Author
hanalarock
I'm Hana- a freelance travel writer and teacher who currently lives in South Korea. I'm originally from New York, but have spent the last two years traveling and living abroad. My first time hiking in the US was when I traveled around the country as a teenager. Though, my first adult backpacking trip was a year ago, when I hiked from Thailand down to Singapore for a month. I'm looking forward to many more adventures in the future. Visit my site for more information.
316 articles
Backcountry Skills
Hiking in Extreme Weather
Some of the most difficult hikes in the country aren’t just difficult because of the slopes or rugged trails; they’re difficult because of the weather. While weather conditions shouldn’t deter you away from hiking places, it certainly should be something you consider before making a trip. Extreme weather can be very dangerous, so make sure […]
1 min read · Oct 12, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
12 of the Best Waterfall Hikes in the US
The U.S is a big country, and within in it are tons of hidden gems that determined backpackers will make there way to at one point or another. Some of these hidden gems are amazing waterfalls that require a bit of a trek to get to; though, they will all be worth it once you […]
1 min read · Oct 8, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
Preparing for a Long Backpacking Trip
Experienced backpackers typically aren’t too worried when it comes to trip planning. After all, there are many things that you’ll hit along the trail that are unpredictable, anyway. That being said, there are some things that are always worth organizing before you go, no matter how much or how little experience you have. Planning for […]
1 min read · Oct 7, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
First Time Gear for Beginner Backpackers: What to Invest In
If it’s your first time backpacking, it’s easy to get lost in all of the gear for beginner backpackers. Don’t get carried away with new gear. Necessary items can be difficult to decide on, especially when it comes to the price tag. You might find yourself saying, “I’ll get this for now, and I can […]
1 min read · Oct 6, 2015 · hanalarock
Backpacking
9 Ways to Meet Other Backpackers
While backpacking can be an empowering solo sport, it can be comforting to hike a trail with companions. If you’re new to backpacking, it’s important to have a supportive community of other backpackers to teach you the ropes, and suggest places to go. Nowadays, in a world that’s so connected, the ways to meet other […]
1 min read · Oct 5, 2015 · hanalarock
Backpacking
Great Jobs for People Who Love Backpacking
If you’re the type of person who loves the outdoors and hates the office, then it’s likely you’ve considered leaving it all to live off the grid. However, due to circumstances, you have obligations that prevent you from living this way, and you’ve resorted to hiking only on weekends and vacations. Well, what if we […]
1 min read · Oct 1, 2015 · hanalarock
Backpacking
The 8 Types of Backpackers You’ll Meet on the Trail
While you might have a lot of common with other backpackers, sharing the same passions and love for the outdoors, each person you hike with brings a different attribute to the table. At times, it might be hard to determine what kind of backpacker you are, but if you hit the trails often, then there’s […]
1 min read · Sep 30, 2015 · hanalarock
Backpacking
Another Appalachian Trail Record
A young woman from Seattle who goes by the name ‘Anish’, broke the record for completing the Appalachian Trail in the quickest time ever as an ‘unsupported’ backpacker. This means that Anish, who formally goes by Heather Anderson, made the 2,189 mile backpacking trip without any help from others along the way. And, she did […]
1 min read · Sep 29, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
The 7 Best Fall Hikes in the US
There’s no arguing that fall is one of the best times of the year to hike. While some backpackers may prefer the blooming flowers in the spring or the freezing peaks of the winter, it’s hard to deny that hiking alongside the leaves changing colors in the brisk autumn wind isn’t anything short of amazing. […]
1 min read · Sep 28, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
6 Backcountry Dangers…and How to Deal With Them
Experienced hikers are perfectly aware of the dangers outdoors. No matter how much you prepare for these situations, sometimes they can happen unexpectedly. While a typical survival guide might have all the answers, it seems like they can never quite prepare you for the worst case scenario. If danger approaches, these easy steps will help […]
1 min read · Sep 24, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
The Best Volcano Hikes in North America
Our continent has some pretty badass volcanoes, and hiking them is certainly no casual stroll. However, if you’re up for the challenge of conquering these rugged bad boys, you’ll find that the reward is totally with any potential risk. Volcanic areas are landscaped with unsuspecting gifts of nature which are formed after an eruption, providing […]
1 min read · Sep 23, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
A Guide to Eating in the Wilderness: Berries and Plants
While a smart backpacker should always bring enough food when heading outdoors, it doesn’t hurt to know what’s safe to eat along the trail. Whether you’re just looking to have some fun by trying to identify these foods or you’re actually in a situation where you’ve run out of supply, then use this guide to […]
1 min read · Sep 22, 2015 · hanalarock