The parallels between backpacking and relationships are innumerable, if not completely contrived for the sake of this introduction. For instance, take Paul Simon and me. We’ve never been in a relationship, but he thinks there are 50 ways to leave…
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Don’t let a heavy pack suck all of the fun out of a trip into the backcountry. Here are a few easy tried-and-true ways to shave a bit of weight without losing too much comfort. Learn how to lighten up now.
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Planning ahead is crucial to, not only the enjoyment but the safety of your next backcountry adventure. Get our tips for better planning that lead to better times in the great outdoors.
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Imagine waking up backpacking in a tropical paradise surrounded by fresh coconut, the waves of the ocean crashing in the distance, and a climate warm enough that you get to leave the puffy jacket behind. I had never considered tropical…
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After guiding backpacking trips across the West for over six summers, I’ve learned something: people love campfires. The smoldering embers, the dancing smoke, the popping and crackling and whistling… Campfires evoke a certain nostalgia and add coziness to any experience….
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My best friend Heidi and I laid all the gear on the living room floor while August, Heidi’s two-year-old son, danced through the piles asking if he could eat the Snickers bar that was going into our food bag. When…
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Pros and cons of common gear dichotomies like tents vs. tarps, air mattress vs. closed cell foam, cooking stoves vs. cold soaking, and suspension framed packs vs. going frameless.
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I barely slept my first night of backpacking in the desert. Howling winds unrelentingly assaulted my tent poles, bending them close to their breaking point. I knelt for hours with my back against the tent wall, arms pressing upward to…
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So you are taking your friend on their first backpacking trip. This is exciting! There’s nothing like introducing a friend to a new hobby and seeing their satisfaction when they successfully push themselves out of their comfort zone. These tips will help you pull off a successful trip for your friend.
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How to introduce your little one to nature through your love of backpacking and camping. Tips on what to pack, the best age to start and how to sleep.
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Though only 5 p.m., the forest was dark and snow fell heavily. The eight of us (three wilderness therapy guides, plus five participants) huddled around a fire beneath a tarp staked down with snowshoes—our wet and cold bodies packed onto…
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A sample menu with recipes to help you get started on making your own tasty, healthy backpacking recipes.
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