Planning & Preparation

I’ve backpacked through desert, high mountains, rain, and snow. Here’s a list of some of my favourite gear that comes with me no matter the terrain.

Bears are fascinating, intelligent and curious creatures. With a little bit of education and preparation you’ll be able to leave your fear behind next time you visit the wilderness

As a woman hiking, camping, and backpacking by myself I often get asked  “You’re going alone?” This question is usually said in an incredulous voice. Yes, I do. “But aren’t you scared?” No, I’m not afraid. In fact, I’m free.

My first backpacking trip this year revealed that I’m not in the same shape I was last year by this time, mentally or physically. Read on to find out what I learned from this shakedown hike.

This time of year gets me in the mood to get hiking. I’m just waiting for the first sunny 50℉ day where I don’t have to bundle up. I’ve been going through my gear while waiting for that day to appear. I thought I’d share with you some of the gear I bring along on every day hike. 

Something I’ve been thinking about so far this January is how to get out and hike more. I thought I’d share some of my ideas and inspirations, knowing that there are others who have similar ambitions and yet challenges with the execution.

I’ve had a number of hikers and non-hikers alike ask me what my routine is like when I’m on trail. I figured I’d share some of the details here, including morning stretches, ways to keep your brain busy, and my daily schedule.

Today I hit the trail. Not just any trail, but THE trail. The Pacific Crest Trail. The first multi-week trail I ever heard about. The trail that seemed like an impossible challenge. The trail I figured I’d never have time to do. I got the kernel of an idea, and have built on it until it has become my reality. So today I step out on a journey to complete the first half of the 500-mile Washington section of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Many beginner backpackers start out with pre-packaged freeze-dried meals from their local outdoor stores. However they quickly realize how pricey and unsatisfying those meals can be. When I started backpacking I had the added challenge of wanting to follow a vegetarian diet. It wasn’t long before I was looking for alternate ideas of inexpensive, easy to make, tasty, and healthy backpacking meals.

Ever wondered how a thru-hiker eats or how to plan for your own longer backpacking trip? Over the years my trips have gotten longer plus I’ve had to figure out to maintain a healthy diet, take in enough calories and protein while keeping the overall food weight down. Click through to find out more!