Category
Backpacking
131 articles
Backcountry Skills
8 Lesser Known Health Benefits of the Backcountry
Besides being totally awesome, adventurous, and down-right fun, hiking in the backcountry is actually very healthy and has actually been proven to make you live longer. Hiking will not only make you into a more active person, but will actually contribute to positive changes in your health long-term. We all know that backpacking is good […]
1 min read · Sep 8, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
6 of the Prettiest Lakes in the US…and How to Get There
After a long hike in the great outdoors, it’s nice to be rewarded with a little something special. A reward for completing a hike means different things to each backpacker, but typically, seeing a gorgeous lake located in the middle of the wilderness does the trick. Most lakes in general are a pretty sight to […]
1 min read · Sep 3, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
How to Backpack Pain Free with Back Problems
Even if you might be in fairly good physical condition, some of us have one problem we can’t avoid, which can cause serious limitations at the most inconvenient times; back problems. Whether the problem is a life-long medical condition or only something you get once in a while, it can seriously be damper when traveling […]
1 min read · Sep 2, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
10 Rules for Cooking in the Backcountry
Cooking great meals in the backcountry is never an easy task. Most commercially available trail food isn’t exactly stellar. To make your backcountry bites more enjoyable, there are certain guidelines that most trail cooks follow. Here are our top 10 rules to make cooking in the backcountry simple, healthy…and delicious. Be Prepared Be sure to […]
1 min read · Sep 2, 2015 · Ian Campbell
Backpacking
Hiking Boots for Every Type of Backpacker
Every backpacker needs a good pair of hiking boots just as much as a good backpack. However, finding boots that are comfortable, affordable, and appropriate for your feet as well as the terrain you’re going to be hiking, can be a challenge. Before you start looking, know your brands and stores. REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, […]
1 min read · Sep 1, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
How to Prepare for a Thru-Hike
Thru-hikes aren’t for beginners. These typically longer hikes need preparation both physically and mentally. Before jumping on the trail head, it’s important to start training yourself. Here’s how to start. Get in Shape Physical training is essential in order to get yourself fit. Develop a program with a good mix of cardio and weight lifting. […]
1 min read · Aug 29, 2015 · Ian Campbell
Backpacking
8 Gadgets For Backpackers That You Didn’t Know You Needed
Because one of the main reasons to pack a bag and head into the wilderness is to get away from civilization, the last thing backpackers are usually thinking about is what technology to bring along with them. Of course, some things are necessary – a compass or a GPS, a flashlight, a water bottle or […]
1 min read · Aug 28, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
7 Romantic Backcountry Destinations
Backpacking and ‘romantic getaway’ don’t always go hand in hand. Usually, the exhausting hikes, dirty clothes, and the inability to take a shower or clean off can sometimes take away from the romance. Most couples might prefer to stay at a resort or lodge instead of pitching a tent. However, some of the most romantic […]
1 min read · Aug 27, 2015 · hanalarock
Backpacking
Hiking with Teens – The Pacific Northwest
While many people head to the backcountry regions of the US with a friend or a significant other, over the last few decades there have been more and more teenagers who try backpacking with hardly any experience. Some have never even left home before. Lauren Langer, a counselor for a summer program for teens looking […]
1 min read · Aug 25, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
Hike the Lewis and Clark Trail in These 5 ‘Expedition’ Stretches
The Lewis and Clark Expedition was the first of its kind to explore the Western Frontier of the United States after the Louisiana Purchase. Lewis and Clark began their journey 1804 near St. Louis from the Mississippi river, and continued until 1806 when they finally reached the Pacific Ocean. Their journey has sparked historical discussion, […]
1 min read · Aug 18, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
How to Improvise a Splint
Knowing how to improvise a splint can be an incredibly useful backcountry skill to know when hiking on your own or with a group. Accidents happen just as much, if not more, when you’re hiking with a group of your friends as they do when you’re walking around town so being prepared for one of […]
1 min read · Aug 17, 2015 · Ian Campbell
Backcountry Skills
How to Pack a Backpack
It’s exciting to get out on a backpacking trip but don’t let your haste keep you from properly packing your backpack. Knowing how to properly pack your backpack will mean the difference between a pleasant hike and a back injury. Too many people toss their gear and clothes into their backpacks and hit the trail. […]
1 min read · Aug 12, 2015 · Ian Campbell