Emylene VanderVelden
Latest
Enlightened Equipment Revelation APEX Quilt Review
This Enlightened Equipment Revelation Apex Quilt Review features one of the most customizable and lightest weight synthetic quilts ever made.
The Skyline Trail: A Canadian Rockies Gem
The Canadian Rockies are full of backpacking opportunities which are well-traveled but secluded. One scenic route is the Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. I have had the benefit of backpacking many of the trails in the Canadian Rockies. However, I have never managed to make it out to the Skyline Trail. Also, the limited number of backpackers permitted on the trail at one time ensures a relatively private trip, and the elevation of the trail provides unparalleled views.
Nemo Equipment Blaze 2P Tent Review
This Nemo Equipment Blaze 2P Tent review features a product comparison and photo spread of the sub two pound five ounce tent dome style.
Backpacking to Mount Assiniboine via the Marvel Pass Trail: Part 5
Backpacking to Mount Assiniboine through grizzly bear country requires you to pay attention! Enjoy the final day of our journal.
Backpacking Mount Assiniboine via the Marvel Pass Trail: Part 4
The Marvel Pass Trail is one route for backpacking Mount Assiniboine. Read this journal to learn about bears, gear, and more.
The Marvel Pass Trail to Mount Assiniboine: Part 3
Second day of an eventful trek to Mount Assiniboine via the Marvel Pass Trail in BC and Alberta, Canada. Today: grizzly bears.
The Marvel Pass Backpacking Trail to Mount Assiniboine: Part 2
Day 1: An unexpected day of adversity and uncertainty as the author begins the obscure Marvel Pass Backpacking Trail en route to Canada's iconic Mount Assiniboine.
Mount Assiniboine Backpacking (Marvel Pass Trail): Part 1
The author tests out some lightweight gear on obscure Marvel Pass Trail en route to Canada's iconic Mount Assiniboine.
Montane Minimus 777 Jacket Review
This Montane Minimus 777 Jacket Review investigates the ultralight design, waterproofness, breathability, durability, and comfort of this sub-6-oz jacket in sustained rain.
How to Choose Lightweight Backpacking Gear: Save Weight, Money, Hassle, and Time
Choosing functional and lightweight backpacking gear is tough. What roles do comfort, durability, and aesthetics play in decision-making?
Planning Complex Backpacking Trips: Best Practices
Best practices when trip planning includes: booking transportation, gear selection and packing tips for complex backpacking trips.
Exped DownMat UL 7 Review
Back injuries and poor sleep patterns lead the author to purchase an expensive mat: will it be worth it? A trial of the Exped DownMat UL 7.
MEC Uplink Vest Review
The author tests out the water resistance and warmth of the MEC Uplink Vest with a friendly price point from a Canadian company.
Home-Dried: How to Prepare Your Own Lightweight Backpacking Meals
Some backpackers require specialized trail food. Others simply want to target a specific dietary preference. Learning how to make your own lightweight backpacking food is a valuable skill, and perhaps, easier than you think.
My Journey from Injury to the Canadian Rockies
In February of 2015, a traumatic farming accident landed me in the hospital. Three 1800 pound (816 kg) bulls crushed my entire upper body between two steel cattle panels and left me physically broken and devastated. This is the story of my return to the backcountry. It includes information about my recovery and training, the story of my re-entry trip in the Canadian Rockies, and of course, my gear list!
