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Climbing in The Bugaboos
In July my partner and I spent four days in The Bugaboos climbing. This is such an amazing climbing destination, but also a very beautiful backpacking trip. We each had about 15lbs of climbing gear and a ton of food on top of our sleep system and cloths, so we decided to make two trips in and carried all our food and tent…
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SPREAD THE LOVE AROUND. AND DIRT, ROCKS, AND BRUSH–NEW GIVEAWAY!
Good People, there’s a new giveaway on deck, and boy howdy are we stoked to present it to both you, and your favorite routes through the woods! Trails provide us so much joy, and this prize package will set one lucky winner up with the chance to give them the care they deserve in return. Check it out: TRAIL BOSS…
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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…
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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…
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SO WE'VE BEEN ASKING, "WHAT'S YOUR ESSENTIAL?" LET'S TALK ABOUT NATURE
It should go without saying, without nature, we wouldn't have as much to talk about here on The Trailhead! Within this passion we all share for the outdoors, it is the most essential of all essentials. But, while it can mean the same thing to all of us, our reactions to and needs for it can be uniquely different. So, we'd…
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Florida Trail, Part One: Southern Florida (Big Cypress, Seminole, Lake Okeechobee)
Words and Photos from Tina “Cash Money” Currin @tina The 1,150-mile Florida Trail gets a bad rap. Sure, hikers have to slosh through swamps, endure rubble-strewn road walks, and constantly scan the path for alligators and venomous snakes. But as you skip through shiny new shopping malls to boggy wetlands, wide-open bike…
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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…
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Flag guy
If you've spent a significant amount of time on the trail, perhaps you have experienced the old-fashioned way in which news travels. Not by tweets or snapchats or whatever the kids are using these days - but by word of mouth. In a similar manner to the old mantra "loose lips sink ships", the spoken word really travels…
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Turning Sleeping Bag Inside Out?
Is there any reason why I can't turn my HMG quilt inside out for a slightly more varied experience? The inside of mine is silver and the outside is navy. If it's warmer, would turning the silver toward the sun better reflect light, rather than reflecting heat back towards my body? Is there something about this approach…
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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
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Gates of the Arctic
Hello All! I've been dreaming of Alaska more than normal these days...Which is certainly to say that I'm always dreaming of Alaska. My last trip was largely touristy. We stayed in some cabins, took a flight, visited some glaciers, etc... I'm scheming a trip to Gates of the Arctic national park now, as it seems like…
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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…
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The Importance of Staying Flexible
Last week I was fortunate enough to spend a week with my partner in the Canadian Rockies. This place has always been special to me and last summer we thru-hiked the GDT, traversing nearly the entire range. Our plan was to start picking away at the remaining overnight hikes in the Banff area as we had done nearly all of…
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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…
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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
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BLOWING STORMS AND BLOWING MINDS ON ASPEN'S MAROON BELLS FOUR PASS LOOP
Words and Photos by Max Kiel I think it's safe to say that most hikers have their own "dream hike." That one on the bucket list we find ourselves daydreaming about while at the office. The one route that makes us pour over trip reports and constantly watch YouTube videos. The adventure that we swear that we'll go on…
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HOW ARE YOU POWERING YOUR EXPEDITION?
In our device dependent travels, how are you balancing power and weight? As I head out for a trip I wince as I pack my Anker Powercore 20100mAh battery pack. It weighs 12.5oz and it’s dead weight when out of charge. But I’m thinking of 3 main devices for several weeks - my inReach Mini, iPhone and DSLR. What ratio of power…
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Ultamid
Hey everyone, I have the Ultamid and I love it so far! I have the half insert and I am thinking about possibly getting the full insert or even just the net. What are your experiences with the Ultamid and do you have any suggestions?
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GOAT Tote + Colors
Hey guys! I’m super interested in getting a Goat Tote- probably the 70L one. Just curious if anyone currently has one? If so, what do you use it for? I was thinking of keeping it in the back of my car to store extra snacks + gear. Also- what color do you generally get? I have a black 2400 Southwest and love it because it…
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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…
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SUNKEN COSTS HAVE NO BUSINESS IN SMART ADVENTURING
Words from Diana Davis, Photos by Brett Davis This could be bad. I feel a few sprinkles mist my face as I look up at the looming gray moving in overhead. Hiking in the rain, paddling in the rain, camping in the rain–no problem. I have solid rain gear and an awesome Hyperlite shelter. Climbing on loose rock, surrounded by…
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Peruvian Treks
A couple months ago my partner and I had an incredible experience hiking around Ausangate, a fairly remote peak near Cusco. It wasn't until the very last second (the night before we had to board a bus wherever we were going) that we decided Ausangate was the right objective. Despite some wild weather (we hiked in the rainy…
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Andy Neal on Hiker Podcast, Plus-Sized Modeling, and Social Media’s Double-Edged Sword
Hello, my name is Oats, and today I’m excited to chat with Andy Neal, host of the Hiker Podcast, outdoor influencer, creator, and hiker extraordinaire. Now, the last time Andy and I chatted was in 2020. I lived in a school bus and was fresh off the Colorado Trail, and he was in the midst of season one of Hiker Podcast.…
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WHO'S GOING TO WIN BIG AT PCT DAYS? SEE YOU THERE!
Three members of our marketing team - Christina, Marina, and Sara - are headed to Cascade Locks, Oregon this weekend for Pacific Crest Trail Days! Who's gonna be there? Besides the opportunity to make their awesome acquaintances, we'll also be hosting one of our legendary raffles! This one is gonna be PHENOMENAL! Check it…
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Canyoneering specific pack - wet canyons
I would really love to see a canyoneering-specific pack for wet canyons. I use a Porter 55 for dry canyons and it works great - no frills design, fits everything I need, very comfortable to wear. For wet canyons, I would love to see something that is either more waterproof (so nothing gets wet) or less waterproof (lots of…
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Get a Grip on Trekking Pole Cork Repair
This is not a how-to tutorial. However, I wanted to relay some success I had repairing the cork grips on my BD trekking poles. Recently I was fortunate enough to take in an overnight stay at Horn's Pond along the A.T. while visiting the fine state of Maine. Everything went exceedingly well until the next morning. I lifted…
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Twenty-Five Hikes, Ten Percent Traced, Entering August
“A gentle mist kissed my cheeks as I strapped on my pack and headed towards the US/Canadian border. A cold front had blown in overnight and the trees swayed in front of me. It felt like a dream and from the moment that I got out of my car, I smiled. This time I wanted to take it all in, to go slow and stay present. Last…
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UltaMid 4
I am going to buy an UltaMid 4 with the half insert. Does the half insert work as well if you place it on the back wall instead of one of the sides? Without seeing one in person, it looks like a better option to me, am I missing something?
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Versa Kayaking!
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HIKING WITH DOGS
What are your absolute best tips or tricks for hiking or adventuring with your doggos?
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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…
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FLY FISHING GIVEAWAY!
Catch of the day, People! Check out the Fly Fishing Giveaway happening RIGHT NOW! One lucky winner is going to find themselves right in the strike zone for great times on the water! This prize package is worth over $900, and features: Porter 55 Versa Fanny Pack Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Orvis Clearwater Fly Reel Scientific…
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How to best repair mesh pouch?
I absolutely love my Junction 40, it was my first HMG pack and is still my favorite! But, I have a small hole in the front mesh pouch and am worried it will get bigger with time. Does anyone have suggestions on how to fix the hole? Or should I just leave it and hope for the best? I know there are dyneema patch kits, but…
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Fairies and bluebirds on The AT?
8/08 If flying fairies and talking blue birds suddenly appeared, I would not be surprised. The hypnotic magic of the AT cannot be explained- it's other-worldly.
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THERE'S GOTTA BE A BETTER WAY TO MAKE... THE PIECE OF GEAR YOU MOST WISH FOR
When we think about the number of essentials required to set up a trail-ready, overnight backpacking kit, we can whittle the list down to 10 categories. If you could pick any one of them, which one do you wish could just be...different? What's this crucial bit of gear missing? What do you wish it/they could do that isn’t…
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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…
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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…
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MEGA PINTS AND MEGA VERT ON THE GR20 IN CORSICA
Words and Photos from Dan Oliver It started with one of those nights where the forest sounds like an ocean, the winds gusting with such force that you lay awake, fighting to recall how well you checked for dead limbs above you before setting up camp. This time, however, it was jet lag that had me up, not the lingering…
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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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Backpacking Pillow
Hey hey! what are your guys recommendations on a pillow for backpacking? I know, I know….it’s added weight lol BUT it’s a luxury item I feel like I need. I sleep horrible in a tent, and feel that having a pillow would help tremendously! Thanks!! Sasha
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TRAIL MAINTENANCE OPPORTUNITIES AND EVENTS - NORTHEAST
Grab your favorite shovel and gloves. Where's the work happening in the Northeast Region of the U.S.?
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Do Your Sleeping Bags Get Heavier Over Time?
My first nice sleeping bag was a Western Mountaineering Highlite that I didn't take the best care of and it gained a significant amount of weight in what I assume is dirt over the years and had some trouble staying lofted. It was 15 oz when I bought it, and 20 oz when I replaced it. I currently have an EE quilt that I've…
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How do You Ensure a New Adventure Buddy is Prepared for Your Adventure?
Hey Everyone, I just settled into a new area in a foreign country. The amount of opportunity to go out and get rad in the mountains here is endless. I am excited start exploring more locally. I recently took a short bike trip with someone and they really did not have a good time. Full blown type 3 fun for them, while I was…
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Emily AKA Dim Sum and Her Advice for International Thru-Hikers Following in Her Footsteps
Hi y’all, Oats here! This week, our spotlight is shining on Trek Blogger Emily who flew to the PCT from London and has been making stellar updates, sharing photos, tales from the trail, and details on all things new and unexpected in sunny Southern CA ever since. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. The…
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Wish list - Hydration-specific pod
OK, hear me out. I'd love a pod/bladder. Something akin to a MSR dromedary, but it fits perfectly inside your pack - no wasted space. I currently use a 6L drom inside a 4400, and a 4L drom for the 2400/3400 size, and they both fit "good enough," but HMG has never been about "good enough." The valve system of the droms…
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Alyssa’s Powerful “Why” and How It’s Kept Her on Trail Time and Time Again
Hello, my name is Oats, and today I’m joined by Trek Blogger Alyssa, who has had an absolutely wild 48 hours. After being helivaced out of the Sierra Mountains due to severe altitude sickness, Alyssa is sharing all the things you want to know about life on trail (and then some). The “then some” includes her touching…
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Zero Waste Honey on the Appalachian Trail
Hi y’all, Oats here! I’m the Social Media Wiz for The Trek back on IG Live with another interview from the Appalachian Trail. Today I’m delighted to chat with Honey, a Trek Vlogger taking on a monumental challenge. She’s not only walking 2,200 miles from GA to ME, and not only vlogging it along the way (which if you’re in…
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Hiking Through Cancer: An Interview with Rebecca Sperry
After being diagnosed with cancer in 2020, Rebecca Sperry underwent years of treatment all while being in graduate school, working part-time, and hiking over 1,000 miles mostly in the White Mountains National Forest of NH. You may know her as a Hyperlite Ambassador or from her wonderful articles and think-pieces on…
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THRU HIKING GOES WITH EVERYTHING: LESSONS CARRIED ONWARD WITH JEFF GARMIRE
Words and Photos from Jeff "Legend" Garmire Four to six months or more of improvising, adapting, and shifting plans daily has a lasting impact on a person. Jeff "Legend" Garmire is no stranger to this phenomenon, as evidenced here in some of his favorite examples of creative problem-solving over the years. For all of you…
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How do you keep your white Dyneema bags from looking (too) dirty?
If you're like me then you love the look of the white gear (I personally love the white Dyneema camera pod) but oh man does it pick up dirt when you're in the outdoors. As much as I love the look of the white gear, I've always avoided them because the black fabrics show less dirt and are easier to spot clean / wipe down.…
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Small things make a big difference!
Here's a note I and my Windrider 55 sent to Harrison's Pierce Pond Camp which is emblematic of thru hike experiences: I recently stayed at the Harrison Pierce Pond Camp during my thru hike of the Appalachian Trail. You may not remember me, but I certainly remember you. Of the hundreds, if not thousands of positive…
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The Balance Between Type 2 Fun and Type 3
We have all experienced Type 2 Fun on trail; some hikers love it, others despise it. As my experience in the mountains grows, and as I hear more and more stories about even the most prepared hikers being caught in dangerous situations, I have been confronted with where the lines lies between Type 2 Fun and the decision to…
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Camp Shoes
Hey everyone, What camp shoes are you using? Do you use any? Right now I’ve just been walking around in my socks or bare feet so that I don’t have to carry extra weight. But looking at my options. What would you recommend using?
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YOUNG ICARUS FLEW OVER THE PYRENEES: SLEEPING FAR ABOVE THE CLOUDS
Words and Photos by Michel Grebenikof Our favorite “correspondent from Dubai,” Michel Grebenikof, was kind enough to write up a trip report about a recent adventure he went on, this time in the Pyrenees. We first met Michel when he shared another trip he went on for the series, “The Situation is the Boss, Man!” that you…
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Try a freeze-dryer!
7/02/22: Used to buy pricey meals at local co op. Then I read label. Was spending mucho dinero on sodium and other useless crap. Why? Two years ago, I bought a freeze dryer and all the dehydrating accoutrements. I spend the winter dehydrating. Yeah, It's a lotta work, but what are you gonna do? Nap or watch soap-operas?…
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Photographer and PODs
Hello any photographers use the PODs to store their camera and lenses?
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What’s your favorite vegan lunch for backpacking?
Hello! I’m new to the vegan game + would love some lunch ideas for the trail. Ideal for long distance backpacking/thru-hiking!
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Abstract Hikes on 5,000 Miles of Backpacking, Diversifying Her Art, and Overprotective Moms
Hello everyone! I’m Oats, the Social Media Lead at The Trek, and today I’m having on a guest that has been using her art and talent working with several mediums to showcase what she calls “the trailverse”, Alina AKA “Abstract” of Abstract Hikes. In own words, her mission is to, “Help people reconnect with their journeys in…
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Shoes
Hey everyone, Shoes are just as important as what kind of backpack you use! What kinds of shoes do you use and what socks have you found to last the longest. I tear through my shoes and socks and so I am always up for recommendations!
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Is the umbrella worth the weight for thru-hiking?
I’m looking for shade assistance on the AZT + the desert section of the PCT. Would love some feedback from thru hikers! Creative ways to attach to your pack are greatly appreciated too!
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White Cloud Wilderness - Idaho
Hello! First post! I will be leading a group of friends into the Boulder Chain Lakes in the White Cloud Wilderness in Idaho in mid-July. I think our goal is to camp at any one of: Lodgepole, Sliderock, Shelf, or Hatchet Lake. Any recommendations? Thank you in advance! AGT
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Bike Packing with a Backpack
Hey! I traditionally come from a bike touring background. I recently have moved to New Zealand and have left my old school touring bike back home in the states. Now what I have left is a small budget, gravel bike, and a large quantity of backpacking related gear. I have a rack, and plan on doing some of the simple hacks…
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Pocket Closure
Hi folks, Im loving my Daybreak for travel but I’ve had some small items fall out of my exterior pockets (I put headphones, wet wipes, chargers, glasses, etc in them). What ideas do y’all have for how to more securely close those pockets? I tried Velcro tape but they only lasted a few hours. I could see the Velcro on, but…
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Ran the Leadville Silver Rush 50 This Weekend
My first race of any kind since I ran track in high school. Felt really good for most of the race, threw up around mile 21 because I was still wearing long sleeves. Felt better after I dropped to a t-shirt and held it together until about the last half-mile of climbing at around 34.5. Threw up there and at the very top at…
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The Bugaboos
This picture is of course not from the Bugaboos. In this moment, though, I was planning all kinds of future trips... I'm slowly focusing more on the climber I want to be, and part of that process involves the necessity of objectives. What type of climbing is relevant, what gear is needed, where can my efficiencies improve…
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Risk & Fear in the Alpine
Walking along a spine of rock, with no rope, slowly developing the sinking sensation that my own sneeze may send me tumbling. I breathe, I keep several points of contact, and in reality multiple climbers could reasonably fit where I'm standing. Still, a pit of fear builds in my mind and body, forcing me to stop where I…
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Lighter pack
Hey everyone, I just wanted to share with everyone a great tool that can be used to keep track of your gear and how much your pack weighs. This website has helped me to keep track of everything that I have and makes getting ready for a trip very easy! I would highly recommend it! If you have any recommendations I would…
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Favorite Backpacking Spots
Just curious, what is everyone’s favorite backpacking spots around where you live? Both winter time and summer time? Gotta get out n about all year ya know?
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APPALACHIAN TRAIL '22 NEWS
It's that time of year to load up and march forth and north. What's the chatter around the water filter about this upcoming year on the AT?
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Camp Shoes
7/09 I buy el cheap-o rubber swim sandals. If I loose, C'est la Vie. These allow my pathetic feet to air - dry, hang on outside of pack, and allow me to walk over crud, and damp surfaces at night when Nature Calls. Tried bare feet, sox only, and both unsuitable. These sandals are so cheap, you can ditch them. If you wanna…
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camera...
7/09/22 After reading what Denver Post professional photog, Dean Krakel, used on his Colorado Trail journey, I also use an Olympia Tough 2.1/7ft shock proof 15 m/50 ft Waterproof camera. I bought a closable lens cover, close up light thingie, extra media and wrist strap for it. The camera also serves as a WIFi hub. Takes…
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Packs
Hey everyone, I would do love to hear about what backpacks you have and use. I currently have the Windrider 40 HMG and also the Zpacks Nero! I love both and I use the Windrider for longer trips and for trips that I have to carry more. Then I use my Nero for shorter and more chill trips. I would love to hear more about the…
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Greetings!
7/07/22 First, a huge shout-out to Mark. He is amazing! Just returned from section-hiking Colorado Trail. I about froze! 7 items saved me: long pants, alpaca hoodie, hat, long drawers--top and bottom; full fingered gloves, carbon fiber hiking. poles, and SPF 36 lip Rx. Living in Gulf Coast Texas, HOT is a dominant feature.…
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Colorado Springs or Near
Hello everyone just curious if anyone lives in or near Colorado Springs to possibly meet up to hike 🤙🏾
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Cold Soaking
Hey everyone, I have been cold soaking for about a year now and I love it! I was wondering if any of you would be interested in me sharing any of my recipes?! I also would love to hear some of your recipes! Share them below and we can help each other out!
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Stuff Sack Pillow
For anyone who hasn't tried out a stuff sack pillow yet, you need to! I have tried sooo many backpacking pillows and this is by far the best on the market. Inflatable pillows either never have enough loft for me as a side sleeper, or get too hot on my face overnight. I got two of the stuff sack pillows last summer for me…
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Cameras
Hey everyone, I was wondering what kind of cameras do you use? Just looking for some suggestions and possibly looking at upgrading my setup! Would love to hear from you all what you find works and doesn’t work!
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Leave No Trace
With the advocacy of 'Leave no Trace', it seems as though those with the right attitude do exactly this. Yet there still seems to be problems on the trails in the UK as I'm sure it is elsewhere whereby rubbish is still littered and entire camp setups seen as disposable. I know our National Parks try to help, but it seems…
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Prism
The Prism is my favorite of any Hyperlite pack I’ve ever owned. From light and fast alpine missions to multi pitch ice climbing this is my workhorse pack as a guide. I even got one for my girlfriend to use and she has fallen in love with it. I wish they could take the design and make it into a larger size as there are…
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Hornstrandir Backpacking Trip in Iceland
Hey everyone, Has anyone backpacked the Hornstrandir trail in Iceland? I would love to know if you have and what would be some advice you would give to someone going to do it! Was there a piece of gear that is a must bring? If you have any pics or experiences then I would love to hear about them!
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KNOW THE HISTORY BEFORE YOU GO
When you travel throughout the beautiful parks and wild spaces of America there is a story and aspect of the land we often forget: this land is not ours. As I travel I am often thinking of the mileage, the risk management in the terrain and what snack I will have next. I appreciate the sights, the trails (or lack of…
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John Muir Trail
Me and some friends are looking at doing the John Muir trail next year. We know that permits are extremely competitive, so any tips from anyone to possibly improve our chances on getting the permits?
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Senchi
I just wanted to give a shout-out to Senchi! If you haven’t heard about them then you should check them out! They make fleece made out of an alpha direct material that keeps you warm but also help your body cool as you hike! I love the two that I own! Go check them out!!
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How to become a professional ice walker
While hiking the Sierra in the early season this year I encountered a lot of snow covered passes. I had my micro spikes and my ice axe and knew how and when to use them both. I successfully and safely navigated all of the snow that came my way, I couldn't help but notice that even after 400 miles I still got a deep pit in…
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Risk and Fear In the Alpine
Hundreds of feet above the glacier, no rope, and the world feels like it's melting away. The fear is settling in, and I can't get myself to go any further. The reality is that I'm standing on a fairly wide rock spine, wide enough to comfortably accommodate myself along with multiple other climbers, and yet I feel like the…
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Hometown Shoutout: Ombraz
Just wanted to give a hometown shoutout to WA sunglasses brand Ombraz. Went through countless frames on my first thru hike, having always snapped the arms, but I’m happy to report 100% satisfaction with investing in a pair of Ombraz for the CDT. Crossing into WY this week and these shades are still kicking it!
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Iceland Food
Hey everyone, I am going to Iceland in July to backpack! And we are going to be driving around the entire Ring Road! I was wondering if you guys have any recommendations of places to eat in Iceland or something that we should see around the road! Let me know!
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What's the best way to deal with Mosquitoes?
Every year around the end of spring and start of summer, the mosquito swarms begun to pop up and wreck havoc on outdoor recreationists. Especially in the Pacific Northwest, it's become a tradition to count up mosquito bites at the end of a trip and see who ended up with the most. The record in my group was ~70 mosquito…
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Documenting All Of These Fantastic Trips
Hello, HMG world. One thing I've grown increasingly curious about as digital information about relatively inaccessible places has blossomed like a spring flower (or mold in a petri dish, you decide) -- how is everyone managing to document these experiences while also staying present in the moment? I recently learned that…
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KNOWING WHERE YOU NEED TO BE: A BACKPACKING TRIP TO THE CENTER OF SELF
Words and Photos by Peter Gierlach No need to mince words, folks. Times are a little, uh, odd. We've all got our spots that we can rely on to clear the fuzz, or experiences we know will guarantee a recharge. Hop into the discussion and share yours! As my best friend and I pulled into the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness in the…
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Trailhead Member Presentation in Portland, OR - Scott Nechemias at The Mountain Shop on the 28th!
Longtime friend of Hyperlite Mountain Gear, Scott Nechemias @snechemias, will be presenting an evening of stories about Oregon's John Day River country and his trip across the Columbia Plateau. We couldn't be more stoked to have Scott represent us and for the @mtshoppdx to host! Learn a little history and some tips on how…
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Any Tips for Running in a Hyperlite?
I use my Hyperlite for trips where I'm planning on hiking, but I still like to do some running on easier portions. My pack is terribly uncomfortable when I try to run in it though. It slides up off my hips and bounces with every step, no matter what I seem to do with the straps. Any tips? PS - A really important note - I'm…
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Pack Rafting with the Southwest 55
A few years ago I tried pack rafting for the first time. Armed with a Costco float, my Southwest 55, a mat and some food, I set off with some friends to try our hands at a small rather tame chunk of the Mckenzie river. I trusted my southwest to keep my clothes, my camera gear and my mat dry, which despite being flipped at…
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My Backpacking Sleep System
I've tried out a lot of sleeping bags and pads over the years and have my favorites now depending on conditions. For every trip, I always use a down bag, but this year I am excited to try out a down quilt for the first time. Any quilt lovers out there? Do you have tips for a first time quilt user? Here are my favorite…
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Washing Backpacks
Hey guys, happy Monday!! Question about washing your backpacks! How do you wash your Hyperlite pack? I know doing it in the bath tub is probably the easiest way….but do you use a special kind of soap? How long do you soak it? Best way to dry it? Gimme all the deets!! I’d love to wash mine before the crazy summer hiking…
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Glen Canyon Packrafting and Backpacking
I've been itching to get into Glen Canyon and its many side canyons now that Powell has dropped significantly. I've been closely watching the Glen Canyon Institutes fieldwork down there and a lot of side canyons and once drowned landmarks are coming back. I just did a mini-trip that linked a slot into the colorado river…
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Guide to Grays and Torreys
Start/End - Chimney Lot G&T Trailhead Miles: 8.6 Gain/Loss: 3629' Closest Towns: Georgetown, Idaho Springs, Dillon Shuttles/Public Transit: N/A Drive to the Bakerville I-70 exit. If you don’t have a high-clearance 4WD vehicle or the upper lot is full, park at the lower Chimney Lot and hike 3.0 mi (1460' gain) from the lot…
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Sleeping Kits
What is everyone's go-to summer-fall alpine sleeping system? I'm about to update my bag and pad, and interested to hear what you've found that works well, packs well with pods/sacks in packs, etc. Thanks for any beta!
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Laugavegur Backpacking Trip in Iceland
Hey everyone, I will be going on a trip to Iceland this summer in July. I plan on backpacking the Laugavegur trail and was wondering if anyone has done it? Anything that I should for sure take with me? I would love to hear about experiences you had on the trail!
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EUROPEAN SPENDS A SUMMER IN US & CANADA: WHAT'S YOUR RECOMMENDED HIKES?
Hello everyone, I've just registered. Glad to be here and thank you HMG for creating this community! My name is Vincent, I'm an adventure photographer originally based in Germany. 2 years ago my wife and I embarked on a trip around the world in our converted van. We've been down in South America most of the time and have…