Backpacking Skills
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Backpacking in a Hurricane
I backpacked the northermost section of Vermont’s Long Trail during Hurricane Ike in 2008. I didn’t realize that I was…
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Backpacking Footwear Selection for Spring Conditions
What is the right footwear for spring hiking: winter hiking boots or trail runners? When can you switch between the…
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GaiaGPS App Setup and Battery Management Tips
GaiaGPS is the smartphone navigation app that I teach students how to use, in addition to map and compass, in…
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How to Use the Gaia GPS Smartphone App in Offline Mode
I’m often asked whether Smartphone GPS Navigation Apps like Gaia GPS can work when they’re not connected to a cell phone…
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How to Interpret Satellite Imagery for Backcountry Navigation using Hillmap.com
Satellite imagery is a powerful source of information for planning backcountry routes but it takes practice to interpret what you’re…
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How to Plan an Off-Trail Hike with Caltopo
Off Trail Hiking exercises your mind and body differently than hiking on trails that others have defined and built for…
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Hiking Navigation Gear List
I carry a variety of navigation tools and devices on my hikes and backpacking trips because I’ve never found once that’s…
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My Gear List Philosophy
When I started getting into lightweight backpacking, I spent a lot of time staring at my gear list to make…
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Backcountry Navigation with Incomplete or Out-of-Date Maps
It's important to understand the limitations of incomplete or out-of-date maps for backcountry navigation since so many mapping applications, GPS…
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GLOP Backpacking Meals – Easy to Make, Easy to Clean Up
Many people like to eat freeze-dried backpacking meals on overnight trips or dehydrate their own food and make freezer-bag dinners…
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Revivex Instant Waterproofing Spray Review
One of the main reasons people don’t reproof the DWR (Durable Waterproof Repellent) coating on outdoor clothing, hiking boots, and…
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Twelve Ultralight Backpacking Tents and Shelters: Part 1
I’ve bought and owned 12 ultralight shelters in the past 6 years. Several of you asked what they were, and…
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Shakedown Hikes Aren’t Just for Backpacking Beginners
Shakedown hikes and backpacking trips are the best way you can train yourself to become a confident backpacker or day hiker.…
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Backpacking Tips and Tricks: Carrying a Backup Spoon
“Oh crap. I forgot to bring my spoon,” said a backpacker I’d just met at the campsite. I know that…
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