Latest Posts

Hiking Franconia Ridge in January

Franconia Ridge in Winter

Franconia Ridge is lovely to hike any time of year. But it can get pretty hairy to climb in winter when it’s cold and the wind is blowing hard. The best days don’t come around that often so you need to watch …

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Hyperlite Mountain Gear Elevate 22 Daypack Review

Elevate 22 Daypack Review

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Elevate 22 Daypack is a downsized frameless version of the company’s multi-day Dyneema DCF roll-top backpacks. It has some external storage including a front stretch mesh pocket and two side water bottle pockets, but they’re on the small …

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Do You Need a Pillow for Backpacking?

I always carry a camping pillow on backpacking trips.

If you use a pillow at home, I recommend taking a camping pillow with you on your backpacking trips. You’ll almost certainly sleep better if you have one because your body is used to having the extra support. I learned this the …

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BearVault BV500 Bear Canister Review

BearVault BV500 Bear Canister Review

The BearVault BV500 is a 2 lb 9 oz bear canister capable of carrying about a week’s worth of food. It has an internal capacity of 700 cubic inches (11.5 liters). The canister is made of durable polycarbonate. Being transparent, it’s pretty …

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