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Backpacking Gear Reviews, Expert Tips, & Trail Guides

Backpacking Sleeping Bags vs. Quilts: Which One Is Right for You?
A man shakes out a long sleeping bag in a field with mountains and blue sky in the background.

Backpacking Sleeping Bags vs. Quilts: Which One Is Right for You?

Published: January 3, 2025
Your sleep system is one of the most important sets of gear you can bring on any backcountry adventure. We dive into the pros and cons of sleeping bags and quilts to help you figure out what’s best for you.
Best Day Hikes in the Grand Canyon

Best Day Hikes in the Grand Canyon

Published: January 2, 2025
With hundreds of miles of hiking trails weaving through one of the most spectacular canyons in the world, it’s no wonder the Grand Canyon is among the most visited national parks in the country.
A Backpacking Guide to Utah’s Uinta Mountains

A Backpacking Guide to Utah’s Uinta Mountains

Published: January 2, 2025
Lying approximately 100 miles east of Salt Lake City, the Uinta Mountain Range is home to the highest peaks in Utah and the only major range in the contiguous United States that orients east to west.
Top Gear Picks of 2025
A hiker posing on top of a mountain at sunset

Top Gear Picks of 2025

Last Updated: January 1, 2025
This is where we highlight a wide range of exceptional choices, and talk about our personal favorites.
Petzl Actik Headlamp Review
The image shows a person wearing a Petzl Actik headlamp while standing outdoors during dusk. The person is looking upward, with the headlamp illuminated, casting light into the surrounding environment. The sun is setting in the background

Petzl Actik Headlamp Review

Published: December 26, 2024
This budget-friendly headlamp delivers solid performance with 450 lumens, great light quality, and simple operation. Ideal for camping and casual hikes, though not the brightest for technical use.
Fenix HM50R V2.0 Headlamp Review
The image shows a Fenix HM50R V2.0 headlamp hanging upside down from a strap, with its beam pointed downward. The headlamp is positioned beneath a red tent fabric, and the sky is visible in the background.

Fenix HM50R V2.0 Headlamp Review

Published: December 26, 2024
Compact and durable with 700 lumens, this budget-friendly headlamp shines for casual adventures. But is it versatile enough for your needs? Explore its strengths and limitations in our in-depth review.
Nitecore NU27 Headlamp Review
The photo features the Nitecore NU27 headlamp sitting on a log in a forest setting.

Nitecore NU27 Headlamp Review

Published: December 26, 2024
Looking for a bright, ultralight headlamp with plenty of features? This model offers adjustable color temperatures and an impressive brightness-to-weight ratio at an affordable price.
Women’s Merrell Moab 3 WP Hiking Boot Review
Hiker wearing the Merrell Moab 3 WP Women's Hiking Boots

Women’s Merrell Moab 3 WP Hiking Boot Review

Published: December 11, 2024
Perfect for weekend hikes and casual adventures, these boots are comfortable and durable. They have a trail-runner feel at an affordable price.
Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew Base Layer Review
A hiker crouches by a creek to fill a water bottle while wearing the Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe base layer. Rocks and trees are in the background.

Helly Hansen Lifa Stripe Crew Base Layer Review

Published: December 11, 2024
Perfect for high-output activities, this base layer provides just enough warmth while keeping you dry and comfortable.
Tubbs Wayfinder Snowshoe Review
A man adjusts the binding on a pair of snowshoes.

Tubbs Wayfinder Snowshoe Review

Published: December 10, 2024
This beginner-friendly snowshoe comes equipped with high-quality features that exceed its more budget-friendly price tag.
Women’s Patagonia Baggies Shorts Review
a women smiling and putting her hair behind her ear with the other hand in her pocket of the patagonia mult trails shorts while on a dirt road in next to sage brush and ponderosas

Women’s Patagonia Baggies Shorts Review

Published: December 10, 2024
If you’re looking for affordable, durable shorts that work for hikes and casual outings, the Patagonia Baggies 5″ shorts are for you
Women’s La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boot Review
Hiker starting up a rocky ridge wearing the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Women's Hiking Boots

Women’s La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boot Review

Published: December 9, 2024
These hiking boots have a balance of comfort, ankle support, and waterproof protection, making them ideal for backpackers embarking on challenging, wet terrains.
Women’s Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot Review
Hiker wearing Lowa Renegade GTX Women's Hiking Boots and crossing some rocks

Women’s Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot Review

Published: December 7, 2024
A durable, weather resistant, and supportive hiking boot that are a reliable choice for rugged trails and carrying heavy packs.
Women’s Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boot Review
Hiker wearing the Salomon Quest 4 GTX Women's Hiking Boots and walking up a rocky trail.

Women’s Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boot Review

Published: December 7, 2024
These boots have excellent stability, weather resistance, and durability, making them great for long hikes and backpacking trips over rugged, uneven terrain.
Icebreaker Merino Oasis 200 Base Layer Review
A hiker crosses a bridge with trekking poles, a pack, and wearing the Icebreaker Oasis 200 base layer. Trees are in the background.

Icebreaker Merino Oasis 200 Base Layer Review

Published: December 5, 2024
This base layer offers a balance of insulation, merino wool comfort, and natural odor resistance, making it great for many outdoor activities.
Women’s KEEN Targhee IV WP Hiking Boot Review
Hiker stopped on a path to adjust her Women’s KEEN Targhee IV WP

Women’s KEEN Targhee IV WP Hiking Boot Review

Published: December 5, 2024
These hiking boots feature a roomy toe box, a secure heel band, and multi-directional lugs, making them a reliable option for moderate hiking.
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