Ultralight Hiking Blog

Three Friends’ Journey Along Olympic National Park’s North Coast By: Jason Huckeba

Three Friends’ Journey Along Olympic National Park’s North Coast By: Jason Huckeba

A trip along the northern coastline of Olympic National Park is a dream for many backpackers. For Monica, David, and I, this adventure from Shi-Shi Beach to Cape Alava offered a blend of stunning s...

Trekking For Trout on the Grand Mesa of Colorado: The Return of the Hawkeye by Michael "Hawkeye" Johnson

Trekking For Trout on the Grand Mesa of Colorado: The Return of the Hawkeye by Michael "Hawkeye" Johnson

This second 10-day adventure began August 7, 2023, in the Trickle Lake region on the eastern side of the Grand Mesa. Last month I explored the western side by foot and packraft visiting 15 lakes in...

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 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...