Hi,

Thanks for the comment and sharing your experience with packs. I certainly agree that experience with any gear will give you an ever-growing sense of what you prefer. But I want to emphasize to anyone reading this that you SHOULD seek advice on expensive choices, like a backpack, whether from this article or an expert in a gear store or someone you know. You should try to make as informed a decision as possible because you might spend a few hundred dollars and wear that pack for years.

I’m sure many people don’t learn how to properly adjust a pack for too long, but it’s really only for a lack of asking someone who knows how to do it, or search online and find a video. It’s not some closely guarded state secret.

There’s no reason to buy a pack that doesn’t fit you well or isn’t what you need. Read this article. Check other sources of information. If you buy a pack and it doesn’t fit, many retailers now offer a full refund if you return the gear before it’s been used much and undamaged.

Just a few weeks ago, the 25-year-old daughter of good friends came to me for backpack advice. She’d bought a Gregory Deva 60 and wondered if it was a good fit and the right pack for her. I showed her how to know whether the pack fits, how to adjust it, and answered her questions. Twenty minutes later, she walked out rightly feeling like she not only had made a good choice, but knew how to use it. Not that hard or complicated.

In my case, it’s taken me 4 years to know when my pack is adjusted correctly. And how to pack it correctly. (It’s very subtle and you need to have a Martial Arts awareness of every muscle in your body.) My pack was comfortable but “heavy.” I tried a lighter pack but I didn’t think to look if it had a dedicated water bottle holder. Now I know. (Make sure that you can return your pack easily w/o too much of a restock fee.)

Hi Mike,

Good to hear from you again and that you’re possibly interested in my custom trip planning once again. I’ll email you separately to dive into ideas. Thanks.

Hi Buster,

Yes, thanks for asking. That’s because this story, like many at my blog, is partly free for anyone to read but requires a paid subscription to The Big Outside to read in full. (There are prompts within the story indicating that with a link to Join.)

A subscription gives you full access to all of my blog’s stories, including the trip planner section in stories about specific trips, where I share details of the itinerary and other logistics and tips on planning the trip. Honestly, this blog would not exist if not for the fact that I can make a living off it through the support of many readers who find the information and expertise I offer valuable.

I also offer Custom Trip Planning, where I’ll help you plan any trip you read about at my blog.

I hope one of those options is helpful to you. Thanks for the comment and keep in touch.

Thanks, Edmund, and best of luck with your trip! It’s an awe-inspiring place.

Thank you!

Sounds good, Wes. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Michael,
Thanks so much for the thoughtful response and I saw the email you sent as well. We would still very much like to do this backpack and it sounds like Wind River would be a perfect backup plan as no permits are required. Let me circle back with my daughter and we will contact you via response to your email regarding trip planning, Thanks again!

You are very welcome, Robert.

1,000 thanks!

Hi Wes,

Thanks for purchasing my Teton Crest Trail e-book, I appreciate that. I’m sorry you had such a discouraging experience with Grand Teton National Park’s permit reservation system, but I’m not surprised. In fact, I recently published this story about it because I think it’s probably the most aggravating permit reservation system in the National Park Service and I make a case for why it doesn’t have to be that way. I think that story would illuminate for you how common your experience was.

But moving forward, yes, you could travel out there to get walk-in permits, and basically about twice as much backcountry camping is issued through walk-in permits as is issues through reservations (which my story linked above notes makes little sense and is quite unique within the NPS), while there are exponentially far fewer people showing up on any given day during summer for a walk-in permit than attempted to reserve one at 8 a.m. Mountain Time on Jan. 7, so your chances are certainly far better. But there’s nonetheless a risk, as you correctly note, and it’s an expensive and time-consuming trip.

I may be able to help you out, perhaps through my Custom Trip Planning; and my policy is to refund the cost of your e-book if you purchase my custom trip planning for the same trip. I will email you directly.

Thanks for the comment.

Hi Robert,

Good question. I went to school in upstate New York, so I know what their winters are like. Below-zero is going to challenge most gloves, I would recommend a very warm mitten (see my review of “The Best Mittens for Winter,”) and yes, a relatively warm liner glove; be sure to size the mittens and liner glove to fit together. I also suggest chemical hand warmers to slide into your mitts on the coldest days.

Good luck.

Hi Friso,

For what you want, of all the poles I’ve reviewed, I’d recommend the MSR Dynalock Ascent (in this review).

Thanks.

Now we have a choice of trying to get in person permits, which is a pretty big risk traveling all the way from the east coast. We are also discussing having a backup hike planned (possibly the Wind River Range) if we flew out but were not able to get permits on site the day before. Needless to say, the wind has been taken out of our sails for this hike and I don’t see any other options, and can’t assume we would have any better luck if we try again next year. Please provide any advice or encouragement you can based on your experience, we really had this on our bucket list but it seems the demand may have it out of reach for us?

If it would be possible to schedule a call with you I would appreciate it, and understand there may be a fee which I would happily pay.

Thank you for these excellent articles. So helpful. I’ve just moved to upstate New York from northern California. Loving the winter, but having issues keeping my hands warm enough while walking the dog. (-11 F this morning). As you suggest, warm gloves with my hands in my pockets are comfortable. But they’re too thick to have enough dexterity to handle the poop bag. What do you think of a merino wool glove liner with a mitten? Any recommendations on affordable versions of those?

Thank you,

Robert

I’ll try to repair the pole but it is a challenge. I read that the aluminium connector is glued inside the carbon, so let’s see if I can get it out if I heat it a bit. (BD warns to not leave the poles in direct sunlight in the car, as the glue might get soft).

Are there any more durable poles that can be packed small? (Airline friendly) Lightweight is not that important to me.

Thanks!

Thanks for sharing that, Friso. I have not damaged these poles after countless uses, but I’ve been concerned about a possible failure of the type you describe, because they are so light. I’ll add that I’ve seen heavier carbon poles sheer in two under lesser stresses (it can happen with carbon) and aluminum poles bend (but not break).

I just broke one of these hiking poles. The carbon is undamaged but an aluminium connector between the top parts broke in half. The aluminium connector between the lower parts is bent. The pole broke when I slipped and leaned on it with my full weight (80kg).

I liked using the poles and to be able to fold them is very handy, but I am disappointed that they failed the way they did. The connecting piece should not fail.

Arches is another good example, Mike, thanks for spotlighting that.

Finally, a few minutes later one became available again (I suspect someone else who had two people trying to make reservations released one) so we got extremely lucky and got one site. By two minutes after the reservation system opened everything was long gone. In contrast, booking campsites for our hike across the Grand Canyon was, as you mentioned, much easier (although it did take 3 years to get an October reservation), while hiking the Olympic coast was blissfully easy.

Thanks for sharing that, Robert. I agree, some of the other parks and wilderness areas have a rec.gov page that’s easier to navigate and use. In fact, your observations and those from other people make a cogent argument for having more consistency between permit reservation systems across all parks.

Thanks for sharing the details of your experience with the GTNP permit system, Joseph. Yours is a common story, from what I’ve seen and heard. It is sometimes feasible to add nights to an itinerary walk-in, but that obviously poses the risk of being disappointed after you’ve committed time and expense to get there.

I’m glad that my Teton Crest Trail e-book was helpful to you.

A tried-and-true pack liner, Courtenay, and the least expensive option! Thanks for the comment.

You bet, Brian. Good luck.

Thank you, Michael!

Thanks for your observations about your experience with GTNP’s permit system, Brevin. I suspect that many people agree with your thoughts on it.

Hi Brian, thanks for sharing your experience; it seems very common. To answer your question, because about two-thirds of backcountry camping zone space is held for walk-in permits, it’s disproportionately easier to get a walk-in permit than to reserve one in advance: Far more people are trying to make a reservation with far less a percentage of permits available to reserve. For walk-in permits, I’m sure demand is greatest in August and it tapers off through September. So the number of people lining up at the visitor center before it opens to be near the front of the line for the backcountry desk will taper into September. The earlier you get there, long before the visitor center opens, the better your chances of getting what you want. But I think you’d still be able to get a permit for a nice hike, even if it’s not for the exact itinerary you’d like.

That same year, I reserved a permit to dayhike Mount St. Helens, and it worked the same way. Fortunately, demand for that permit apparently isn’t as high, so I was able to reserve the permit when I logged in. Out of curiosity, I checked later in the day and there were still permits available. They do sell out, but not in the first few minutes.

I am thinking of going out to Grand Teton in August or September, but I didn’t try to obtain a permit because I don’t know for sure if/when we are going to go. I know (from reading your blog) that a lot of backcountry permits are held back for walk-ins. Do you think it’s possible to walk in and get a permit for a 4-day, 3-night itinerary on the TCT?

Hi Emily,

Yes, I think I can be of great help to your daughters. I’ll email you to follow up. Thanks for getting in touch.

Thanks for sharing your experience, Brian.

Considering sending my 21 and 23 year old daughters on a backpacking trip in Escalante this late March. If you have availability and think you could help us plan something wonderful and safe for two inexperienced backpackers, I’d love to hire you for your help.

Thanks!

Emily

Thanks, Michael. Fair question. There are instances where I think it’s easier to scramble up a minor technical route than to scramble down it. In the case of Crack-in-the-Wall, I think the scrambling itself is easy enough to do in either direction. The harder part would be that you’d have to haul packs up that short, two-section cliff, rather than simply lowering them down it. Again, that’s certainly not impossible or terribly difficult (although I might want to have leather gloves for hauling a pack using a thin utility cord). Some people for whom relatively easy scrambling might feel challenging might prefer going down it than up.

Plus, the “trail” of sorts from the bottom of Crack-in-the-Wall to Coyote Gulch is very sandy, which would be more strenuous going up than down. By camping in lower Coyote Gulch, near the trail to Crack-in-the-Wall, you’d have a shorter last day to finish the trip than hiking out from one of the last camps with good water higher up in Coyote Gulch. But then, you’d have to have a vehicle that can handle to road to the Forty Mile Ridge Trailhead waiting for you, too.

That pretty much sums it up. Thanks for the question.

Thanks, Warren. I’m excited to help you plan your next trip for this year and that you already have one in mind!

Thanks, Shellie. I’m very happy that your family enjoyed the Sawtooths so much and I’m also excited about helping you plan more adventures.

Hi Ron,

I’ve used a Durston X-Mid 2p on a few trips and found it has much to advise it. I haven’t reviewed it yet because I have some reservations, one involving the tent flapping a lot in wind and the other the fact that it requires significant time to pitch and is more complicated than many backpackers want to deal with in a tent. That said, for the backpacker who’s comfortable with the setup and wants plenty of living space in a shelter that pitches with trekking poles, the X-Mid is a solid choice.

Thanks, Ashley, and get in touch when you’re ready to plan the next trip.

Hi Clint,

You’re right about the fill rating dropping from 850 to 800 in Hardwear’s Phantom 0 down bag. I don’t know why, perhaps it was an issue with availability of the 850-fill down or just it’s being measured slightly differently. But I also noticed that the bag’s weight is an ounce heavier than the 850-fill down bag I reviewed. I wouldn’t expect to notice very much difference in warmth between 850- and 800-fill because so many other factors come into play in how warm you feel, but if Hardwear has stuffed the bag with a little more down (perhaps explaining the weight gain), that might make up the difference, technically. Maybe if you stuffed them as tightly as possible and put the two bags side by side, you’d notice the 850 bag being slightly smaller; not sure about that.

But the short answer is that I don’t think you’d see much warmth or performance difference in the 800 compared with the 850, not like the difference in warmth per ounce/gram and packability between 850 (or 800) and 700 or 600. I expect the current Phantom 0 is still one of the warmest 0-degree bags for its weight that you can find. It’s become my go-to bag for nights that cold (and I have a few to choose from in my gear room).

But I also noticed that the “buy” link to backcountry.com in my review still shows the 850 version of the bag available. I don’t know if that’s a misprint on Backcountry’s part or they still have 850 bags in stock.

Thanks for the question. Good luck.

Thanks for that nice endorsement, Darryl. I look forward to helping you plan more great adventures for yourself.

I certainly feel as if Michael’s plans gave me the knowledge that I needed to have a successful and enjoyable hike and I certainly intend to rely on him for future backpacking trips.

Darryl Hadsell
Houston, Texas

Thanks for sharing that story, Kevin, and good to hear from you again. I’m sure you and your daughters had an amazing adventure in Paria, especially having it almost to yourselves. Great memories! Well done. Thanks also for being a subscriber to The Big Outside, I appreciate your support for my blog.

You’re welcome, Jonathan.

Thanks for checking! Love your website.

Hi Orian,

You are correct that I meant the Black Diamond Legend Gloves are the warmest among under-the-cuff models in this review. And I think you’d find them warm enough for low-intensity activity in the temperatures you asked about, with a bit better dexterity than the Khroma gloves. If what you’re doing doesn’t require much dexterity, though, I’d recommend looking at some of the warmer mittens in my review “The Best Mittens for Winter.”

Thanks and get in touch anytime.

Hi Jonathan,

Thanks for the question. I looked at the Salewa Alp Mate Mid and it’s not the same boot I reviewed. Maybe most significantly, the Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX that I reviewed has a Gore-Tex membrane, and the Alp Mate Mid is described as waterproof at Salewa’s website, but it does not specify Gore-Tex, which it would if that was the case. The boot height is also slightly different, as well as other, minor differences. However, although I haven’t used the Alp Mate Mid, I expect you’d find it good for walking your dog in winter and probably a great value if you see it marked down right now.

Good luck.

I am surprised that you mention the Legends being the warmest from the line-up, or perhaps you meant only among under-the-cuff models? I thought the Khroma freeride will be noticeably warmer.

Which one of the two would you recommend for low intensity activities in -8 to -12 C, plus having hands that get cold easily? and how do they compare on comfort and dexterity?

Thank you!

Thanks!!
Jonathan M.

Yes, I can compart them. The Helios is quite warm and not the jacket I’d choose for temps above roughly freezing, and I run warm, but I think many people would find that jacket too warm for temps above the mid-30s. And it’s too warm even unzipped because the sleeves are thickly insulated. Plus, if it’s in the 40s, you probably want a head covering, and the Helios hood would be too warm for many people in temps in the 40s. If I’m looking for a jacket for temps ranging from 30 to the high 40s, I’d want a lighter jacket with moderate warmth that’s fine over a base layer in the high 30s through 40s, like the Eos or Accelerator, and to have another middle layer to add when it’s pushing toward 30. Again, the First Light falls somewhere between the Helios and Eos/Accelerator, maybe making that a better choice for someone who runs cold, especially if you’re more often encountering temps in the 30s rather than the 40s.

Hello again,
Thank you for the quick and helpful reply. Have you got thoughts about how the Helios and Himali Altitude compare? If temps fluctuate between 30 and high 40s, are these overly warm? If so, is it better to be too warm in one of these or too cool in the Eos or Accelerator?

Hi Hays,

Thanks for that comment, I’m glad this article has been helpful to you. I’d say the Helios is definitely the warmest of the jackets you asked about and I’d suggest you go with that if you run cold and will have freezing temps. The Eos and Accelerator are relatively similar in warmth and the First Light may have a slight edge in warmth over those two.

I’d also suggest making a warm base layer that zips up to your chin a high priority (and even a light, wool layer next to skin helps) and I assume you’re already planning on warm long underwear under whatever pants you’ll have, and warm footwear.

Good luck!

This has been the most helpful of many articles I’ve read in preparation for a winter WW kayaking trip. Evening temps are commonly around 30*F, and I am somewhat cold-natured. Layering options will be minimal. Do you have a recommendation between the Eos, Helios, and Accelerator (which I can currently purchase at a good discount), and given your comments, I’m also curious about the Black Diamond First Light.

Thanks for sharing your helpful insight.

Thanks for sharing that, Dennis, I appreciate it. I’m very happy your hike went so well. Nice work.

Well, there are hikes that don’t involve any real exposure. Try some easier ones first. Good luck.

Thanks, Adam. Check on current water conditions with a backcountry ranger. I include tips on water sources on this trip in the Take This Trip section at the bottom of this story (which requires a paid subscription to The Big Outside to read in full, and gives you full access to all of my blog’s stories, including my planning tips and trip details).

It’s certainly one of the most challenging backpacking trips in the Southwest in terms of scarcity of water as well as the terrain.

I can also help you plan this or any trip you read about at my blog. See my Custom Trip Planning page to learn how.

Good luck planning your trip. It’s amazing. Thanks for the comment and keep in touch.

I completed the trek in October, and the changing leaves were absolutely spectacular. As someone who was not familiar with New Hampshire’s terrain or hiking specifics—particularly the crucial aspect of water availability—having a detailed, custom plan significantly eased my anxiety about the experience.

The detailed planning provided peace of mind and an enjoyable trek. If you’re considering the Pemi Loop or other extended hike, especially if you’re new to hiking in New Hampshire, I highly recommend using Michael’s Custom Trip Planning service.

Thanks for the great suggestion, Garrison. I’ll look into that.

Thank you for sharing such a nice sentiment and personal story, Mary. And thank you for being a subscriber to The Big Outside for so many years that I know you by name. I remember you writing to me in the past and mentioning that our kids are around the same age. What a wonderful childhood yours have had, thanks you taking them outdoors so much; and, of course, we parents get so much from that.

Please keep in touch and give my best to your entire family.

We’ve gone from carrying all their gear whilst backpacking to now begging them to wait for us on the trail! Michael’s blog has inspired many family backpacking adventures as well as dayhiking vacations across the West.

Wishing you and your family many blessings, Michael. Thank you for your great work.

You’re welcome, Ralph. I certainly understand your choice.

Thanks for the detailed response. I’m planning to return the hoodie. I have used TNF puffer (using for almost 10 years) and Patagonia Sweater (down fill that I bought this year), both are slightly heavier but do not feel this flimsy and delicate. Main issue is lacking hood for both and when I saw the price for Ghost Whsperer similar to what I paid for either of the two, I purchased it before researching! I didn’t think Mountain Hardwear would make something like this, but when the order was in shipping, I researched and realized that these rip easily and confirmation was after I received it. Thanks again for taking the time to reply.

Hi Ralph,

Your question is legitimate and I think my review of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer UL Hoody addresses it at the bottom. With any ultralight gear, some degree of durability is always compromised. You can always get more durable gear, but you’ll carry that much more weight. In the case of the Ghost Whisperer UL Hoody (and other jackets in this weight class), the most vulnerable “parts” are the very light fabric and the light zipper. That said, I’ve had that jacket for a few years without any problems. I would certainly advise being careful not to brush the jacket up against any sharp points or edges and don’t just yank on the zipper as if it’s made of steel; but I follow those practices with non-ultralight gear, too, just to help ensure it lasts longer. But I don’t think you’ll otherwise see this jacket come apart or fail in any way.

Good luck and please share with us if you encounter any problems with the Ghost Whisperer UL Hoody. Thanks for the question.

Hi Erin,

Thanks very much for joining The Big Outside to get full access to all of my blog’s stories. I email new subscribers personally (as soon as I’m back at my laptop and see the purchase) with the e-book instructions and will write you now. I think you will enjoy my blog!

Hi John,

I had the same experience you report with the hipbelt and the same overall impression of the pack. Thanks for your input, it’s always appreciated. I’ve also reached the same conclusion about carrying 50 pounds!

Thanks!

I have the Radix 47 and 31 packs. Both of which I have put a few miles on. I concur with you observation about the limit of the hip belt with the 47. I believe the hip belt would function better and carry the heavier weight better if the webbing and buckles were wider. I find with heavier loads the padded portion of the hip belt starts to slide causing the thin webbing to dig into the stomach. Part of the issue may well be my physiology.

I would also make the front pocket out of a durable stretch material to improve its functionality.

Mystery Ranch never claimed it was an ultralight pack. Bit a lighter pack than their traditional backpacking and hunting packs.

It is a pretty good pack. Not as comfortable as my custom made McHale packs but they weigh 6.5 – 8.5 pounds. And now starting my 76th year my body has absolutely no desire to carry 50, 60 or more pounds any more.

Hi James,

Thanks for joining The Big Outside.

Bummer about the wildfire in Zion, but yes, there are other options. Check out my story “The 12 Best Backpacking Trips in the Southwest,” especially the Coyote Gulch and Death Hollow Loop backpacking trips in the Escalante, neither of which requires a permit reservation. I also suggest you consider the Grand Canyon’s Thunder River-Deer Creek Loop from the North Rim, not far from Zion or St. George, because you might be able to score a permit, especially if you’re solo (which I’m reading into your comment, though I may be wrong). Check out the individual stories about those three trips because each has its own complications.

If you’d like my help planning any of them at the last minute, check out my Custom Trip Planning page to see how I can do that for you.

Thanks again for subscribing, I appreciate that. Good luck with your trip!

Thanks, Thomas, is an amazing list. Yosemite, Glacier, and the Tetons certainly have shorter and easier trips than the big ones I described in this story, including the trip I cover in my e-book “The Best Short Backpacking Trip in Grand Teton National Park.” Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains and Wyoming’s Wind River Range also offer more beginner-friendly backpacking options. The southern Olympic coast is also a gorgeous and relatively easy trip.

I can help you plan that trip. See my Custom rip Planning page to learn how.

I can help you plan any trip you read about at my blog. See my Custom rip Planning page to learn how.

Thanks for the comment. Get in touch anytime.

Hi Terrie,

It’s always good to hear from you. You ask a good question about when the North Rim will reopen in the wake of the Dragon Bravo fire this year and I have not heard an answer to it yet. On top of that, the president is proposing historically deep cuts to the National Park Service, which appear likely to severely impact the ability of parks to keep up with routine maintenance. I don’t know whether the Nankoweap trailhead area was affected by the fire. And who knows when the current government shutdown will end and recreation.gov will resume accepting backcountry permit reservations.

At times like this, though, I think the best strategy is to closely monitor when permit reservations reopen and jump on making yours as soon as that happens (if it’s not too early to make a reservation for your dates). And if you have to cancel a reservation, you’ll get all or most of the cost refunded, anyway.

Good luck. Thanks for the comment.

Thank you, Elaine, and I completely agree with your comment, of course. This is now our fight and it’s on us. I appreciate you getting engaged and contacting your representative and senators.

Hi Puja,

Thanks and, yes, there are feasible backpacking trips in southern Utah and Arizona in late November and early December. While the weather becomes more of a risk at that time of year, I have backpacked in the Southwest at that time of year. In fact, I just helped a couple plan a Grand Canyon trip for the week of Thanksgiving. I don’t think Owl and Fish canyons would be the best choice, but I could offer you suggestions. I’ll email you about it. Thanks for asking.

Hi Barry,

Monument Creek and Hermit Creek are both perennial, always flowing, reliable sources. At Granite Rapids or Hermit Rapids, you’re on the Colorado River, which is clear at times, murky other times.

Have a good trip!

Thanks so much, Michele, I greatly appreciate that. And you know I always look forward to helping you plan another adventure!

His trip planning services are a bargain for what you are getting—his top-tier advice on both strategy (what does your family want to do?) and tactics (his outstanding expertise on how to accomplish this). And he gives creative logistics suggestions that I never would have thought of. Michael’s custom trip planning is not just for backpacking/wilderness trips. For this trip, we stayed in lodging (again which came recommended based on his personal experience). It just saved me (as trip planner for the family) I’d estimate 40-60 hours of time planning and again, made the most of our limited family time together. 100% recommend! Once you hire Michael once, you’ll find yourself dreaming of taking another adventure vacation that Michael can make a reality.

Thanks, Sarah, and you are correct on both points. But you and your son don’t have to backpack far to have a great time and both finish it wanting to do another. Keep your goals very modest and focused on you both enjoying it. I think the one-on-one time together is what’s most special about it, for both parent and child, and maybe the biggest motivator for both to want to do it more.

Good luck! Keep in touch.

Hi Jeff,

Thanks for sharing that story about your backpacking trip in Yellowstone, sounds like you had quite an adventure. Keep in touch!

Thanks, Dave. Yes, you need to get to Glacier!

Thanks, Angie, I appreciate you sharing those thoughts and look forward to helping you plan more trips.

Thanks, Sue, good to hear from you and that you’re doing well.

Thanks, Matt. I’m happy your trip turned out just as you hoped it would and I look forward to helping you plan another.

Hi Eric,

It’s a great trip and a wonderful tour of the North Cascades.

With a subscription to The Big Outside, you get full access to all of my blog’s stories, including the trip planner section at the bottom of stories, including this one, where I share details of the itinerary and other logistics and tips on planning this trip.

I also offer Custom Trip Planning, where I’ll help you plan this or any trip you read about at my blog, including a digital map I’d draw for you, if you’d like.

I hope one of those options is helpful to you. Keep in touch.

Hi Dave,

No, the Arc’teryx Cerium is not drafty through the zipper, and I say that having worn it camping in the backcountry in temperatures in the 20s Fahrenheit and strong, cold wind. It’s a warm puffy jacket. It also has 850-fill down, compared to the Patagonia Down Sweater’s 800-fill; and the Cerium may be a little warmer per ounce/gram of insulation, while the Down Sweater Hoody weighs three ounces more, so perhaps their warmth is comparable or the Down Sweater Hoody is a bit warmer. And you want to compare the Cerium Hoody to the Down Sweater Hoody because the hood adds both weight and warmth. Both are well constructed. Honestly, your choice may come down to the fit, style, or prices you find for each.

Good luck.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts about my e-books, Steve, and for purchasing those two. I’m glad they were helpful. Get in touch anytime.

Hi John,

Thanks for the question about the White Mountains, where I first started hiking and a place that’s near and dear to me. A friend with whom I’ve hiked a lot of miles in the Whites were just talking about how we love getting back there every year for a hike.

The Appalachian Trail through the Whites, or some piece of it, would certainly be highly recommendable. My story “The Best Hikes in the White Mountains” should be helpful to you as you plan your trip.

I can give you a personalized trip plan for the Whites that’s designed for your group’s preferences. If that interests you, see my Custom Trip Planning page to learn how I can help you plan your trip.

Good luck with your planning and have a great trip.

Hi Jeff,

Thanks for the compliment, I’m glad you found my blog and like it. I offer detailed advice on buying the right hiking shoes or boots in my story “Expert Tips for Buying the Right Hiking Boots.” Check it out.

It’s hard for me to recommend a specific brand or model in footwear because the first and most important factor is that you find boots or shoes that fit your feet well, and everyone’s feet are different, as are the fit of boots from different brands. Try on boots until you find some that feel really good. If you have running shoes already, you probably have a sense of how shoes should feel when they fit well. Still, try out different models in the store and have your shoe size measured.

Good luck and thanks for the question. And see my story about climbing Mount Whitney with my son via the Mountaineers Route (not the standard hiking route, which I assume is what you’re considering and is also a great hike).

Hi Jeff,

Always good to hear from you. Sorry for the slow response, I actually just got back from a backpacking trip in the Sawtooths that overlapped much of the route you’re planning and it was excellent. If you change your mind and are interested in my Custom Trip Planning to get a specific itinerary for that area, including recommendations for several excellent campsites we stayed in or hiked past, drop me an email.

Otherwise, have an outstanding hike and I’d love to hear about it. Thanks for the comment.

I just came across your website and blog—it’s super interesting and a great read.

I’m new to hiking, having really only done shorter hikes like Runyon Canyon in Los Angeles in my running shoes. My fitness level is pretty good, but it’s mostly based on exercising at sea level rather than hiking a lot of vertical feet. My goal is to eventually hike Mount Whitney with my son—it may be ambitious, but you only live once!

To build up, I’m planning to tackle some intermediate hikes like Mount Baden-Powell, Echo Mountain, and then Mount Baldy. I was thinking of investing in a mid-weight hiking boot and would love your advice. Ideally, I’d like something I can break in and feel very comfortable with by the time I’m ready for Whitney.

Any recommendations would be fantastic—thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences!

Thanks so much.

Let me know if you see any obvious issues with this.
I know you have an article on your Queens River hike that hits this section of Spangle and Rock Island Lakes coming from the west side. Would you recommend that instead? I see that it is almost a 4 hour drive from Stanley to that Queens River TH, so I thought hitting these lakes from the east side (from Alice-Toxaway) made sense.
I realize that you offer custom trip planning as a service. I am not looking for anything remotely that detailed. Just either a thumbs up or a “hey I recommend the Queens River hike instead” type of response.
Thanks in advance!

Hi Patrick,

Good question. Since most mountains in the contiguous U.S. are still solidly in winter in March, I suggest you look toward the Southwest canyon country. See my blog stories “The 10 Best Backpacking Trips in the Southwest” and “The 5 Southwest Backpacking Trips You Should Do First” as well as “America’s Top 10 Best Backpacking Trips.”

See also my Custom Trip Planning page to learn how I can help you plan your trip.

Good luck.

Thanks for that report, Aaron. I’m sorry you’re having such a bad experience with MSR because they are outstanding poles.

I purchased my MSR Dynalock Hiking poles last year and had an absolutely horrid time with their customer support when I had an issue. Still no resolution after 9 months. Unbelievably great poles, horrific customer service. I’m actually looking at this page to try to find a good alternative.

You will be happy to did go there and hiked the Laugavegur, Rob. Good luck with the trip planning. Check out my e-book “The Complete Guide to Trekking Iceland’s Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails.” If you’d like my help planning your Iceland trip, see my Custom Trip Planning page, which explains how I can help you plan this or any trip you read about at my blog.

Thanks for the comment.

Thanks for that great tip, Billy.

These are used medically for superficial burn dressings and other similar situations which are directly analogous to the blister wound. The leukotape idea is one I am going to steal, but I doubt there is anything better than a colloid bandage for the established blister.

Hi Julia,

Thanks for the question. I cover that Paintbrush-Cascade loop in my e-book “The Best Short Backpacking Trip in Grand Teton National Park,” including detailed instructions and tips on navigating the permit process. And I can help you plan that trip. See my Custom Trip Planning page to learn how.

You might also be interested in my stories “The 5 Best Backpacking Trip in Grand Teton National Park” and “https://thebigoutsideblog.com/how-to-get-a-permit-to-backpack-the-teton-crest-trail/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>How to Get a Permit to Backpack the Teton Crest Trail,” which applies to getting a backcountry permit for any trip in the park.

Thanks for the question and keep in touch.

Michael

Thanks for the nice comment, James, and certainly get in touch when you’re ready for your next trip.

Michael was an absolute delight to work with throughout the entire planning process—incredibly responsive, warm, professional, and enthusiastic, taking the time to understand exactly what I was hoping to get out of each trip and tailoring the itineraries to my specific interests and skill level. The trip plans he provided were thorough and well-organized, covering everything from logistics and gear recommendations to daily itineraries and backup plans, giving me confidence to tackle these adventures and focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about details. Both trips were absolutely spectacular and went off without a hitch thanks to Michael’s expert planning, with routes that showcased the very best each area has to offer and places I never would have found on my own.

If you’re considering a backcountry adventure and want the confidence that comes with expert planning, I wholeheartedly recommend Michael Lanza’s custom trip planning service—his combination of extensive knowledge, personalized attention, and genuine passion for the outdoors makes him an invaluable resource for any wilderness adventure.

Thanks, Scott, I’m glad you had such a great trip in the Sawtooths.

Hi Suzanne,

I’d look at the company’s website first, to see whether they’re still carrying the product. The page at Oboz that lists all the Bridger models shows only a Bridger Low Waterproof for men, but no women’s models. You might have to get a women’s Bridger Mid (my 22-year-old daughter uses and loves them) or look for another Oboz model in low for wonmen.

Good luck.

Thanks for the comment and recommendation, Allan. I’ll look at Ketl Mountain’s stuff.

Hi Brian,

You’re very welcome, of course, and I’m glad you had a chance to hike into the Cirque. There is so much more to explore in the Wind River Range. Let me know if you’d ever like me to give you a personalized trip plan for your next visit to the Winds.

Michael, thanks so much for this response, it was very helpful. We just returned from a wonderful few days in the Cirque – what a spectacular area. With only three nights, we left much to return for on future trips. Thanks again!

Thanks for sharing your experience, Eric, and good to hear from you again. I’d say that checks out with my past experience in many popular parks—I expect to see more people in July and August than in September, despite the reality that September is often much nicer, especially in Yosemite and the High Sierra in terms of more moderate temperatures (summer afternoons are hot in the High Sierra) and many fewer mosquitoes and people.

I agree about the Ten Lakes Basin and I strongly recommend you backpack the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne River, it will really blow you away. See my story about hiking through there on a bigger loop through northern Yosemite, the park’s biggest block of wilderness.

Keep in touch!

But the Ten Lakes portion was completely new to me. Wow! It felt like I had that entire basin to myself. And with incredible vistas of parts of northern Yosemite that I’ve never seen. Exploring the Tuolumne river might be next on the list.

Thanks for these reports. They always nudge me to get out there

Hi Kerri,

Yes, thanks for asking. That’s because that story, like many at my blog, is partly free for anyone to read but requires a paid subscription to The Big Outside to read in full. A subscription gives you full access to all of my blog’s stories, including the trip planner section in stories about specific trips, where I share details of the itinerary and other logistics and tips on planning the trip. Basically, this blog would not exist if not for the fact that I can make a living off it through the support of readers who find the information and expertise I offer valuable.

I also offer Custom Trip Planning, where I’ll help you plan this or any trip you read about at my blog. I could give you a trip plan for a shorter, really nice version of the backpacking trip you read about and, if you purchased that service, I could check to make sure you could still get a permit for it.

You might also be interested in my story “20 Great Backpacking Trips You Can Still Take in 2025.”

I hope one of those options is helpful to you. Keep in touch.

I have just discovered your website and blog as I was looking for off-the-beaten-path backpacking trips in Yosemite. I found a hike with the title “Yosemite’s Best-Kept Secret Backpacking Trip” and was intrigued. I couldn’t figure out the area from your article. A group of 4 of us are trying to put a 3-night backpacking trip together without having an advance permit and it seems that this area might be a good one to explore. Your specific trip is too long for us but wanted to see if there might be something in the area that makes sense. Thanks for the help.

Kerri

Hi Bryan,

Thanks, I’m glad you like my blog and I appreciate that feedback.

First of all, let me point out that with a subscription to The Big Outside, you get full access to all of my blog’s stories, including the trip planner section at the bottom of stories like this one, where I share details of the itinerary and other logistics and tips on planning this trip. I also offer Custom Trip Planning, where I’ll help you plan this or any trip you read about at my blog.

I’ve hiked across the Lizard Head Plateau, another great option with somewhat different challenges from this one, but I prefer the combination of passes and lakes crossed on this route (described in the trip-planning tips at the bottom of this story). But both are great hikes, without question. This early in the season, I hope you can find recent reports about snow conditions at the passes and on the Lizard Head Plateau.

Also, know that camping is prohibited within a half-mile of Lonesome Lake. You’ll have to camp elsewhere in the Cirque or hike beyond the Cirque.

I hope that helps. Thanks for the questions and reading my blog. Keep in touch.

We’re planning to start at Big Sandy and spend our first or last night at Lonesome Lake. With our time constraints, it seems we need to select two out of Lizard Head trail, Grave Lake/Hailey Pass, and Washakie Pass trail. I appreciate any input!

Hi Shannon,

Thanks for being a member of The Big Outside, I appreciate your support for my blog. The ads you see at The Big Outside are there to generate revenue, as I’m sure you understand. There’s sometimes a little box with an X inside it at the upper right corner of those ads; click on that to close the ad. Or try refreshing the page. The ads do reload again after a short time. I’m sorry about that inconvenience.

Please let me know if that helps or if I can help with anything else related to my blog. Thanks again.