How do I save money on backpacking gear without sacrificing quality? What’s the best sports bra for thru-hiking? What should I put in a DIY first-aid kit? Maggie answers reader-submitted gear questions here.
Overnight trips are one of the best ways to get into backpacking. Here’s the gear you should always have in your pack.
Have you been a trail profile for Backpacking Routes? Here are tips for taking notes during the hike that will make the writeup even easier.
These 10 backpacking loop trails are perfect for a weekend getaway. Each trail is under 30 miles and can be hiked in two days. These trails span the country, from mellow New England overnights to challenging peak-bagging treks in the Mountain West.
My gear switches a lot, but I do have a core setup that I typically don’t change. This year though, I discovered a new tent, sleeping pad, and favorite inexpensive, noise-cancelling earbuds that kick my AirPods’ butt.
Death Valley Indian Pass Canyon is a 16-mile out-and-back cross-country hike in Death Valley National Park. This is a two-day hike with mild elevation gain into the canyon, and route-finding necessary. This is a perfect winter overnight backpacking trip for people exploring the Southern California desert.
The Death Valley Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop is a 31-mile winter backpacking route connecting two canyons in Death Valley National Park. if you plan water carefully and stay vigilant with your GPS track, this is a very reasonable route for most people, and can be hiked in 2-3 days.
Maggie’s overview on the clothing she’s been wearing for winter hiking, running, classic cross-country skiing, and skate skiing. Plus, tips on how to layer for each sport.
With health officials still advising limited crowds and avoiding recreational travel, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is actively discouraging 2021 thru-hikes.
Maggie’s gear list for a November thru-hike of the Ouachita Trail, including what she used, how it worked, and what she recommends.