Backpacking the Trans Catalina Trail: A Rugged Island Hike With Luxury Vibes
My experience backpacking the unique Trans Catalina Trail, a rugged island mini-thru hike with luxury vibes.
California
Lost Sierra Loop, A Long Weekend Bikepacking Adventure in Northern California
Ride report from a short but stout bikepacking loop in California’s beautiful Lost Sierra region.
John Muir Trail vs. Colorado Trail: Which is best for your next (or first) thru hike?
The John Muir Trail and Colorado Trail are two of the most popular short thru hikes in the US, and for good reason! Here’s how to choose between them.
Backpacker’s Guide to Desolation Wilderness (With Route Ideas for All Levels)
Why, how, and where to backpack in the incredible Desolation Wilderness near Lake Tahoe in California.
6 Reasons to Backpack the Tahoe Rim Trail (and 4 Challenges to Be Aware Of)
Dreaming of a bite-sized thru hike this summer? Here’s why the 165 mile Tahoe Rim Trail, a loop around the biggest alpine lake in North America, should be on your list!
8 Stunningly Scenic Backpacking Destinations in California
Excited to go backpacking in California? We are spoiled for choice here in this large and varied state. Here are 8 excellent backpacking options from world-famous to under-the-radar.
Bones to Blue 2023: Unfinished Singletrack Adventures in Tahoe
My second go at the Bones to Blue bikepacking event ended in injury, but I still had a blast and learned a ton.
Bikepacking Bones to Blue: Singletrack Trial By Fire around Lake Tahoe
A singletrack-averse bikepacker takes on Bones to Blue, 250 scenic trail-heavy miles around Truckee and Lake Tahoe.
Desolation Wilderness Grand Loop: 4+ Day Backpacking Route For Ambitious Hikers
This longer backpacking route in the Desolation Wilderness covers all the highlights and offers plenty of challenge while keeping logistics simple.
Tour de los Padres 2022: Burly Bikepacking Adventure in Central California
Ride report from five days of surprisingly rugged Central California bikepacking at the annual Tour de los Padres.
Route Guide: Central California Mixed-Terrain Bike Tour
A 260 mile bike touring route through rural Central California linking a variety of towns, recreation sites, quiet back roads, and several stunning gravel climbs and descents.
Bighorn Gorge Hiking Guide | Death Valley National Park
Bighorn Gorge is a fun and unusual hike in Death Valley. Cross open desert, scramble up dry waterfalls, and explore winding canyons on this challenging 20 mile route.
Mendocino National Forest Bikepacking Overnight: Letts Lake Loop
This short bikepacking route in southern Mendocino National Forest packs in a river crossing, scenic lake, big views, and a heck of a lot of climbing.
Ultimate Guide to Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park is a natural gem and geologic wonder in Central California. Here’s how to make the most of your visit, including all the best hiking trails and camping options.
California Bikepacking: Route Ideas in Every Region
California has so much amazing public land… But where are all the bikepacking routes? Here’s a collection of California bikepacking ideas and inspiration to help get things rolling.
What I Wish I’d Known Before Hiking the John Muir Trail
Hiking the John Muir Trail is a once in a lifetime experience. Learn from my mistakes with these JMT hiking tips I wish I had known beforehand.
Best of Joshua Tree National Park for Outdoor Adventure Lovers
Joshua Tree National Park for active outdoor adventure lovers: hiking, biking, camping, and climbing highlights.
North Coast Ridge to Cone Peak: Epic Ventana Wilderness Ridge Hike
If you’ve already hiked to Cone Peak in the Ventana Wilderness and want something bigger, this burly multi-day trek along North Coast Ridge might be just the thing.
18 Day John Muir Trail Itinerary from Lyell Canyon
To help you plan your JMT hike, here’s the 18 day John Muir Trail itinerary I used to hike from the Lyell Canyon alternate start.
Tahoe Rim Trail: 7 Day Ultralight Backpacking Itinerary and Tips
The 170 mile Tahoe Rim Trail makes a fantastic lightweight backpacking route. Here’s a 7 day TRT itinerary, plus gear and logistics notes, from my TRT thru hike.
Hardest and Highest Hill Hikes in the SF Bay Area
Looking for something tall to hike to the top of? This list of challenging hill climbs in the San Francisco Bay Area has you covered.
Cactus to Clouds Hiking Guide (+ Must-Know Safety Info)
Thinking about taking on the notorious Cactus to Clouds hiking route? Here’s what you must know before attempting this epic and potentially dangerous day hike from Palm Springs.
Cone Peak Hiking Guide: From Sea to Sky Near Big Sur
Hiking Cone Peak might be the most spectacular thing you can do in the Big Sur area, and that’s saying a lot. Here’s a detailed guide to four different Cone Peak hiking routes.
Mineral King Loop: Four Gorgeous Backpacking Routes (With Maps)
Mineral King Loop refers to several amazing and lesser-known backpacking routes in Sequoia National Park. Here’s a trail guide to four possible Mineral King hikes.
