25th
Aug
In the past few months, I’ve shared what I carry on my overnight trips, however, I have a finely tuned system that works for me. Not everyone can get away with what I bring and leave behind. I highly recommend that every backpacker have their own checklist for what to bring. I can’t tell you […]
20th
Aug
On this hot summer weekend, we decided to head out for a relaxing trip in the Chinook Pass / Bumping Lake area. Leaving late on a Friday, we decided to take it easy, camping at Dewey Lake on Friday night, American Lake on Saturday, and taking a short day hike out to Cougar Lakes, being sure […]
13th
Aug
Gem Lake is an oft overlooked destination for hikers. Snow Lake is a busy trail, which tends to dissuade serious hikers, and Gem Lake can be a long day for those less than serious. But, the escape from the crowds at Snow Lake, and the beauty of this subalpine pond make it a perfect destination. […]
11th
Aug
As most backpackers and avid outdoors folk know, traveling in the backcountry holds certain risks. For many, that risk is managed through adherence to bringing what were originally known as the 10 essentials. The original essentials list has morphed and grown over the years, but it comes down to the main concept, bring what you […]
6th
Aug
Gothic Basin is a popular, albeit intense, hike to a pristine alpine landscape. Located at the end of the paved section of Mountain Loop Highway, this hike begins at the old Monte Cristo Road. The road has been closed for many years now, though local landowners can drive in some of the way, however the […]
4th
Aug
Earlier in the year, I explained the limitations of my lighter Osprey atoms 50 pack. Beyond 35 pounds, it tends to get uncomfortable, and past 40 it’s downright painful. And with 8 pounds of camera gear, it doesn’t take much to hit up against the upper limits of that pack. A recent trip had me carrying […]