Sykes Hot Springs is one of my favorite places to take first time backpackers who are reasonably fit. The destination has some nice hot springs and a trout filled stream. The hike is pretty. The trip is long enough that people have a sense they … “Sykes Hot Springs”
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One of my joys has been introducing people to backpacking and wilderness experiences. I have seen a wide range of reactions. I have seen some people who just couldn’t adjust. They were just too used to climate controlled environments, were scared of wild life, hated … “Backpacking: Getting Started”
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The following was Patagonia’s response to some questions about materials and testing which was posted in 2005 to a public forum. Most of this article matches my personal experience and still seems valid today. Mark Verber Innovation, that steamroller of change, has, over the past five … “What is Percent of Naked?: Patagonia on Technologies and Testing”
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Backpackers have to protect their food against animals while they sleep. In most parts of the country correctly hanging food in a bear bags can be effective. Unfortunately bags won’t protect your food in locations with habituated bears whose response to backpackers is “Great, I get another treat filled … “Bear Bags”
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