I've been an avid backpacker for years; it's one of my greatest passions. I have hiked well over 3,000 miles - including a 2,600 mile thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail. I've made all the mistakes so that you don't have to.

I want to share everything I know with you so that you can get the most out of your next trip. Unfortunately, most of the advice you'll get from your local outdoor store is out of date or impractical. They'll try to sell you a tent that can withstand hurricane force winds, or a pack designed to carry 100 pounds. I think it's much more enjoyable to carry a light load and be comfortable on the trail. All it takes is the right gear and a little know-how. That's where I can help you...

What's Here?

These are a few of the topics you can expect to find on this site:

• Backpacking for beginners
• Backpacking basics
• General advice
• Backpacking tips and techniques
• My suggestions on the best gear, footwear, and clothing
• Lightweight and ultralight backpacking
• Long distance hiking
• Food and recipes
• Trip reports and Colorado trails
• Stories and inspiration

Hiking is one of the greatest ways to experience the outdoors. You can experience adventure, breathtaking mountain vistas, wildlife, and the serenity of a perfect sunrise all on the same trip.

Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping as the first rays of light splash upon a high alpine peak. It's a crisp morning, but you're still warm and cozy in your sleeping bag. Maybe you rise quickly and hit the trail early to get the perfect photograph or spot an elusive bear. Or maybe you stay in your bag and enjoy breakfast and a hot cup of tea as you watch the sun rise over the mountains. Your mind is quiet and clear - free from the stress and worry of everyday life. All you need to do today is walk and enjoy the outdoors.

Few things are as satisfying to the soul as hiking and camping in a beautiful wilderness area. I prefer not to spoil these moments by worrying about my gear, whether or not I'm going to find a campsite, if I have enough food, etc. It seems best to be prepared, to know and trust my gear, and to have confidence in my abilities. But these things take time to develop and a little knowledge from those who have been there before.

Good planning can save you from a lot of the headaches you'll suffer if you're not prepared and things go wrong. Once you have a solid set of skills and experience, it can be fun to be a little more spontaneous and wing it.

My goal is to share what I know with you - so that you will get there sooner than if you had to learn it all on your own. Trust me, I've made about every mistake there is to make. So hopefully you won't have to do the same.

What if it's the middle of winter and I'm not planning a trip right now? Does this site have anything to offer me?

Of course! I plan to update this site regularly. I will constantly be adding new information. Plus I plan to include plenty of inspirational and entertaining stories. So come here for your backpacking fix to help you through the winter months. It's not the same as being on the trail, but it will lift your spirits and you'll be well prepared when spring rolls around.

So whether it's a day hike to your local mountain or a thru-hike across the country, learn what you need to know and then get out there!