The Trailhead

Our community for knowledge, gear, and transformational backcountry experiences.

THE ULTIMATE ULTRALIGHT CAMERA FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS
As much as I love being outdoors, my passion is even greater for photography. I love taking photos of beautiful moments and sharing them with people. I find so much joy in sharing the beauty of this world and inspiring others to get outside. One of my biggest struggles is the weight of professional camera gear. I love film…
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…
A PACK IS BORN: CODY TOWNSEND SHARES THE CRUX 40 STORY
Words from Cody Townsend, Photos from Cody Townsend and Bjarne Salen NAME: Cody Townsend RESIDENCE: Tahoe City, CA YEARS SKIING: 38 Years CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: I could say the awards, contests, and accomplished peaks are the highlights, but to be honest, my biggest highlight is still being here, still getting to ski for a…
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…
Cross Training to be a Better Hiker
I am not athletic. Or, that’s what I’ve been telling myself (and everyone else) my entire life. And although in many ways I still hold to that statement, after all the hiking I’ve done in the last eight years, to an outsider it would seem like I am not just athletic, but an athlete. But being active has never come natural…
TRAILHEAD POLL: NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
The only piece of navigation equipment you need when doing an established thru hiking route is a cell phone–why or why not? Make sure you're signed in to vote, and jump in the comments below!
BE BOLD, START COLD: MY TIPS FOR STAYING WARM IN COLD WEATHER BACKPACKING
Words and Photos from @Abby_Evans @abbigator53 Backpacking in the cold can be just as fun as backpacking in the summer—if you're not shivering. Here are a few tips on how you can still have fun and not freeze your butt off. EAT MORE SNACKS What backpacker needs to be convinced to eat more snacks?! (Me, because I struggled…
THE ALL-NEW WAYPOINT 35 IS HERE! PAIRS WELL WITH THE SEASONED BACKPACKER
Today, we’re excited to announce the arrival of our latest master of mileage, the Waypoint 35! Designed for the backpacker that’s been around the trail a few times, it’s a stripped-down, function-first, just-what-you-need pack with the perfect volume for today’s solo shelters or tarps, highly compressible quilts, and all…
THE TIMELESS QUESTION: AT, PCT, CDT?
Maybe you've wondered this yourself, maybe you've successfully thru hiked one or all of them and you have a few thoughts, or maybe you can't decide which one to do first or next, and a little feedback would help you choose. Let's hear it–which of the three most iconic long trails is the best? Make sure you're signed in to…
WHO’S HAD A HAND IN YOUR GEAR? MEET VICTORIA RUDE
Name: Victoria Rude Position at HMG: Director of R&D Years with HMG: 7.5 Products you’ve worked on: Most things in some capacity in the last year and a half. The River Rescue Throw Bag was one of the first things I designed when I started here. Also The Shell. What’s your background prior to working here? I grew up in New…
Hiking All The Trails in The White Mountain Guidebook
As of October 29, 2023, I became the 96th person to hike every trail in the White Mountain Guidebook (WMG). In August 2019, I started officially working on hiking all the trails in the WMG with only 19% completed, and since then I have reset all my data three times in the hopes of completing all of the trails in under 15…
WHO’S HAD A HAND IN YOUR GEAR? MEET TIMOTHY WENTZELL
Name: Timothy Wentzell @tjwentzell Position at HMG: Ideation Designer Years with HMG: Going on my third trip around the sun with HMG Products you’ve worked on: I've had my hands, or at least a couple fingers, in just about every product development since joining the team. What’s your background prior to working here? I…
WHO'S HAD A HAND IN YOUR GEAR? MEET JOSH STEIN
Name: Josh Stein Position at HMG: R&D Research Coordinator Years with HMG: Three Products you’ve worked on: Headwall 55, Unbound 40, Mid 1 & Mid 1 Tarp, Crux 40, Elevate 22, Vice Versa What’s your background prior to working here? Born in Maine. I took a less-than-conventional route into the outdoor industry. I started…
Hyperlite Pod Uses
Hey everyone, I would love to hear about how you use your Hyperlite Pods! I just ordered a Small Pod and I was surprised when it can hold my Ultamid, my Half Insert for the Ultamid, and my stakes! I am so happy with the Small Pod and am excited to use it on the trail! I would love to hear more about how you use yours!
First thoughts on Elevate 22
Took my new Elevate 22 pack out for a day hike over the weekend and I like it so much better than the Daybreak 17. The Elevate feels more like a technical day pack and has a lot of awesome features, but there are a few things I wish it had and would love to see on future iterations of the product. What I like: Size, 22L is…
TINKERIN' AT TINKER CLIFFS: AN UNBOUND 40's MAIDEN VOYAGE
Words and Photos from @Abby_Evans @abbigator53 I took the Unbound 40 on a shakedown hike on October 15th and 16th. I was excited to try out the pack and was heading out to Daleville to hike the short 12 miles to Tinker Cliffs with my friend, who was weeks away from finishing his southbound thru hike of the Appalachian…
WHO'S HAD A HAND IN YOUR GEAR? MEET NASH CALVIN
Name: Nash Calvin Position at HMG: Technical Pattern Designer Years with HMG: Under a year Products you’ve worked on: Elevate 22, Crux 40… Spring 24? What’s your background prior to working here? Prior to working here, I was completing my undergraduate degree at Utah State University. The degree was in Outdoor Product…
What To Eat On Trail In Colder Temperatures
It’s not even the middle of October yet but as anyone from New England will tell you that doesn’t mean it’s not unheard of to get winter weather on the high peaks. While bringing the proper gear is imperative to having a safe and fun hike, there’s something to be said for carrying the right kinds of food (and drinks) to…
Has anyone backpacked the mineral king loop near Sequoia National Park?
How many days do you recommend? Clockwise or counterclockwise? Any advice/recommendations help!
PLAYIN’ FAVORITES ON THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL–GEAR THAT MADE THE MILES GO BY
Words and Photos from Abby Evans During my Appalachian Trail thru hike, there were several sections that made me seriously debate why it was exactly that I was voluntarily choosing to do it. The rocks in Pennsylvania that tore through my shoes. The mosquitos in New York that left me with thirty bug bites every night. The…
Slot Canyon Photography Hack (iPhone)
So you're saving weight and want to capture the moment? Your awesome DSLR can do the trick but it's heavy and takes some fiddling in Lightroom to really get what you were after. Why not use your smartphone? I technically have my studio art degree and have formally studied photography so when I'm hiking I'm taking a "real"…
Quitting (and Un-Quitting) The White Mountains Trace
In my last post I was grieving the loss of the 100 Highest part of my 15 month hiking project. Today, I am within sight of the end and have a lot to catch everyone up on. To summarize what I’m working on, from June 19, 2022 to September 19, 2023 I intended on hiking the 653+/- trails in the White Mountain Guidebook and the…
“IT WILL BE FUN," SHE SAID: A FRIENDLY INTRODUCTION TO PACKRAFTING ON THE COLORADO RIVER
Words and Photos by Eszter Horanyi The sand was never-ending. Each step was an effort, and the grains of sand building up in my shoes were starting to press against my toes and the arches of my feet, grating between my heels and socks, making walking highly uncomfortable. I gave a glance behind me. Meghan had her shoes off…
INCREASING SPEED FROM 30 TO 10: THE EVOLUTION OF A BASE WEIGHT ON THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL
Words and Photos from Abbigale Evans When I first started my Appalachian Trail thru hike, everything hurt. I woke up two days after the approach trail and could barely walk. My feet flared with intense pain every time I took a step — I wasn't even past the first thirty miles, and plantar fasciitis had taken hold of them.…
Inquiry: Ice Age Trail
10/23 Anyone hike all or parts of the Wisconsin Ice Age Trail. Please be very specific: Best Areas, Best time of year; best clothing, Which airports, best ground transportation(s); everything you did. Please be very specific. Include your age range and gender; pounds in pack.
A DESCENT INTO GLADNESS: GRAND CANYONEERING AT HORN CREEK
Words and Photos from Peter Bugg (@bugglife) It wasn’t predicted to rain, so we didn’t plan for rain. But let’s not jump ahead. On Thursday after work, Bobby, Emery, Danica, Mark, and I made the four-hour drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon, stopping in Flagstaff along the way. After burritos for dinner, Mark realized he…
FIVE NEEDS AND FIVE DIDN’T NEEDS FROM THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL
Words and Photos from Tina Currin (@tina) Hello from mile 2,000+ of the CDT, arguably the most rugged and remote of the “big three” American long-distance trails. As such, there’s a lot of mythology surrounding this trail, including lots of information—and misinformation—to challenge you before your shoes even hit the…
Healing through an injury
Summertime. Warm weather. Longer days. Better moods. More opportunities to get outside. Just typing about it gives me goosebumps. While I find that each season has its speciality, and a surplus of things to do/enjoy - summer is by far my favorite. I may complain about being extremely sweaty while I trudge up the side of a…
INTRODUCING THE MID 1 - AN ULTRALIGHT SHELTER FOR SINGLES
Your pack, loaded with just what you need. Your schedule, whether it be when you wake up, your meal routine, how much you do or don’t feel like hiking in a given timeframe, and when you want to call it a day. There’s a lot to love about solo backpacking, and for those that wouldn’t have it any other way, we’re pleased to…
Using Gear for Daily Living
Hey Everyone, One of my favourite things about my hiking gear is when I get to use it in everyday life. My UL trowel doesn't come in handy that often when I'm at home but my packs sure do! I thought it would be cool to see how people are using their HMG gear off-trail. While I don't have a picture I recently found that the…
Climbing Gear Organization
I'm new to climbing and as those who climb know, I've become obsessed. The Southwest 55L and the Elevate 22 have become my go to packs for days out at the crag. I'm a bit of an organization freak and was curious if any of you guys have a good system in place for packing your quickdraws, carabiners and slings? I've been…
Fast, Light and Free on the JMT: My 260 Mile Adventure in the High Sierra
If you've stumbled upon this post here on The Trailhead, chances are you’ve at least heard about the John Muir Trail. In the event you haven’t; the John Muir Trail is located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, USA, spanning roughly 210 miles from Happy Isles Trailhead in Yosemite Valley to the…
Painting a route for comfort
This is my face after finally finding a summit route I was comfortable with. Sometimes when I look at a map I can be briefly overwhelmed with anxiety by all the things I’m not: comfortable with exposure, a technical climber, young, and fast… I'm sure I could think of more, but that seems like a good place to stop the list.…
A VACATION OF TREKKING POLES AND A SNORKEL MASK
Words, Photos, and Video by Brett Davis (@bdavis) It was only 30 minutes after I had walked in the door from my final work trip of the year when my partner in life, Diana, interrupted a conversation we were having and confidently stated: "While you were gone, I booked us flights to Colombia for July. Do you want to be…
Finally got to test out the Elevate 22 :-)
I have been super excited about the Elevate 22 since it came out. Seemed like the perfect day hike pack for what I do around Southern California. Luckily enough for me, my Elevate 22 came in just in time for a hike my wife and I have been training for the last 6 months or so. We decided to tackle Cactus to Clouds. Cactus…
Cleaning suggestions?
Finished a thru hike of the Long Trail and our packs absolutely stink. BO! I don't mind the dirt and grass stains but the BO smell is bad. Any suggestions or recommendations for getting these things smelling better so we don't offend others and ourselves? Thanks!
Top Hikes for Fall Foliage in the White Mountain National Forest
The nights are getting colder and the leaves are starting to take on that light yellow hew that can only mean one thing: fall is here. The Kangamangus Highway, North Conway, and Lincoln, NH will be bumper to bumper in the coming weeks, but if you’re looking for breathtaking color and less crowds, I’ve got the inside scoop.…
The Art of Slow Hiking
Over the past year I've taken up the philosophy of slow hiking. I've gotten burnt-out from the hustle/optimization/productivity culture that's become so pervasive in society. And, unfortunately, I've seen it start to infiltrate the hiking community as well. I don't have anything against tracking, pacing, optimization,…
Transcending On The Trail
There are certain hikes that change me. Not just for the time I’m on the trail. Or for the days and weeks afterwards, when the thrill is still fresh. Those hikes are great, and I love chasing that feeling. But on rare and delicate occasions, there are hikes that change my entire sense of being. There are trails that I find…
Things To Consider When Planning A More Complicated Hiking Route
There is no question that over the last three years I have spent a significant amount of time planning more and more complicated hiking routes. With over 6,000 miles under my feet exclusively in New England, (and over 99% of those miles solo) I have learned a lot and made many mistakes along the way. But as I close out my…
Crevasse Rescue In the Age of Glacial Recession
Each year, I find myself saying nearly the same thing, "I can't believe how much this place has changed." The unfortunate reality is that each time I say it, it's in response to the not-so-gradual recession of our glaciers and snow fields. Early season climbs now look more like mid to late season climbs, and late season…
HOW TO TAKE BETTER PHOTOS OUTSIDE
First off, let me say I'm writing this after reading Michael DeYoung's amazing article, Tips to Greatly Improve Your Trail and Backcountry Photography. He had some great tips that you should definitely check out. I thought it would be good to share a different perspective focusing on three main ways to take better photos…
Any quick release solutions for attaching the Camera Pod?
Really like the camera pod, have used it in Iceland on 2 trips and was able to attached the provided caribeaners to the sternum strap on my camera backpack. Worked well, buckle held the pod on the strap so I could simply release the stermun strap to take off the pack and the pod would stay on the sternum strap. I now have…
SUMMER '23 CHECK-IN: WHAT'S YOUR GEAR BEEN UP TO LATELY?
Photo: @spmartin Whatever methods you use to date and measure the season, there's no doubt it sure feels like and looks like summer here in the states! While it's been raining seemingly non-stop here in Maine, the trailhead lots are still full of stickered-up Subarus, and backpackers are making the best of the situation.…
DAILY DRIVER SETUP FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS
I work in the outdoor apparel industry at Florence, a new brand made for thriving in the elements. My coworker JP Olson and I end up shooting a lot of the photos for our brand out in the environment. While we’re on the run we try and pack light and bring only what we need so we can focus on moving fast and getting the best…
METHOW RIVER TO THE "C"
Words and Photos from Jessica Kelley The Methow River starts deep in the North Cascades, a tiny rivulet near Methow Pass. As it trickles down past jagged peaks and through clouds of mosquitoes, it is labeled on maps as the "West Fork Methow," although an East Fork does not appear to exist. When it reaches the valley floor,…
WHO WE RIDE/PADDLE/HIKE WITH: ANNIE LE
Words and Photos from Annie Le @AnnieLe WHO ARE YOU? Annie Le WHAT DO YOU DO? I'm a general outdoor freelancer; I do a mix of outdoor education, taking people hiking and camping in the mountains, as well as adventure tourism, gorge scrambling, rafting, and so on. My specialist skills would be cycling and bikepacking, and…
Tropical Mountaineering to the Summit of the Ko'olaus
Last summer, my friend and coworker JP Olson and I, met up with Test Pilot, Ryan Moss to hike to the top of the Ko'olau Mountain Range, Kōnāhuanui summit via the Pali Notches. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. The only “research” and knowledge I had was Ryan Moss is notorious for sandbagging. I didn’t see any…
A MYTH Approach to the AT
A MYTH Approach to the AT There are many articles, blogs, videos, and stories about thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, or any lengthy trail. This article is about a hiking MYTH. One definition of the word myth is “a misrepresentation of the truth.” MYTH, for the purpose of this article, also stands…
THE 30L APPROACH DUFFEL CALLED, LOOKING FOR YOUR GEAR
We're stoked to announce the return of our popular 30L Approach Duffel! The last time we made these available, they vanished pretty fast. Don’t panic, though! This time around, they’re here to stay! We like to keep things light, even in those times in transit from one big endeavor to the next, and once you get a taste for…
A Wild Alpine Rock Route in the Darran Mountains, Fiordland NZ
In New Zealand's South Island, in Fiordland National Park, there is a mountain range known as the Darrans. Home to arguably the best quality rock NZ has to offer, with glaciated peaks and untouched forests as far as the eye can see. Climbing grades are sandbagged, and approaches to routes can take multiple days, so if…
WILL PETERSON OWNS VERMONT'S LONG TRAIL UNSUPPORTED FKT
*This is an exceptionally awesome and exciting story to share. We've known Will for a while, and his determination and head space around these challenges he sets out to complete - win or lose - never fails to impress and inspire. From all of us at Hyperlite Mountain Gear, a hearty congratulations, Will! You've earned it,…
Paddling the Wild; A Four Day Expedition Along the Allagash Wilderness Waterway
The Allagash Wilderness Waterway, located in the far northern reaches of Maine, has been a highly sought after destination for paddlers from all over the world for decades. A journey along the Allagash grants an experience that can be hard to find elsewhere; consisting of 92 miles of remote and pristine river and lake…
HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR'S BACKPACKING LIST FOR THE ULTRALIGHT CURIOUS
Huge skies, dense forests, shades of blue and green you’ve never imagined. Climbing peaks and covering distances you didn’t think you could. The sense of accomplishment one feels navigating trails, sleeping under the stars, braving the elements, and leaving easy, everyday conveniences behind cannot be understated! What’s…
KAT'S GOT YOUR BACK: YOGA FOR SOME LOWER BACK LOVE
Words and Video from Kat Englishman @KathEnglishman In this practice focused on relieving lower back pain on the trail, we’re going to focus on releasing tension in the hips. Confused yet? Stay with me! A little-known fact about the lower back is its close relationship with the pelvis. Like all parts of our body, these two…
THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL ON THE WASHINGTON POST
Great article - check it out if you can! What are your thoughts on the constantly evolving length and route changes to this iconic and beloved trail? Try to keep it the same for years to come? Change is the only constant, so just deal? Jump in the discussion!
Ultamid 2 for Glacial Camping in the PNW
Hey, all! Acquired an Ultamid 2 earlier this year and have been loving that mid-life! I’m headed to Washington next week and will likely be doing some camping on glaciers on both Glacier Peak and Mount Shuksan. I’ve got some 8” nail stakes from Big Sky that are fantastic for my Norma backpacking and hiking uses of the UM2,…
IT HAS RETURNED: THE 140L EXPEDITION DUFFEL!
Rarely has a week gone by since we last offered this on the website, that someone–whether they're just rad gear curious or a member of the mega-accomplished explorer set–hasn't inquired, begged, or desperately pleaded for its return. The 140L Expedition Duffel, in all of its fully-woven Dyneema glory, is back! Built for…
TRAILHEAD POLL: PERMITS
Should permits be required for heavily trafficked destination trails to manage overcrowding and protection of the environments they pass through? Make sure you're signed in, and let your community know what you think!
Gear Testing the New MID1
If you’re journeying out to the Lower John Day River you’ll see some folks pulled over on the side of the road to take in the view. While some of them are looking at the chain of cascade volcanoes to the west, just as many are taking in the 200 and counting wind turbines that cover the landscape. This area is known as the…
WHO WE ROLL/SKI/PADDLE/CLIMB WITH: BRETT DAVIS
Words and Photos from Brett Davis @bdavis WHO AM I AND WHAT DO I DO? My name is Brett Davis, though most friends and my students call me “BD.” I am fortunate to call Durango, CO home where I have lived and worked as the Director of the Outdoor Pursuits program at Fort Lewis College for the past 15 years. I have been…
WHO WE HIKE WITH: LIZ KIDDER
Words and Photos from Liz Kidder @lizkidder WHO ARE YOU & WHAT DO YOU DO? Hey! I’m Liz, AKA Handstand! I don’t think what defines me is my demographic or profession— it’s what I am passionate about and how I try to live my life: freely & fully. I’ve always been a little rebellious and rejected society’s standard for a…
TWENTY, TWENTY, TWENTY FOUR HOURS TO GO: QUICK OVERNIGHT GEAR LISTS!
Photo: @spmartin You never know when the urge might be too much to bear–you gotta spend a night outside! Even if it’s just a quick one, the restorative power of an overnight can work wonders. Go solo, bring a few friends, email your boss and tell them you might be a wee bit later than usual in the morning. If you’re lucky…
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…
WHO WE BACKPACK WITH: SCOTT NECHEMIAS
Words and Photos from @snechemias Hello there! My name is Scott, and the time that I spend writing this is a brief interruption from what would have otherwise been an evening staring into the comforting electric glow of a Caltopo screen, pondering the promise of what future hiking plans will manifest from the mysterious…
Humbled, Scared, and Exhilarated on the Beckey-Davis Route
Where was the first moment you realized you were in over your head? What was the route, how were conditions, who was your partner? After having my first such moment, I'm genuinely curious how many other people have found themselves overcommitted, forced to dig deep to top out, genuinely rattled by the experience. (Before…
Sale season
Hey Everybody, for those of you who aren't enjoying the backcountry over the long weekend, there are a bunch of sales going on - besides HMG, Black Diamond & REI come to mind. Two questions: Are there any other stores / companies to be looking at discounted gear over the next few days? Are there any specific pieces worth…
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…
TAKE A KNEE, CAMPERS. HOW TO ALLEVIATE PAIN WITH KAT ENGLISHMAN
Words and Video from @KathEnglishman Photo: Chris Bennett Dealing with knee pain while hiking is frustrating to say the least. In fact, knee pain, or any persistent pain on the trail can really suck, and it’s easy to let your mind get sucked into a downward spiral of anger and negativity at the situation—but don’t. Pain is…
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.…
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…
WHO WE SKI WITH: CODY TOWNSEND
WHO ARE YOU? Cody Townsend WHAT DO YOU DO? I’m a skier. It’s my job and my lifelong passion. WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE AND FOR HOW LONG AND WHERE? My primary motivation for being outside is skiing and I ski from the moment there is enough snow in Tahoe until usually June. I pretty much ski eight months of the year. But when…
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.…
One Year Anniversary of White Mountains Tracing Goal
One year ago I started this project. I set out to hike all of the trails in the White Mountain Guidebook and the 100 Highest Peaks in New England in 15 months. I never imagined I would make it past day 34. Finishing has felt like a dream that I would never attain. I’ve allowed this silly goal to rule my time, attention,…
TEACHING THE TRAIL
Words & Photos by Tyler “Waterboy” Cosgrove The following is not a, “How to Go Backpacking for Beginners” guide. Rather, this is an article for experienced backpackers taking their first newcomer out. I’ll go over a few things to help the experienced backpacker better the experience of the newcomer. I will talk vaguely of…
GEAR LIST AND AN IDEAL BASE WEIGHT FOR HIKING THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL
So! You've decided to go for a 2,190-mile walk in the woods! First off, CONGRATULATIONS! The Appalachian Trail is a transformative experience for those who follow its iconic white blazes. Second, get ready for the planning! It's both intense and rewarding. Where to begin? Let's start with a pack list! We've assembled an…
BETTER GEAR + EXPERIENCE = FARTHER DISTANCE: THE IMPORTANT ROLE OF THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
Words and Photos by Rebecca Sperry We all see them on the trail and internally (or externally) cringe. Maybe they have on a backpack; maybe they’re just carrying a water bottle. Their footwear might be sneakers, or, in some cases, everyday sandals, and as seasoned hikers, we can’t help but judge (or worry about) them. I…
WHEN YOU'RE GOOD AND READY: PRE-SEASON YOGA WITH KAT ENGLISHMAN
Words & Video by Kat Englishman, Photo by Joe Klementovich The best and the worst part about hiking, backpacking, and traversing across rocky, untamed ground is the instability and challenge of navigating an uneven surface. In our everyday life, sidewalks and pathways are smoothed over to make walking easy. There aren’t…
TWO PEAS, BUNCHA PODS: AN INTRO TO THE NATURE OF HIKING AS A COUPLE
Words & Photos by Tina Haver Currin Long-distance hiking is all about blood and guts, exposure, and pain. It’s about falling asleep with the sun, drinking beer for breakfast, and proudly knocking back snacks so dense they’re explicitly labeled “not a low-calorie food.” It’s about listening to all fourteen hours of 50…
YOGA TO REJUVENATE AND STRENGTHEN YOUR SHOULDERS (ON AND OFF THE TRAIL)
Where our bias lies in terms of contributing to the pursuit of better travel and life outdoors is pretty straightforward. It’s certainly not lost on us, though, primarily through our experiences and those of our kindred explorers, that there’s a LOT that goes into making endeavors into the backcountry successful. Know-how…
A NON-CONFORMIST AND OUR FLAT TARP ROLL INTO A CAMPSITE
Words & Photos by John Woodruff Fleck Our friend and Global Sales Manager for Surly Bikes, John Woodruff Fleck, has a methodology towards overnights outside that comes from a blend of experiences and predispositions that make it nearly impossible to assign him a label. With equal parts appreciation for “old-timey ways” and…
MUD IS THICKER THAN WATER: WHERE BIKES MEET BOATS
Words and photos by Huw Oliver Huw Oliver and Annie Evans are highly experienced bikepackers, packrafters, and route finders often undertaking pursuits that require all three skillsets in abundance. Here, Huw gets into some of the planning details he utilizes when deciding how to travel through a chosen environment, what…
YOUR BEST FLY FISHING DAYS ARE ON THE LINE! ENTER OUR NEW GIVEAWAY!
Our latest giveaway is for all the backcountry roamers and explorers that like to add water and fish to their adventures! Our Ultralight Fly Fishing Giveaway will set someone up with a super sweet kit valued at around $1330 give’r take, but the stoke will be priceless! 3400 Porter $389 Versa $79 Victorinox Swiss Army $17…
OFF-SEASON GEAR CARE + STORAGE
Cabins, barns, attics, garages or closets all work for storing your outdoor gear. Taking care of and storing our outdoor gear is an art we’re still trying to master. After all, outdoor gear is an investment, and for the sake of the environment (and your bank account), you want it to go the distance to avoid repeatedly…
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…
ZERO EVIDENCE AT THE SCENE: THE ESSENCE AND IMPORTANCE OF LEAVE NO TRACE
Words and Photos by Rebecca Sperry Spend any amount of time in the outdoors community, and you'll be hard-pressed not to hear the three-word phrase, "Leave No Trace," pass over the lips of at least one person. As an outdoors enthusiast myself, it came as quite a shock to me when, in recent weeks, a well-known hiker, Julia…
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…
Observing Shorebird Migration
The Alaska State Ferry docked in Cordova after midnight. We chose the slow and wonderfully scenic way to travel to this remote Alaskan town in the Prince William Sound. Bleary-eyed, Bjorn and I disembark with our rafts, bikes, and packs, grateful that the typical rain showers of this region have lifted as we went to find a…
1 June Tour de Mont Blanc (pre-season)
Hiking from Les Houches to Brévent. Very deep snow above 2200 meter. Trail mostly not visible. Brought crampons. Helpful but snowshoes would have been better. Conditions from Brévent summit (ski station) towards Col de Brévent too treacherous. Options: 1) go back towards Les Houches 2) Descend to Planpraz and on down to…
THE NATURE OF FINE-TUNING: MOVING ONWARD FROM SUMMER INTO FALL
Long-time friend of Hyperlite Mountain Gear, Brad Meiklejohn, keeps his downtime to a minimum as he moves through the seasons with time-tested transitional habits. With an unquenchable thirst for wild places, he prefers to get into them in an ultralight, minimalist fashion. However, different seasons have different…
THE SKILOPING TETONS TRAVERSE
Words by Kaitlyn Boyle, Photos from Ben Gavelda and Will Stubb Photo: Ben Gavelda If you Google "Top wedding and honeymoon destinations," surprisingly, the Tetons don't come up. Instead, Maldives, Hawaii, Italy, Greece, Mexico, Bora Bora, Bali, St. Lucia, Paris, the Caribbean, Thailand, Fiji, and Seychelles top the Google…
STEENS MOUNTAIN SCAMPERS WITH STRATTON AND SADIE
Words and Photos from Sadie Ford In a remote mountain range in Oregon known as the Steens, special conditions were present. There was more snow than the area had seen in last 50 years - or so I was informed by a local one-eyed handlebar-mustache-wielding all-American rancher, who would spit into his chaw bottle in between…
A LIFE OF MILES: FOR A BIG GOAL, WHAT HAVE YOU GOT IN MIND?
Words and Photos from 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…
Halfway Point on Hiking All of the Trails in The White Mountains
I started this journey at the New Hampshire/Canadian border on June 19, 2022 as a gentle mist fell and the trees swayed in the wind. I started this journey knowing that it would be the most difficult and beautiful thing I’ve done. On April 5, 2023, I watched as my completion reached 50.1%, a number that I never thought I…
WHO WE HIKE WITH: TINA CURRIN
Hi, I’m Tina Currin @tina! Depending on the season, I’m a park ranger, long distance hiker, gear tester, ski liftie, unemployed van dweller, etc. When I’m not hiking or guiding trips, I’m probably traveling around in a Sprinter van with my husband, two cats, and a dog. My life is basically an Instagram reel without the big…
APPALACHIAN TRAIL DAYS 2023 DEAL OF THE DAY: 15% OFF ALL PACK ACCESSORIES!
Words and photos from Josh “Soulslosher” Sheets @Josh_Sheets WELCOME to the final DEAL OF THE DAY from Damascus, Virginia for Appalachian Trail Days 2023! We’ve had a most excellent time with all the AT thru hikers past and present that came through to celebrate one of the best trails in the world! We’re stoked to share…
APPALACHIAN TRAIL DAYS 2023 DEAL OF THE DAY: 15% OFF ALL STUFF SACKS AND PODS!
Words and photos from Josh “Soulslosher” Sheets @Josh_Sheets Hey, everyone! As promised, we’re back with a new DEAL OF THE DAY from Damascus, Virginia, for Appalachian Trail Days 2023! We’re stoked to share some of the specials those in attendance have access to! For the next two days, we’ve got DEALS OF THE DAY on deck…
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…
APPALACHIAN TRAIL DAYS 2023 DEAL OF THE DAY: 15% OFF ALL TENTS AND SHELTERS!
Words and photos from Josh “Soulslosher” Sheets @Josh_Sheets AAAANNNDDD, we’re back with a new DEAL OF THE DAY, comin’ atcha from Damascus, Virginia, for Appalachian Trail Days 2023! We’re stoked to share some of the specials those in attendance have access to! For the next three days, we’ve got DEALS OF THE DAY on deck…

The Trailhead

Discussion List

Categories