Hyperlite Mountain Gear Camera Pod Review: My Experience with the HMG Camera Bag for Hiking, Backpacking, and Thru-Hiking

Looking for the perfect camera bag for your hiking adventures? Here is my comprehensive review of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear (HMG) Camera Pod. The HMG Camera Pod is an ultralight, weatherproof camera bag specifically designed to protect your camera during outdoor adventures. I break down its specs, features, and how it performed during my recent thru-hike on the Wonderland Trail. With its waterproof design and easy access, learn why I love this camera bag for hiking and backpacking.

Read More

Wonderland Trail Gear List 2024

Learn about the ultralight backpacking gear I used on my 2024 Wonderland Trail thru-hike in this detailed gear and packing list. The Wonderland Trail (WT) is a 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier, also known by its original name, Tahoma, given by the native Puyallup Tribe. This iconic trail is known for its challenging terrain, featuring over 23,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. Whether you're planning your own WT adventure or curious about ultralight gear for long-distance hikes, this post covers everything I brought with me on my thru-hike of the Wonderland Trail in Washington State.

Read More

Ultimate Arizona Trail Resupply Guide with Spreadsheet for both Southbound and Northbound Thru-Hikers

Complete Arizona Trail (AZT) Resupply Guide: Mile markers, towns, tips for Southbound (SOBO) and Northbound (NOBO) thru-hikers. Includes locations, transportation, grocery options, lodging, information on showers and laundry, and insights from my 4-week thru-hike.

Read More
REI Gear, Gear Erin REI Gear, Gear Erin

2024 REI Labor Day Sale: Best Discounts on Backpacking, Camping, and Hiking Gear

Learn about the best deals on backpacking, camping, and hiking gear during REI’s Labor Day Sale and save up to 40%! Explore top discounts and savings on outdoor gear, including tents, hiking boots, sleeping bags, and more. Shop the REI sale now through September 2nd for quality outdoor gear perfect for your summer adventures. Explore my curated list of the best REI Labor Day deals!

Read More
Gear Erin Gear Erin

Best Summer Sales on Outdoor Gear and Clothing

I've compiled a list of some of the best current sales on outdoor gear this summer, all in one place! Score amazing deals on camping, hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor gear for your summer adventures. The featured sales include top outdoor gear retailers like REI, Backcountry, Public Lands, Rumpl, and Outdoor Research. I'll update this list if new sales come up throughout the summer.

Read More
REI Gear, REI Erin REI Gear, REI Erin

Best REI Deals for Backpacking, Camping, and Hiking Gear During 4th of July Sale

Discover the best deals on backpacking, camping, and hiking gear during REI’s 4th of July Sale and save up to 40%! Explore top discounts and savings on outdoor gear, including tents, hiking boots, sleeping bags, and more. Shop the REI sale now through July 4th for quality outdoor gear perfect for your summer adventures. Don’t miss out on these unbeatable savings—explore my curated list of the best REI 4th of July deals today!

Read More

Thru-Hiking Camera Gear: Lightweight Camera Gear for the Pacific Crest Trail, Arizona Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and John Muir Trail

Learn about the best lightweight camera gear for thru-hiking, based on my personal experiences on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Arizona Trail (AZT), Continental Divide Trail (CDT), and John Muir Trail (JMT). Learn about the mirrorless camera, ultralight lens, mini tripod, and accessories I use to capture high-resolution images while keeping my pack weight down.

Read More
REI Gear, Gear Erin REI Gear, Gear Erin

REI Co-op’s Anniversary Sale 2024: Best Deals on Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking Gear at REI Co-op! (REI’s BIGGEST sale of the year!)

Discover the best deals at the REI Anniversary Sale 2024 from May 17th to May 27th! Save up to 30% on hiking, camping, and backpacking gear during REI Co-op’s biggest sale of the year. Whether you're a beginner or upgrading your equipment, this sale is the perfect time to invest in top-quality outdoor gear. Explore amazing discounts on your favorite items in this blog post. Don’t miss out on these limited-time offers during the REI Anniversary Sale 2024!

Read More

The Best Ultralight Backpacking Gear Available at REI Co-op

In the world of ultralight backpacking, the philosophy is to carry only what you need and nothing more. In this blog post, I'll explore the various options for ultralight backpacking gear available at REI Co-op, a trusted retailer for outdoor lovers. For those new to ultralight backpacking or transitioning from a traditional heavier setup, REI is a great starting point due to its wide selection of quality gear, customer-friendly return policies, and knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re a seasoned ultralight backpacker or just starting to lighten your load, this guide will help you navigate the essentials for a more enjoyable and efficient hiking experience.

Read More
Washington Erin Washington Erin

Best Winter Hikes Near Seattle, Washington

Discover the best winter hikes near Seattle, Washington, with this comprehensive guide. From breathtaking mountain vistas to serene forest trails, find a variety of scenic hikes suitable for all skill levels. Get detailed information on hike lengths, elevation gains, and required permits. Explore the diverse landscapes of Washington's winter wonderland and embark on your next outdoor adventure.

Read More

John Muir Trail Resupply Guide: The Ultimate Guide for both Southbound and Northbound JMT Thru-Hikers

The John Muir Trail (JMT) is a 210-mile trail through the the Sierra Nevada in California. This guide provides information on potential resupply stops for both southbound and northbound thru-hikers, including mile markers from three popular starting points. Additionally, I share insights from my August 2021 northbound (NOBO) thru-hike of the John Muir Trail.

Read More

Nashville Pack Cutaway 30L Backpack: 3,000 Mile Review

Embarking on the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) demands gear that matches the ruggedness of its terrain and challenges. When I set out to thruhike the 3,000-mile-long Continental Divide Trail, I knew I needed just the right pack for this adventure, and for that, I chose the Nashville Pack Cutaway 30L Backpack. This review goes over the Nashville Pack Cutaway specs and how it performed throughout my thruhike of the Continental Divide Trail.

Read More
Hiking Gear Erin Hiking Gear Erin

Winter Hiking Gear and Clothes Guide

The winter wilderness offers a magical experience that is both challenging and rewarding. However, venturing into the cold requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to choosing the right winter hiking clothes and gear. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essential winter hiking gear, from layering techniques to insulated outerwear, waterproof gear, and accessories. The goal with winter hiking gear is to stay warm, dry, comfortable, and safe.

Read More
BF2 Erin BF2 Erin

REI Co-op’s Cyber Week Sale & Clearance: Best Holiday Sales for Outdoor Gear and Apparel at REI Co-op!

If you’re looking to get holiday gifts for your outdoor-loving friends and family or interested in upgrading your own hiking gear, REI Co-op is the perfect place to score great deals because REI Co-op’s Cyber Week Sale & Clearance is taking place from November 25th to December 4th, 2023! You can score some awesome pieces of outdoor gear for up to 50% off. Keep reading to learn more about what is on sale!

Read More