Articles (2020)

The 60-Second Backpacker: Episode 2, Leave the Kitchen Sink at Home

The 60-Second Backpacker is a video series that provides bite-sized shorts about equipment, techniques, and philosophy of ultralight backpacking.

Episode No. 2: Trim the Fat

Carrying extraneous equipment and supplies that don’t serve your primary objectives of hiking and camping on a wilderness trip can rapidly balloon your pack weights. In this episode of The 60-Second Backpacker, you’ll learn why packing only the essentials, replacing equipment with skills, and limiting nonessential items to only those things that compliment your trip goals are critical for maintaining a low pack weight.

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Flash Reviews No. 13

Introductory Reviews of the Trail Designs Toaks 850ml Ti Pot + Fissure Ti-Tri Bundle, Fenix EO5 Keychain Flashlight, and the Discovery Trekking Outfitters Ultralight Towel.

In This Issue

- 1Trail Designs Fissure Ti-Tri Bundle (with different pot.)

Trail Designs Toaks 850ml Ti Pot + Fissure Ti-Tri Bundle

The Skinny

A lightweight multi-fuel stove made of premium materials that provide a cooking solution for most scenarios.

The Specs

  • Light weight.
  • Flexibility in kit.
  • Variable weight depending on chosen accessories.

My Take-

This stove is awesome! Multiple fuel options and all of them work well. If carrying fuel doesn’t suit you, just burn wood. While testing this stove system I was pleasantly surprised to see the ease of setup, and flexibility of options. It was a breezy day (11 mph wind) when I tested the stove, that did not seem to affect it at all. The Fissure Ti-Tri is an excellent wind barrier. The optional Inferno Ring works great when you are burning wood and doesn’t add much weight to the package, especially if you are planning to leave the fuel bottle home. I tried all three fuel types (Esbit, denatured alcohol, and wood) and they all worked well. I boiled (rolling boil) 62-degree Fahrenheit water (2 cups) in 8.03 minutes at an elevation of 4426 feet, and 72 degrees Fahrenheit outside using one Esbit fuel block. Using 20 ml of denatured alcohol I was able to get a rolling boil in 7.15 minutes at the same elevation and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

- 4Toaks 850ml pot that is included with Trail Designs kit.

I did not time the wood burning boil since using wood to make a fire evokes a completely different experience and takes much longer to do. Using the optional Inferno Ring and fire grate, I was able to get a really nice fire going under the same windy conditions. Most all of the pieces nest into the Toaks 850ml pot that comes with the kit (as long as you are only taking one burn method). It’s recommended to use a zip-lock bag to keep the fuel bottle in while you are packing it, that way it won’t leak under altitude and barometric pressure changes. The cap of the fuel bottle does have an o-ring or washer inside to reduce leaks, and there is a provided measuring cup that is marked with ml, cc, tbs, fl oz. and drams measurements. When using the 12/10 stove it’s recommended to only use denatured alcohol (per instructions) and fill it with no more than 40 ml. I tried boiling water with 15 ml first and found that it burned all the fuel before bringing it to a boil, it gave me a simmer. Moving my amount up to 20 ml worked just fine to get a rolling boil that last roughly four minutes. Who is this stove system for? I think it would be great for the experienced lightweight backpacker looking to upgrade to a different system than what they currently have. I think this is a good entry level stove for someone that doesn’t have a lightweight system and wants to migrate from a canister stove. If you need versatility in your system, then this stove system is for you, especially since they offer many different configurations when ordering.

More Info

- 2Fenix EO5 Keychain Flashlight

Fenix EO5 Keychain Flashlight

The Skinny

A keychain flashlight that offers three lighting modes and runs using one AAA battery.

The Specs

  • Weighs 11.4 grams.
  • Digitally regulated output maintains constant brightness level.
  • Can stand up on tail cap to work like a candle.
  • Twist switch.
  • Type 3 hard anodized aircraft aluminium.

My Take

This little flashlight is smaller than my pinky finger. The three lighting modes on this are great. I like it more than the previously reviewed Thrunite TI-3, mainly because I think the lighting modes are a little more useful at 8, 25, and 85 lumens. This is an update to the older model that had a mostly diffused lens. This newer version of the E05 has more of a clear lens with a very slim ring around the outside of the lens to diffuse some of the light. It comes with a key ring and a spare o-ring. I used the key ring to pair it with a Victorinox Mini Champ Midnight, because I misplaced it twice while testing it out. The pocket knife made it a little easier to keep track of. One accessory I wish this light had come with would be an optional pocket clip so that I could reverse the clip and attach it to the brim of my hat. I’m not sure that I would need to carry it while backpacking. I usually only carry a handheld backup light if it can also serve in place of a headlamp. However, this is an excellent keychain light!

More Info

- 3Discovery Trekking Outfitters Ultralight Towel

Discovery Trekking Outfitters Ultralight Towel

The Skinny

A backpacking towel that dries quickly and contains silver to deter bacterial growth.

The Specs

  • Quick drying.
  • Lightweight.
  • Very Absorbent.
  • Contains silver chloride to stop bacterial growth.
  • Bluesign approved, environmentally safe, antibacterial technology.

My Take

This towel contains silver chloride. It did have a bit of a chemical smell until I used and washed it a few times. I also noticed that there was a reddish color coming out (possibly the silver chloride, or maybe some excess dye) in the water when washing it. That stopped after about three wash cycles. As for the performance of the towel, it dries you off very well. I found that it has great absorbency. Laying the wet towel outside it dried very quickly. The Extreme Ultralight 34”x28” works well as a bandana, the back hangs down enough to cover my neck (which I really like). DTO lists the weight below 3 ounces. On my scale it was reading 3.4 ounces. I will let you decide if you want to add that weight to your pack. I have never taken a towel on a backpacking trip, but I like this one since I can use it as a bandana or kerchief. It absorbs better than a microfiber towel, and there is a good color selection available. The DTO website shows that there are two other sizes, 19”x19” and 34”x58”.

More Info

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Lightweight Backpacking News: Digest No. 22

In this week’s news: Crew One completes #windrivers 2015, bear advice from a controversial figure, compare tent options, and more.

Introduction

If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.

Top Stories

Bear Takes a Swipe at Backpacker’s Tent in Hopes for Food

Following the safety rules for food storage and preparation was not enough to deter a grizzly bear in Glacier National Park. Doug Kelley and his fellow backpacking friends had set up their tent and sleeping bags a few hundred yards away from their official cooking and eating area. While preparing dinner, they were surprised by a grizzly bear. They thought the bear was certainly interested in the food that they had, but amazingly the bear headed for the backpacker’s tent. Park officials say that it is likely that the bear had found food in a tent in the past, or it was possible that the tent smelled of food from a prior trip.

Is Technology Ruining the Outdoors?

A short commentary that brings up a pertinent question. Is technology ruining our perception and experience in the outdoors? It seems like everywhere you look nowadays you can find someone walking around talking to a camera pointed at…themselves. There is definitely no shortage of apps for tracking our progress while working out, hiking, skiing, etcetera. Is it evolving how we experience what we do? How different is it to go for a nice hike when you are documenting the trip with the expectation of sharing it with peers across the internet?

Top Stories Shorts

CAMPING NUMBERS DOWN BACKPACKING NUMBERS UP – Study shows that less people are camping, and more people are backpacking. Highcountry News.

Expeditions

Backpacking from the Eyes of a Beginner

Lillian Schrock recently took a backpacking trip for the first time. She had grown up car camping as a kid. It didn’t take her much time to realize the differences. Those differences left her with some very positive realizations about backpacking.

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Crew One at the end of the Glacier Traverse on Day 10, on the Continental Divide at 12,500′ above the headwaters of Tourist Creek.

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Traversing above the Klondike Glacier ice cliffs below Pedestal Peak.

Crew One Successfully Treks the Wind Rivers Range

Backpacking Light is the sponsoring organization for BSA Venturing Crew One (crew1.org), a youth organization comprised of 14-20-year-olds with the goal of fostering expedition leadership and wilderness travel skills. Crew One recently completed an 11-day trip through the Wind River Range in Wyoming. The Wind River Range spans about 100 miles and includes dozens of peaks higher than 12,000 feet in elevation. The highest peak is Gannett Peak and the second highest peak is Fremont Peak – and Crew One summited both – along with completing a glacier traverse of the Dinwoody, Gooseneck, Gannett, and Klondike Glacier Complexes. The expedition journal, sent live as satellite dispatches, are available on RyanJordan.com.

Expedition Shorts

CROWN LAKE IS NOT CAR CAMPING – Benjamin Spillman shares his experience about a trip to Crown Lake. Reno Gazette Journal.

Photo of the Week

This week’s photo is from @frittsdude. A beautiful view from Yosemite and a look at his Slingfin tent.

Skills

Do You Take Your Dog Hiking?

If you plan on taking your dog hiking you will want to make sure that they are ready for the trip. Know what gear to bring for your pup. Get them in shape with you before you leave especially if you are planning a longer trip. Find out about the locale for what types of other wildlife may be where you plan to hike. Follow trail etiquette and remember to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Eating the Good Stuff

When you’re out there scrambling up to the pinnacle of the mountain, or trying to cover 15 miles in a day at a 3.4 mile per hour pace…what do you dream of eating? There are freeze dried foods. Good old raisins and peanuts. Goo gels, chewy “fruit” things, Jerky. Maybe your thoughts wander to double cheeseburgers or a steak dinner. Does any of this sound familiar? This article discusses some of the ways to make trail food a tastier experience than just instant noodles or handfuls of gorp. What are your favorite trail foods? Let us know in the comments below.

Skills Shorts

FIND THE PERFECT DESTINATION -Loadout Room talks about how to find the perfect camping, backpacking, or hiking destination here.

GRADE ONE SCRAMBLING – Get some advice about grade one scrambling from SimplyHike.

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Youtube video

Gear

Big Agnes Vs. Mountain Hardwear

The Mountain Hardwear Super Mega UL2 Vs. the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2. Both meant to be lightweight tents for backpacking. Both very close in size and weight. But which one rates higher? ”Upupaepops”breaks down the pros and cons of these two competitors.

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Youtube video

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Complete contents of pack and clothing that will be worn. Photo courtesy of Cesar Valdez from Cesar and the Woods.

Gear List for 2015

Cesar Valdez is sharing his updated gear list for 2015. Cesar is in his own words “mostly a section hiker.” He is currently residing in Sweden. He updated his gear list from last year and posted the complete list with weights on his blog, as well as posting a video on Youtube. His shoes are probably one of his most controversial pieces of gear. You will have to check his blog to see what I mean. Total skinout weight was listed at 11.85 pounds.

Gear Shorts

SLINGFIN IS IN THE BACKPACKING TENT MARKET -Read about the Slingfin 2Lite on Indefinitely Wild.

10.4 POUND UL KIT – Andy Siminski wants you to see what he is carrying in his UL kit. He has a link provided in the information section with a complete list.

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Youtube video

People

Dr. Lynn Rogers Shares Advice on Bears

Dr. Lynn Rogers has studied bears for over 48 years. His work has been seen as controversial at times. According to the Wildlife Research Institute in Elly Minnesota, he has radio-tracked over 100 bears in Minnesota, and studied one of them for at least 22 years. He is said to have formed trusting relationships with bears, even mothers with cubs. Recently he shared his advice on what to do if you encounter a bear in the wilderness with Gear Junkie. Although his work may be seen as controversial, he has a very long track record with many awards, publications, and research and educational positions.

Media

Campfire Chronicles Discuss their Upcoming Yosemite Trip

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Youtube video

Hiking Moel Siabod

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Flash Reviews No. 12

Introductory Reviews for Backpacker’s Pantry Organic Yakisoba Noodles, All-Ett SoftTech Nylon Wallet, and the MyCharge Portable Device Charger.

In This Issue

- 1 Backpacker’s Pantry Organic Yakisoba Noodles

Backpacker’s Pantry Organic Yakisoba Noodles

The Skinny

A vegetarian Option for backpackers that offers organic ingredients.

The Specs

  • Vegetarian meal option.
  • Organic ingredients.
  • Dry weight is 4.1 ounces.

My Take-

Bring a skillet with your cookpot if you want to be able to cook this meal without a mess, and some extra spices to really make this meal tasty. I spent two years of my life eating a modified vegetarian diet (vegetarian and no dairy). While in search of dehydrated meals that were suitable for my needs this was one of the meals that I found and I decided to try it out on a trip. Directions per label call for one cup of boiling water and ten minutes to rehydrate the meal, add included organic olive oil to a skillet on medium heat (this may require removing the skillet from the heat frequently depending on your stove, or you can easily burn the noodles leaving a very hard to clean skillet) and fry noodles for additional five to ten minutes. The noodles were still somewhat crunchy, the vegetables were chewy, and the overall taste was bland. I really wished that I had brought some extra spices or some sriracha chili packets to add some flavor to this dish. I decided that needing to bring a small skillet with me in addition to my cook pot was not worth the weight addition and looked for one pot meals only after that. I tried cooking this meal again at home and found that the addition of spices like red chili flakes and salt made the flavor much better. This meal has 410 calories, 13 grams of fat, 1200 mg of sodium, 62 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of dietary fiber, 8 grams of sugar, and 11 grams of protein according to the label.

More Info

- 2
All-Ett SoftTech Nylon Wallet

All-Ett Wallet

The Skinny

Ultra thin, flexible, and lightweight wallet made to eliminate the problems associated with a traditional leather billfold.

The Specs

  • Holds up to 24 cards.
  • Divided cash and receipt pockets.
  • Lightweight ripstop nylon.
  • Weighs .4 ounces.
  • Material wicks away moisture, is fast drying, very thin, and tough.

My Take

I have had so many wallets in different designs and eventually decided to stop using all of them with an exception of a few. When I received this wallet for testing I was enthusiastic to see if it could accomplish what the company’s slogan (“End wallet butt”) said on the box. The material is a really light and soft ripstop nylon. The cards sit side by side in the wallet, top row, bottom row, right and left sides. This makes the overall height and width a little larger than my last wallet, but it also allows the wallet to flex a bit when I sit down. The inside of the card slots has a rubber strip near the front of the opening to aid in keeping cards from sliding out. I haven’t had anything fall out of the wallet so far despite only using a few cards in each slot. I really like the divided pocket for carrying cash and receipts. It is deep and has plenty of room for cash. I did find that the softness of the wallet makes it a little more work to insert receipts than I have with a traditional billfold. This wallet is not hot in my pocket, it doesn’t bother me after wearing it all day, and it is so light. My only concern is that sometimes I go to pull it out of my pocket and I can’t tell which side of my pants I put the wallet in because it hardly feels different from my other empty pocket (this could be bad on laundry day). This is the SoftTech Nylon Original model. There are other models available from All-Ett including leather models. This model is available in three colors, black, pebble brown, and beryl Blue.

More Info

- 3MyCharge AllTerrain Portable Charger

MyCharge AllTerrain Portable Charger

The Skinny

This portable charging system is small, charges quickly, and meets IP68 Military standards.

The Specs

  • Rapid recharge via included usb cable.
  • Rubber exterior.
  • 3000 mAh battery.
  • 2.1 Amp input and output.

My Take

I’ve been using this portable charger for the last few weeks. I have taken it with me to work, on trips and camping. I get about two full recharges on an iPhone 4, and I am able to charge while I am using my phone. My wife’s iPhone 5s gets a little less than two charges out of the MyCharge. There are two ports built into the MyCharge, one is standard sized USB, and the other is Micro-USB which is where you plug the cable in to recharge the device. You can charge the MyCharge while you are charging your phone, which could come in handy if you were short of outlets and needed to charge both. You can also charge the MyCharge from your laptop’s power supply while you charge your phone from the MyCharge. Pro Tip: If you want to look like the ultimate “Tech-Nerd” you need to have as many portable electronic devices sitting around you all at once, you could throw in some headphones and a camera and then you may be recognized as a full on “Tech-Junky.” All jokes aside, this is a good solution for short two-day trips to keep your phone or other USB chargeable devices charged. Weight on the MyCharge is 3.9 ounces which make it a little heavy to be considered an ultra-light solution. The size is comparable to other chargers on the market like the Kodiak mini charger, but it has a larger charge capacity with higher output of amperage as well as meeting a greater rating for shock, dust, water, and temperature resistance.

More Info

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Microadventures: Breaking Down the Barriers of Visiting a Wild Place

Microadventures are exactly that – tiny little trips with minimal fuss, minimal gear, and maximum bang for the buck.

What is a Microadventure?

The term “microadventure” was coined by Alastair Humphreys to represent, at its core, a trip taken very close to home for a short period of time. It involves less time, less prep, less gear, and less cleanup.

The Benefits of a Microadventure

I texted BPL Editor Jonathan Davis at 4:57 PM:

“Wanna go spend the night up on Saddle Peak 2nite? Leaving the Middle Cottonwood TH at about 8pm.”

microadventures jordan - 1
Jonathan used our microadventure as an opportunity to test the backpack we affectionately call “The Medicine Chest”. Note that his headlamp is at the ready, in preparation for our nighttime hike up the mountain!

By 5:25 PM, he had the blessing to go from his wife. By 6:19 PM, all of our logistics were sorted out in terms of gear, food, etc. By 8:15 PM, we were hiking. By 10:30 PM, we had put in several miles and a few thousand feet of elevation gain, and were settling in with our bivy sacks in a meadow and brewing up a freeze-dried meal as a late-night snack. We were back in town by late morning the next day.

Microadventures should be just that – little tiny bits of activity with no barriers that should prevent you from going.

The benefits of a microadventure are many:

  • They require little time and energy to prepare for, or cleanup from.
  • They require little physical, mental, or emotional investment if things don’t go as planned.
  • They require little sacrifice in terms of time spent away from family, jobs, or other responsibilities.
  • They’re fun.

For the low cost of participation, the benefits are extremely high!

microadventures jordan - 1
Within an hour, we were in a high meadow, the little flickering lights of the Gallatin Valley now far below, and darkness rapidly approaching. As we hiked higher, and the night fell darker, we gained freedom.

For me, the primary benefits of a microadventure are even less tangible than those listed above. Microadventures provide an emotional release valve that allows me to effectively cope with the constant strain of managing personal and business financial matters, a to-do list that grows at a faster rate than it shrinks, the complex logistics of owning and sharing one car in a family where three sets of busy schedules need to be constantly synchronized, and the challenge of preparing for and cleaning up from summer expeditions, business travel, and anxious visits with the in-laws!

What to Bring on a Microadventure?

Deciding what to bring will depend on a variety of circumstances: options you have available to you, the immediate weather forecast, and your own styles and desires.

microadventures jordan - 1
Our camp consisted of little more than two bivy sacks hidden behind a grassy knoll at the edge of a stand of trees, only 50 yards from the trail but out of its view. Situated on a bench, we still had a view of the valley below that we had ascended the night before.

When Jonathan and I went on our microadventure together, I knew the following would dictate my equipment and supply needs:

  1. I had a packed schedule during the afternoon before we left, and I knew I wouldn’t be able to fit in making dinner or eating out before hitting the trail. I knew that I wanted hot food at camp when we finished our hike, so I’d need a stove, pot, fuel, and food. I grabbed my MSR Reactor, which still had a partially used canister of fuel packed inside of it, and an old freeze dried meal (Mountain House Spaghetti!) from a miscellaneous food bin. I threw in a few packets of Gu gels from my training supply that I knew would get me to camp, a few more that I knew would get me back home, and a packet of Via for a morning brew. Double checking the little dorm fridge in my garage, I found a forgotten, half-empty 500 ml box of wine tucked back in the corner, ignored the expiry date, and threw it in the pack.
  2. I would be arriving to camp late, in the dark. I’d need a headlamp! And I didn’t want to fool around with pitching a tent. I didn’t bother to check the weather forecast, but I decided to grab two bivy sacks (one for me, one for Jonathan), and call it good. If it was going to rain, I was confident we could deal with it by tucking under a tree stand.
  3. Layers? I simply wore what I had on at the time – a t-shirt, some nylon work pants, wool socks, and trail running shoes. I added a rain jacket and down vest, and figured I’d stay warm enough for the rest of the time with just my sleeping quilt.
  4. I knew where I was going, so we skipped the map, compass, GPS, etc.

microadventures jordan - 1
Microadventures strip off so much of what we deem “essential” about backcountry travel. The result: the clarity and focus required to think, contemplate, meditate.

What about the other “essentials”?

  • First aid kit? Nope. I could suffer a cut or bruise ’til I got back home.
  • Toilet supplies? Natural materials!
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen? For hiking in the dark and early morning? Mostly forested trail? No snow? Why bother?
  • Firestarting kit? I had a sparker in my stove kit and I suppose if I really needed a fire, I could light it using the stove.
  • Knife? This has always been a funny one to me. The only time I’ve ever found myself in need of a knife was to win a battle separated between me and Calories by stubborn food packaging!
  • Extra food? I knew where a stash of miner’s lettuce was up in the canyon where we were hiking, as well as a few edible roots and flowers. But essential for an overnight microadventure? Certainly not – heck, we could have fasted for the duration plus another day and been just fine.

What to Do on a Microadventure?

I threw in a camera to snap a few photos, but other than the little box of wine, we didn’t plan on any extravagant entertainment. After all, I had a pal with me. Mix a pal with a late night, no distractions, and a few sips of a favorite drink, and (*gasp*) you might actually have to talk. This fosters relationship and forges bonds. I can’t think of anything better to do on a microadventure.

microadventures jordan - 1
I woke up early, and while Jonathan was snoozing in his bivy sack, I laid on my stomach to have a closer peek at the wild plants. There’s something about looking at a paintbrush flower – a flower that I’d seen thousands of times during a lifetime of rambling in the wilds – up close and backlit by the sky above, that allowed me to see it in a new way.

When I go solo, I try not to plan “activities”. Microadventures are ultimately vehicles of R&R for me. Sometimes I like to do nothing at all except look at the natural world around me. More than anything, it gives me an appreciation for the simplicity of having to do nothing – allowing thoughts to pass in and out of my head in a state of relaxed, dynamic meditation. For me, this is a fast road to relaxation, a positive mental and emotional state, and ultimately, gratitude for my life. In and of itself, that’s a worthy and refreshing goal for any microadventure.

That said, some microadventures are necessarily filled with activity: the need to go capture some photography for a story, test out and record (write notes about) first impressions of a new piece of equipment, achieve some type of physical training goal, or find a quiet spot to immerse myself in some research reading with no other distractions.

Microadventure Tips: Top 5

The key to a successful microadventure is to ensure that preparation and execution should not employ an expedition mentality: keep them simple!

Here are my Top 5 tips for keeping macroadventures simple.

1. Simplify the Menu!

When I think of a microadventure, the most complex part of trips for me is food planning, packaging, and preparation. I employ a few strategies to simplify this process:

  • Focus on cold, no-cook foods;
  • Start the microadventure after an early dinner (especially in the summer, when days are long) and return before the next day’s dinner;

2. Simplify the Camping Bed!

I like to go on a microadventure when the weather forecast is fair – that means I can get away with sleeping out under the stars, or at least, in a simple bivy sack.

3. Simplify the Clothing System!

To keep clothing needs to a minimum, I prefer to take less clothing and rely on my sleeping bag for warmth in camp.

4. Be Ready at All Times!

Keep your microadventure pack hanging on a hook by the door – packed and ready to go with the following items:

  • Backpack
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Sleeping Pad
  • Bivy Sack
  • Rain Jacket
  • Headlamp
  • One pound of assorted snack foods that can be eaten cold
  • Local map & compass
  • Microadventuring clothes to wear: trail shoes, wool socks, trekking shirt and pants, and ballcap

It’s astonishing what you can accomplish with just a minimal kit like this! If it’s ready to go, you may be even more astonished by how often you use it!

5. Do Your Own Thing! (and Adapt Accordingly)

Your microadventures may not look like mine. Adapt accordingly, and create your own microadventure philosophy. Maybe you wish to create a framework for a bikepacking, packrafting, car camping, day hiking, or urban microadventure. Regardless, think about the absolute minimum you need to accomplish it and build from there. Remember, a microadventure should be easy to plan and easy to execute. Don’t create barriers or you won’t be a microadventurer.

Conclusion

Microadventures are ideal pursuits for busy professionals, people who need to escape the confines of modern civilization for a bit, families with kids, and inexperienced adventurers. Plus, they are a great quick fix for those who regularly adventure on more complex expeditions and simply want to try new gear or skills.

More Resources

microadventures jordan - 1
My normal weekly routine involves guzzling a few cups of coffee in the morning while checking email, sorting out my daily schedule and priorities, and at times, reacting to the urgency and panic of the day. Here, I enjoyed slow joe while not doing any of this, and it was wonderful. I hope to translate this habit back into my life, regardless of whether I have WiFi or not! Perhaps you have learned something about going on microadventures that you can use to improve your quality of life?

Share Your Microadventure Stories

I hope this article stimulates some discussion that might be valuable for others who are considering a microadventure or two in the near future. A few questions for the readers:

  1. What value (benefits) have your microadventures provided for you?
  2. How long does it take you to prepare for a microadventure?
  3. What gear and supplies do you bring on your microadventure?
  4. What life lessons have you learned by going on microadventures?
  5. Share your microadventure photos and stories in the forum below!

Lightweight Backpacking News: Digest No. 21

Teenaged expeditioners + news, gear, and stories.

Introduction

If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.

Top Stories

Scott Jurek- Record Holding Ultra Runner Completes A.T. for New Record

You may have heard of Scott Jurek in the ultra running world for his many records. He authored “Eat and Run”, a book that profiles his life and career. He set the American record for longest distance on all surfaces in twenty-four hours by running 165.7 miles. He has arrived at a new record completing the Appalachian Trail in 46 days 8 hours and 7 minutes. He covered on average 50 miles a day and traveled through 14 states. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy recommends taking 5 to 7 months to complete the AT giving an even larger perspective of Jurek’s accomplishment. His record was with support, he summited Mt. Katahdin with his wife Jenny, who served as crew member the whole way. This record provides no trophy, the Appalachian Trail conservancy doesn’t have an award for speed. Nevertheless, this will be marked on Jurek’s long list of accolades in an already impressive career.

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Wind Rivers 2015- Scouts Pose for a Pre-Trip Photo (Photo Courtesy of BSA Venturing Crew One).

BSA Venturing Crew One Traversing Glaciers in Wyoming- the Wind River Range

Backpacking Light is the chartering organization of BSA Venturing Crew One of Bozeman, Montana – a group of 14-20 year olds with a focus on learning expedition leadership and practicing it by planning wilderness expeditions in remote locations. Last year, Crew One completed a 13-day, the 105-mile traverse of the Bob Marshall Wilderness by foot and packraft without resupply. This year, they are in the Wind River range of Wyoming, attempting a glacier traverse of the northern range with a summit attempt of the Wyoming High Point, Gannett Peak (13,804′) for good measure. They left on July 13, and will return on July 23. Stay tuned for more stories about their expedition here at BPL.

Three Sisters Survive While Being Lost

Three sisters were lost for almost a week on the Gros Ventre Wilderness. They were originally heading to Turquoise Lake but realized that they were lost. Megan, Erin, and Kelsey Andrews-Sharer had decided to move off trail and reroute when one of the sisters began to develop blisters on her feet. The girls had a compass and updated map of the area but got confused about where they were. Once they couldn’t decipher where they were on the map any longer, they decided to stay put near water and wait for someone to come to them. The plan worked out as search and rescue found them, but only after they had been out there for five days.

Top Stories Shorts

BEAR CANISTERS NOW REQUIRED – If you are planning a trip into the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness, you may want to read this. Aspen Daily News Online.

NEW VISITORS CENTER OPENS FOR MOUNT ST. HELENS – Read about the new visitors center at Mount St. Helens on OregonLive.com.

Expeditions

Journey Across the Sierra High Route

Traveling over sheer, rocky, and sometimes unmarked terrain, is not only physically exacting, it is also a challenge for the mind. The Sierra High Route has roughly 40 miles of it’s almost 200-mile length on the trail. With 30 miles shared with the John Muir Trail the trails touch but are very different. Rocks are mainly what the high route have to offer for you to travel on. The high route is exactly that, where the J.M.T reduces elevation the High Route stays elevated. It took Chris Brinlee Jr. and Gilberto Gil only two weeks to complete the High Route. See the many photographs that they took along the way and a detailed account of the trip, as well as a look at some of the equipment used on the journey.

Expedition Shorts

THE N.H. 4K’S: MT. CABOT – Read about the race from the perspective of Backpacking Engineer.

CLEARING TRAILS ON MT. EVANS – Read about the work that PMags put in on the Mt. Evans Trail!

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Photo of the Week

Chase Jordan showing off his pack in preparation for the #windrivers2015

Skills

Compass Navigation on Land

A compass, a map, your packed gear, food, water, first aid, and your skillset are all important things for any backpacker to have. The skillset which you have honed can prove to be one of the most beneficial items in your gear list that allows you to enjoy your travels and have the ability to go lighter. Do you know how to use a compass and map? I know that may seem like a silly question to some that are experienced backpackers, but to someone that is new to backpacking it can be something that seems unfamiliar. This video gives some insight on how to use a compass with a map while traveling on land. As any skills and training knowledge goes, it is your responsibility to learn them properly. You are the person responsible for your own safety while backpacking, and this video is only meant to be a starting point for navigation, not the only training that you should seek.

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Youtube video

Skills Shorts

S.U.L. GEAR LIST – Here is a great video from Chad at Stick’s Blog showing his current super ultra-light gear list for a trip where he is expecting some storms. In the video, he covers pack selection, gear, food, and why he is packing what he chose.

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Youtube video
A GREAT TASTING SMOOTHIE RECIPE – Are you working out with a long trip in mind? Runner’s World shares a post workout recipe that is great for the summer heat.

Gear

Three Stoves Compared

Light weight wood burning stoves are the matter of topic in this article. Looking at three stoves in particular. The Solo stove, a natural convection inverted down-gas gasifier, this stove has two small points on top and bottom of the burn chamber allowing oxygen to enter which provides a less smoky flame. The Sierra Zip Stove, utilizing a small battery powered fan to boost oxygen into the fire. There is a new ten-ounce version of the Zip Stove available in titanium. Lastly, there is the Emberlit Fireant Multi-Fuel Stove, weighing 2.8 ounces being made of titanium, and the ability to consume wood, esbit fuel, and trangia fuels which give this stove some flexibility.

People

Josh Kato Wins World’s Hardest Mountain Bike Race

Josh Kato is a 40-year-old nurse from Washington State who recently won the Tour Divide, which is touted as the world’s hardest mountain bike race. It took him 14 days, 11 hours, and 37 minutes to set the newest race record, beating the old record by a full day. He was biking on average 190 miles per day and a total distance of 2,745 miles. Kato rode 700 miles last year with injuries and an infection and has not raced in 24 years before deciding to race the tour divide. At the last 45 miles of the race, out of water, Kato decided to stop and drink two liters from a culvert on the side of the road, this helped him push past the leg cramps that he was experiencing and make it to the finish line a whole 20 minutes before the next competitor would arrive.

Media

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Get a Quick Look at the Jackson Hole Mountain Bike Park

Youtube video

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The Missouri RIver from Epic Montana

Youtube video

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Is the Iceman Science or Science Fiction?

Language warning: this video does have some swearing in it.

Youtube video

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Hike the Wind Wolves Preserve with the Adventures Archive

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Little Red Wagon GEO Review: Craft Coffee for Backpackers

GEO is a single-serve, disposable pourover filter containing freshly roasted artisan coffee.

Introduction

The perfect cup of backcountry coffee may not exist, but GEO brings us a little bit closer.

GEO is a single-serve, disposable pourover filter containing freshly roasted (ground) artisan coffee from Little Red Wagon Coffee Roasters. It’s available in a variety of origins, and packaged in individual serving packs or in a resealable air-tight zip closure bag with either six or twelve pourover filters.

Watch the Video

Watch the video below to see GEO in action, and see how the brewing process works in the field.

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Review

Little Red Wagon is a craft roaster in Bozeman, Montana. They roast single-origin coffees in six-pound batches in a custom-built, tiny San Franciscan SF-6 roaster. Coffees are sourced seasonally, from farms around the world with whom they have developed personal relationships. The intimacy of knowing the entire process from farm to cup gives Little Red Wagon a level of authenticity – they know what they’re doing and the quality of the coffees they produce speaks for themselves.

Among lovers of coffee, it seems that French-pressed and pourover brewing methods yield brews that elicit the highest levels of satisfaction from their sippers. Both methods have been adapted to backcountry use, but suffer from a bit of fuss in managing both the ground coffee and the cleanup and disposal of the sludge from the brewing equipment.

GEO takes a different approach by sealing the grounds in a disposable pourover filter “cone”, which is in turn sealed into an airtight bag that holds one, six, or twelve servings. Each cone weighs just over half an ounce (20 to 21 grams, to be exact). The end result is a very clean, no-mess product that creates an outrageously good cup of coffee.

Strengths

  • Clean – no messy grounds to clean out of filter cones, mugs, etc.;
  • Excellent flavor – fresh-roasted coffee in dated packs;

Weaknesses

  • Short cup disclaimer – the bottom of the pourover hangs about 1-2 inches below the hangers at the rim of your mug, so if you have a short cup, not all water will exit the pourover filter until you begin to pull it out of the cup; so to extract that last bit of brew, hold the pourover over the cup after your final pour.
  • Wet grounds disposal – this isn’t a weakness of this particular product, but for any brewing method using coffee grounds; you have two options: (1) place the pourover in the sun to allow the grinds to dry, and then pack them out in their original packaging or a plastic zip bag dedicated to the waste; or (2) bury the grinds in a cathole or scatter them if it’s allowed and consistent with minimum impact camping regulations in your area.

Where to Buy

The 60-Second Backpacker, Episode No. 1: Weigh Your Stuff

The 60-Second Backpacker is a video series that provides bite-sized shorts about equipment, techniques, and philosophy of ultralight backpacking.

Episode No. 1: Weigh Your Stuff

Not knowing what your backpacking gear weighs is a barrier to lightening your pack effectively. In this episode of The 60-Second Backpacker, you’ll learn why digital scales, spreadsheets, and being honest with yourself are the foundation for lightening up!

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Flash Reviews No. 11

Introductory Reviews of the Potable Aqua Pure- Electrolytic Water Purifier, Stio Men’s Divide Tech Tee, and Hanz Waterproof Socks.

In This Issue

- 1
Potable Aqua Pure- Electrolytic Water Purifier

Potable Aqua Pure- Electrolytic Water Purifier

The Skinny

An electrolytic water purifier with a rechargeable battery and built-in solar panel for backup recharging. Potent enough to eliminate giardia and cryptosporidium, this handheld purifier uses electricity to make saltwater into a solution (mixed oxidant disinfectant) that will purify dirty water.

h3 The Specs

  • Scaleable treatment allows you to treat from 1 to 20 liters of water.
  • Solar powered backup for charging, one hour of direct sunlight gives enough charge for 1 liter of water treatment.
  • Ready to use, no need to pre filter water.
  • Cost effective
  • Designed to meet military specifications for freeze/thaw drop and crush resistance.
  • Lasting protection, residual disinfectant extends protection to water that is not immediately consumed.
  • High value due to the very low cost of operating device (salt required to make brine solution).
  • No batteries to replace, charge with usb or solar power, purifies 150 liters + per full charge.

My Take

This product is effective water treatment for most all waterborne pathogens, including cryptosporidium, e-Coli, and giardia. There are backup means of charging built in, reducing my concerns for taking it into the wild. Instructions on the purifier are easy to follow, and there is a waterproof quick-start guide that covers the instructions for purifying water, as well as showing conversions for amounts of water into liters. Weight on the purifier was 3.7 ounces on my scale and 4 ounces after I filled it with salt. The Brine bottle empty weighed 9 grams, filled it was 43 grams. Test strips (in provided container) weighed 30 grams. The quick-start guide weighed 11 grams. There is a small carry pouch provided which weighed 9 grams. The total weight with salt reservoirs filled, brine bottle filled, quick-start guide, pouch, and test strips (in provided container) together weighed 7.3 ounces. Using the purifier was easy for me. I could see that using it on winter trips may be a little harder if I were shivering cold, but that could be avoided with more prior preparation. The flexibility of being able to purify different amounts of water is nice, and there are varied wait times for if you suspect giardia or cryptosporidium presence in the water (giardia wait 30 minutes, cryptosporidium wait 4 hours). Compared to the other water treatment options on the market I feel like it is a good value over the life of the product. While it is a bit more complex to use than something like a Sawyer Mini, it is proficient in purifying most of the water treatment needs you may encounter while backpacking.

More Info

- 2
Stio Men’s Divide Tech Tee

Stio Men’s Tech Tee

The Skinny

A poly/cotton blend shirt made purposefully for outdoor sports with a casual style suitable for everyday wear.

The Specs

  • Drirelease with FreshGaurd heathered single jersey, 85% poly 15% cotton.
  • UPF 15 for added sun protection.
  • Flatlock Seams for comfort.
  • Quick drying.
  • Weighs 5 ounces.

My Take

Wearing cotton while in the mountains is not something that I personally do often. If I am going to be in a hotter climate like the desert, or just choosing casual wear for spring and summer, I will usually wear cotton. The rest of the year I will be wearing synthetics, wool, or down. This shirt, however, is not simply cotton. I have worn several poly/cotton blends in the past and found that they are very comfortable in most climates. The addition of cotton in a small amount can also give the garment a softer feel. A blend like this does dry quickly, especially if you have direct sunlight on it. The flatlock seams are nice and a personal preference when I am wearing a pack or doing anything involving aerobic activity. The fabric is made to withstand holding odors. UPF protection is a nice addition and is something that I like in all of my garments.

More Info

- 3
Hanz Waterproof Socks

Hanz Waterproof Socks

The Skinny

A waterproof, seamless sock with wicking liner available with differing levels of thermal protection.

The Specs

  • Wicking liner
  • Breathable
  • Seamless and snug fit
  • Silent-knit technology
  • windproof

My Take

These socks are comfortable. There are multiple models available. This model is the “Lightweight Waterproof Sock- Calf Length”, which is intended to be protection against light splashes as opposed to submersion. With three layer construction, they are a bit stiffer than the usual wool sock. My initial suspicion was that these socks were going to be hot. They are warm, and my feet do sweat in them. After splashing through puddles and creek crossings, my feet were drier than if I were wearing my regular socks. They also seem to wick moisture fairly well, but after wearing them all day my feet will be mildly moist. I turn the socks inside out and they are dry in the morning. Turning them inside out also reveals that there are in fact seams in the construction of these socks, they are very flat and I did not feel them at all while in use. The box warns against twisting, wringing, or puncturing socks. I assume this would affect the waterproof membrane. Instructions for washing are to either hand wash and drip dry, or machine wash on low temperature and tumble dry on low temperature then turning them inside out midway through drying cycle. Weight on my scale was 4.2 ounces which are a bit too heavy for me to want to switch from my merino socks. I am more likely going to use these socks for short jaunts into the mountains, and maybe pick up Hanz heavier pair that is meant for fly fishing.

More Info

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Lightweight Backpacking News: Digest No. 20

In this Week’s News: It’s time for the 2015 Packraft Roundup, a father scares a bear away to save his son, five trails to know in the Colorado area, get to know Leslie Hittmeier, and much more!

Introduction

If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.

Top Stories

- 1
2014 Packraft Roundup: Photo courtesy of The American Packrafting Association

2015 Packraft Roundup!

The American Packrafting Association 2015 Packraft Roundup is happening July 12-14, 2015 on the North Fork of the Flathead River! The Roundup will take place at the group campsite at Big Creek Campground on the North Fork… the same place that was used last year. The schedule is still evolving, but here’s a list of some of the things you can look forward to:

  • Program begins Sunday evening, July 12th and runs through Tuesday, July 14th.
  • Packrafting opportunities of different levels of difficulty on the North Fork and surrounding streams.
  • Bike-rafting instruction and trip opportunities! We are lucky to have two of the bike-rafting-est people on the planet, Casey Greene, and Steve Fassbinder, willing to lead clinics and bike-rafting floats.
  • Family float! Yes, you are welcome to bring your kids with you to the Roundup and if you are interested, we will have a group family float.
  • Group BBQ on Monday night, July 13th, organized by APA. Your registration fee for the Roundup includes this BBQ.
  • Keynote Speaker – Rich Rudow! Rich Rudow has been using packrafts to link up technical canyons in Grand Canyon NP for as long as anyone. He has been instrumental in packraft policy in Grand Canyon NP. Rich has pushed the envelope of exploration in his pioneering of scores of technical canyoneering descents in Grand Canyon. He will be talking about all this and more in his Keynote address.
  • Swiftwater Safety Institute is offering two packraft-specific swift water rescue and safety courses in the days prior to the Roundup. They are offering a 3-day “complete” course from July 10-12, and a 1-day “crash course” on July 12th. Space is limited.

Bear Attack Thwarted

Father (Greg Alexander) and son (Gabriel Alexander) were backpacking in the Smoky Mountains when their campsite was visited by a black bear. They had their food hung away from the campsite where they were sleeping in hammocks. Gabriel was pulled out of his hammock by the bear. His father Greg awoke and was able to scare the bear away. A swift hike to a nearby lakeside campsite was made where local campers with a boat provided a ride across the lake, and eventually the two made it to the hospital via airlift. Gabriel Alexander came away with multiple lacerations but was declared stable by doctors. When asked about the experience the duo agreed that the chances of a bear attack are rare and should not keep people from getting out of doors.

Expeditions

Five Trails in the Colorado Area

If you are looking for some hikes that you can do over the summer and you live in the Colorado area, you may want to try these hikes. Blue Lake Loop near Monte Vista, an eighteen-mile loop described as being “wild and remote”. The loop straddles the Continental Divide and was once home to the last known Colorado Grizzly. Bear Creek Trail to Engineer Pass near Ouray is a shorter journey that is rich with views and places to adventure. Approximately seven miles in there is a campground. Four Pass Loop near Aspen provides 10,000 feet of vertical gain and 26 miles of travel. Macey Lakes near Westcliff located in the Sangre De Cristo mountains. The seven-mile hike up will provide great views and plenty of challenge for the experienced hiker. Lastly, Sand Ramp Trail in Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. A sandy trail with forest glens and views of the Sangre De Christo Mountains are what to look forward to when hiking this less elevated trail.

Youth get the Opportunity to Tune in to Nature

Upcoming backpacking trips are in the works for youths ages 12-14 with the Chippewa Nature Center. This trip will follow the shores of the Manistee River from July 13-17. Another trip for youth ages 14-16 is planned at Porcupine State Park on July 28- August 5. Both trips provide a CNC adventure leader. Registration fees and membership fees can be found on Chippewanaturecenter.org.

Expedition Shorts

Five Hikes for Kids – Five hikes in the Olympic National Park that Thurstontalk.com says are perfect for kids.

ENDERS 2015 JOURNEY – Follow Ender as he ventures out on the Colorado Trail (Denver to Durango) on trailjournals.com.

Photo of the Week

This weeks photo is brought to you by @_the_glass_studio.

This is 8 kg thanks Nick from Back Packing Light in Melbourne #backpackinglight #backpack #camino #caminodesantiago #walking #aarn

A photo posted by Leisa Wharington (@the_glass_studio) on

Skills

Five Principles of Going Lighter

Getting your base weight or skin-out weight down is something that we all focus on here at B.P.L. In the forums you can get a lot of insight into reducing weight. There are several principles involved to the practice. Leaving home non-essentials, looking for items that have multiple purposes, and reducing the weight of essential items are all things that are going to aid in the total weight reduction of gear that you carry. Some of the best ways to learn about going lighter are from fellow hikers.

Great Tasting Food

Solitude, exceptional views, and stories that I can take home with me are all things that I look forward to when backpacking. Add great food to that list and my trip becomes epic. Dehydrated food doesn’t usually equate to a memorable meal (at least not in a good way) for me. I have been on trips where friends were venturous enough to pack in steaks for the first night. That was an exceptional treat! Smoked sausage Jambalaya also sounds like it would be delicious.

Skills Shorts

BECOMING AN OUTDOORS WOMAN – Ladies in the Michigan area may want to check this out. UpperMichiganssource.com.

PATAGONIA CULTURAL EXPEDITION – Take a trip to Patagonia with N.O.L.S and learn some mountain skills.

Gear

Choosing Gear

Knowing what gear to take on a trip is important. Before you go on a multi-day trip you will want to assess what items will be key for a safe and fun adventure. Making a gear list before you leave will help you to not leave out something important. Knowing information about the locale of where you will be hiking can aid in what to bring with you. Are you expecting wet weather? Are you going to sleep exposed in a sleeping bag, or are you going to need to pack a shelter? Do you have the appropriate clothing layers for the trip you are taking? Outside Online shares their take on how to be ready for your backpacking trip.

Mountain Hardwear Men’s Drummond Short Sleeve Shirt- Reviewed

There are a lot of choices on the market for shirts made with outdoor activities in mind. For me, the choice is usually consisting of something that is going to be comfortable in several climates for extended periods of time, and hopefully won’t smell horrible after a few days of wearing it. A traditional style shirt with modern materials and fit can provide things that can be beneficial for the backpacker. Ultraviolet protection, insect repellant finishes, antimicrobial, breathable and moisture wicking fabrics all add to the list of features available to you today. See how the Mountain Hardwear Men’s Drummond stacks up from the perspective of Isaac Tait.

Gear Shorts

WHAT TO EAT – A look at which premade meals are the tastiest, and which meals are not so delightful. The Stranger shares five foods to try while backpacking, plus a recipe.

FUEL FOR THE FIRE – Read a review about Wetfire Tender from All that Humains.

People

Photographer, Writer, Climber, Skier-Leslie Hittmeier

Not only is she photographing some of the most amazing things that people can do, Leslie Hittmeier is also doing those things with the people that she writes about and photographs. Based out of Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado she is on the go working and enjoying life at the same time. She has an excellent collection of photos and multimedia on her website. You can follow Leslie on Instagram by searching for @lhittmeier.

Media

Hiking for the First Time with Diabetes

Hiking can be challenging enough if you are in perfect health. Hiking with Diabetes presents a different set of challenges on top of the things that are already presented in a backpacking trip. The Living Vertical Podcast aims to give insight to being outdoors and getting more active even if you have diabetes. The latest podcast features an interview with Josie Johnson, a seventeen-year-old girl who has had type one diabetes since she was eleven years old. She discusses her first backpacking trip and the experience that she had.

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Tenkara Fly Fishing in the Sierras.

Youtube video

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Learn one way to make a Mint Tin Stove.

Youtube video

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Check out the Everest Movie Trailer!

Youtube video

Flash Reviews No. 10

Introductory Reviews for La Sportiva Helios SR, Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System, and the Nalgene Flask.

In This Issue

- 1
La Sportiva Helios SR: The La Sportiva “Impact Braking System” outsole consists of U-shaped lugs oriented in opposite directions for traction while climbing and braking while descending, steep terrain. One scenario where I really noticed its effectiveness: hiking or running on trails that were steep, dry, and dusty, with a loose “ball-bearing” type surface of grit and pebbles.

La Sportiva Helios SR

The Skinny

A neutral trail shoe with a sticky sole that is designed to be used on technical trails.

The Specs

  • Forefoot rock plate
  • Hydrain mesh on upper for breathability
  • 8.1 ounces or 230 grams
  • 2 mm drop

My Take-

Shoes with a wide forefoot, like the Altra Lone Peak (my staple for trail hiking for the past several years), have their place, but steep, technical terrain is not one of them. I’m constantly on the lookout for an ultralight trail shoe that has a slipper-like fit, low drop, a sticky and well-designed sole that can be used in both loose crud and bare rock, and is narrow enough for technical placements but wide enough for a decent fit without being sloppy.

I (Ryan) have had my eyes on the La Sportiva Helios SR since it was announced and have been eager to try them. I finally had the chance to put them through their paces on a recent trip to the Tetons. Here are my first impressions:

  1. On the steep, dry, dusty, and pebbly city trail network flanking Snow King Mountain, I found the lugs to provide some of the best traction I’ve ever experienced in a trail shoe. They brake, and I felt sure of my footing on these types of trails, even running at moderate speeds. La Sportiva calls it the “Impact Braking System” – i.e., “a proprietary technology in outsole design where the lugs of the soles are oriented in opposing slanted directions. This opposition increases braking power by an average of 20% and decreases impact forces by an average of 20%.” I have no way to measure it but can certainly say that it works – at least on dry, loose dirt.
  2. La Sportiva is well known for their sticky rubber, and the Helios SR offers it in spades. Traction while scrambling on steep, Class 3-4 rock in the Northern Tetons was terrific.
  3. Having a full-length rock plate is not always necessary, and it adds weight. The forefoot rock plate of the Helios SR, however, is a welcome addition to the shoe, and dramatically improves my confidence while moving fast on rocky trails, especially while carrying a heavy pack.

In short, the La Sportiva Helios SR is very light, well-cushioned, sensitive to the terrain underfoot, protective (due to the rock plate), and offers effective traction on a variety of terrain surfaces. It’s very low cut is unobtrusive and its last shape provides a positive balance of forefoot room (size up one size for more comfort) and technical control.

More Info

- 2
Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System

Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System

The Skinny

A lightweight, small and simple water filtration system that can screw onto many threaded bottles.

The Specs

  • .1 microns filter
  • Removes 99.9999% of bacteria (salmonella,cholera and E. coli).
  • Removes 99.9999% of protozoa (cryptosporidium and giardia).
  • Exceeds EPA recommendations for removal rates.
  • No chemicals or batteries required.
  • Weighs 3.4 ounces with total kit.

My Take

There are so many ways to filter or clean your drinking water. The Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System makes the process fairly simple. It comes with a 16 oz. collection bag that the filter can screw directly onto. A straw to connect to the bottom of the filter if you only had a large mouth container, like a pot. The filter itself which is clearly labeled for ease of use. Finally, there is a large syringe provided for backflushing the filter. The filter can also be attached inline on a hydration system, or it can be screwed directly onto another bottle of common size like a standard water bottle. The manufacturer says that it will filter 100,000 gallons. I (Jonathan) have had no issues with using the filter while connected to a bottle, but I have not tried to install the filter inline on a hydration bladder type system. This may not be a winter solution for everyone since you cannot let the filter freeze. I think there are preventative measures one could take to keep the filter from freezing, like keeping near your body while on the move and while sleeping. The specs listed above are provided from the manufacturer, I have not performed any laboratory testing on this product. I have used the filter and have not gotten sick from using it, so I am pleased with the results.

More Info

- 3
Nalgene Flask: Shown with all pieces together and taken apart.

Nalgene flask

The Skinny

A BPA-free flask that comes with a sleeve and 1 oz. shot cap.

The Specs

  • Weighs 4.2 ounces with all pieces, 1.8 ounces with just bottle and cap.
  • BPA free.
  • 12 ounce capacity.
  • Outer sleeve is removable.

My Take

A flask is not on my top list of priorities when I (Jonathan) am backpacking. However, I was gifted one of these recently and decided that I would find out the different ways I could use it (aside from the obvious). The flask does have some handy features. The cap is a two piece construction. The outer cap is a 1 oz. shot and the inner cap is similar to a standard water bottle cap but sturdier. The standard threads mean that you can replace it with the cap of almost any regular water bottle cap if you accidentally lost it. The outer sleeve is also BPA free and serves nicely for water collection and it also has a measurement mark on it showing 1 oz. and 1.5 oz. My Sawyer mini will also screw right on to the neck of the flask. If you wanted to use it just for water, the outer sleeve and shot cap being removed brings the weight of the flask down significantly from 4.2 ounces to 1.8 ounces. The flask also has measurement marks on it showing ounces (counting by two’s) and milliliters. I find this helpful if you like to keep track of how much water you are consuming while you are on the go. The shot cap is initially somewhat hard to separate from the inner cap after a few uses it becomes easier to remove. The outer sleeve does not provide a positive friction that holds the sleeve on by itself, so I would say that it is best to carry the flask inside your pack or on a side pocket. If you are looking for a flask that is somewhat lightweight and don’t want to worry about leaks, consider trying the Nalgene flask.

More Info

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Lightweight Backpacking News: Digest No. 19

News this week: Get a look at the Tahoe Rim Trail, a stove shootout, meet the founder of Soul RIver Runs Wild, and more.

Introduction

If you’d like to submit a link to a timely (fresh) story for us to consider including in our next installment, please send it along to submissions@backpackinglight.com with the subject line “BPL NEWS DIGEST”.

Top Stories

Wildfires in California Wilderness Close Trails

Near Big Bear in the San Bernardino National Forest a fire started and had spread to nearly 15,000 acres. Inciweb is giving updated information as the fire continues to spread. Closures for the PCT from Whitewater Preserve to the Onyx Summit are in effect. All hiking trails into the San Gorgonio Wilderness area are closed because of the proximity of the fire. Highway 38 is closed between Angelus Oaks to Lake Williams. There are also several places in the vicinity being evacuated. Currently, the fire is only 10% contained.

South Park Anglers are Being Cautioned to Avoid Streams and Rivers

Snowmelt in larger volumes than normal has raised a cautionary advisement for Fairplay Colorado anglers to stay away from streams and rivers in the Southpark area. There are many streams already overrunning their banks and snowmelt in the high country has not yet begun. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is advising anglers to fish reservoirs like Eleven Mile, Spinney, and Tarryall instead. Plans to release excess water from Tarryall dam would also increase the level of moving water in streams and rivers. Parks and Wildlife officials say that levels should be safer for fishing on moving water in a few weeks.

Top Stories Shorts

SIXTY-SIX PEOPLE ON ONE SURF BOARD – Huntington Beach; sixty-six people get on one very big surf board. Topix.com.

MAN DIES IN HANG GLIDING ACCIDENT -A New York man has died in a hang gliding accident in Maryland Wtop.com.

Expeditions

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Walking through the fog on the Tahoe Rim Trail. Photo courtesy of Lady on a Rock -Christy Rosander.

Lady On a Rock Completes the TRT

The Tahoe Rim Trail is 172 miles long. Christy “Rockin” Rosander and her friends just completed the TRT. This trail has many beautiful views to take in. Alpine conditions and varied terrain including snow are some of the things you can expect to see even in early June. Get a look at the many photos that Rockin’ took as well as the details from the trip.

A Hike up the Continental Divide Trail

Join Scout and Frodo (trail names) as they hike the CDT. Their last entry to the trail journal was logged on day fifty-one starting at Two Medicine and Ending in East Glacier Park. Entries have been fairly regular with photos of the journey. They share some tips on alternate uses of restroom hand dryers. Scout meets a day hiker from Austria. The days journey ends with Mexican food! Feel free to look at past entries to catch up on the trip.

Expedition Shorts

Bull of The Wilderness Part One -Take a trip with Erin Miller to the Bull of the Wilderness Trail; Erin Miller Blog.

MARION MOUNTAIN AND JEAN PEAK – get a look at Marion Mountain and Jean Peak on Healthylistic.

Photo of the Week

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Skills

Let’s Talk About Safety

There are different rules for safety in different environments. It should go without saying that safety is high on the list of priorities when you are hiking. Especially if you are hiking alone. A good place to start with being prepared is to take a course on basic first aid. It is also very important to know what to bring with you on a trip. Reading through gear lists is a good place to start looking for what to bring. Eric Hansen from Backpacking TV gives his take on backpacking safety.

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Youtube video

Conditioning for Outdoor Enthusiasts over 50

Getting into shape before you leave on a backpacking trip is important. There are many ways to train. This particular article focuses on ways for people above the age of fifty to get into shape. Courtenay Schurman is nearing fifty years old and loves backpacking. She presents an exercise that is supposed to improve balance and flexibility. The Warrior Reverse Flye, a hybrid exercise that actually could be beneficial to people of all ages.

Skills Shorts

Amy’s Top Ten Backpacking Foods -Amy Sinisterra shares her most favorite foods to take backpacking on The Inlander .

SELF ARREST WITHOUT SNOW! -How do you learn self arrest skills without snow? a href=”https://www.mountaineers.org/blog/how-to-evaluate-self-arrest-skills-without-snow”> Moutaineers.orgattempts to teach a class how to self arrest without snow on the ground.

Gear

Three Wool Blankets for Three Big Trails

Woolrich is producing three blankets that feature a design theme for the AT, PCT, and CDT.The blankets are designed to be a throw. According to GearJunkie 100% of the proceeds from the first fifty blanket sales are supposed to go to fund nonprofits that support the trails. The blankets measure 40″ x 60″. They retail for $185.00 and are made of 95% soft wool and 5% synthetic materials.

Testing Out Stoves

It’s a shootout between the Speedster stove and the BushBuddy Ultra. Fuel vs. wood. There are so many stoves on the market to choose from and only so much time to buy and test them. You may as well read about the results that others have gotten to aid you in deciding what you want to use to boil water. The BushBuddy Ultra is out of production, but you may be able to find one or something similar on the secondary market. The Speedster Stove is from a company based out of the U.K. The burner of the stove has a spill-proof lid so that you can leave meths in the burner once the fire is put out.

Gear Shorts

THE SAWYER MINI -Blackowl Outdoors shows how they use the Sawyer Mini Water filter.

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BIG AGNES FLY CREEK 1 PLATINUM BACKPACKING TENT – Backcountry Edge showcases the features of the Big Agnes Fly Creek 1 Platinum backpacking tent.

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People

Fishing Saved Chad Brown’s Life

Chad Brown is a former military veteran turned gear designer. He has started a company named Soul River Runs deep. The company offers apparel and gear for anglers and 15% of the profits from Soul River Runs Deep are put into his other nonprofit Soul River Runs Wild. The nonprofit pairs at-risk children with veterans, outfitting them and taking them out to fish. The idea is that you can use fishing as an outlet for positive change in the lives of people that have been through some negative situations. Brown has used fishing as a means of therapeutic treatment for P.T.S.D. After realizing how well it worked for him, he knew that he wanted to share the experience with others.

Media

Road Trip Through The Canadian Rockies Trailer – Join Karl Watson as he Travels Through the Canadian Rockies.

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Youtube video

The Thousand Year Journey: Oregon to Patagonia

Follow Jedidiah Jenkins as he travels on his bicycle from Oregon to Patagonia. He has been living on his bike for over a year now. His friend Kenny Laubbacher has spent a month traveling with him, filming and interviewing Jedidiah. He explains why he wants to live on his bike, camping and traveling instead of working a nine to five in the states.

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The Thousand Year Journey: Oregon To Patagonia from Kenny Laubbacher on Vimeo.

Flash Reviews No. 9

Introductory Reviews for MSR Aquatabs, WoolX Men’s Lightweight T-Shirt, and the Thrunite Ti-3.

In This Issue

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MSR Aquatabs

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Domestic sheep grazing at high altitudes in some Rocky Mountain areas, such as the Wind River Range (Wyoming) or High Uintas (Utah, pictured) may warrant water treatment methods that aggressively target the inactive of protozoan cysts, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidia (Photo: Ottoman Basin, High Uinta Wilderness, Utah; by Ryan Jordan).

MSR Aquatabs

The Skinny

Water treatment tablets that make two liters of water safe to drink in thirty minutes.

The Specs

  • US EPA approved; effective against viruses, bacteria, and Giardia cysts. (*Aquatabs® are not effective against Cryptosporidium.)
  • Thirty individually wrapped tablets will treat sixty liters of water total.
  • Thirty minute treatment time.
  • Ideal for ultralight backpacking, emergency kits, or international travel.

My Take

The lightest and simplest water treatment options have always been chemical tablets. However, iodine tablets usually impart a terrible taste and chlorine dioxide tablets require several hours of treatment time. MSR Aquatabs seem to solve both issues. My (Ryan’s) first experience with them was on a trek last year in the High Uinta Wilderness, where high altitude tundra headwaters are heavily contaminated by feces from open sheep grazing. We used MSR Aquatabs for these locations, and more traditional chemical methods (e.g., Aqua Mira) in areas where sheep weren’t grazing. As I become more comfortable with MSR Aquatabs, I find myself using them more often – there is a benefit to the simplicity of dropping a tablet in a water bottle without having to worry about mixing chemicals, fiddling with electrochemistry or ultraviolet lamps, or maintaining a filter.

More Info

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WoolX Men’s Lightweight T-shirt

WoolX Lightweight Men’s T-Shirt

The Skinny

100% merino wool baselayers with superb fit, itchless finish, and easy-care maintenance.

The Specs

  • 100% 17.5 micron Australian Merino wool
  • No pill, no itch guaranteed
  • Flatlock seams for comfort
  • No shrinkage
  • 160 g/m2 fabric weight

My Take

I’m a fan of gear that keeps my life simple (Ryan). Merino wool garments are a part of that, and I’ve been wearing them for years. But not all of them contribute to simplicity. A little bit of itch here and there, lack of durability, loss of fit over time – just a few things that have been minor annoyances with garments that can cost a C-note or more. That’s where WoolX comes in. I’ve been wearing the lightweight “Daily Boxers” and short sleeve “Outback T-Shirt”. They wear well, fit well, do not itch, and, of course, offer all of the benefits that I love about all 100% merino garments – odor resistance and comfort over wide temperature ranges. They can be laundered normally (I wash all my clothes using a mild detergent with cold water, and a low-heat drying cycle) without altering the fiber structure. The garments have a trim fit suitable for those with a lean, athletic build – size up one size if you want a little looser (but not baggy) fit. My favorite part about the shirts: they’re long-hemmed, and have gusseted underarms – which makes them stay put while reaching your arms overhead. In a crowded merino baselayer market, WoolX has made positive inroads with an excellent product, at a cheaper price and a lighter weight than the beloved designer brands that think they own the place.

More Info

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Thrunite Ti-3

Thrunite Ti-3

The Skinny

A flashlight that is small and light enough to carry with you everywhere, and bright enough to substitute for a headlamp in a pinch.

The Specs

  • Powered by one AAA battery.
  • Pocket Clip that is removable and reversible.
  • Output and runtime: Firefly: 0.04 Lm(115h), Low: 12 Lm(6.3h), High: 120Lm(0.5h), Strobe:120Lm(1 hour).
  • Twist switch for on and off function.
  • Weight : 12 Grams without battery.

My Take

I (Jonathan) have been carrying a small flashlight on my person every day for almost a decade. That flashlight has changed brands and reduced in size and weight over the years. Becoming brighter and smaller, weighing less, and using more common batteries. I have found small flashlights like this to be indispensable for daily use. The obvious advantage of having a flashlight with you all the time is that you have the ability to find things in dark places. Another advantage to having a light like this with you all the time is that it can be quickly substituted for a headlamp, say if you forgot to pack one, or if the headlamp you brought had mysteriously activated inside your pack and drained the battery. The Thrunite Ti-3 is light, small, inexpensive, and reliable. I think that it is a great item to add to your pocket, keychain, or hat brim.

More Info

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