Ultralight Hiking Blog

Minimalist V2 Review by Monica Stapleton

Minimalist V2 Review by Monica Stapleton

It’s been a few months since my season started back in Zion. With half of my workdays being patrol-based, a good backpack is a crucial part of my day-to-day operations. I’ve been hiking exclusively...

Make Your Own Bike Panniers by Jim Sutherland

Make Your Own Bike Panniers by Jim Sutherland

Last winter I learned how to choose the right fabric, work a sewing machine and make my own, semi-packable bike pannier.  This short piece is about how it went for me, what I learned, and what I’d ...

The Best Day Hikes Along the Pacific Crest Trail By Dave Stamboulis

The Best Day Hikes Along the Pacific Crest Trail By Dave Stamboulis

What sets the PCT apart from most long-distance trails is just how much continuous stunning natural beauty there is on the entire trail. Long thru-hikes often suffer from long road walks, or stretc...

The Backpacking Ultrarunner (and an ode to the Haven) by Heather Hoechst

The Backpacking Ultrarunner (and an ode to the Haven) by Heather Hoechst

I love backpacking. I also love running. It can be difficult (though not impossible) to run with a fully weighted backpack. This summer, I found myself in a quandary as I had signed up for a 120-mi...

How to Care for Your UL Zippers by Mandy Redpath

How to Care for Your UL Zippers by Mandy Redpath

Ultralight backpacking gear walks a fine line between weight and durability.  That being said, ultralight gear can also be durable with the right care.  Regular zipper maintenance is crucial to the...

Trekking Through the Peaks of the Balkans by Raquel Mogado

Trekking Through the Peaks of the Balkans by Raquel Mogado

The Peaks of the Balkans remain relatively unknown beyond Europe. This beautiful trail is a 192km journey through the untamed Accursed Mountains of Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, it traverses one...