EXPERT ADVICE

What do you want to know? From thru hikers to multi-sport aficionados, this is the spot to post questions to the seasoned adventurers in the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Orbit.

SOME MUSINGS ON FORGING ADVENTURE PARTNERSHIPS
Words and Photos by Brett Davis @bdavis I made a mistake the other day of overhearing a couple of my students gossip about their adventures in dating and seeking out a true relationship. From meeting in class to swiping left or right on an app, their stories were quite enlightening about the state of today’s dating world.…
HIKER HUNGER HANDBOOK – LET’S MAKE A COOKBOOK!
Hello, Trailheaders! We’d like to propose a community-sourced project that will benefit all of us outdoor explorer types–especially those who sometimes work up an appetite in the midst of big adventures. Show of hands–anyone here get hungry backpacking, trail running, paddling, pedaling, what-have-you? That’s what we…
JUST ADD WATER BACKPACKING RECIPES
Words by Kendra "Lay's" Perkins A thru hiker would tell you that food selection is less about nutrition and more about cost, convenience, and taste. Not that the two are always mutually exclusive, but when they are, it’s a question of whether you’d prefer a $1.00 honeybun from Dollar General or a $3.00 granola bar from…
OVERCOMING THE FEAR OF HIKING SOLO: TIPS FROM REBECCA SPERRY
Words & Photos by Rebecca Sperry In the past six years since I started hiking, I've spent over 90% of my time on trail hiking solo. I choose to go solo for a variety of reasons (it's easier, I can go at my own pace, I like being alone in the woods, etc.). However, the original decision to go it alone was not because I was…
KEEP YOUR FEET ON THE GAS: HOW TO RESUPPLY LIKE A CHAMP ON A THRU HIKE, PART 3
Words & Photos from Eloise Robbins Not surprisingly, food plays a dominant role in any adventure! Depending on where you're going, it may not always be a straightforward process to make sure you can consume it. Food is one of the most challenging things to plan, especially if you're particular about what you eat. What…
THE NATURE OF FINE-TUNING: MOVING ONWARD FROM SUMMER INTO FALL
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ambassador Brad Meiklejohn keeps his downtime to a minimum as he moves through the seasons with time-tested transitional habits. Brad Meikeljohn has an unquenchable thirst for wild places, and he prefers to get into them in an ultralight, minimalist fashion. However, different seasons have different…
A LOVING NUDGE: TIPS FOR SHARING ADVENTURES WITH LESS OBSESSED ADVENTURERS
Words and Photos from Peter Bugg @bugglife Hello, fellow Adventurers! Do any of you have non-adventurous, or less-adventurous significant others that you would like to nudge outside of their comfort zones? After almost 17 years with my lovely-but-safety-focused wife Melissa, I’ve picked up some tips that may help you…
Metabolic Flexibility For Adventurers
Metabolic Flexibility for Adventurers -Bjørn Olson A wet sucking sound accompanied each step as I lifted my foot up and out of the spongy tundra. I’d then test the space between the pillowy jack-o’-lantern sized tussocks to locate the least-wet place to set my foot, then heave my laden fat-bike forward before taking the…
Finding Trust On Unsure Footing
Lately I've been coming up against a challenge related to the alpine that actually occurs before I ever have the chance to step foot on snow or ice. It does, however, have just as much baring on my safety and experience as any other choice I make during a climb. The challenge is a simple one that I have yet to find a…
FEEL THE RHYTHM! TEN TIPS FOR THRIVING OUTSIDE THIS WINTER
Words and Photos by Taylor Bracher When the going gets cold, Taylor Bracher gets moving, continually building on a skillset that allows her to enjoy her Alaska Winters to the maximum. Wherever you experience your cold time of the year, the tips and tricks she shares in this post can help you put an end to the idea of…
THE HORROR OF SESAME SEEDS: HIKERS, LYME DISEASE, AND TIPS TO SURVIVE AND THRIVE
Words & Photos by Matthew Morelli They are tiny; they are everywhere. Drop your guard a little while exhausted in the backcountry or just while walking your dog at the park, and it can have life-changing implications. Lyme Disease is a bacterium carried by deer ticks that, at their biggest, reach the size of a sesame seed.…
PLAY TO YOUR STRENGTHS! YOGA TO INCREASE POWER AND STAMINA FOR SUCCESSFUL OUTDOOR PURSUITS
Words & Video by Katherine Englishman // Photo by Joe Klementovich No matter what it is, every outdoor pursuit requires a certain amount of strength to do it and enough stamina to see it through. We all have varying levels of skill, ability, and of course, different objectives in mind. However, the essence of feeling…
KEEP YOUR FEET ON THE GAS: HOW TO RESUPPLY (AND EAT) LIKE A CHAMP ON A THRU HIKE, PART 2
Words and Photos from Eloise Robbins Tell anyone you hike long distances, and one of the first questions they'll ask you is about food. What do you eat? How do you carry all of your food for five months? (Spoiler alert, you don't.) How much does it weigh? And aren't you hungry? Food is one of the most challenging things to…
DO IT FOR THE TOOTSIES: YOGA TO RELIEVE FOOT PAIN WITH KAT ENGLISHMAN
Words and Video by Kat Englishman Photo: Joe Klementovich (@klementovich) You’re halfway through mile eight with four more to go until you get to camp, where you can tear off your hiking shoes as fast as humanly possible. With every step, there seems to be a new spot on your foot that yelps in pain as you hike, and all you…
KEEP YOUR FEET ON THE GAS: HOW TO RESUPPLY LIKE A CHAMP ON A THRU HIKE, PART 1
Words & Photos by Eloise Robbins Tell anyone you hike long distances, and one of the first questions they'll ask you is about food. What do you eat? How do you carry all of your food for five months? (Spoiler alert, you don't.) How much does it weigh? And aren't you hungry? Food is one of the most challenging things to…
SO, YOU'VE GOT A THRU HIKER IN YOUR LIFE. NOW WHAT?
Words and Photos from Tina Haver Currin With longer days, hotter afternoons, and the dreaded arrival of biting insects, late spring is once again sliding into summer—which also means it’s thru hiking season. Northbound (NOBO) hikers are at least a few weeks into their treks, while southbound (SOBO) hikers are likely…
LET’S MEET IN THE MIDDLE: HIP STABILITY AND STRETCHING FOR THE TRAIL
Words and Video by Kat Englishman, Photo by Joe Klementovich One of the quintessential ailments of a hiker and backpacker is feeling tight in the hips, hamstrings, and lower back muscles. It makes sense that these would be hurtin’ when you think about the effort it takes to walk uphill and back down again. The body works…
A LIFE OF MILES: JEFF GARMIRE HAS SOMETHING QUICK TO SAY ABOUT THE FKT
Words & photos by Jeff Garmire Thirty thousand miles and always counting, give or take a few yards or inches, all done on foot. Jeff Garmire (@thefreeoutside) is still heading out whenever he can to "make up for 2020." Some of these miles were racked up diesel engine-style, nice and steady, all day long. Some were covered…
ZAC BOSTON'S GUIDE TO HIKING THE MAINE 4,000-FOOTERS IN SEVEN DAYS, MAYBE LESS
Words and Photos by Zac Boston One of our favorite local dudes, Zac Boston, is nothing if not goal oriented. Just before leaving for a southbound hike of the Appalachian Trail, he was kind enough to share this awesome “how-to” about summitting all the 4,000-foot peaks of Maine in a way that fits in nicely with modern, busy…
CAPTURING THAT CRISP AUTUMN LIGHT: TIPS FOR SHOOTING PHOTOGRAPHY IN FALL
Words & Photos from Michael DeYoung A person can have all the top-of-the-line backpacking gear. However, good equipment doesn’t guarantee a smooth and successful adventure, nor does it compensate for experience, knowledge, and judgment. The pursuit of excellence in photography is no different. Real growth as a photographer…
SMOOTH OPERATOR: HOW TO MAXIMIZE BACKPACKING EFFICIENCY WITH GARRETT MARTIN
Words and Photos by Garrett Martin Hyperlite Mountain Gear Superbud, Garrett "Pricepoint" Martin (@somedudewalking), has picked up a thing or two about using time wisely on his thru hike of the Appalachian Trail and this summer's journey up the Pacific Crest Trail. When life is about constant movement, shortcuts and…
SAVINGS YOU CAN FEEL: TINA CURRIN'S TOP TIPS FOR GETTING ULTRALIGHTER ON THE CHEAP
Words and Photos by Tina Currin If ultralight backpacking has a reputation for anything, it's tiny gear at a hefty price. Dive into any heady discussion with ultralight enthusiasts and you'll eventually find someone running calculations of cost per ounce; that is, how much they're willing to spend to reduce their load by…
FOR EVERY SEASON, THERE IS A THING: PACKING FOR FALL HIKING WITH REBECCA SPERRY
Words and Photos by Rebecca Sperry In 2015, I started hiking solo and vowed that I would never hike once the seasons began to change. By 2016, I was buying microspikes and researching cold-weather gear and haven’t looked back. There is no off-season for hiking, so long as you have the proper equipment and good…
MAKE WAY WHILE THE SUN'S SHINING - A SELECTION OF FAVORITE DAY HIKES
Even though we are known for designing and producing ultralight backcountry gear that lets you get away for a long while, let’s face it, the hustle of modern life cares not for how long you’d always like your escapes to last. You need to get your outdoor fix within the time you’ve got, and a great day hike – if only…
THE OTHER KIND OF THRU HIKER FUNK: ADAPTING TO LIFE AFTER THE TRAIL
Words & Photos by Garrett Martin Disclaimer: I am not a psychologist, and everything in the following article is anecdotal and from my own experiences and opinions. There are many other articles and resources on Post-Trail Depression, and if you feel like I might have missed something or undervalued some aspect of life…
Looking for feedback on an App I am building: Don't Forget The Spoon
I have been working on a building out a Hiking mobile app called Don't Forget The Spoon. The idea came to my wife an I while sitting in the cold snow in Yosemite National Park, the night before hiking up Clouds Rest. We had a long days worth of hiking in the cold to get to our campsite, set up and were ready for a nice…
Bivvy Chat
Hi, all— Avid and happy ground cloth user here looking to (potentially) get into the bivvy lifestyle on the CDT. What I've noticed, however, is that folks often use a ground cloth underneath a bivvy with a DCF floor. Can anybody explain this to me, outside of preventing the inevitable wear & tear? I use a HMG DCF ground…
YOU’RE ENTERING A WORLD OF PAIN: JEFF GARMIRE TALKS ABOUT THE CAVE WHERE IT DWELLS
Words and Photos by Jeff Garmire Thirty thousand miles and always counting, give or take a few yards or inches, all done on foot. Jeff Garmire (@thefreeoutside) is still heading out whenever he can to "make up for 2020." Some of these miles were racked up diesel engine-style, nice and steady, all day long. Some were…
GETTING TO WORK OUT IN THE FIELD: STRETCHING ON TRAIL WITH KAT ENGLISHMAN
Words and Video from Kat Englishman, Photo by Joe Klementovich When it comes to stretching, repetition is a really, really, good thing. I don’t think that most people need to be convinced that just doing something once will bring change or noticeable results. I’m not posture-shaming here, but much like the forward carriage…
CASH RULES EVERY TRAIL AROUND ME: A GUIDE TO FINANCING A THRU HIKE
Words & Photos by Garrett "Pricepoint" Martin Every year, bright-eyed hiker hopefuls set out on our long trails to conquer the beast and accomplish a thru hike. Some prepare for years, some prepare for months, and some don't prepare at all. By definition, a thru hike means completing a hiking trail from one terminus to the…
TIPS TO GREATLY IMPROVE YOUR TRAIL AND BACKCOUNTRY PHOTOGRAPHY WITH MICHAEL DEYOUNG
Words and Photos by Michael DeYoung @michaeldeyoung Sunrise storm along the CDT near Wolf Creek Pass, Colorado. Camping in the alpine subjects you to the full fury of storms. But clearing storms at sunset or sunrise and approaching storms at sunrise, as is the case here, often result in the best and most dramatic light.…
THOUGHTS FOR FOOD FROM A TRIPLE CROWNER: HOW QUADZILLA FUELS UP FOR THE BIG MILES
Words and Photos from Jack "Quadzilla" Jones (@Quadzilla) It’s probably your number one job on trail–eating! It’s likely the number one topic of daily conversation amongst The High Mileage Set, too! But what kind of fuel do you need to hike 8,000+ miles? Jack “Quadzilla” Jones shares what’s all in a day’s work as he…
UltaMid 2 Basecamp Logistics?
Hey, all. New UltaMid2 user here; looking forward to putting it through its paces this year! Currently planning to use the lashed-together trekking pole set-up for the UM2 (I've also got the full-insert I'll use as needed). My question is this: I do a lot of mountain climbing and lighter mountaineering; sometimes I use…
BEAR IN MIND: TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL AND RESPECTFUL ENCOUNTERS WITH BEARS
Words & Photos by Bjorn Olson @Bjørn – Additional photos from Steve “Doom” Fassbinder and Luc Mehl Bears are intelligent animals. A bear’s mannerisms are highly individual and may change with the day, through the seasons, and over the course of their lives. These variables make them very interesting to observe, but also…
TAKING THE ROUTE NOT TRAVELED: A STARTER GUIDE TO WILDERNESS BACKPACKING
Words and Photos from: Samuel Martin, Eddie "Oil Can" Boyd, and Matt "Chili Mac" Morelli The best way to truly get off the beaten path is by starting with no path at all. Wilderness backpacking is appealing to many for the solitude it offers whether alone or with friends, the adventure aspect, and the opportunity to trek…
DRINK TO YOUR HEALTH–HOW TO AVOID DEHYDRATION AND ALTITUDE SICKNESS
Words by Eddie “Oilcan” Boyd Avoiding Dehydration and Altitude Sickness On Trail There I was, 14 miles into my Appalachian Trail thru hike. I had just packed everything up for the third day of hiking and was about to leave Hurd Brook lean-to when I unexpectedly threw up my breakfast. The two days before had been extremely…
Book Review: "The Barefoot Sisters: Southbound"
The snow is pouring from the sky, it’s mid March, and thru-hiking season is underway on the east coast of the United States. Although I would give just about anything to see Daffodils poking up through the soil, the weather in New England has decided not to participate in spring this year. Rather than lamenting over this,…
Q&A: THE NORTH WOODS FROM AWAY – AN ULTRALIGHT CANOE TRIP IN NORTHERN MINNESOTA
Words from Hansi Johnson, Tyson and Kendra Perkins, Neil and Ian Provo, and Brendan Lauer. Photos by Hansi Johnson and Ian Provo Spring 2021, Hyperlite Mountain Gear HQ: "Remember that survey we sent out a while back? We got the answers sorted. Turns out that one of the most common responses to 'second favorite activities'…
OATSPIRATION: FOUR FUELING FIXES FOR YOUR REPACK FROM HILLARY PRIDE
Recipes, Words, and Photos by Hillary Pride (@eatswithpride) Oats are a staple in many a backpacker’s kit for good reason. They’re cheap, widely available, versatile, and a reliable source of filling fuel. But if all ya got is that same old oats recipe you’ve been eating every day, things can get a little routine and push…
THERE’S A METHOD TO THE MILEAGE: QUADZILLA GETS INTO THE PURSUIT OF THRU HIKING
Early this spring, we had the distinct pleasure of an HQ visit from the one and only Jack “Quadzilla” Jones. Fresh off the completion of his 2022 Calendar Year Triple Crown, he was still reeling from the experience and organizing his thoughts about every aspect of the journey, from logistics, efficiency boosters, physical…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF ELEANOR MOSEMAN
Words and Photos by Eleanor Moseman Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling you a…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF HANSI JOHNSON
Words and Photos from Hansi Johnson @Hansski Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF SAMUEL MARTIN
Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling you a little bit about themselves, too.…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF MICHAEL DEYOUNG
Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling you a little bit about themselves, too.…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF SHAUN MITTWOLLEN
Words & Photos from Shaun Mittwollen Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling you…
“HEY, YOU AWAKE?” NUTRIENTS YOU NEED TO SLEEP BETTER ON THE TRAIL (AND AID RECOVERY TOO)
Words & Photos by Hillary Pride @eatswithpride, RDN, LD, NASM-CPT Ah, sleep. That glorious treat at the end of a long, grueling day that, for some of us, is as hard to come by as an affordable house in the 2021 housing market. Ok, personal story out of it. Aside from dreams of hot showers and memory foam mattresses, when…
EATS WITH PRIDE! FIVE SIGNS IT'S TIME TO LEVEL UP YOUR BACKCOUNTRY BREAKFAST
We're stoked to introduce Hillary Pride (@eatswithpride) and her extensive knowledge about most every active person's favorite thing–FOOD! In this and future posts, she'll touch on topics from isolating potential opportunities for caloric consumption adjustments or enhancements to recipes that you'll totally look forward…
HILLARY PRIDE’S REPACK PERFECT, COCONUT MANGO STICKY RICE RECIPE
Words and Photos by Hillary Pride This Coconut Mango Sticky Rice is an excellent option if you’re looking to shake things up and level up your backcountry breakfast game. But don’t stop there! Pack it as a fueling fix for any of your backpackin’ meals. Not only is this recipe totally delicious, but it’s also vegan,…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF BRIAN THRELKELD
Words & Photos from Brian Threlkeld Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling you a…
AGENT UTAH ALWAYS GETS HIS ROUTE... USING YOUR DOG AS A ROUTEFINDER
Sure looks like there are developed trails in a lot of this video, right? There aren't. The secret is to follow the dog There are a myriad of ways to experience the backcountry: alone, with a partner, with a group, but one of my favorites is with a dog, and the unexpected benefits it can bring to an adventurous backcountry…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF BJØRN OLSON
Words and Photos from Bjørn Olson @Bjørn Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF MIKE JONES
Words & Photos from Mike Jones @TenDigitGrid Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF JESSICA KELLEY
Words & Photos by Jessica Kelley Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling you a…
DETAILS FROM THE WITNESS: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF ESZTER HORANYI
Any time spent around Hyperlite Mountain Gear will quickly reveal that we have some very talented photographers from all over the globe in our family. There are a million ways to document a place or people and a moment in time, but a great photographer captures it all while telling you a little bit about themselves, too.…
SHIFTING GEAR: QUADZILLA TWEAKS HIS SETUP FROM THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL FOR THE PACIFIC CREST TRAIL
Words and Photos from Jack "Quadzilla" Jones Any gear heads in the audience here? Thought so! As you well know, selecting the right equipment for any trail is an addictive art form, and how others do it is a subject of intrigue for anyone who loves backpacking. What if you're choosing gear for over 8,000 miles of hiking,…
FIVE BACKCOUNTRY SKI TRIP TRICKS FROM CODY TOWNSEND: SHAVING WEIGHT FOR SNOWY OVERNIGHTS
Words from Cody Townsend (@codytownsend), Photos from Bjarne Salen (@bjarnesalen) / The FIFTY (@the.fifty.project) There is always a trade-off. Every gear selection you make is a compromise in one direction or another. For instance, in backcountry skiing, there is always a trade-off when choosing your skis. Want to move…
CDT Rain/Weather Gear
Howdy friends. I'm hoping to complete a SOBO CDT thru-hike this summer, starting around July 4. For those of you who have completed a thru-hike or spent significant time in the CDT area, what did you take for rain/weather gear? I have a 4-oz Shakedry jacket that worked great on the PCT and Florida Trail but doesn't provide…
A VERY COOL WAY TO TRAVEL: WILD ICE SKATING WITH LUC MEHL
Words, Photo, and Video from Luc Mehl A longtime friend of Hyperlite Mountain Gear, Luc Mehl is not only one of the most creative and accomplished adventurers we know, but he's also one of the most studious and, as a result, conscientious and safe ones out there too. With a focus that's equal parts what could go right and…
AS GOOD, MAYBE BETTER: THE JOY OF (AND TIPS FOR) EARLY SPRING HIKING WITH JEFF GARMIRE
Words and Photos from Jeff "Legend" Garmire The backpacking season starts when the spring arrives, and the weather improves, right? Well, living in Montana, that date can push far out into some of the finest months. Snow can linger and even arrive out of nowhere in late June. But that doesn't stop us, northern residents,…
YOGA TO POWER DOWN AND POWER UP ON TRAIL
Words and Video from Kat Englishman @KathEnglishman When you’re taking a backpacking trip, the second best feeling one can have aside from the accomplishment of reaching the summit, is finally making it to camp. All of your effort culminates during this glorious moment of relief when you can finally slough off your heavy…
Backpacking Snacks That Will Satisfy Your Cravings and Aren't All That Healthy
Every time I read a post or listen to an interview with a nutritionist about what to eat while backpacking I roll my eyes. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely applaud all of the people out there who can be content eating dried fruit, nuts, and 85% cacao while banging out dozens of miles of walking, but realistically that is…
Advice for first high altitude backpacking trip?
In 10 days I will be headed to Aspen, Colorado for a three day backpacking trip of the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop. To say that I'm stoked would be quite the understatement. I live in the Hudson Valley Region of New York, and I have never been hiking out West before. Most of my hikes/runs take place at anywhere from sea…
The Chit Kit or Super Dooper Pooper
With the first step onto any trail, people always ask, “ Does a bear Chit in the woods?” The answer is absolutely! What about Cats, and why do they dig holes? The answer is also yes, and the hole is to help keep all other trail animals from stepping in Chit and making a whole mess of their expense shoes, and bringing…
GET SMARTER THAN THE AV-ER-AGE BEAR! HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR FOOD OUT THERE?
Last summer, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy recommended the increased use of bear-resistant canisters along the length of the A.T., as it seems that explaining to bears why taking your food is uncool doesn't really do the trick. Do you already travel with a food safe(r) item? If not, are you considering it this coming…
CUPPLA THINGS BEFORE YOU GO: TINA CURRIN’S ADVICE FOR FIRST TIME THRU HIKERS
Words and Photos from Tina Currin @tina The gear’s (mostly) purchased, the permits or hang-tags obtained, and the date’s set. It’s your first thru-hike! Congratulations. Yeah, your life’s gonna change. And yeah, it’s gonna be confusing, awesome, difficult, and insanely fulfilling. With five long trails and countless hours…
WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE THE TRAILHEAD TO LEAD IN 2023?
Hello, Trailheaders! In the coming year ahead, we’ve got big plans to bring more and more of the information, inspiration, and motivation you crave to our burgeoning community! Through a variety of mediums, whether it be words, images, or video, we’ll be showcasing the tips and tricks that lead to better backpacking and…
SAME ADVENTURES THROUGH THE AGES: ULTRALIGHT FOR OLDER BACKPACKERS
Words and Photos from “No Spring Chicken,” Michael DeYoung (New trail name: Second Chance) My first real life-changing event was a two-week backpack trip to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico in 1977. That inaugural trip for this Eagle Scout from Florida set me on a lifetime course of backcountry adventure that continues…
Anyone use Fry-Bake pans and lids? Diameter?
Tips and different methods for pitching a tent in deep snow.
I am hoping to get into some winter camping this season. I am considering getting an Ultimid to use for my shelter. I am looking for any tips and suggestions on how you guys pitch a non freestanding tent in different kinds of snow. If anybody uses a tarp for winter camping I would love to hear how you pitch and stake that…
Trail Daze
A Typical Day on Grays and Torreys in Summer 2021 I'm awakened by the blare of the alarm on my phone at 5:25 am. It's a lot better than waking up at 3:25 to hike by 4, as we did earlier in the season. It's still dark, so I turn on my headlamp to get ready. The air is crisp, and I get dressed in my sleeping bag, having…
An Attempt At a Meal Planning App
Does it work? Do you like it? Is this useful? Too many options or not enough? The drop-down menus can be a lot when they're really long. Should work offline. Let me know when it breaks, because I made it and it probably will.
Camera Equipment in the Extreme
Over the last three to four years, I've become 200% addicted to photography. It's the process, the result, really everything about it. Between rock climbing, mountaineering, backpacking, pack rafting and a lot of the spaces in between, I've carried my camera close to everywhere I've been. Somehow, though, I've neglected to…
STEPS TO STAY SAFE ON WINTER BACKPACKING TRIPS
Words and Photos from Rebecca Sperry @sockedinhikes In the last month, two hiking deaths have occurred in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. One was a very tragic incident involving a young woman who died on a popular loop–Franconia Ridge–and the other happened just a few weeks later when a well-known individual who…
Tent Stakes for Tent Platforms
I currently have the Zpacks Tiplex tent and hoping to get Hyperlite's version soon. For most backpacking trips I love that I can use my poles to set it up and that staking it out well gets a perfect pitch. BUT, with trekking pole tents/shelters, I'm concerned about getting a good pitch on tent platforms or rocks. Does…
Snow Camping
After another year of backpacking, I've drifted towards a new reality...I'm not satisfied. Perhaps I didn't get out as much as I'd have liked, but the reality is the sun is pretty much gone for the next half a year, and I just can't settle for the wait. I ski, ski tour, and mountaineer to stay busy through the colder…
HMG Gift Ideas
Here's some of my favorite Hyperlite products that would make amazing holiday gifts. Gift Ideas: Southwest 3400 pack - perfect for the multi-night backpacker, this 55L pack is only 2lbs and will hold everything they need for 3+ night trips. Camera Pod - perfect for the adventure photographer, these come in two sizes, one…
Guesses on new product!?
Who else saw the new gear teaser!? What do you guys think it is?? I love new product releases!!! I’m going to guess some sort of rain jacket/poncho!! Hyperlite…when will the new release be!?
FILL IN THE BLANKS / MIX 'N MATCH GEAR LIST–SHOW US WHATCHA GOT!
'Round the end of every year, the HMG Team always looks back to see what kinds of posts all of you in our beloved orbit viewed and liked the most. As a complete shock to absolutely no one, gear lists elbowed their way to the top–our A PACKING LIST FOR MULTI-DAY HIKING TRIPS taking first place in that topic category. This…
WHAT TO DO IN THE SHADOWS: TIPS FOR SHOULDER SEASON AND WINTER BACKPACKING (PART 1)
Words and Photos from Scott Nechemias @snechemias The Mogollon Rim in January From the Autumn Equinox to the Spring Equinox, adventures in the outdoors necessarily involve more darkness than light, changing the backcountry traveler's calculus for a wide variety of trip factors. Adjusting a few of your normal routines to…
A HIKER’S GUIDE TO GEOTAGGING
Words and Photos from Katie Houston (@oatshikes ) There’s no doubting the seriousness of the issues plaguing beloved public lands that have fallen victim to the crisis of popularity, sentenced to be loved to death by waves of uneducated or equally uncaring crowds. National Parks, historic landmarks, and natural wonders…
Pack rafting - Where to Begin?
So, I've backpacked for years, and obviously I'll never stop, but I'm now torn. I know for certain that I want to start pack rafting. I live in Oregon, and I've rafted for years, but never with more remote ambitions. Now, I'm trying to decide what boat is right! What pack raft is your favorite, and for what reasons??? The…
YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW: LESSONS EARNED ON A CALENDAR YEAR TRIPLE CROWN
Words and Photos from Jack "Quadzilla" Jones Appalachian Trail Jack" Quadzilla" Jones set out this year to achieve what only a small number of backpackers have; a calendar year Triple Crown. Eight thousand miles of hiking following the routes of the iconic Big Three – the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the…
LIGHT, FAST, DELICIOUS: PICK THREE! JOSH SHEETS SERVES UP SOME FOOD OPTIONS ON TRAIL
Words and Photos from Josh “Soulslosher” Sheets @Josh_Sheets If backpackers aren't talking about gear on trail, there's a good chance they're talking food. Check out some suggestions and tips from Josh here, and jump into the discussion with your suggestions, too! It takes calories to climb mountains! Approaching the topic…
How should a new backpacker lighten load
Background: I'm 52. Just lost 83 pounds after having a stroke in 2019. I'm not 100٪ on balance or stamina but trying out backpacking. First trip was 40-50 miles in Yosemite. Deuter 45+10 pack weighed 36 pounds with 3 liters of water, 5 days of food and mandatory bear vault. Comfort is important. Bag was Kelty cosmic down…
PUT YOUR SHOULDER TO THE TRAIL: JEFF GARMIRE AND THE POWER OF COMMITMENT
Words and Photos from Jeff “Legend” Garmire How do you decide to do something big? What if you fail? What if you can't pull it off in the end? What if the passion leaves you? IS THERE A WAY TO COMBAT DOUBT AND WORK THROUGH IT? There are so many questions that surround big efforts, adventures, and the commitment to going…
Death Before Decaf!
Whats up team, I am a caffeine fiend, I cannot go without my coffee. When I lay down at night the last thing I think of is how excited I am to wake up and have some coffee. On a recent thru hike I phased through a couple of variations but ultimately burned out on all of the them. I was initially using coffee tea bags, then…
How Much Food to Bring?
I thought it would be interesting to hear how everyone goes about deciding how much food to bring on a trip. The idea came to me after I attempted my first FKT a couple of days ago and I really struggled to know how much food I would need. I have a great understanding of how much I would need on a standard hike, whether…
Outdoors / Adventure book recommendations?
Any good book (audio or physical) recommendations for when I can't be out on the trail? Here are a few recent ones that I have enjoyed. I tried to pick books that were maybe a little less obvious, but there are still some classics in here as well. Emerald Mile - Great intro to Grand Canyon. Unfortunately no longer…
DRESS LIKE AN ONION: PEELING BACK THE LAYERS FOR EFFECTIVE AND COMFORTABLE HIGH DESERT BACKPACKING
Words and Photos from Scott Nechemias @snechemias Oregon Canyon Mountains The vast majority of my shoulder and winter season hiking takes place in the Oregon High Desert and Great Basin. This unique climate can throw so many different kinds of weather at you that my partner and I have invented a couple of terms to better…
THE PERFECT PACK EXISTS! – CHECK OUT THE NEW GEAR MATCH QUIZ
One possible name the HMG team came up with for this was Pack Tinder, but for obvious reasons, we needed to let that one go. Really, though, if you’re looking for something that will always have your back, carry you in and out of good times and bad, be just what you need but never be in your way–you’re looking for…
I AM THE PASSENGER: HOW TO GET TO WHERE YOU’RE GOING TO HIKE WITHOUT A CAR
Words and Photos from Scott Nechemias Every hike starts and ends somewhere and getting there and back after your hike is often one of the more interesting parts of trip planning. Wilderness access often coincides with a lack of populated metro areas and transportation options. Gas and rental cars are expensive and may not…
Favorite backpacking breakfast
What is your go-to breakfast item while backpacking? I need some new/yummy ideas! I seem to just do bars, so definitely looking for easy items. I do love pancakes, oatmeal, etc.! Thanks :) Sasha
Best Electrolyte Mix
Hey hey! Just curious what everyone’s favorite electrolyte mix is? I’m looking for quick and easy powder mixes to add to my water, especially for longer hikes. I love water just as it is, but also like adding flavor to it to give myself more of a variety while hiking. I have used Liquid IV a ton, but haven’t really…
NEED TO HAVE, WANT TO HAVE: THE ESSENTIALS AND YOUR ESSENTIALS
Words and Photos from Rebecca Sperry It’s no secret that I love hiking and spending time outdoors. Since 2015, this love has grown exponentially, but in contrast, the gear I carry in my pack has shrunk (in a good way). I went from hitting the trails carrying the most generic first aid kit my local outfitter had to offer…
Sock Recommendations
Okay guys- What are your sock recommendations? I have used Smartwool for years. They are great, but just looking for other brands. I also have a pair of Darn Tough that I like! Thanks! Sasha
Ultamid 2 - How Best to Use?
I've slept in more tents than I can recount in many different conditions. Each have had their pros and cons, but none have honestly checked each possible box. That is until I found the Ultamid. The theory behind the Ultamid, in my eyes, is ultimate practicality. The ideal combination of minimalism, durability, and weight…
HIKING WITH DOGS
What are your absolute best tips or tricks for hiking or adventuring with your doggos?
Camping/Backpacking with kids
Happy Friday!! Anyone here have kids and have advice on camping/backpacking with them? I’m a (somewhat) new mom- my daughter turned 1 in June and my husband and I would love to start camping with her. I’d love any and all advice (do you use a sleeping bag for them? If so, what kind?). What age were your kids when you first…
What is your favorite vegetarian or vegan backpacking meal?
Vegetarian here (but vegan a lot of the time), and looking to start making more of my own backpacking meals. What is your go to veg or vegan meal for on the trail? I'd love some new options that other athletes on here enjoy! Also, I'm interested in the Repack for backpacking but not sure how much I would use it. If you…
What do you keep your water in?
For the past 5+ years I’ve been carrying my water in either a Hydro Flask or water bladder. Hydro Flasks are definitely heavy, so adds more weight of course. Just curious how you pack/carry your water? I just got one of the water carriers from Hyperlite, so I plan to change things up and maybe just carry a water bottle…
How to keep mosquitos away
Here is my best advice on how to keep mosquitos away when on the trail and at camp. I am the type of person who gets tons of mosquito bites on trips and my skin reacts really badly to them. So, after a lot of trying different products, I finally created a system that works well for me and I wanted to share it to help out…

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