after peak snowmelt. Those who know, know: right after peak snowmelt comes peak mosquitos. We had some DEET lotion with...

Dec 27, 2022 : Penina Crocker