All Articles, Dispatches, Podcasts, and Trailheads
- GEAR • Gear Reviews
- GEAR • Market Reports
- GEAR • Gear Guides
- GEAR • Gear Checklists
- GEAR • Make Your Own Gear
- GEAR • Gear Testing & Research
- SKILLS • Tips, Tricks, and Hacks
- SKILLS • Wilderness Skills
- SKILLS • Training
- SKILLS • Trip Planning
- SKILLS • Food Preparation
- PLACES • Trips
- PLACES • Routes
- CULTURE • Essays
- CULTURE • Stories
- CULTURE • Issues
- CULTURE • People
- CULTURE • News
- CULTURE • Media Reviews
- ARCHIVES (Before 30.Nov.2015)
- SEARCH LIBRARY
- TRAILHEADS
Backpacking Light 2013 Photo Contest – Part 1, Information for Entrants
Submit your best shots from 2013!
Lightweight Stove Systems for Group Cooking Part 1: Basic Framework for Selecting A Cooking Pot and Predicting Fuel Needs
A series of tests exploring the winter performance of inverted canister and integrated canister stove systems for large water volumes and snow melting.
Peak Design Capture Pro Camera clip
While the camera clip may be useful in some settings, it is not ideal for wilderness travel.
Traversing the Adirondacks by Foot and Packraft
Quiet streams and raging waters make for an incredible experience in the backcountry. The ADKs are home to a diverse array of animals and have a very appealing lure.
From Bushwick to Bushwhack: UL Compromises deep in the ADK wilderness
A beautiful area filled with stunning views and MUD. If you are looking for a good challenge east of the Mississippi this is for you.
MontBell Plasma 1000 Down Jacket Review
Although certainly a very dependable jacket, the Plasma seems to be more of a technology statement rather than a high-value jacket.
Backpacking With A Thermometer
A thermometer allows you to establish trends that relate temperature to how you feel while hiking and camping. This can lead to better preparation and execution in the field.
Thru-Hiking Alaska’s Arctic: A 1,000 Mile Solo Traverse
Located above the Arctic Circle, the Brooks Range is one of the last true wildernesses. Here the grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou roam free and the hiker is enveloped in nature.
Backpacking With A Voice Recorder
A voice recorder is a great way to reflect on your journey without compromising safety or the experience.
The Wonderland Trail
Mt. Rainer is dominating and impressive. The Wonderland Trail circumvents this majestic peak offering stunning views and unprecedented access to this gem of the Pacific Northwest.
In 10 Days across Switzerland
Absolutely Stunning! This photo essay will take you over 14 mountain passes through one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
MYOG: Contoured Side Panels for Improved Load Carry in Frameless Packs
Overpacking is a major issue with frameless packs. Implementing side panels can help distribute your load in a more effective way.
Techniques for River Corridor Camping
Tarp camping is tricky enough. Couple that with unstable ground and strong winds and that perfect campsite can quickly become a nightmare. Learn all the tricks to stay dry and happy.
Moto-Backpacking
Looking to jumpstart your backpacking experience? Try motorcycling to your next trip - it will get you into the lightweight mindset from the moment you step outside your door.
Light and Fast on Vermont’s Long Trail
280 miles in 10 days? You Betcha. The Long Trail has become a "right of passage" of sorts for unsupported thru hikers.
Finnish Thousand Meters Round
An in depth look at an exploration above the Arctic Circle. Journey to where Finland and Norway collide.
Columbia and Western: Castlegar to Christina Lake
The Columbia and Western is a section of the Trans-Canada Trail, a haven for thru Hikers. It caters to all skill sets and is a wilderness of pristine beauty.
Techniques for Talus
Talus can be tricky but with a few tips and a new approach you'll be all set for some Talus Dancing. And boy what fun it is!
Altra Lone Peak 1.5 Trail Shoe Review
The quest for the perfect lightweight backpacking shoe continues. Don't hold your breath. While these shoes are great for most hikes they are less than ideal for seriously demanding trips.
Paddle Scouts: BSA Packrafting the Sun River Drainage, Montana
The lightweight philosophy coupled with high adventure creates a schoolroom for incredible growth. Witness it here.
New Balance Leadville MT1210 Runners Review
The Leadville Runners are light and we mean really lightweight. But don't worry you won't have to sacrifice comfort or stability as you conquer the outdoors.
"Simplify, then add lightness." - Colin Chapman
How to Plan with Decision GatesKeep going, change your route, or turn back? Watch how decision gates help structure these choices in our YouTube video.
