As I said before, looking at a list ‘essentials you should have every time’ and actually bringing those items is something not everyone does. But some equipment you really need when hiking, while some can just really improve your experience–like how you need an ice scraper in your car in the winter but are super grateful […]
Gear n’ Beer
Snow Pack: Deuter Futura 30 SL
As mentioned previously, I was torn by two amazing deals on REI’s website. I couldn’t decide, so I bought both to test out. Having looked at the Gregory Maya first, I felt at times this pack was the polar opposite, in both good and bad ways. Pretty much every pro–and con–of one pack was mirrored […]
Cirque Training
Be bold, start cold. That was hammered into my mind my first time snowshoeing. You’re going to be moving so much that quickly, you’ll be warm enough to not need a billion thermal layers. However, if snow is falling or calf-deep, it’s still nice to have waterproof pants. But how do you strike a balance […]
Snow Pack: Gregory Maya 32
For winter hiking, you need to bring more layers (and more food!) compared to a summer hike. I’m an over-preparer and in addition to an extra jacket, I like to have an extra hat, gloves, and socks as well. There’s no way my 18L hydration daypack would hold all of that–it’s recommended to have a […]
Onions (and Hikers) Have Layers
Year-round, it’s important to have layers in the Pacific Northwest for any outdoor activity, but none moreso than hiking. Weather can change drastically from morning to high noon to night, and being prepared for the elements is vital. But when do you need a midweight layer or a thermal layer? What is long underwear? And […]
Worth the Weight: My Backpacking Luxuries
For your first time backpacking, bringing ‘just the essentials’ can feel like a ton (especially if you’re not using the most-lightweight stuff money can buy), and every single ounce counts. So why would I advocate bringing luxury items? Because you’ve earned it! Backpacking, especially for milestones like the first time, should be celebrated–and here’s how […]
Steering Wheels & Spare Tires: What You Really Should Have On the Trail
A quick dive into any hiking post on facebook or advice given will likely mention “The Ten Essentials.” These are ten items any hiker should have when doing any hike, no matter ease or distance. But do I really need to bring an emergency shelter with me for a three mile hike?!
When in Winthrop…Drink Local!
After hiking Patterson Mountain in unexpectedly warm weather, the boyfriendo and I were super ready for a beer and food. Winthrop might be a small town, but it’s big on great food and drinks!
Wandern with Deuter: My Overnight Pack
With my first time backpacking, I had a choice: rent or borrow a pack that may or may not fit me well, or buy one that REI fitted to me with the option to return if I hated backpacking. It seemed like an easy choice!
Finding My Hoppy Place at GABF
I almost didn’t write this post. What good will a wrapup do with a year before the next GABF? I wondered. However, my amazing weekend there was enough of a blur I want to gush about it now, while the memories are only a bit hazy!