Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Pack & Trail Outdoor Gear Reviews ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://packandtrail.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://packandtrail.com/blog/) - [Portable Power Station (Battery) Buying Guide](https://packandtrail.com/blog/portable-power-station-buying-guide/) - Charging all your devices out camping or during an emergency is kind of a new idea but can be a lifesaver. But there are a ton of power stations on the market and they have pages and pages of features with confusing jargon. How do you know which is the best? How should we even - [emoose GIGA X1500 Power Station Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/emoose-giga-x1500-power-station-review/) - Tons of power stations are hitting the market right now. They're great for camping, power outages, and just powering tools around the house. Most of them are heavy and slow to charge. emoose (yes, it's not capitalized) is changing that with their GIGA X1500. With a massive 1502 watt-hours capacity and 2400 watt rating, it's - [Runhood RALLYE 600 Power Station](https://packandtrail.com/blog/runhood-rallye-600-power-station/) - Power stations are normally just big batteries. The ports charge your devices and recharge the battery. They've gotten better over recent years but they've mostly remained a big battery with USB and AC outlets. You've probably never heard of Runhood Power before but in 2021 they debuted their first product: the RALLYE 600, a power - [Litheli 40V 14" Cordless Chainsaw Review: No cords, no gas](https://packandtrail.com/blog/litheli-40v-14-cordless-chainsaw-review-no-cords-no-gas/) - The 14" Cordless Chainsaw from Litheli uses a 40V, 2.5 amp-hour battery to do up to 90 4x4 cuts per charge. - [Yeti Skala Backpack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/yeti-skala-backpack-review/) - When Yeti bought heavy duty backpack brand Mystery Range in 2024 the obvious question was 'What are they going to do with it?' Known for their bombproof coolers and other camp and adventure equipment, Yeti have dabbled in commuter and cooler backpacks. Some companies try to pivot into new products and don't make it. So - [Portable Power: DJI Power 1000 Mini Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/dji-power-1000-mini-review/) - Flying drones, taking photos, and creating content all takes power. The DJI Power 1000 Mini is charging on the go with one little feature that is ultra useful. - [OnX Backcountry GPS App Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/onx-backcountry-gps-app-review/) - GPS is a critical but tricky item to take into the backcountry. It's a set of maps and tracks in your pocket for anywhere you could want to go. It's also on a battery operated device that could break or run out of power at any time. For most people, knowing where you are all - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners Course](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-course/) - Welcome to the Backpacking Gear for Beginners Course. This course will walk you through every piece of hiking gear you might need for a short backpacking trip. We’ll cover what every piece of gear is and tips for buying each. What will this guide cover? This guide isn’t going to cover every piece of gear - [Blundstone All-Terrain Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/blundstone-all-terrain-review/) - Blundstones have become popular around the world for a reason. They're comfortable, easy to put on, look good, and last for a long time. They've been making their own TPU soles for a long time now but have recently branched out with a collaboration with Vibram to make an even grippier sole. The All-Terrain are - [Blundstone Classic Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/blundstone-classic-review/) - This is a very biased review of the Blundstone Classic Chelsea boots. I've had other Blundstones for more than 10 years and absolutely adore them. They are incredibly comfortable and last forever. None of my other trail runners or light hiking boots come close to Blundstone durability. Today, we'll be focusing more on what makes - [Blundstone Classic vs All-Terrain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/blundstone-classic-vs-all-terrain/) - 10 years ago I bought my first pair of Blundstones. All my friends had them and raved about them. I wasn't sure. They weren't cheap. I wanted to wear them to work so I got the Chisel Toe (Dress in the US). They were a bit stiff to start. Once they broke in they fit - [Cozy Cabins near Tofino: Ocean Village Resort](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cozy-cabins-near-tofino-ocean-village-resort/) - Ocean Village Resort is an amazing group of 51 cabins on Mackenzie Beach near Tofino, BC. 1 and 2 bedroom cabins, studio cabins and garden suites are steps from the fine sand of Mackenzie Beach. Each of the cabins has a full kitchen, propane fireplace, full size bathtub, chairs on a small patio, and a - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Dishes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-dishes/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need dishes? You probably want to eat while you’re backpacking, right? That usually requires something to eat on and with. This section covers cups, plates, bowls, sporks and spoons. And whether you should bring them at all. Remember that more dishes means more - [China Bowls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/china-bowls/) - China Bowls is a beautiful section of the Perseverance Creek in the Cumberland Community Forest. How to get to China Bowls To get to China Bowls is pretty straightforward. There is minimal cell reception in the area though so make sure you have offline maps. Start at the Cumberland Community Forest trailhead on Dunsmuir and - [Editor's Choice Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/editors-choice-gear/) - There's a lot of good gear out there but some of it stands out as the best of the best. Out of everything I review, it's the stuff that I reach for first and take out all the time. It stays permanently packed in my bag. This list is in no particular order, mostly the - [Julbo Shield with SPECTRON 3 Lens Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/julbo-shield-with-spectron-3-lens-review/) - Every since stumbling across French sunglass brand Julbo, I've struggled to wear anything else. Julbo was founded in 1888 in Morez, France providing crystal hunters sunglasses to use in the Jura mountain range. Since then they've expanded to every sport possible, making glasses for sailing, skiing, riding, running, and climbing. Their photochromic lenses may be - [Best Photochromic Sunglasses: Automagic Tinting](https://packandtrail.com/blog/best-photochromic-sunglasses/) - I can't count the number of sunglasses I've lost or broken after taking them off. I've spent hundreds of dollars on good ones and cheap ones and they all disappear and break. Because I took them off. When the light gets too dim, then they go on the deck of my boat or on my - [Tifosi Moab Sunglasses Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tifosi-moab-sunglasses-review/) - Tifosi is Italian for super-fan. It shows in the quality and range of their sunglasses. Firmly rooted in root-cycling, they've got plenty of frames for all kinds of riding. They focus on good technology with good prices. They have solid sunglasses with lifetime warranties for less than $100. In this review, we bashed around the - [Trent River Falls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/trent-river-falls/) - Trent River Falls is a short hike from the trailhead on the Highway 19 just south of Cumberland, Vancouver Island. The falls are about 20 metres tall and end up in a deep pool. The rock and river above the falls are also a beautiful place to explore if the roped sections are too steep. - [Nymph Falls Nature Park](https://packandtrail.com/blog/nymph-falls/) - Nymph Falls Nature Park is a 61 hectare park on on the upper Puntledge River. Many kilometers of trails of all levels run up and down the park. Some trails are foot traffic only but some are multi-use. Sections of the river are great for fishing, swimming, and kayaking but mind the steep sections and - [Litheli W1 Pro Wagon Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/litheli-w1-pro-wagon-review/) - Wagons are great for hauling gear around the campsite and do the beach but they get heavy quickly. Litheli have an entire ecosystem of power gear and tools used with their U20 20,000 mAh batteries. Along with those tools is a powered wagon capable of moving 130 or 300 pounds, depending on the model. We - [Chamelo Music Shield Sunglasses Review: Instant Tint Change](https://packandtrail.com/blog/chamelo-music-shield-sunglasses-review/) - Photochromic sunglasses automatically change tint with the light. What about the times that you need to change the tint immediately? Or manually set it to the exact tint you want? With regular photochromic you can't. Chamelo Sunglasses is pushing the boundaries of sunglasses that can change tint at the push of a button, well....slide of - [ActiveDim Pioneer Sunglasses Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/activedim-pioneer-sunglasses-review/) - Photochromic sunglasses are rare and often expensive. Add polarization to that mix, and you have a true unicorn—a combination few brands offer, and usually at a premium price. ActiveDim, however, has managed to include both features in all of their models, and at a surprisingly accessible price point. This raises the key questions: How do - [Spy Rebar Sunglasses Review: Photochromic, Impact Tested](https://packandtrail.com/blog/spy-rebar-sunglasses-review/) - Big lenses on sunglasses are the best. They offer better protection from light and sharp things flying around. But there's something better then big lenses. Big, photochromic lenses. Big lenses than protect your eyes from the sun and sharp things. AND they tint with the light so you can wear them longer, during cloudy days - [Spy Logan Sunglasses Review: High Impact Certified](https://packandtrail.com/blog/spy-logan-sunglasses-review-high-impact-certified/) - Have you ever been riding and hit in the face with a rock? Or fishing and hit in the face with a lure? Or work in a trade that requires ANSI certified safety glasses? I don't work trades but I've certainly been hit by rocks and lures (sometimes my own doing). I'd like to keep - [Smith Guide's Choice Sunglasses Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/smith-guides-choice-sunglasses-review/) - One of my favourite places to fish has been heavily logged over the past decades leaving logs stuck in the bottom of the lake at all angles and depths. It's a great place to paddle and fish but it's a minefield for boat props and rudders. Polarized sunglasses are required to not smash into anything, - [EXPED MegaMat LXW Sleeping Pad Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/exped-megamat-lxw-sleeping-pad-review/) - Camping is so much better when you get a good night sleep. With backpacking, hiking all day almost guarantees a good night sleep. But with camping you may not be as active. Sitting around the fire all day isn't exactly hard work. So why skimp on a sleeping pad? There are the little blue foam - [How to Schedule a Shot on a GoPro](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-schedule-a-shot-on-a-gopro/) - No one really wants to get up at 5 am to get a video or a timelapse of a sunrise. GoPro's have a Scheduled Capture feature where you just set a time in the next 24 hours for it to start and you can stay in bed. Here's how. (Compare all the GoPros) You can - [How to set a Timer on a GoPro shot](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-set-a-timer-on-a-gopro-shot/) - When you start a shot on a GoPro, you can either stop it manually or let it run until the battery dies. One photo is short but a video or timelapse will use the whole battery and record for an hour if you let it. (Compare all GoPros) HEROs 9 to 12 can do the - [Garmin Montana 700i GPS Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/garmin-montana-700i-gps-review/) - With a massive 5” screen and inReach satellite communicator built-in, the Montana 700i can go in the car and on the trail for any adventure. - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Camera](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-camera/) - Why do you need a camera? Another optional piece of gear. I don’t go on many trips without a camera though. It’s an excellent tool for documenting trips. Phone cameras are amazing these days so that can be a quick camera if you don’t have anything else. I try to document camp life and my - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Sun Protection](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-sun-protection/) - Why do you need sun protection? Sun protection may not just be one thing for you but rather a group. It’s one of the categories in the 10 Essentials and is just focused on protecting your skin and eyes from the sun. It usually includes sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and clothes to keep the sun off. - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Time to Hike!](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-time-to-hike/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Now you know enough to get into some gear and get out on some trips. Take it slow, learn as you go and hike with people that know more than you. You’ll be exploring beautiful remote areas on multi-day trips in no time. If you have - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Hiking Gear Checklist](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-hiking-gear-checklist/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. All the best hiking gear in the world doesn’t help if you forget it at home. A hiking gear checklist can help organize what you are taking on your trip, how much it will cost, how much it weighs and who’s going to carry what. The - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Tips to Start](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-tips-to-start/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. That’s the end of the gear section. You now have enough knowledge to be dangerous to your wallet and get some hiking gear. There are a few more things to keep in mind about hiking in general for your first, or tenth, multi-day hike. Start small - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Garbage Bag](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-garbage-bag/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need garbage bags? Most trails don’t have garbage bins every kilometer so you’ll need somewhere to store your trash. Any garbage with food scent on it will need to be stashed with your food or hung in a tree over night to avoid - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Soap](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-soap/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need soap? Soap is optional on the trail but it’s nice to have. You might want to wash your body on the trail or some pots and pans from a meal. Friendly to the environment Make sure the soap you get is friendly - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Batteries and Battery Packs](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-batteries-and-battery-packs/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need batteries and a battery pack? Most people take things hiking that require batteries. Headlamps, phones, GPS, satellite communicators, cameras, and radios all need to be charged at some point. On short tips you’ll likely be able to get through without charging anything. - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Firestarter](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-firestarter/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a firestarter? Part of the 10 Essentials is something to light fire with. If you get stuck out in the wild for any length of time, you’ll need some way to keep warm and be seen. A fire is a good way - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Bear Safety](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-bear-safety/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need bear safety gear? There are a couple items related to bears that you should be aware of. Bear deterrents are bear bangers or sprays meant to scare the bears off. Bear bangers are small explosives that shoot up in the sky letting - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Satellite Communicators and Emergency Locator Beacons](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-satellite-communicators-and-emergency-locator-beacons/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a satellite communicator? First off, what is a satellite communicator or messenger? They are small handheld devices like a SPOT, inReach or Zoleo that can connect to satellites to get your location, download weather forecasts, and send text messages or emails. One - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Music](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-music/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a music player? You don’t. If you like music and it’s going to be a long trip then you can bring some on an iPod or phone with you. I usually have my phone with me so I download a bit for - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Rope](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-rope/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need rope? Rope can be a very useful thing to have on the trail. It has many uses from day to day to emergency. For regular uses you can tie up tarps or pitch out tents. In emergencies you can tie up broken - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Notebook and Pen](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-notebook-and-pen/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a notebook and pen? I love taking notes of what happened on my trips. I journal a bit, including notes on what gear I’m using (or not) so I can refine my kit for next time. It is an optional piece of - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Book](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-book/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a book? I always have a book when I’m backpacking. This is absolutely optional but there’s something about the peace and quiet that’s nice to maintain when out hiking. There’s going to be time to kill stuck in the tent with bad - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Stuff Sacks](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-stuff-sacks/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need stuff sacks? Jamming everything you need to hike for 4 days or a week into 1 big backpack can make it hard to find anything. Stuff sacks are clear or coloured bags of various sizes with a roll or clip top. Organizing - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Repair Kit](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-repair-kit/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a repair kit? Stuff happens. Gear can wear out on the trail or accidents can happen that breaks gear. A repair kit is like your first aid kit but for gear. List all your gear and possible issues Make a list of - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Multi-tool or Knife](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-multi-tool-or-knife/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a multi-tool? Part of the 10 Essentials, a knife or multi-tool can help in emergencies. A Swiss Army Knife is a perfect example of this. It can help cut paracord, get a sliver out, prepare food, cut bandages and deal with countless - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Other Backpacking Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-other-backpacking-gear/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. There are many items we can take backpacking that are more or less optional but are very useful at certain times. This section walks through many of these items that can make that backpacking trip a little more comfortable. Multi-tool or Knife Repair Kit Stuff Sacks - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Hat](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-hat/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a hat? Hats aren’t required but they are nice to have in the sun or the rain. I’ve always got one kind of hat or another in my pack. A toque for when it’s cold, a Seattle Sombrero for when it’s raining - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Socks](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-socks/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need socks? Chances are slim that you can wear hiking boots or walk long distances without socks on. Good socks can keep your feet dry, happy and prevent blisters. Thicker socks will also give your feet some cushion against the beating they can - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Waterproof Pants](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-waterproof-pants/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need waterproof pants? Just as you need a waterproof jacket for your hike, you’ll likely need waterproof pants. When we’re in town and a rainstorm comes through we can run into work, the shops, or back to the car. When we’re out backpacking - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Waterproof Jacket](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-waterproof-jacket/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a waterproof jacket? It’s hard to stay warm when you’re wet. A waterproof jacket and pants keeps you dry in bad weather. You might not need a waterproof jacket and pants for every trip. In the Pacific Northwest where I hike, it - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Midlayers](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-midlayers/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need middle layers? On top of your base layers you’ll have midlayers, often called insulation layers. This is where you can set your temperature, keep warm, and continue wicking moisture. Middle layers can be a thin merino shirt, a thicker fleece, a large - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Baselayers](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-baselayers/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need base layers? The base layer, or underwear layer, is the first layer of clothing that sits against your skin. They can be short or long sleeves and ideally be comfortable against your skin. This first layer should be made of materials that - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Hiking Clothes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-hiking-clothes/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Clothes for hiking are an important part of staying warm, dry, comfortable, and safe. Pick your clothes well and you’ll be dry and comfortable no matter what the weather is. It’s helpful to think about having two sets of clothes: hiking clothes and camp clothes. Hiking - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Food](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-food/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need food? Well, we need food to survive so I guess we’re taking it. The trick for backpacking is packing light. We have to carry all our food so aim to bring food that’s lightweight but has a lot of calories. Hiking all - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Water filter, drops and tablets](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-water-filter-drops-and-tablets/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a water filter? No matter where you are, there’s a chance the water source can have protozoa like Cryptosporidium or Giardia. Both cause stomach problems like diarrhea. Not something you want on your hiking trip. To make it safe to drink we - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Coffee Maker](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-coffee-maker/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a coffee maker? I don’t go far without my Aeropress coffee maker but it’s big to bring on the trail. I like the Starbucks instant coffee packets the best. Easy and fast to make without much hassle. A bit of coffee whitener - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Pots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-pots/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need pots to cook? Just like at home, you’ll need dishes and cookware on the trail for the type of meals you like to cook. If you are cooking up a gourmet meal you might need a pot, a pan and multiple stoves. - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Stove Fuel](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-stove-fuel/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need fuel? Stoves need fuel to burn. What kind of fuel you need depends on your stove. Canister stoves use iso-butane canisters. These are small pressurized canisters like a propane canister for your bbq. They can burn hot and fast when the canister - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Camp Stove](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-camp-stove/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a stove? There are 2 ‘camps’ when it comes to bringing a stove or not hiking. Some like hot meals that a stove can make, others prefer the simplicity of cold-soaked or cold food without a stove. I personally love hot food - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Cooking Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-cooking-gear/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Time to get onto the food portion of this guide. You need to eat, right? Cooking is an activity that you probably don’t need on day-hikes. Throw a sandwich and granola bar in your pack and you’re done for a day hike. We need much more - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Tarp](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-tarp/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a tarp? Tarps can be used for 2 separate things when backpacking. Some people just use them to cover a common area for cooking and building your tent. Using it like this is nice but optional when hiking. They are light but - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Pillow](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-pillow/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a pillow? Obviously you need to put your head on something when you’re sleeping. But it doesn’t have to be an actual pillow. Bringing a whole pillow from home will be large, heavy and take up a lot of room. There are - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Sleeping Bag](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-sleeping-bag/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a sleeping bag? Sleeping outside is going to get a little chilly. We need something to keep us warm at night. Sleeping bags are compact bags of insulation that keep you warm at night but doesn’t take up much space in your - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Sleeping Mat](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-sleeping-mat/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a sleeping mat? Since you’re going to be sleeping outside, you need something to sleep on. We can bring a big foam mattress, or even a large inflatable mattress. There are a couple options for something small enough to fit in your - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Tent](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-tent/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Other options are a hammock with a tarp over it, or just a tarp over a sleeping bag and mat. Most people start with a tent. Tents give you lots of protection from the weather, bugs and small animals. A shelter is also part of the - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Sleeping Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-sleeping-gear/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. This is where we start to get into the differences between day hiking and backpacking. Day hiking you go out, hike, then come home to sleep. Spending nights out in the wilderness for 1 or more days requires equipment to sleep. Tent Sleeping Mat Sleeping Bag - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Pack Cover](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-pack-cover/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a pack cover? A pack cover is a waterproof cover for your backpack. Most packs are not waterproof so if it’s raining for any length of time, your pack will get wet and then everything inside. The cover wraps around - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Watch](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-watch/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a watch? Having a watch on the trail, even a cheap sports watch, is very helpful. If weather rolls in, it’s easy to sleep past when you wanted to get up and onto the trail. If you need to get - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Headlamp](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-headlamp/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a headlamp? Around camp and possibly on the trail, you’ll need light to see. A headlamp or flashlight lets you see where you’re going. With a headlamp your hands can be free to make dinner or put up your tent. - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Trekking Poles](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-trekking-poles/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need trekking poles? Trekking poles are walking sticks with soft handles, like ski poles. Sometimes they have wide discs around the end at the ground to keep them from sinking into mud. Poles help you keep your balance on slippery logs - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: First Aid Kit](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-first-aid-kit/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a First Aid Kit? When you’re out hiking, you might be hours away from help. You are your own first aid when you’re in the backcountry. Small cuts and sprains are going to be the most common thing you encounter - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: GPS and Phone Apps](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-gps-and-phone-apps/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a GPS or a GPS phone app? Some trails are marked clearly with signs and trail markers but many are not. GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a system of satellites that connects to your phone or handheld unit and - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Compass](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-compass/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a compass? Some maps show trails, lake names and mountain names on them and may work for navigating without a compass but most don’t. The lakes and mountains also need to have signs for this to work. A compass will - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Map](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-map/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a map? Navigation is one of the 10 Essentials. You always need a way to figure out where you are and where you are going that doesn’t have batteries and won’t break. GPS or phone apps are great when they - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Gaiters](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-gaiters/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need gaiters? Gaiters are like jackets for your hiking boots. They wrap around the top of your hiking boots and up your legs a bit. They keep the mud, branches and dirt out of your boots. If you’re quick, they can - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Camp Shoes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-camp-shoes/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need camp shoes? Camp shoes are lightweight shoes like Crocs or flipflops that you can wear around camp. Taking off hot, heavy hiking boots at camp and putting on fresh socks feels amazing and lets your feet air out and recover. - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Water Bladder](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-water-bladder/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a water bladder? A water bladder is a plastic bag of water that sits in your backpack with a tube that hangs over your shoulder. Whenever you need a drink you just drink from the tube. You don’t have to - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Water Bottle](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-water-bottle/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a water bottle? On day hikes and multi-day adventures, you’ll need a water bottle. Humans can survive without food for longer than we can go without water. It doesn’t need to be expensive, but we need something to hold our - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Hiking Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-hiking-boots/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need hiking boots? Hiking boots are one of the most important pieces of your kit. Without some sort of footwear, you won’t be hiking anywhere. Your footwear protect your feet and keep you moving on the trail. Hiking boots are the - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Backpack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-backpack/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Why do you need a backpack? Backpacking is all about what you can carry in your backpack. It’s how you can carry a tent, sleeping bag, clothes and cooking gear at the same time. Without a backpack we’re not going far! You might be - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Hiking Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-hiking-gear/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. This section is about the gear you’ll need to hike during the day. Many of these will cross over with day hiking so if you plan to do some of that, then you can use this stuff for both. Day hiking with a heavier - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: The 10 Essentials](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-the-10-essentials/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Pack the 10 Essentials The 10 Essentials is a short list of essentials for outdoor safety first put together in the 1930s by The Mountaineers, an organization based in Seattle for climbers and outdoor adventurers. The goal was to improve chances of survival by - [Backpacking Gear for Beginners: Hiking Safety](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-gear-for-beginners-hiking-safety/) - This post is part of the Backpacking Gear for Beginners course. Every time we head out for a hike (even just for a few hours) we need to do a few things first. Make a plan Asking a few questions every time you go hiking can help prevent problems before they even start. What’s the - [Stokes Creek Falls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/stokes-creek-falls/) - A 1.4 kilometre hike to a large waterfall near Port Alberni BC. - [Hole in the Wall Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hole-in-the-wall-trail/) - An old water pipeline has been removed leaving a massive hole in the rock. Water from the stream on the other side pours through the hole reconnecting to Roger’s Creek. - [Vancouver Island Waterfalls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/vancouver-island-waterfalls/) - Vancouver Island Waterfalls are some of the best in the world. The Pacific Northwest keeps the water turned on full blast. Don’t miss out hiking these waterfalls on your next hike. - [Bluetti AC70 Portable Power Station Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/bluetti-ac70-portable-power-station-review/) - With so many new companies and power stations coming out, it's hard to know which ones to trust. Bluetti is one of the most well-known names for portable power stations. They have a whole line of tiny power stations all the way up to models to power your whole house. The AC70 is a 22 - [BillieBars Truck Bed Bar Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/billiebars-truck-bed-bar-review/) - There are endless options for mounting and carrying gear on trucks these days. You can put things on a canopy, a roof rack, a hitch rack, a tall bed rack, short ones, or just throw stuff in the back. My next adventure vehicle build is a Chevy Colorado LT RST that I picked up last - [GPS for Hiking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gps/) - Answers to all your questions about GPS units and phone apps. - [Gaia GPS App Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gaia-gps-app-review/) - With the switch to phones for everything these days, it’s no wonder everyone is using them for GPS as well. I’ve used some of the best dedicated trail GPS out there and, while there are some pros and cons, phones are just the easiest GPS to use on the trail. They take photos, connect to - [Outdooractive GPS App Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdooractive-gps-app-review/) - A clean, easy-to-use GPS app for iPhone and Android with a growing number of routes in North America. - [Artman 3-Battery Charger for GoPro 12](https://packandtrail.com/blog/artman-3-battery-charger-for-gopro-12/) - GoPro's don't ship with a separate battery charger. So how do you charge on the fly? A charging case of course. - [Old Town Topwater PDL 106 Kayak Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/old-town-topwater-pdl-106-kayak-review/) - The Topwater PDL 106 is a pedal-powered kayak that’s ready for exploring, fishing or just wandering with the kids. - [Liquid fuel backpacking stoves: Pros and Cons](https://packandtrail.com/blog/pros-cons-liquid-fuel-backpacking-stoves/) - While you’re out in the woods on a hike, you don’t want to be carrying more weight than you absolutely have to. Your backpacking stove is one thing where you can save some weight by buying a lighter one. Out of the two popular types of stoves, canister and liquid fuel, canisters tend to be - [What exactly is a backpacking stove?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/what-exactly-is-a-backpacking-stove/) - What exactly is a backpacking stove? Why is one stove a backpacking stove and one not? There are lots out there of all different kinds. A quick search on Google and you can find all these different types of backpacking stoves: Canister Liquid Fuel Alcohol Solid Fuel Wood Or not even bring a stove and - [Backcountry kitchen: Canister fuel stoves](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backcountry-kitchen-canister-fuel-stoves/) - When you start overnight hiking, you’ll probably be looking at some sort of backpacking stove to cook food with. It’s not absolutely required, you could just bring packaged and dried food, but having a hot, filling meal at the end of a long day hiking is one of the best parts of the whole thing. - [How to choose a camping stove](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-camping-stove/) - Today we're going to jump into some details about backpacking stoves and what you'll want to consider when getting a new one. Let's get cookin'. You've just spent all day hiking. You're exhausted. All you want to is that giant burger to stuff in your face. But you don't have a giant burger in your - [Backpacking in Southwestern BC with Taryn Eyton from Happiest Outdoors](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-in-southwestern-bc-with-taryn-eyton-from-happiest-outdoors/) - The internet so full of bits and bytes of information, but it's still hard to find a good paper guidebook for hiking. Harder still is it to find a good guidebook on backpacking in BC. When I stumbled on the new guidebook Backpacking in Southwestern BC, I had to to investigate more. I reached out - [GoPro Hero10 Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gopro-hero10-review/) - Can action cameras really get that much better every single year? Well, yes. They have so far. The GoPro Hero10 is proof. The Hero9 came out in 2020 and is still one hell of an action camera. With up to 5k resolution and Hypersmooth 3.0 stabilization that was better than anything on the market, the - [EXPED Dura 3R Sleeping Mat Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/exped-dura-3r-sleeping-mat-review/) - Getting a good night sleep on the trail can make or break a hiking trip. I get a solid 7 or 8 hours at home usually but when I go hiking, it's usually a few hours of tossing back and forth in a tight sleeping bag on a noisy mat. EXPED have completely rebuilt their - [Helly Hanson Verglas Down Insulated Jacket Review: Long and Warm](https://packandtrail.com/blog/helly-hanson-verglas-down-insulated-jacket/) - No one should be without a lightweight puffy jacket. They're light, packable and warm. Helly Hansen are known for making some of the best waterproof shell jackets around but they also make some of the best down insulation too. The Verglas Down Insulated jacket is a lightweight insulated jacket made from goose down from Helly - [EXPED Camp Slippers Review: Lightweight and Comfy](https://packandtrail.com/blog/exped-camp-slippers-review-lightweight-and-comfy/) - The last thing I want to do when I get into camp is spend more time in my boots. They're hot, moist with sweat and heavy to lug around past the hours I've already been hiking. Camp and hut shoes aren't absolutely necessary but it's so nice to give your feet a break. Camp slippers - [EXPED Ultra Pillow Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/exped-ultra-pillow-review/) - Pillows are controversial topic in backpacking communities. Some hikers won't talk too you again if they find out you're using a pillow. The others have given up faking they can sleep without a pillow and just bring a lightweight pillow and actually get a good sleep. A couple years ago I gave up sleeping on - [GoPro Hero11 Black Camera Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gopro-hero11-black-camera-review/) - Every year we get another Hero action camera as GoPro shows us why they're the king of action cameras. And this year, again, they continue to push the boundaries of tiny, tough cameras with the Hero11. We got our dirty mitts on the brand new camera so today we'll have a look at the latest - [Big Agnes Big Six Armchair Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/big-agnes-big-six-armchair-review/) - The Big Six Armchair from Big Agnes is a unique combination of an ultralight backpacking chair and a large camping chair. It's tent-pole frame can hold 300 pounds but it weighs just under 4 pounds. Does the lightweight frame sacrifice stability and ease of use? We tested it to see what it was like for - [Big Agnes Captain Comfort Deluxe Camp Air Mattress Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/big-agnes-captain-comfort-deluxe-camp-air-mattress-review/) - The Captain Comfort Deluxe air mattress is definitely a deluxe option when it comes to sleeping outside. The 41" wide model we tested fits great between wheel wells in a truck if that's your mode of transportation. If not, the 30" or 52" might fit better in your car camping tents. Does the Captain Comfort - [Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D XXL Sleeping Pad Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/therm-a-rest-mondoking-3d-xxl-sleeping-pad-review/) - Therm-a-Rest know sleeping pads. They've been making them for 50 years. But can they make a 5 pound, 4 inch monster than could replace your mattress at home? We tested the MondoKing 3D XXL to find out. What is the MondoKing 3D Sleeping Pad? The MondoKing 3D is a bit different than most other Therm-a-Rest - [NEMO Roamer XL Sleeping Pad Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/nemo-roamer-sleeping-pad-review/) - Most big sleeping pads for car camping are super comfortable but they're enormous. That's just what you get with self-inflating foam in a mat that's 4 or 6 inches thick. NEMO somehow works their design magic and has made a car camping mat that's 4" thick, self-inflating, full of foam but still packs down smaller - [REI Camp Dreamer XL Mattress Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/rei-camp-dreamer-xl-mattress-review/) - I had no idea REI had been around since 1938. You'd think they'd know a thing or two about using and making air mattresses. Turns out they do. And with a good price at that. In this REI Camp Dreamer XL mattress review we'll see how it is to inflate, sleep on and pack up - [EXPED MegaMat Max Sleeping Mat Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/exped-megamat-max-sleeping-mat-review/) - If you're the kind of person who goes all out and doesn't go for anything less than the best and you need a sleeping mat for camping? We've found you one. It's not cheap and it's not light but after all the testing for this Exped MegaMat Max review, it's hard to find anything wrong - [Alps Mountaineering Vertex Twin Sleeping Pad Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/alps-mountaineering-vertex-twin-sleeping-pad-review/) - The Vertex Twin sleeping pad from Alps Mountaineering is an oversized air mattress that's great for camping or throwing on the floor at home for unexpected guests. It's the 80" long by 39" wide, 6" thick and can cary 250 pounds. It weighs 3 pounds 4 oz and packs down to 15.5" x 12" x - [Elegear Double Sleeping Pad Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/elegear-double-sleeping-pad-review/) - Car camping is a time to break out the big comfortable gear. The car is only 20 feet from the tent and you don't have to count the grams in the gear. That said, some of the car camping gear, like the enormous EXPED MegaMat Max mattress are huge, heavy and cost as much as - [Best Camping Mattresses of 2023](https://packandtrail.com/blog/best-camping-mattresses-of-2023/) - Getting a good nights rests when camping is key to enjoying the experience. And we think big, comfortable mattresses are the key to a good nights sleep. After researching more than 40 air mattresses, camping mattresses, sleeping pads, and thin chunks of foam, we rounded up the best we could find and tested them. Testing - [MEC Basecamp Chair Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/mec-basecamp-chair-review/) - MEC has become a staple of Canadian outdoor gear and rightfully so. They're products are well-built, well-priced and last a long time. The Basecamp chair from MEC comes from this exact lineage: well-built and well-priced. It's a sturdy camp chair that will last a long time. It does have a couple quirks. We tested one - [Strongback Elite Chair Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/strongback-elite-chair-review/) - Years ago, a friend was talking about a camp chair that was strong, comfortable, had good lumbar support on the back and lasted a long time. Seemed to good to be true but I decided to test one to see. He was right. And that chair was a Strongback Elite. I'm still using that older - [Dometic Go Compact Chair Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/dometic-go-compact-chair-review/) - Dometic is no stranger to products for outdoor living or building things that last. Their Go line features a ton of stuff meant for overlanding, camping or just hanging out outside at the beach. The Compact Chair in the Go line is a sturdy camp chair with a nice bag and quite the recline. We - [Helinox Chair Zero Highback Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/helinox-chair-zero-highback-review/) - Most people envision a large heavy metal frame when you think camp chair. But what about a tiny tent you sit on that's smaller than 2 water bottles? The Chair Zero Highback from Helinox weighs only 22 oz and fold out into a full chair with a tall back, albeit only 10 inches off the - [REI Wonderland Chair Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/rei-wonderland-chair-review/) - The REI Wonderland Chair is an unassuming camp chair. It's comfortable. It's sturdy. It's easy to set up. But it's got one simple feature that has stood out above the rest earning it a top spot in our recent camp chair test. Pros Slick carry and close clip Large seat and back Sturdy frame Cons - [Snow Peak Luxury Low Beach Chair Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/snow-peak-luxury-low-beach-chair-review/) - Snow Peak has made a name for itself with high-quality metal-work and camping gear. Everything they make has had care and attention throughout the manufacturing process and it shows using it. The Luxury Low Beach Chair has had this care and attention in the design and build. We reviewed the Luxury Low with all our - [Alps Mountaineering Rocking Chair Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/alps-mountaineering-rocking-chair-review/) - Most camp chairs are as built as small as they can be and don't rock or move while you're sitting in them. The Rocking Chair from Alps Mountaineering is literally a rocking chair you can take outside and do the campsite to rock yourself to sleep around the fire. Pros Rocks Folds easily Cons Large - [Best Camp Chairs of 2023](https://packandtrail.com/blog/best-camp-chairs-of-2023/) - Chairs are an essential part of camping. Standing or sitting on the ground gets old real quick. There are tons of them out there. Some crazy expensive, some cheap. We researched dozens and tested 8 of the best we could find. Here are the results. REI Wonderland Chair The REI Wonderland Chair looks like an - [HoverAir X1 Drone Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hoverair-x1-drone-review/) - Drones are getting smaller and more powerful by the day. Most of them are still complicated and expensive. Flying $1000 off into the trees isn't much fun. It would be nice if someone could make drone flying so easy anyone can do it. Zero Zero has done this with the HoverAir X1. The X1 is - [GoPro HERO12 Black Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gopro-hero12-black-review/) - GoPro rules the action camera market. DJI and Insta360 are trying to edge their way in. They're making a good run of it but they've got a ways to go before they unseat the king of action cameras. Like other tech companies, GoPro releases upgrades some years and big improvements others. Is the HERO12 just - [Welcome (back) to Pack & Trail!](https://packandtrail.com/blog/welcome-to-pack-trail/) - You may have landed on this site and be confused about where PureOutside went. We're still here! PureOutside is now Pack & Trail! Everything about Pack & Trail is the same as before. We still play outside and share our best adventures and gear reviews with you, just with a different name. We're doing our - [Bonnell Creek Falls in Nanoose](https://packandtrail.com/blog/bonnell-creek-falls-in-nanoose/) - My girlfriend and I wanted to go for an adventure of the hiking type on Valentine's Day. More specifically, we wanted to go find a waterfall. My dad mentioned some waterfalls by the Arlington Pub by Nanoose that he had been to a couple weeks ago. He said they weren't quite as large as Ammonite - [Mountain Biking Top Bridge Trails in Parksville](https://packandtrail.com/blog/moutain-biking-top-bridge-trails-in-parksville/) - The Top Bridge mountain biking trails around Parksville are excellent single tracks to start the year out on. These trails are located right behind the truck weigh scales near the south end of Parksville. The road turns into a good gravel road pretty quick and then descends a gentle slope past a gun range. Continue - [Hike in Tofino: Canso Bomber Crash Site](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hike-in-tofino-canso-bomber-crash-site/) - This hike was definitely a random adventure that turned out to be a lot of fun. We wanted to look for this plane that we had heard was in the area of Radar Hill in Tofino. We weren't really sure where exactly to go but knew it was somewhere at the end of a trail. - [Flower Ridge](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hike-near-gold-river-flower-ridge/) - 9 peaks This trip started out as an unknown for me. It would take us into some country that I'd never even thought of going. I'd heard of this Strathcona Park place before but had never really seen any of it aside from the lodge perched on the side of Buttle lake. Erik thought we - [The Vancouver Island Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-vancouver-island-trail/) - Ever thought about hiking the entire length of Vancouver Island on a single well-mapped trail? You will be able to soon. The Vancouver Island Spine Trail will allow you to do it. Here is their latest progress up date straight from one of their organizers, Gil Parker. VI Spine: A Trail from Victoria to Cape - [Awesome Athletes of the World: A New Series](https://packandtrail.com/blog/awesome-athletes-of-the-world-a-new-series/) - And so the search for the Awesome Athletes of the World begins. In trying to find motivation for myself and others to get outside and do the coolest things in the world, I found myself wondering where all those awesome people out there do what they do it and why they do it.In our new - [AAOTW: Senden Blackwood](https://packandtrail.com/blog/aotw-senden-blackwood/) - This is the first of a serious about the Awesome Athletes of the World. Learn more about it here. Many of us don't have the luxury of being very close to our favorite playground. Days of travel are followed by few moments of absolute bliss and then it's back to the grind. What if you lived - [Finally Summit Green Mountain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/finally-summit-green-mountain/) - After almost 2 years trying to get to the top of Green Mountain near Nanaimo, I've done it. I've spent even longer dreaming of getting to the top, surveying the vistas, and chasing the marmots (don't actually do this). But this elusive peak was always just outside my grasp. At first I didn't know where - [Coastal Crew Ep 4 - Pre-Season with Mike Hopkins](https://packandtrail.com/blog/coastal-crew-ep-4-pre-season-with-mike-hopkins/) - If you haven't yet caught on that the Coastal Crew is a bunch of sick riders with some wicked film skills you might have been living under a rock. Check out the latest installment of their webisodes and catch up on the previous ones with the links below. Coastal Crew Ep4. - Pre-season with Mike - [Outdoor Stores in Victoria, Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdoor-stores-in-victoria-vancouver-island/) - MEC Victoria Victoria is a fantastic place to be to enjoy all the outdoors the Island has to offer. With a population big enough to support some of the bigger outdoor stores, there is lots to choose from for biking, kayaking, skiing and everything else you could want to do outside! Outdoors MEC Website | - [Hiking Mount Benson](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-mount-benson/) - Mount Benson is an icon of Nanaimo. Everywhere you go in town, you can see it's rolling green ridges.The small mountain is a beautiful sight from Nanaimo but the view back down from the top is even better. There are many different ways to get to the top depending on your fitness level, mode of - [One More Day to the First Pack & Trail Juan De Fuca Run](https://packandtrail.com/blog/one-more-day-to-the-first-juan-de-fuca-run/) - There's only one more day to go until we hit the trail for the first annual Pack & Trail Juan De Fuca run. 47km of sweet ocean-side single track awaits us tomorrow on the trail near Sooke. The nearly 50km Juan De Fuca Marine Trail is hiked by hundreds every hear and provides a moderate - [Hiking Mount Gemini](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-mount-gemini/) - In July I had the chance to get up the modest peak of Gemini Mountain at 1516m. I've seen it many times from the neighbouring Green Mountain but only now planned to hike it.If you haven't been to Green or Gemini yet, you should plan a trip out there as soon as you can. For - [Hiking Mount 5040](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-mount-5040/) - This post is from Chris Presslauer, a friend of mine I've known for a while. He recently returned to Vancouver Island after spending some time in Finland and had to get out to some local Island mountains. *** This trip report is for Mt. 5040 which I hiked back on July 5th. This hike has - [AdventureMobile: The Series](https://packandtrail.com/blog/adventuremobile-the-series/) - So you've got an epic adventure planned. All the details are laid out. You're ready to go. You've recruited the best people in the business to help you execute your grand scheme. And then you get stuck on the way there because you're in a 2-wheel drive car. We can't have you getting stuck before - [My Gear: 2013 Edition](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ross-current-gear/) - It's hard not to talk about gear when you love being outside. It's not a show-stopper but having bad gear can be uncomfortable or even dangerous out in the wilderness. I try and get the best gear I can afford because it works the best, lasts the longest and is the most comfortable. The only - [Hiking Glossary](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-glossary/) - There are so many terms out there to do with hiking. This is my stab at listing them all with a short description of what they mean.If you notice one is missing, please let me know in the comments at the bottom! The Pack and Trail Glossary of Hiking Terms Alpine: Roughly the area on a - [What You Need to Know About a Hiking Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-a-hiking-trail/) - So you you're thinking about going for a hike and you get excited. But then you start thinking about everything you need to find out. Where’s the best place to hike? How do I get there? Are there any important things I should know about the trail before I go? I've created a bit of a checklist - [Carmanah Walbran Trip Photo Essay](https://packandtrail.com/blog/carmanah-walbran-trip-photo-essay/) - Back in April some friends and I spent a few days out in the Carmanah Walbran Valley. These are some of the photos from the trip. Our first day we headed upstream from the campsite to do some exploring. There are massive trees everywhere. Particularly were the Three Sisters just feet from each other. There - [Crossfit Challenge Week #2: Computer hands get a beating](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-2-computer-hands-get-a-beating/) - Another week has flown by in the CrossFit Challenge. Another week of learning and pullups and being very humbled and excited over and over again.I explained a few things and kicked off the CrossFit Challenge last week, if you want to catch up.I hit up the Tuesday and Thursday 4:30 WOD's right after work. Ok - [CrossFit Challenge Week 14: Muscle-up Attempts and Flying Knees to Elbows](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-14-muscle-up-attempts-and-flying-knees-to-elbows/) - 3 Months of CrossFit. DONE! It’s been quite the ride. This is the last regular post of the challenge about the workout. The rest of them will be review and wrap-up stuff. Stay tuned for that. I know you’re excited to finally read about the end of this thing! Buy-In Worked on skills and some - [RIBZ Front Pack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ribz-front-pack-review/) - Earlier this year, I went for a 6 day wander on the West Coast Trail, a 75km coastal hike on Vancouver Island. It was a gruelling and fantastic experience all at the same time. Carrying 40 pounds of gear on your back is taxing for most people and I'm no exception. The worst part is - [TevaSphere Shoe Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tevasphere-shoe-review/) - If you've been anywhere near the shoe industry these days, you'll notice lots of new shoes coming out. Some are huge and squishy and feel like you have 2 feet of foam attached to your feet (like the Hoka's) and others so thin with no support they feel like you're running around in your bare feet - [Choosing the right outdoor sport for you](https://packandtrail.com/blog/choosing-the-right-outdoor-sport-for-you/) - The number of outdoor sports you can choose from is growing every day. It can be hard to choose which one to start with. One of PackandTrail's contributor's, Susie Wing, has a few questions for you to help figure out which sport you should start with. ** So you know you want to take up - [1000 Trails](https://packandtrail.com/blog/1000-trails/) - Where is all the trail information for trails on Vancouver Island? All over the place. It's a "potpourri" of information online, not to mention everything in peoples heads, in books, scribbled on blogs and in videos. Imagine a resource that had organized, accurate information for every single trail in one place? That's the goal of - [Trip Reports: Great stories from the Juan de Fuca Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/trip-reports-great-stories-from-the-juan-de-fuca-trail/) - Reading through trip reports is one of the best ways to get information to plan a trip. Speaking to a person face to face is usually the best way but if you can’t get that close, a detailed trip report is the next best thing. I try to keep trip reports around for the Juan - [What is the Vancouver Island Trail?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/what-is-the-vancouver-island-spine-trail/) - I've written about the Vancouver Island Trail (used to be VI Spine Trail) before but they were mostly status updates on how the project was currently going. I wanted an introductory page that explained the trail and will like to all the future posts about it. So here it is! If you already know what - [Judges Route: Mount Arrowsmith Trip Report](https://packandtrail.com/blog/judges-route-mount-arrowsmith-trip-report/) - Mount Arrowsmith is hard to miss if you're driving around on Vancouver Island. I can't count the number of times I've driven north of Nanaimo, looked left up to his stony peaks and wondered when I was going to hike up there. I finally put time and opportunity together and made the trip September 1, - [Trip Report: Alberni Inlet Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/trip-report-alberni-inlet-trail/) - Sometimes you start hiking a trail having absolutely no idea what it’s going to be like. Or rather the image you had in your head of the trail is completely wrong. That’s the way I started the Alberni Inlet trail. I had assumed I was going to start a double track trail along the flat - [White Pine Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/white-pine-trail/) - I recently hiked the White Pine Trail near Nanaimo. It's part of the Trans Canada Trail near Nanaimo. Years ago, I hiked from Haslam Creek up to Timberland Lake, a section of the Trans Canada trail. It was an easy hike, not a ton of interesting trail as most of it was on logging road. - [Albert Inlet Trail north from Franklin River [Trip Report]](https://packandtrail.com/blog/alberni-inlet-trail-from-franklin-river/) - In my ongoing search for sections of the VI Spine Trail to hike, I wanted to find out more about the south end of the Alberni Inlet trail. It's being built in 3 stages and while all the stages are there for the trail, they aren't all used the same amount. Some parts are easier - [Review: Snowpeak LiteMax Canister Stove](https://packandtrail.com/blog/review-snowpeak-litemax-canister-stove/) - The LiteMax is a small canister stove from Snowpeak, a company that makes lightweight backpacking stoves, cookware and other accessories. The LiteMax is one of the lightest canister stoves I’ve ever seen. It’s easy to carry because of that. Pair it up with a small titanium pot to boil water in and you’ve got a - [New Mistic Beach Photos in the Epic Juan de Fuca Trail Guidebook](https://packandtrail.com/blog/juan-de-fuca-guidebook-new-mistic-beach-photos/) - They’re not quite the real thing but at least you can get the picture. - [Win Family Tickets to the Vancouver Adventure Travel Show 2017](https://packandtrail.com/blog/win-family-tickets-to-the-vancouver-adventure-travel-show/) - The Vancouver Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show is coming up. March 4 and 5th (2017) more than 250 outdoor gear and adventure travel vendors cram into the Vancouver Convention Centre with brand new products to try, great deals on gear and big bike, SUP and kayak demos.“B.C.’s largest showcase of outdoor gear & adventure travel - [Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show in Vancouver Ticket Winners](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdoor-adventure-travel-show-vancouver-ticket-winners/) - 3 weeks ago we announced that we'd be giving away 2 sets of tickets to the Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show in Vancouver this weekend, March 4 and 5th. It's going to be a great show with tons of fun things to do and great deals.We drew the 2 winners of the tickets tonight and - [Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia Backpack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cotopaxi-luzon-del-dia-review/) - Most companies are in business to make money. They get to continue what they do if they make money to fund it. What happens with those profits though differs for each company. Some make money purely for the owners. Others, like Cotopaxi, are driven by a mission to use that money for a good cause. - [Win Tickets to the 2018 Vancouver Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show](https://packandtrail.com/blog/win-tickets-2018-vancouver-outdoor-adventure-travel-show/) - The Vancouver Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show is coming up. March 3 and 4, 2018 more than 250 outdoor gear and adventure travel vendors cram into the Vancouver Convention Centre with brand new products to try, great deals on gear and big bike, SUP and kayak demos.“B.C.’s largest showcase of outdoor gear & adventure travel experiences” is - [Free Tickets to the Outdoor Adventure Show 2019](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdoor-adventure-show-2019/) - The Outdoor Adventure Show 2019 in Vancouver, BC is back and we have free tickets to give away.The show runs over March 2 and 3, 2019 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. There are hundreds of booths featuring big names in outdoor, paddle and scuba diving gear. If you have any questions on adventure travel, tons of tourism - [How to Start Backpacking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-start-backpacking/) - There’s nothing more freeing that filling a pack with food and gear and hitting the trail for a week. The places you can see backpacking are what we see in books growing up, dreaming of adventure. There’s a lot of gear to backpacking but that doesn’t mean it’s complicated. Anyone can work their way through - [Juan de Fuca Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/juan-de-fuca-trail/) - Everything you need to know to day-hike or backpack the Juan de Fuca Trail on Vancouver Island, BC. - [Headlamps: How to Buy One for Hiking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/headlamps/) - When the lights go out in the backcountry, it’s dark. Like really dark. If you want to do anything safely after dark, or get that dawn patrol in before work, you’ll need a some sort of light, Headlamps are easy to use, can be inexpensive and keep your hands free. Any light will work though. - [Backpacking Stoves](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-stoves/) - If you want a warm meal on your backpacking trip then you’ll need some way to cook it or at least heat up the water. Some people go stoveless on backpacking trips. All their food is raw, packaged or cold-soaked. It doesn’t reduce your weight not needing a stove. For the rest of us, a - [Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD Battery Pack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/goalzero-sherpa-100pd-battery-pack-review/) - Devices are taking over our lives. It’s a double edged sword with so many cool gadgets and gizmos helping us out but at the same time we’re tethered to screens and power. In the comments of any power bank article the haters yell, ‘leave the devices at home!’ I see both sides. Some hikes and - [Somewear Labs Global Hotspot Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/somewear-labs-global-hotspot/) - A small, easy-to-use satellite messenger that works anywhere in the world. - [GoPro Hero 5 Found After 9 Months in the Ocean](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gopro-hero-5-black-spends-9-months-in-the-ocean/) - If only GoPros could talk. - [Altra Lone Peak All-WTHR Low Trail Runner Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/altra-lone-peak-all-wthr-low-trail-runner-review/) - Altra Lone Peak All-WTHR is a waterproof trail runner for any season of the year. - [How to Tie Hiking Boots for Happy Feet](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-tie-hiking-boots-for-happy-feet/) - Hiking with boots that don't fit right is a pain in the ... foot. Follow these lacing and boot fitting tips and you won't have to worry about your feet again. - [Nanaimo Lakes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/nanaimo-lakes/) - There's so much you can do around Nanaimo Lakes. You could spend weeks exploring. There are 4 campsites on First lake, fishing on First, Second and Fourth, beautiful spots to swim on the river and epic views to hike on the surrounding hills. - [STRIKE MVMNT Vimana Carbon Running Shoe Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/strike-mvmnt-vimana-carbon-running-shoe-review/) - Shoes that feel good running on the trail and the road but also performs in the gym are rare. STRIKE MVMNT hits that target well with the Vimana Carbon running shoe. There's carbon fibre in there? Yes, there is. Most training shoes are clunky to run in. They excel on the gym floor and the - [Outside+ Subscription Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outside-subscription-review/) - If you haven't seen yet, Outside Online and its parent companies are buying up outdoors magazines and websites left, right, and centre. This means a bunch of changes for all the subscribers of those websites and a ton of rad benefits for the new Outside+ membership. So, what is an Outside+ membership? What is in - [Pack & Trail Plants 150 Trees with One Tree Planted](https://packandtrail.com/blog/pack-and-trail-plants-150-trees-with-one-tree-planted/) - For Earth Day, Pack & Trail has teamed up with One Tree Planted to plant trees in British Columbia. "Based on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, the mountains, rivers and trees of BC hold a special place in our hearts," says Ross Collicutt, founder of Pack & Trail. "A percentage of all Pack & Trail income - [DJI Osmo Action Camera Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/dji-osmo-action-camera-review/) - Dual-screen 4K action camera from DJI. - [Morsel Spork Review: The Best Sporktula](https://packandtrail.com/blog/morsel-spork-review-the-best-sporktula/) - Are you the kind of person that has to have the perfect spoon, fork, or spork camping or backpacking? If so, you might want to have a look at the Spork and Spoon from Morsel. Most sporks are just a spoon with tines cut from one end so you can stab things like a fork. - [Garmin Basecamp: How to export to Google Earth](https://packandtrail.com/blog/garmin-basecamp-how-to-export-to-google-earth/) - Google Earth (GE) has become an indispensable tool for viewing hiking tracks and planning out your hike. You can see what kind of land you are going to be encountering, or see a birds eye view of the trails and land you just hiked. I use Google Earth all the time to see GPS tracks - [Strong and Light: norda 001 Dyneema Trail Runner Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/strong-and-light-norda-001-dyneema-trail-runner-review/) - The norda 001 trail running shoe is the first in the world with a seamless bio-based Dyneema upper, ready to tackle the road or the trail. - [Best Camp Coffee Travel Mugs and Bottles](https://packandtrail.com/blog/best-camp-coffee-tumblers-and-bottles/) - There's nothing quite like a good cup of coffee, fresh air and a good view at your favourite campsite. While we love our ultralight cups and mugs when we're backpacking, car and trailer camping is a chance to bring the kitchen sink and live a little. For this test we ran 7 of our favourite - [Best Camera Backpacks for Hiking (Buying Guide)](https://packandtrail.com/blog/best-camera-backpacks-for-hiking-buying-guide/) - The never ending search for the perfect camera backpack. What is the perfect camera backpack? Does it even exist? First we'll compare the top backpacks for hiking then get into the buying guide. What do those features even mean? Top Camera Backpacks Compared Camera backpack features to look for Comfort Many camera packs forget comfort - [Atlas Athlete Camera Backpack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/atlas-athlete-camera-backpack-review/) - The Atlas Athlete is a very comfortable, easy-to-pack camera backpack with a one-of-a-kind feature in the top. - [Cascadia Chinook SUP Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cascadia-chinook-sup-review/) - Cascadia Board Co. builds surf and paddleboards on the west coast of Canada. Born in the surf off Vancouver Island, their woodgrain boards speak to the tall trees in Cascadia or the pacific northwest. Cascadia have recently branched out into inflatable SUPs, or iSUPs, as a convenient way to get out on the water and still - [GoPro Hero 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 Compared: Which is Best?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gopro-comparison/) - GoPro 8, 9, and 10 (and soon to be 11). What do the features mean and which one is best? - [Conqueror Virtual Running Challenges](https://packandtrail.com/blog/conqueror-virtual-running-challenges/) - Running on treadmills can be boring. With the pandemic and some nagging injuries, I needed a way to get some running done on my treadmill no matter what. A friend suggested a virtual challenge. "That's silly," I thought. I don't need to spend money just to run on the treadmill. It's sitting right there. I - [Snowpeak Kanpai Mug Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/snowpeak-kanpai-mug-review/) - Looking for a lightweight camp mug that has a tiny cooler in one of the 3 lids? Obviously you are, right? The Snowpeak Kanpai is a sleek travel and camp mug with Sip, Hot and Cold lids and a beautiful gloss finish on the thinnest stainless steel I've ever seen. Snowpeak knows how to work - [Yeti Rambler 532 Mug Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/yeti-rambler-532-mug-review/) - Is it possible to get an insulated travel mug that doesn't leak, is easy to use, easy to clean and will last forever? I think the Yeti Rambler 532 with the HotShot cap easily takes that crown and here's why. Pros Leakproof Easy to clean Cons Lower flow from lid This review is part of - [Stanley Classic Travel Mug French Press Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/stanley-classic-travel-mug-french-press-review/) - The Classic Travel Mug French Press is a 16 ounce travel mug from Stanley with a built-in french press. Not only you can carry your coffee hot for hours but make it in the same container. Pros Leakproof Built-in french press Cons lid threads don't line up sometimes This review is part of the recent - [Klean Kanteen TKWide Coffee Tumbler Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/klean-kanteen-tkwide-coffee-tumbler-review/) - An easy-to-clean coffee tumbler that still has hot coffee after 12 hours? Yes please. The TKWide Coffee Tumbler from Klean Kanteen is an unassuming tumbler that bested all the other tumblers in our hot test. It feels good to drink from and is easy to clean. How does it nail all our criteria? We tested - [BrüMate Pour Over Mug Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/brumate-pour-over-mug-review/) - Most camp and travel mugs need a way to make coffee; they're only the vessels. BrüMate wanted to make a complete travel package for making coffee. The Pour Over Mug includes a pour over that nests right inside the mug. Flip it over and you're ready to make the magic. As part of our favourite - [Corkcicle Commuter Cup Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/corkcicle-commuter-cup-review/) - If you're looking for a reusable travel coffee mug that's also stylish, you'll need to see the Corkcicle Commuter Cup. It's got beautiful, smooth finishes, a fast-opening lid and a non-slip bottom. Clearly the Commuter is a travel and work mug but we reviewed one for to see how it work as a camping mug - [Miir Tomo Vacuum Bottle Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/miir-tomo-vacuum-bottle-review/) - The whole point of a vacuum bottle (aka thermos but not the Thermos) is to keep drinks hot for a long time. The Tomo from MiiR delivers. In our 24 hour 'hot' test it was almost too hot to drink after 12 hours and still a nice coffee temperature after 24. Pros 2 cups Keeps - [Battery Packs](https://packandtrail.com/blog/battery-packs/) - Reviews and buying tips for battery packs and power stations. Your questions about charging devices in the backcountry answered. - [Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC Battery Pack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/goalzero-sherpa-100ac-battery-pack-review/) - 25600 mAh of power to charge up laptops, cameras, drones and just about anything else you have on your remote trips. - [Generark HomePower One Battery Power Station Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/generark-homepower-one-battery-power-station-review/) - All that camping and backpacking gear in your garage is perfect for emergencies. If the power goes out for days or there's a bad earthquake, you might have all you need to be comfortable while the situation gets sorted. The sleeping bags, water filters, fuel and stoves, freeze-dried food, battery powered lights, and portable power - [Jackery Explorer 240 Review: Portable Power Station](https://packandtrail.com/blog/jackery-explorer-240-review/) - The Jackery Explorer 240 Power Station can power laptops, tvs, fans and lights but is still lightweight and easy to carry around. - [Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/jackery-explorer-500-portable-power-station-review/) - With over 500 watt-hours of power and 7 different ports to charge from, the Jackery Explorer 500 keep all your devices charged up for days. - [LowePro ProTactic 450 AW II Backpack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/lowepro-protactic-450-aw-ii-backpack-review/) - An old but solid backpack the ProTactic 450 AW II camera backpack from LowePro is a favourite among photographers. It's been my daily carry for all photo trips since I got it a few years ago. The still padding all around does a good job of keeping gear safe and the shape of the backpack. - [Innovative Charging: Litheli B600 Power Hub Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/innovative-charging-litheli-b600-power-hub-review/) - The Litheli B600 Power Station has 9 ports and 2 built in portable power backs. - [Ororo Heated Hooded Jacket Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ororo-heated-hooded-jacket/) - Is having a heated jacket cheating? You just press a button and it’s on. And you’re warm. Ororo makes a ton of heated gear for working in the cold from heated vests to gloves to thin and thick jackets. Their thickest and warmest jacket is called the Heated Hooded Jacket. What it lacks in a - [Helly Hansen Cascade Low-cut Hiking Shoes Review: Durable, Warm and Dry](https://packandtrail.com/blog/helly-hansen-cascade-low-cut-hiking-shoes-review/) - Helly Hansen doesn't just have jackets, they have shoes too. The Cascade Low-Cut Helly Tech hiking shoes are a waterproof hiking show (not boot) with a burly sole meant for soaking up all the kilometers. Quick specs 950 grams (for the pair) Helly Tech waterproof membrane HH Pro-Guard toe and heel cap HH Max Comfort - [First Look: Helly Hansen Fall and Winter 2022 Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/first-look-helly-hansen-fall-and-winter-2022-gear/) - My first real outdoor jacket back in the 90s was a Helly Hansen. I used that jacket for everything. Skiing, hiking, travelling, walking the dog. Of course, I knew nothing about outdoor gear back then and technology has come a long way since then. 1877 sea captain Helly Juell Hansen was trying to stay warmer - [Thermacell E55 Mosquito Repeller Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/thermacell-e55-mosquito-repeller-review/) - The Thermacell E55 gives you a 20 foot mosquito free zone. All you need to do is slot in the 40 hour bug juice refill and keep the 5 hour battery charged. - [Mountainsmith Borealis Camera Backpack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/mountainsmith-borealis-camera-backpack-review/) - A burly camera backpack that can stand up to any punishment. - [Banff Mountain Film Festival 2020 Films](https://packandtrail.com/blog/banff-mountain-film-festival-2020-films/) - The Banff Mountain Film Festival is a staple in every adventurers year. Whether you sit down for a night, or 2 or 3, every year for the festival, or peruse all the films as they come online, some of the best adventure filmmaking finds it’s way through the Banff festival. This year, due to the - [JLab Go Air Pop True Wireless Earbuds Review: Only $20!](https://packandtrail.com/blog/jlab-go-air-pop-true-wireless-earbuds-review/) - JLab Go Air Pop somehow cram good sound, Dual Connect and 3 EQ modes into these $20 headphones. - [Make your music run with you: TrailMix Pro App Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/trailmix-pro-app-review/) - Since high school, I've run to stay fit. At that time it was more just because we were forced to run in gym class but I liked it all the same. One thing I noticed quickly was music changed the pace of my running. Getting into a good fast song, I would pick up my - [Red 9’6” Compact Paddle Board: Half the Size](https://packandtrail.com/blog/red-compact-96-paddle-board/) - The RED 9’6” Compact inflatable paddle board is half the size rolled up compared to other boards. - [The Season Ep 12 – Washed Away](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-12-washed-away/) - Shit hits the fan. It's the middle of the night and there is water everywhere. What went wrong? They were all ready to charge in and tame the mighty waters that are the Butze Rapids and now they're barely hanging on. What will happen? The Season Episode 12 from Duct Tape Then Beer on Vimeo. - [4 Ways to Light a Canister Stove](https://packandtrail.com/blog/4-ways-to-light-a-canister-stove/) - Canister stoves are the easiest types of backpacking stove to light. Just like a BBQ. Grab your lighter, turn on the gas and, woof, you're cooking with gas. It's still possible to burn your eyebrows off but much harder than with a liquid fuel stove. Because you can boil water for your lasagna and still - [Ka-boom or the reason you shouldn't use a windscreen around a canister stove](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ka-boom-or-the-reason-you-shouldnt-use-a-windscreen-around-a-canister-stove/) - So why can’t you use a windscreen on a canister stove? Imagine this story. You’ve just found camp after a long day hiking. The weather is miserable, it’s raining, the wind is blowing it sideways. You’re cold and wet and hungry. You get camp set up and some food on the stove. You have a - [Kuhl Klash Pants Review: Softshell, Rugged and Breathable](https://packandtrail.com/blog/kuhl-klash-softshell-pants-review/) - The Kuhl Klash pants make an excellent adventure pant for any kind of conditions. It doesn’t matter if it’s soaking wet out or dry and warm, the pants breathe well and shed water. - [Backpacking Stove Glossary](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-stove-glossary/) - Backpacking stoves can be complicated little beasts. There are many different types each type, each with their own wide variety of specs, pros and cons. You’ll need to know some of the lingo before you go anywhere. Here’s a glossary to get you started. Alcohol - Alcohol stoves are popular in the lightweight backpacking community. They - [7 Stoves that can burn liquid fuel and iso-butane gas](https://packandtrail.com/blog/liquid-fuel-and-gas-stoves/) - The first thing you notice when you start researching backpacking stoves is there are 2 main categories. You have canister stoves on one side that are small and light and burn an iso-butane mix from a metal canister. The canisters can't be refilled and often burn slower and slower as the canister empties. Often they - [Jetboil Stash Stove Review: Light and Packable](https://packandtrail.com/blog/jetboil-stash-stove-review/) - The Jetboil Stash stove is the lightest Jetboil every and boils water quickly but it’s missing a couple things. - [Exped Ultra 3R Sleeping Mat Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/exped-ultra-3r-sleeping-mat-review/) - Getting a good night sleep when you're backpacking or camping is important. It's hard to enjoy the trip when every night is a struggle. Exped have been making sleeping mats since 1997 and know how to make warm, comfortable mats that can stand up to the backcountry. They recently revamped their entire line to be - [Tecnica Forge GTX Hiking Boot Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tecnica-forge-hiking-boot-review/) - Hiking boots can be tough to recommend to other people. What fits my foot may not fit yours. That’s not a problem with the Tecnica Forge, the first heat-moldable hiking boot. Tecnica brought their experience with heat-moldable ski boots to hiking and have created a heat-moldable hiking boot. The molding forms the insole, upper and - [Charging power stations with the EcoFlow 110W Solar Panel](https://packandtrail.com/blog/charging-power-stations-with-the-ecoflow-110w-solar-panel/) - When you need electricity for an emergency or camping, portable power stations are clean, quiet source of power. They can easily power a long list of devices but they also need to be charged. Luckily they can charge from an AC outlet or car charger but what if you're off grid or aren't running the - [EcoFlow Delta Mini Portable Power Station Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ecoflow-delta-mini-portable-power-station-review/) - It's tough to on a road trip, camping or working around the house without extra electricity. All our devices depend on it. Who hasn't used an extra power bank travelling or a long day out of the house to charge our phone. EcoFlow, a company started in 2017 using expertise from drone batteries, makes large - [A tiny lighter that doesn't need any fuel](https://packandtrail.com/blog/sol-lite-fire-fuel-free-lighter-review/) - The SOL Lite Fire Fuel-Free lighter uses electricity instead of any kind of liquid fuel. - [Otterbox 20,000 mAh Fast Charge Power Bank](https://packandtrail.com/blog/otterbox-20000-mah-fast-charge-power-bank/) - Maker of indestructible phone cases, Otterbox now makes super-tough, portable 10k, 15k and 20k mAh battery banks. - [Bowflex Treadmill 22 Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/bowflex-treadmill-22-review/) - I've always hibernated in the winter. Minimal training and exercise. We'll ski some and hike a bit but nothing like the warmer weather months. I wanted a better way to stay in shape when the days are short and cold. Some sort of exercise machine seemed to be the ticket. But which one. Bowflex have - [Bowflex JRNY App Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/bowflex-jrny-app-review/) - Between weather, busy schedules, travel, and, you know, the sun going down at the end of the day, it can be hard to get outside to hike, walk, run and ride as much as we'd like. Weight, treadmill and exercise bike workouts are perfect for supplementing the outdoor adventures. You can build up muscle to - [Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/bowflex-selecttech-552-dumbbells/) - We can't all be out out in the woods running and hiking every single day. Some kind of strength and cardio setup at home is nice for those other days. We recently looked at a Bowflex treadmill as a way to get some kilometres in when you're stuck inside in the winter, too busy or - [Minus33 Chocorua Merino Wool Crew Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/minus33-chocorua-merino-wool-crew-review/) - Merino, the wonder fabric. You've heard of merino before so I'm not going to go into too much detail on the basics. It doesn't smell after wearing it for days, regulates your temperature better than synthetic, is warm when wet and is 100% sustainable to grow. All it takes is a sheep haircut and you - [Garmin Forerunner 405 Training Watch Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/garmin-forerunner-405-training-watch-review/) - How closely do you time your runs? If you're like me, up to year and a bit ago I never timed anything. I'd run a distance I thought was close to when I should run and call it a day. I didn't really measure much. I guess that's why my results were less than stellar - [Cold for Days: Stanley Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler 40oz Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cold-for-days-stanley-adventure-quencher-travel-tumbler-40oz-review/) - We all know we're supposed to drink more. Water that is. Harvard Health says about 4 to 6 cups, or 30 to 50 ounces. 1 liter is about 33 ounces. So many things affect it as well. If you drink coffee. If you eat water-filled vegetables during the day. How much you sweat and exercise. - [Schwinn Marshall 27.5 Electric Bike Review: On and Off-Road Fun](https://packandtrail.com/blog/schwinn-marshall-27-5-electric-bike-review-on-and-off-road-fun/) - Schwinn has made bicycles for over 100 years. In 2019 they went electric and now are back with the new electric on and off-road options: the Marshall, Coston CE and Coston DX electric bikes. We tested the Marshall electric bike on pavement, gravel and dirt to see how Schwinn's new models stack up against the - [Solo Stove Bonfire Review: A Portable Smokeless Firepit](https://packandtrail.com/blog/solo-stove-bonfire-review-a-portable-smokeless-firepit/) - Update: Solo Stoves has launched a new version of the Ranger, Bonfire, and Yukon Stoves. Sitting around a fire camping or in the backyard is one of my favourite things to do. There's just something about the fire crackling between family and friends that soothes the soul. After years of trying to find a good - [Review: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Adds Removable Ash Pan](https://packandtrail.com/blog/review-solo-stove-bonfire-2-0-adds-removable-ash-pan/) - Solo Stoves beautiful Ranger, Bonfire and Yukon fire pits just got a big upgrade with removable ash pans. No more picking up the entire fire pit to empty We've already reviewed the Solo Stove Bonfire 1.0 and loved it. Solo know what they're doing: high quality craftsmanship, a clean look and the least smoke of - [How to Prevent Sore Feet Hiking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-prevent-sore-feet-hiking/) - Hiking isn't much fun when you have sore feet. There are so many different things that can cause sore feet out on the trail. We pulled together all the different solutions we've tried or seen work over the years so you hopefully don't have to suffer through sore feet on a hike again. Disclaimer: I'm - [5 Ways to Carry a DSLR Camera on Outdoor Adventures](https://packandtrail.com/blog/5-ways-to-carry-a-dslr-camera-on-outdoor-adventures/) - They say that the first step to solving a problem is to admit you have one. Okay, I’ll admit it. I can’t stand to leave my camera behind when I venture into the outdoors. I’ve tried many times but I can’t avoid the unassailable conviction that the first time I leave my camera behind I - [JLab Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Headphones Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/jlab-epic-air-sport-anc-true-wireless-headphones-review/) - I can't live without headphones and JLab make some of the best. A few years ago I got my first pair of true wireless headphones and I can't go back. The cord to your phone or even just in between the headphones gets caught on things and flaps around when running. First world problems I - [Review: SOLE Performance Medium Carbon Negative Insoles](https://packandtrail.com/blog/review-sole-performance-medium-carbon-negative-insoles/) - Insoles that come in hiking boots and trail runners are pretty basic. They don't offer a lot of support and only a bit of cushion. Swapping out the stock insoles for something better is an easy way to get a better fitting and more supportive shoe without buying another pair. SOLE insoles have been in - [Hiking Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-boots/) - Everything you need to know about hiking boots - [Beyond Clothing Yuba Ultralight K6 Rain Anorak](https://packandtrail.com/blog/beyond-clothing-yuba-ultralight-k6-rain-anorak/) - In the Pacific Northwest, we never leave home without a waterproof jacket. There is almost always a chance of rain. Hiking multiple days without a waterproof jacket is just asking for trouble. The Yuba Ultralight K6 Rain Anorak is a crazy ultralight jacket built with the 3-layer Pertex Shield waterproofing membrane. The Yuba is part - [Can You Hike in Trail Runners?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/can-you-hike-in-trail-runners/) - Yes! You can absolutely hike in trail runners. Trail runners work very well for hiking. They are lightweight, comfortable, breathable and less expensive. But there are a couple things to watch out for. We'll compare trail runners to hiking boots in this article but most of these arguments apply to hiking shoes as well. Advantages - [Hiking Boots vs Shoes: What do you need to hike?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-boots-vs-shoes-what-do-you-need-to-hike/) - Hiking boots have been around for over 100 years now. Up until the 80s hikers wore hiking boots and that was that. Since the 80s there has been a slow and steady trend to lighter, more flexible hiking footwear. Hikers like Chris Townsend and Andrew Skurka that have hiked thousands of kilometers around the world - [How to Prevent Painful Blisters (and Treat Them Too)](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-prevent-painful-blisters-and-treat-them-too/) - Blisters are an awful part of hiking but they don't have to be. They hurt. They slow you down. They seem to come out of nowhere. What really causes blisters? How can you prevent them so you don't have to deal with that pain out hiking? What causes blisters? So what is this little evil - [How to buy hiking boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-buy-hiking-boots/) - You head into the local outdoor store to the boot wall. There's at least 50 different options. Instant overwhelm. You try and search hiking boots online. Now there's hundreds of options. More overwhelm. How do we find narrow the options for hiking boots down to a sane number and get back on the trail? How - [How to Re-waterproof Hiking Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-re-waterproof-hiking-boots/) - Hiking boots come from the factory with a waterproof coating on the outside. It's not what makes it actually waterproof but it helps. The coating is DWR or Durable Water Repellency. This is a creme or a spray coating that makes water bead off, kind of like that coating you can get on the windshield - [How to Break in Hiking Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-break-in-hiking-boots/) - You just pulled your brand new hiking boots out of the box. Stoke is high to get on the trail and do a big day to test out new boots. Don't. Hiking boots big and small should be eased onto the trail and broken in before you throw on the pack and do multiple days - [How to Clean Hiking Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-clean-hiking-boots/) - Wait. Hiking boots are supposed to get dirty aren't they? So why are we trying to clean them? First, why you'll be happy you cleaned your boots and then how to actually clean them. Why clean hiking boots? Boots last longer when you clean them They might not look dirty from the outside but all - [Wet Feet or Not: Are Hiking Boots Waterproof?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/wet-feet-or-not-are-hiking-boots-waterproof/) - Some hiking boots are waterproof and some are not. If a boot has a waterproof membrane inside then it should be waterproof for a long time. If a boot is some kind of leather without a waterproof membrane then it will very water resistant. If a boot is just fabric or mesh, then it is - [Couples Gift Guide for Camping](https://packandtrail.com/blog/couples-gift-guide-for-camping/) - Valentines Day and camping trips are right around the corner. Here's a few great ideas for the couples gifts to make that early season adventure a little more comfortable. Stanley Adventure Quencher Travel Tumblers The Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler from Stanley is a great option for keeping drinks cold (or hot) during the day. The - [UAG Essential Armor iPhone Case: Sleek but Strong](https://packandtrail.com/blog/uag-essential-armor-iphone-case-sleek-but-strong/) - It's rare to see a phone without a case these days. Phones are so expensive. Cases are an easy way to protect your phone that just cost $1000 or more. Cases for expensive phones can't just be floppy rubber that attempt to cover a phone. They have to offer good shock absorption, drop protection (especially - [Review: Crazy Levity Jacket is Crazy Light](https://packandtrail.com/blog/review-crazy-levity-jacket-is-crazy-light/) - On a climbing, hiking or running trip everything should have all the features, be super durable and weigh nothing. Perfect world right. I wish. Oh and it won't cost much. Right. It's the perfect triangle of the gear. Durabilty, weight, and cost. You can have 2 but never the third. Take one of them far - [ALLPOWERS 100W Solar Panel Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/allpowers-100w-solar-panel-review/) - Solar panels and power stations are great for camping and home emergency use but can get pricey. AllPowers uses polycrystalline cells in their panels to keep costs down but still output 100 watts like other popular portable solar panels. The AllPowers 100W solar panel is a nylon briefcase-style solar panel with snap-on kickstands to stand - [Generark SolarPower One 100W Solar Panel](https://packandtrail.com/blog/generark-solarpower-one-100w-solar-panel/) - Having a good power station like the Generark HomePower One is the first step to charging all your devices camping or preparing for an emergency. When you pair it with a solar panel (or 2) then you can really go off grid. The SolarPower One solar panel comes in a set of one or 2 - [Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/jackery-solarsaga-100w-solar-panel-review/) - The Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panel is lightweight and portable to easily pack in the truck when you're off-grid (and the sun is out). - [Unbound Merino Crew Neck T-shirt Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/unbound-merino-crew-neck-t-shirt-review/) - The Unbound Merino Crew Neck T-shirt is a very smooth, 100% Merino wool t-shirt for hiking, travelling or going out for dinner. - [Unbound Merino Kanga Hoodie Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/unbound-merino-kanga-hoodie-review/) - Lightweight and 100% Merino wool the Kanga Hoodie from Unbound Merino is perfect for camping, running or travelling. - [Run, Hike and Scramble in the Tecnica Magma Trail Shoe](https://packandtrail.com/blog/run-hike-and-scramble-in-the-tecnica-magma-trail-shoe/) - Hiking boots are excellent for hiking for their grip, stability and waterproofing. They're also big, hot and heavy. Many hikers are switching over to smaller and lighter trail running shoes that don't offer the same stability but are much lighter and more comfortable to wear over long distances. Many trail runners didn't have the support - [Avalanches on Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/avalanches-on-vancouver-island/) - Any time travelling in the backcountry when there is snow there can be avalanche risk involved. Even if you are just hiking or snowshoeing, the trail may go under or over steep slopes loaded with snow. Check the Island Avalanche Bulletin No matter where you are heading in the fall, winter and spring, if there - [Hiking near Nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-near-nanaimo/) - Nanaimo is a fantastic place to be on Vancouver Island for hiking. Being central it's easy to get anywhere on the island within in a reasonable about of time. Just outside the cities boundaries are loads of trails waiting to be found. Below is a list of just some of the best trails and mountains - [Trans Canada Trail: Haslam Creek to Christie Falls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/trans-canada-trail-haslam-creek-to-christie-falls/) - I had one section left to complete the Spruston Road to Christie Falls portion of the Trans Canada Trail near Nanaimo. Naturally I'm a list checker offer and hiking all the portions of a large trail is just a big checklist so I had to do it. I've been north from Haslam Creek before, along - [Nanaimo Lakes Road to Whisky Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/nanaimo-lakes-road-to-whisky-lake/) - Being part of hiking groups online is a mixed blessing. On the one hand there's a constant supply of assistance, inspiration and motivation to get outside. On the the other hand, there's a steady stream of beautiful trail pictures streaming by making it difficult to focus on anything other than... going outside. A last minute - [Extension Ridge from Extension Road, Nanaimo [Trip Report]](https://packandtrail.com/blog/extension-ridge-from-extension-road-nanaimo-trip-report/) - The Great Trail (Trans Canada Trail) sections on Vancouver Island offer so much variety. I'm always keen on new trails that are different than anything I've experienced before. Yes, most of the sections around Nanaimo are still dirt single track with trees around. Most trails are like that. But the views and twists and turns - [Hike in Nanaimo: Haslam Creek Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hike-in-nanaimo-haslam-creek-trail/) - I love going for hikes. I love just wandering around in the bush aimlessly taking in the sights, smells, and sounds. Sometimes when I go for a hike though, I really feel like I need to get somewhere, to see something, to attain a goal. Trails with multiple goals along the way are perfect. You - [Hike in Nanaimo: Ammonite Falls from Doumont Road](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hike-in-nanaimo-ammonite-falls-from-doumont-road/) - Ammonite falls is a beautiful decent-sized waterfall right very close to the heart of Nanaimo. This route from Doumont is slightly more difficult than the route from Jameson Road. This route to Ammonite Falls is a bit hard to explain. Driving up to Doumont stop at the first yellow gate on your left. There will - [Summiting Mount De Cosmos](https://packandtrail.com/blog/summiting-mount-de-cosmos/) - Ahh, the elusive Mount De Cosmos.A couple weeks ago fellow adventurer Ryan and I headed out to the Nanaimo Lakes area to attempt to stuff the peak that is Mount De Cosmos in our growing bag of summits.I was very apprehensive about this trip for a few reasons. First we'd be heading out in Ryan's - [Gear to Bring on Every Hike: The 10 Essentials](https://packandtrail.com/blog/day-hiking-gear-the-10-essentials/) - You don't have to take much day hiking but there some essentials you should know that could save your life or at least make for a much better hike. - [Julbo Arise Sunglasses Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/julbo-arise-sunglasses-review/) - Lightweight, photochromic sunglasses for any kind of activity. - [Prana Alameda Pant Review: Do Everything](https://packandtrail.com/blog/prana-alameda-pant-review/) - The Prana Alameda pants are light, stretchy, 95% recycled nylon pants for hiking, travelling, and working out. - [Backpacking Tents: Everything You Need to Know](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-tents/) - Small, light backpacking tents are what most people use for shelter when they’re out backpacking. There are other options like hammocks and tarps but they require a little bit more experience and we don’t recommend you start there. A backpacking tent is small, light and easy to set up. They can hold 1 to 4 - [Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/sea-to-summit-telos-tr2-tent-review/) - The Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Tent from Sea to Summit is a lightweight backpacking tent with a few features never before seen on a tent. - [GoPro Hero 9 Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gopro-hero-9-review/) - GoPro has done it again. When there doesn’t seem to be anything more to pack into one of the smallest cameras in the world, they add 5k, horizon levelling and a front screen. Yet again, they set the bar for action cameras and all other companies are left to hang on. GoPro Hero 9 with - [Wild Edge Keto Backpacking Food Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/wild-keto-backpacking-food-review/) - My first backpacking trips were filled with awe and excitement to get off grid and see places I had never been to before. They were also filled with dread with what my stomach would do with the backpacking food I was eating. High in preservatives and off the charts with salt, my stomach preferred the - [Playing in the snow on Green Mountain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/playing-in-the-snow-on-green-mountain/) - "But I don't even know where Green Mountain is?!?" That's exactly what I said when I first heard about it. I thought I knew the area around Nanaimo fairly well. Mount Benson is right there. Blackjack ridge is right behind it. There's a bit of a hill that some call Rutherford ridge, or Rutherford flats, - [First Snowshoe of the season](https://packandtrail.com/blog/first-snowshoe-of-the-season/) - Earlier today I grabbed my snowshoes and took off for a quick jaunt up Notch Hill in Nanoose; first time on them this winter! The first 500m really didn't have enough snow for snowshoes but I wore them anyways - the excitement was too much for me. It didn't take very long before there was - [5 Great Places to Run in Sydney, Australia](https://packandtrail.com/blog/5-great-place-to-run-in-sydney-australia/) - [Cumberland MOMAR 2009](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cumberland-momar-2009/) - If you're familiar with my work at the Squamish MOMAR you'll know that while I vowed to always participate in the MOMAR's from then on, I had a lot to learn about training, strategy and racing in general. It was therefore with great trepidation that I made the trip to the Comox Valley to participate - [Snow Cave at Century Sam Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/snow-cave-at-century-sam-lake/) - I'm an hour and a half into a 2 hour ascent to Century Sam Lake near the Comox Glacier. A bead of sweat runs off my forehead and down my nose. I'm doubled over leaning on my hiking poles. My heart is hammering and my lungs are wheezing like an old vacuum. I'm thinking "Holy - [Elk River Trail to Landslide Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hike-near-gold-river-elk-river-trail-to-landslide-lake/) - We did this trail at the end of September last year as a last hike while the sunshine was hanging around from the summer. We planned to do the hike in 2 days, hiking to our campsite the first day and then up to landslide lake and back to the car the second. The weather - [Assault on Benson: Too Much Snow!](https://packandtrail.com/blog/assault-on-benson-too-much-snow/) - Ryan, Allan and I ventured up Mount Benson again this Sunday with the expectation of a little bit more snow on the top. There wasn't a little bit more snow on the top. There was a lot more snow on the top. Erik and I, powered through what was there last weekend to reach the - [Snowshoeing to Kwai Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/snowshoeing-to-kwai-lake/) - Mount Washington has just opened so we decided to check out the snow but it would be in a different way than most. A group of friends decided to hike to Kwai Lake can camp for the night. Unfortunately, I've not got the required gear for being toasty warm while camping in the snow. My - [The 2nd Annual Twin Birthday Snow Camping Adventure](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-2nd-annual-twin-birthday-snow-camping-adventure/) - The Group Last year when the MEC winter catalogue arrived, my girlfriend Kirsten was awed by the cover photo. A group of friends camped out in the snow on a bluebird day surrounded by all the amenities one would have at home. "That looks like a great idea for my birthday party!" she exclaimed excitedly - [Hike in Nanaimo: Ammonite Falls from Jameson Road](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hike-in-nanaimo-ammonite-falls-from-jameson-road/) - Ammonite Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in Nanaimo. It is so easy to find yet so many people don't even know it's there. Once you do, it's hard not to want to scale the muddy banks and relax in the cool mist of the pretty falls. There are 2 main ways to get - [Training for the Yeti](https://packandtrail.com/blog/training-for-the-yeti/) - I have a friend named Stephanie who is incredibly athletic. She is one of the fittest women I know and never shies away from a race, challenge, event or ass kicking moksha yoga session. We raced the Squamish MOMAR together. I am a fan of everything she does and frequently model my actions after her; - [Green Mountain on a Blue Bird Day](https://packandtrail.com/blog/green-mountain-on-a-blue-bird-day/) - When I first looked for adventures in the Nanaimo Lakes area, I was only after some easy hikes I could peruse during the summer months. After discovering there is a wealth of fantastic places to climb, hike, mountain bike and kayak in the area, I've jumped headfirst into finding all the best spots. One of - [Snowboarding on Green Mountain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/snowboarding-on-green-mountain/) - Not wanting to let our last epic sunny adventure up Green be our last for this winter, some friends and I decided it was time to actually hit the slopes with our snowboards. This time would be much different though, and much more difficult. All trucked up and ready to go, the drive in was - [Hiking through Old Growth Trees near Shawnigan Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-through-old-growth-trees-near-shawnigan-lake/) - I was heading down to Shawnigan Lake for Easter this weekend and thought it would be a fantastic time to test out the dirt roads on my 4runner that I just picked up. There are a ton of dirt roads and places to play near Shawnigan and if we found one nice enough, we could - [The 5 Peaks Trail Running Series](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-5-peaks-trail-running-series/) - This is a guest post from Karl Woll from OutdoorVancouver. He posts an incredible amount of juicy, outdoor goodness at OutdoorVancouver and just recently ran the Vancouver Marathon. If you're not aware of the 5 Peaks Trail Running Series and are looking to get your trail running shoes a little (ok, a lot) dirty it's something - [The Grouse Grind](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-grouse-grind/) - This is a guest post from Karl Woll. Grab a bit more information about Karl at the bottom.** The Grouse Grind, also known as Nature's StairMaster, seems to have a love or hate relationship with Vancouver's local hikers. For many, they love the challenge up pushing themselves up the steep slope to the top of - [Running the Juan De Fuca Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/running-the-juan-de-fuca-trail/) - I can't remember who came up with idea first. If it was my friend Ryan or if it was me. I have a feeling it was Ryan. I wouldn't come up with something as crazy as running the Juan de Fuca trail with little long-distance running experience. The idea grew into a plan. Then an - [Salomon XT Wings Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/salomon-xt-wings-review/) - It was love at first sight. I worked at Valhalla Pure Outfitters for a couple seasons. The reps would come in now and then to see how we were doing and to do product knowledge sessions. The Salomon rep showed up and did our session. He was giving us a sneak peak at some new - [Don't want a ski in the head? The Proper Way to Pack Your Skis](https://packandtrail.com/blog/dont-want-a-ski-in-the-head-the-proper-way-to-pack-your-skis/) - Some friends and I headed out to the backcountry to hit up a few turns this past weekend. It was going to be an epic day with lots of snow, blue ski and good friends but my truck just didn't want any of it. After getting towed back to my place we piled into a - [Fit or Fun](https://packandtrail.com/blog/fit-or-fun/) - I've been telling everyone I know that a friend and I are going to run the West Coast Trail this summer. The 75 km long run will be tough, including ladders, cable cars over rivers and a hell of a lot of elevation gain and loss. The inevitable question always comes up: Why? Most people - [Outdoor Stores in Port Alberni, Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdoor-stores-in-port-alberni-vancouver-island/) - Outdoors Gone Fishin’ Website | Directions | 250 723 1172 Biking Jumping Slug (formerly Ozzie’s) Website | Directions | 250 724 6556 Healthy Habits Health Food and Bike Shop Website | Directions | 250 724 6280 Diving Octopus Adventures Directions to Octopus Adventures | 250 723 3057 Rendezvous Dive Ventures Website | Directions to Rendezvous | - [Link Roundup: MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoe Reviews](https://packandtrail.com/blog/link-roundup-msr-lightning-ascent-snowshoe-reviews/) - I'm a big fan of the Lightning Ascent snowshoes from MSR. They're lightweight but at the same time, gnarly enough for any terrain. The hinged binding system allows easy access and doesn't flick up much snow. Parts can easily be removed and replaced in the field. I've rounded up a ton of reviews of the - [A Powdery Weekend on Mount Cain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/powdery-weekend-mount-cain/) - The ski gear is hanging to dry waiting to be put away. It was all put through its paces this past weekend on the fantastic snow of Mount Cain. I wasn't even supposed to go but I'm sure glad I did. A few weeks ago in a conversation with my sister, it came up that - [Running in Nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/running-in-nanaimo/) - Nanaimo has a lot to offer in terms of running. There are so many different places to go and run all within a short drive or walk from each other. You can head down to the seawall for a nice job along the water or head up near Mount Benson for a great trail run - [AdventureMobile: Toyota 4Runner](https://packandtrail.com/blog/adventuremobile-toyota-4runner/) - Not one to be deterred by a little bit of 4x4 action, the Toyota 4Runner is a solid AdventureMobile that can take you anywhere you want to go and still have tons of room for gear and passengers. - [Mt. Becher - Hidden Gem](https://packandtrail.com/blog/mt-becher-hidden-gem/) - When people think of winter skiing and snowshoeing on Vancouver Island, Mount Washington Alpine Resort frequently comes to mind. While the resort is very popular and has plenty to offer the winter enthusiast, there is a nearby alternative for those interested in a more remote yet fairly easy to access backcountry experience. A relatively unknown - [Hiking Day Trip Gear Checklist](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-day-trip-gear-checklist/) - Hiking day trips are very easy to get into. You don't need to take a lot of stuff on each trip to have a great time. Longer day trips might need a little bit more so here's a checklist so you don't forget to bring everything you need. This list is really only just for - [Why We Hike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/why-we-hike/) - Why we hike eh? (Yes, I am Canadian. It's not obvious right?) Tom Mangan at Two Heel Drive posed the deep question earlier this week. Why do we hike? There are so many different answers.I loved reading through all the different posts. Tom has them all linked up at Two Heel Drive if you want - [Hi-Tec Granite Peak Parka Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hi-tec-granite-peak-parka-review/) - I must admit that I was a little skeptical of the benefits of the 3-in-1 jackets before I got the Hi-Tec Granite Peak Parka. Having never owned one before I wasn't sure why anyone would buy one. Boy, was I pleasantly surprised when I started wearing around my Granite Peak Parka. Retailing for about $210 - [How To Start Hiking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-start-hiking/) - Hiking is one of the greatest activities on the planet because you don't need much to start with but there's still so much you can do with it. One the one end you can start with little more than shoes and a neat place to explore. On the other end you can spend hours, days - [Trip Report: Epic slog up Green Mountain To Ski Slush](https://packandtrail.com/blog/trip-report-epic-slog-up-green-mountain-to-ski-slush/) - Summer is finally here! Mostly. Last April some friends and I picked Green Mountain as our destination for a ski spring tour in the sunny weather. Based on the Saturday's weather, it could have done anything. We crossed our fingers and decided to head out for a tour. 6am rolled around Sunday morning and I - [What Makes a Great Trail?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/what-makes-a-great-trail/) - I'm fortunate to live in a beautiful part of the world littered with trails. I mean littered in the best sense of the word. When I was young I lived in a very flat, dry place and I'm very happy that my parents decided to move to Vancouver Island where I currently do most of - [Expensive Hiking Gear. Cheap Hiking Gear. What is the Difference?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/expensive-gear-cheap-gear-what-is-the-difference/) - One of the first questions I get when i start talking to someone who wants to get into hiking is, “What gear do I need?” Well, you don’t need much. Lots of people hike with nothing more than runners or whatever they happen to have on their feet at the time. It’s always a good - [Geocaching: A Modern Day Treasure Hunt](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-modern-day-treasure-hunt/) - Ever been wandering around in the woods and thought it would be cool find some treasure there? Maybe you could stumble on a treasure map somewhere and follow the dotted line to the end to find a chest of gold waiting for you? I can't promise anything about the old paper treasure map and the - [Garmin Montana 600 GPS Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-i-found-a-garmin-montana-600-in-my-pocket/) - This first part is a bit of a story about the demise of my Garmin Colorado 300. Skip to the second part for the Montana 600 review. I've had the chance to use a few different GPS over the last couple years. They were all Garmin but they all had different features that I could - [Skiing on an Angle: A Review of Sidewinder SV Jacket from Arc’teryx](https://packandtrail.com/blog/skiing-on-an-angle-a-review-of-sidewinder-sv-jacket-from-arcteryx/) - ** This review covers the 2009 version of the Arc’teryx Sidewinder. A couple years ago I had the amazing chance to get into a Sidewinder SV jacket and pants from Arcteryx for cheaper than I had ever seen them. Needless to say I jumped on the chance. After a couple of seasons snowboarding, skiing and - [Seeing Parallels: An Interview with Nicolas Teichrob of Dendrite Studios](https://packandtrail.com/blog/seeing-parallels-an-interview-with-nicolas-teichrob-of-dendrite-studios/) - I first heard of Nicolas Teichrob from a mutual friend that loves the outdoors. She had great things to say about him and even greater things of his creative abilities in both photography and film making. I was skeptical. This was probably just another guy making crappy head cam videos and shooting summit photos with his - [Running on Water: Hi-Tec Infinity HPi Trail Runner Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/running-on-water-hi-tec-infinity-hpi-trail-runner-review/) - When I got my pair of Infinity HPi Trail Runners from Hi-Tec I have to say I was a little skeptical. I had been a staunch fan of my Salomon Wings when I was running with them. Unfortunately in a bid to make the ultimate trail shoe they scrapped the Wings and made the CrossMax's. - [One Tiny Ski Pack: Arcteryx Silo 18 Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/one-tiny-ski-pack-arcteryx-silo-18-review/) - You can't get much smaller than the Arcteryx Silo 18 for a ski pack. The pack is 18 litres from bow to stern. That means you can't bring the kitchen sink with this little guy.This was the first pack I got for skiing but I had actually bought it for a different purpose. I had - [Paddling, Hiking and Climbing Marble Meadows](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-marble-meadows/) - I've heard so much about Marble Meadows in Strathcona Park so it was finally time to get out there and see what it was all about. August 12-14 some friends and I headed out there to camp for 3 or 4 days, summit Marble Peak and Mount McBride and check out the scenery. The plan - [Mount Elma Ski Tour](https://packandtrail.com/blog/mount-elma-ski-tour/) - I assumed with all the talk about La Nina conditions again this year, we'd be looking at much more snow than we've currently got. Even with the mediocre conditions, I couldn't turn down an opportunity for a fun ski tour to Mount Elma on December 11th. Where is Mount Elma? Mount Elma is across Paradise - [Osprey Talon 33 Backpack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/osprey-talon-33-backpack-review/) - The first thing I will say about this backpack is that if I had one for every adventure I'm doing right now it would be this one. That's a pretty tall order for a backpack. It's only a 33 litre bag so it's not going to fit tons and tons of stuff for overnight hikes - [Atlas 12 Series Snowshoe Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/atlas-12-series-snowshoe-review/) - Snowshoeing is one of the easiest sports to get into. All you need are some snowshoes and to go walk in the snow. It doesn't get much simpler than that. Snowshoes range in price from $50 to $300 can you can buy them at almost any outdoor store. A couple years ago, a few friends - [Canon T1i Camera Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/canon-t1i-camera-review/) - I've never really been a photographer. I'm still not actually but I'm working on getting there. Before digital cameras I had one film camera that was a gift to me. I think I used up a couple rolls of film with it while it was still a novelty and then I decided I couldn't be - [AdventureMobile: Saga GY-250 Enduro Dirtbike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/adventuremobile-saga-gy-250-enduro-dirtbike/) - Everyone has a different opinion about what an adventure mobile should be like. Some like them small so they can get in out of tight places and don't require much gas to do it. Some like them big and comfortable so longer trips are much nicer and you can fit more friends and gear. I - [Floating over the Mud: Hi-Tec's Sierra Lite I WP Hiking Boot Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/floating-over-the-mud-hi-tecs-sierra-lite-i-wp-hiking-boot-review/) - I had the chance recently to try out Hi-Tec's newest light hiking boots, the Sierra Lite I WP. My marketing spiel for them would be something they, "pull together Hi-Tec's advanced technology into comfortable, rugged, light-weight hiker." Or something like that. Hiking boots are such a personal thing that I'm not going to say this boot is perfect - [Roxy's Mount Brenton Ski Tour Trip Report](https://packandtrail.com/blog/roxys-mount-brenton-ski-tour-trip-report/) - Note from Ross: Here we are in the middle of the summer and I'm posting trip reports about ski touring. We can all use a little change once in a while and it's nice to remember what winter is going to be like when it comes around again. Here's Roxy with a trip report from - [Roxy's 5040 Ski Tour Trip Report](https://packandtrail.com/blog/roxys-5040-ski-tour-trip-report/) - Chris and I were aching to do a ski tour and get into the alpine so we settled on 5040 Peak in the HWY 4 area for the weekend's adventure. We drove up from Victoria on Saturday night, hoping to drive up the Marion Creek Main until we hit snow line and set up camp for the night...... - [Roxy's Adder Mountain Ski Tour Trip Report](https://packandtrail.com/blog/roxys-adder-mountain-ski-tour-trip-report/) - After heading up 5040 Peak the weekend before, our eyes were now set on Adder Mountain which was just down the valley from 5040. The weather looked great for Sunday so we hoped to get some views of the surrounding peaks which we never got to see the weekend before. - [CrossFit Challenge Week 12: No Rack Back Squats and Callus Correction](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-12-back-squats-callus-correction/) - Really getting close to the end of the CrossFit Challenge with CrossFit Nanaimo. It's flown by so fast. I've had a blast checking out the CrossFit scene and pounding my muscles into submission. I missed a day this week so the workout section of this post will be short and sweet. Then we'll tear into - [CrossFit Challenge Week 13: Burpees and Pacing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-13-burpees-pacing/) - 2 more weekly posts in the CrossFit Challenge with CrossFit Nanaimo! Next weeks will be the last post. Pretty stoked to wrap-up this whole challenge and do some review with it. It's been a great time so far. My final thoughts will be in the wrap-up post one post after this one. Tuesday's WOD Tuesday's workout was - [A Fall Walk About: A Photo Essay from Lainy Bekar](https://packandtrail.com/blog/a-fall-walk-about-photo-essay/) - I've been following Lainy's photography for a little while now and I've been impressed with what she's come up with in a short amount of time. A few weeks ago I asked her if she would do a photo essay on the fall colours walking close to her home. You don't have to go far - [What is CrossFit?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/what-is-crossfit/) - This is another post in the CrossFit Challenge Series. ** Up until recently I had no idea what this thing called CrossFit was. Through the CrossFit Challenge, I finally had a chance to see for myself what all the hoopla is about. CrossFit is a workout framework devised by Greg Glassman in 2000. There are - [Smith Rocks 2012: A Climbing Trip Report from Brett Watson](https://packandtrail.com/blog/smith-rocks-2012-a-climbing-trip-report-from-brett-watson/) - Brett Watson is a photographer and climber from Vancouver Island. He's just recently returned from a climbing trip to Smith Rocks State Park in Oregon. These are some his great photos from the trip. More about Brett after the post.*** Gullies and Shipwreck Rock The beginning of October marked the end of our 2012 outdoor - [Why an Outdoor Cooperative = 4 Seasons of Fun](https://packandtrail.com/blog/why-an-outdoor-cooperative-4-seasons-of-fun/) - Today my friend Jessica Glendinning lends her writing and outdoor skills to the blog. I first met Jessica at a conference in Portland called the World Domination Summit. Cool name right? Lots of cool people too. We got talking about the outdoors and I found out she co-owns an outdoor cooperative in Virigina. I had - [Lunch by the Coffin: A kayak from Ladysmith](https://packandtrail.com/blog/lunch-by-the-coffin-a-kayak-from-ladysmith/) - Easter weekend rolled around this year and it was the best weather I've seen in a long time. Partly because Easter tends to surrounded by terrible weather and it's been winter for the last 6 months! After spending Friday and Saturday outside in the Southern Straights Yacht Race and Sunday outside at a family bonfire - [Running Gear: The Best Way to Carry Your Phone](https://packandtrail.com/blog/running-gear-the-best-way-to-carry-your-phone/) - The air was warm and the sun was out. I was right in the groove. The perfect song was playing as I weaved back and forth through the trees running through the trees in Linley Valley. Then a slow song came on. Everything slowed down. I forgot about the beautiful trees and water and grass. - [Appreciation Days](https://packandtrail.com/blog/appreciation-days/) - Some days you go skiing and the snow is terrible. It's far from the light fluffy amazingness that you can find on the best days. Some days you go hiking and it's pissing down rain. It's far from the bright warm sunshine that follows you around on the good days. Some days you go sailing - [Dancing in Hi-Tec Para Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/dancing-in-hi-tec-para-boots/) - We're starting the very first edition of Products with a new product that's been one of the most interesting I've ever reviewed, the Para boots from Hi-Tec. I had the opportunity to test out the Hi-Tec's newest invention and I was impressed. Let's get into what these wild new boots are all about. - [Should you do one sport or many?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/one-sport-or-many/) - Do you do one sport or many? A lot of people I know do many. Or at least more than one.It sounds like a good idea. I personally think it is a good one but there are downsides to it. For anyone who does multiple sports obviously the pros outweigh the cons for them. Here - [The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail: A Must-Do Coastal Hike on Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/juan-de-fuca-a-must-do-coastal-hike-on-vancouver-island/) - The Juan de Fuca Trail is a 47km hike along the west coast of Vancouver Island. It runs from just north of Victoria at Sooke to Port Renfew up the coast. Port Renfrew is the north end of the Juan de Fuca Trail and also the south end of the West Coast Trail, the famous - [Chat with Van Isle Paddle Boarding: What is SUPing?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/chat-with-van-isle-paddle-boarding-what-is-suping/) - Note from Ross: I haven't done much stand up paddle boarding but it's definitely on my list of things to do more of. My friend, Jen Vroom, started Van Isle Paddle Board Co. this year and has done tours all summer. I asked her to explain a bit about what paddle boarding is. Here's Jen. - [One simple way to keep your camera at your fingertips while hiking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/one-simple-way-to-keep-your-camera-at-your-fingertips-while-hiking/) - Imagine you're out on a 3 day hike with some friends. The weather is good, the scenery is amazing and you're making great time towards your destination. You have a digital SLR camera in your heavy multi-day backpack so you can show friends and family at home the myriad of colours you're passing through. Every - [Book Review: Backcountry Skiing - Skills for Ski Touring and Ski Mountaineering](https://packandtrail.com/blog/book-review-backcountry-skiing-skills-for-ski-touring-and-ski-mountaineering/) - In preparation for this "winter" (those are big quotes), I've been reading through Backcountry Skiing: Skills for Ski Touring and Ski Mountaineering from The Mountaineers Books. Since ski touring is my latest obsession, I grabbed a couple books all about the snow. Interested in Ski Touring or Ski Mountaineering? Get this book. Backcountry Skiing: Skills - [Photo: Bridge 102 on the West Coast Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/bridge-102-on-the-west-coast-trail/) - The number of bridges on the West Coast Trail changes constantly as they build new ones, fix old ones and detour the trail around damaged sections. Estimates range from 130 to 150. There are many. Bridges were always a welcome change from the gnarled roots and mud pits that cover the rest of the trail. - [Scouts Canada Looking for Volunteers in Nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/scouts-canada-looking-for-volunteers-in-nanaimo/) - Do you have outdoor skills that you would like to share with boys and girls ages 14 to 17? Scouts Canada, the leading youth organization in Canada, is searching for the right people to fill the roles of Venturer Advisor with a local Scout group. If you have experience with multi-day hiking trips, canoeing on - [Book Review: The Avalanche Handbook](https://packandtrail.com/blog/avalanche-handbook-book-review/) - That feeling of being weightless, gliding through the dry, powdery snow. That feeling of wonder as you gaze at the snow-capped peaks surrounding you entirely. That feeling of relaxation as you realize there's no work, no computers and no boss within 50 kilometers of where you are now. Backcountry touring, whether on a splitboard or - [The Pros and Cons to a Bigger Backpack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-pros-and-cons-to-a-bigger-backpack/) - The West Coast Trail is long. It takes most people 6 or 7 days to complete. I hiked it last year with some friends. At the end of our second day hiking we were beat. We were tired and sore and just wanted to sit and rest and not move a muscle. We had hiked - [The First Mud Pit of the West Coast Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-first-mud-pit-of-the-west-coast-trail/) - This is one of many posts about the West Coast Trail trip I did in 2013. See the rest of the West Coast Trail posts. ** Mud. Lots of it. I expected to see a lot of mud on the West Coast Trail but I don't think anything really prepares you for how much there - [75km Countdown: The Ladders on the West Coast Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/75km-countdown-the-ladders-on-the-west-coast-trail/) - There are a lot of ladders on the West Coast Trail.The number goes up and down as they do work on the trail be estimates put it around 70. My feelings towards the ladders ranged from excitement to hatred. We'd come around another corner and sometimes I'd be happy to see another ladder, they added - [What is a Steam Donkey?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/what-is-a-steam-donkey/) - At a couple places on the West Coast Trail you can see into the logging history of the area. Steam donkeys were one of the relics on the trail that you get to gaze at in confusion while hiking by. Cool, it's a steam donkey! What's a steam donkey? - [How to carry trekking poles on a ladder](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-to-carry-trekking-poles-on-a-ladder/) - The West Coast Trail has a lot of ladders. Some days it feels like you are spending more time climbing ladders than you are hiking. I loved the change of scenery and being able to use my upper body instead of just hiking with my legs all day long. We carried trekking poles on our - [Rocky beaches to Owen Point](https://packandtrail.com/blog/rocky-beaches-to-owen-point/) - This post is part of the West Coast Trail series from my hike there in 2013.** The West Coast Trail starts with a good hike to Thrasher Cove. You can either choose to stay at Thrasher Cove for the night or continue on to Walbran Creek. The start to Walbran Creek in one day is - [13 (+1) Tips for hiking the Juan de Fuca trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tips-for-hiking-the-juan-de-fuca-trail/) - Having a great hiking trip is all about preparation. The more you know about where you’re going and the gear you’re taking the better. The Juan de Fuca trail is no different. It can be a fantastic trip if all goes as planned but it can be a struggle if everything goes wrong. Here are - [Some days are just crazier than others](https://packandtrail.com/blog/some-days-are-just-crazier-than-others/) - There are those days that just aren't going to plan, nothing is working right, and everything seems like it's against you. Being out in the wilderness on those kinds of days you may just need a helmet. We found this one at Thrasher Cove on the West Coast Trail as we hiked through. If you - [Day Hiking on the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/day-hiking-on-the-juan-de-fuca-marine-trail/) - Most people know the Juan de Fuca trail as the 47km long coastal trail near Sooke that takes 4 days to hike. There are also places you can just hike for the day. Many points along the trail are beautiful to see and you won’t have to carry 4 days worth of gear and food. - [Finding Happiness in the Pursuit of Big Goals](https://packandtrail.com/blog/finding-happiness-in-the-pursuit-of-big-goals/) - Some of the greatest stories in history have been large quests. The kind where the hero goes out and returns months or years later after having battled through epic obstacles. They return triumphant a completely different person with more experience, wisdom and possibly a few scars. Quests are not only the stuff of epic stories - [Elk River Trail Day 1](https://packandtrail.com/blog/elk-river-trail-day-1/) - It was Bryn's Birthday. We had to go hiking. He hadn't seen the Elk River Trail yet and I was more than happy to tag along. I had reservations about the wasps that typically monitor the trail but there should only be one or two nests. After my first run-in with them, I wasn't totally - [Elk River Trail Day 2: Iceberg Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/elk-river-trail-day-2-iceberg-lake/) - Day 2 on the Elk River Trail. See Day 1 here. We followed the trail along the river up to Landslide Lake. Not to be satisfied with just one beautiful lake, we took the rough trail around Landslide to Iceberg. There are actually icebergs in Iceberg Lake. So cool. - [Vancouver Island Trails Conference Recap](https://packandtrail.com/blog/vancouver-island-trails-conference-recap/) - May 31, 2014, over 80 people found their way into a room at the Kingfisher resort in Courtney, BC. They were there for the first of an event that Vancouver Island had never seen before, the Vancouver Island Trails Network Conference hosted by VISTA. What was this Trails Network Conference for? The Vancouver Island Trails - [West Coast Trail Trip Report Roundup](https://packandtrail.com/blog/west-coast-trail-trip-report-roundup/) - One of the most useful sources of information when you plan your West Coast Trail hike is trip reports from other hikers.They usually talk about what gear they brought, what the weather was like, what campsites they slept at, what route they hiked and why they made many other decisions that you’ll have to make - [Wandering to Christie Falls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/wandering-to-christie-falls/) - I've been hiking of the Trans Canada Trail lately. Christie Falls is along the trail just north of Ladysmith. I hiked out there last year but never got the chance to post the photos. Over the next 2 weeks I'll be posting of the Great Trail (Trans Canada Trail). For now, here's Christie Falls from - [Garmin Basecamp Series: Everything you need to know about Garmin's GPS Software](https://packandtrail.com/blog/garmin-basecamp-series-everything-you-need-to-know-about-garmins-gps-software/) - GPS are becoming so popular these days with avid outdoors people and folks cruising around cities. If you own a smartphone, you already have a gps in your pocket. Knowing which streets to take to an address is great if you're driving but how do you follow the maze of logging roads and trail networks - [What adventures are you going to do this year?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/what-adventures-are-you-going-to-do-in-2015/) - Getting outside can be tough. It feels so good when you do it but it just seems like there are so many obstacles in between work and laundry and dishes and cutting the lawn and actually getting out there. Some days I can get outside without even thinking about it. Some days, I feel like - [Can I have a 700 km Trail for my Birthday?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/can-i-have-a-spine-trail-for-my-birthday/) - You're probably thinking that's a weird title for a blog post. It is kind of. But that's what I want! It's my birthday this weekend. Birthday's aren't what they used to be when I was a kid, but they're still fun. On the other hand, I can ask for bigger things now. And this birthday I'm - [Stocking Lake Loop from Ladysmith](https://packandtrail.com/blog/stocking-lake-loop-from-ladysmith/) - I couldn't resist the warm temperatures and bit of sunshine and had to get out hiking. My little furry hiking companion and I ventured out to Stocking Lake in Ladysmith January 25th. It felt summer like with the warm breeze but the temperatures were still cool. Good thing as the wide trail to get up - [Nothing but Melt: Lake Helen Mackenzie Snowshoe Trip Report](https://packandtrail.com/blog/helen-mackenzie-lake-snowshoe-trip-report/) - I haven't been able to get out for a ski yet. The snow on the island is getting lower and lower.We did get out for a snowshoe in January up to Helen McKenzie Lake in Paradise Meadows. We left from the Raven Lodge at Mount Washington. Here's a few photos. - [Icebreaker teams up with Simon Beck for new base layer designs](https://packandtrail.com/blog/icebreaker-teams-up-with-simon-beck-for-new-base-layer-designs/) - November 2014, TheCampsiteBlog.com teamed up with Icebreaker Canada for a giveaway of a few of their newest long sleeve shirts from their Simon Beck collection. I threw in an entry because I can’t resist the chance to win some new merino wool base layers. And it just looked so cool. I ate something lucky that day because - [Mount Apps](https://packandtrail.com/blog/mount-apps/) - I slammed on the brakes and the truck barely slowed before we hit. We found the first drainage ditch in the logging road on the way up to Mount Apps on a sunny Sunday in February 2015. The snow was nowhere to be found so we took advantage and hiked up to somewhere that should - [Wading through Nitinat River on the Spine Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/wading-through-nitinat-river-on-the-spine-trail/) - I paced up and down the river trying to find a shallower spot the cross. The water wasn't moving quickly but it was deeper, and colder, than I wanted to wade through. Turn back? Wade through? I was on the shores of the Nitinat River this past weekend wanting to continue my hike but the - [Which is better: Hiking fast or slow?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/which-is-better-hiking-fast-or-slow/) - Is there a right answer? - [Cape Scott Trip Reports](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cape-scott-trip-reports/) - The first thing I do when I go for a hike somewhere new is check out all the trip reports I can find. Others that have gone before often have great recommendations on what to see and do and what to avoid. Sometimes they'll have gear recommendations or tips on what not to bring. First - [New Bear Beach Photos in the Epic Juan de Fuca Hiking Guide](https://packandtrail.com/blog/new-bear-beach-photos-in-the-epic-juan-de-fuca-hiking-guide/) - There are new photos of Bear Beach in the Epic Guidebook for the Juan de Fuca trail. A couple of weeks ago I posted that there are new Mistic Beach photos in the Juan de Fuca guide. I’ve just added new Bear Beach photos as well. The new photos are twice the size of the old ones - [Hiking to Heart Lake in Ladysmith](https://packandtrail.com/blog/heart-lake-ladysmith/) - I was told to leave the house this year for my birthday in January. I wasn't going to complain. Things I wasn't supposed to know about were to be set up. "Be back at 3pm," they said. So I went and hiked Heart Lake in Ladysmith. It was foggy and we couldn't see much. "We" - [Cape Scott Trail: Day 1](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cape-scott-trail-day-1/) - This is Day 1 of my 5 day Cape Scott hiking trip in July 2015. I'll be doing a post on each day with my favourite photos over the coming months. Cape Scott has been on my list of places to hike for a long time. Lots of people I know have done it. You - [Why Bring a Tarp on the West Coast Trail?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/why-bring-a-tarp-on-the-west-coast-trail/) - Why would you want to bring a tarp on the West Coast Trail? It's a gruelling 75km hike up and down ladders, through mud pits and soft sand. That doesn’t exactly sound like a great place to take extra weight in that already heavy backpack of yours. It is extra weight, yes. But weight that is - [Arrowsmith CPR Trail Trip Report Dec 20, 2015](https://packandtrail.com/blog/arrowsmith-cpr-trail-trip-report/) - A Trip Report for a quick hike up the Arrowsmith CPR Trail.** I had planned to do a quick ski tour up Mount Becher but my new skins weren't in yet at the store. So I had some time, my hiking boots and an itch to get outside.I eventually settled on the Arrowsmith CPR Trail - [XShot Pro Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/xshot-pro-review/) - Since getting a GoPro 2 years ago, I’ve wanted a good camera pole (also called selfie sticks, but camera pole sounds way better) to go with it. They let you capture unique angles with your camera, film yourself on your adventure and stick your camera in places you don’t really want your own limbs and digits - [15 Ways to Extend your GPS Battery Life](https://packandtrail.com/blog/extend-gps-battery-life/) - GPS can be a blessing when you’re out adventuring but they have an achilles heel that can get you into serious trouble. GPS use batteries. Electricity makes our modern life amazing but it can be a serious liability in the backcountry. Batteries don’t last forever. If you are using your GPS a lot and have - [Cape Scott Trail: Day 2](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cape-scott-trail-day-2/) - Day 2 of my Cape Scott hiking trip in 2015. Hiking to Guise Bay The morning started out completely fogged in. We couldn't see much. Oh well. Let's go to the lighthouse anyways. It might clear up when we get there. The weather was warm and dry. I wasn't complaining. A wet day dampens the spirits. - [VI Spine Trail: Nitinat River to Tuck Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/vi-spine-trail-nitinat-river-to-tuck-lake/) - Logs down over the Tuck Lake trail Part of my work with the Vancouver Island Spine Trail Association is to check on sections of the trail. I've been working my way through the Tuck Lake section. Take a look at the VI Spine Trail map to see the route. The Tuck Lake section is west - [Cape Scott Trail: Day 3](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cape-scott-trail-day-3/) - Day 3 of my trip to Cape Scott in 2015.*** It's decision day. My quads and calfs are tired and feet are blistered. My hiking speed is... slow. The plan is to hike to Nissan Bight and then down to San Josef the next day. Do I hike with the rest of the group and - [SunJack 14W Solar Panel and 8000mAh Battery](https://packandtrail.com/blog/sunjack-14w-solar-panel-8000mah-battery/) - What happens when the batteries in your gadgets die right in the middle of an adventure? You’ll probably just toss it in your backpack and be carrying around dead weight. You might be annoyed that you can’t Instagram your adventure to make your friends jealous. You might be freaking out because your GPS or phone - [Review: Paleo Meals To Go](https://packandtrail.com/blog/review-paleo-meals-go/) - I tell friends and family that I eat mostly dehydrated meals on multi-day hikes and they look at me like I'm from another planet. "You actually eat that stuff?" Yup. And it's not that bad. Modern dehydrated food is pretty good compared to what most people are thinking of. But there are a few problems - [Getting Help in the Backcountry: Satellite Communication (Part 1)](https://packandtrail.com/blog/getting-help-backcountry-satellite-communication-part-1/) - There are 4 parts to this series: Intro (this article) GPS: Can they get you rescued? Spot vs InReach (coming soon) PLBs and Sat Phones (coming soon) ** With all the technology out there these days, it's almost impossible to go somewhere you don't have some sort of connection to the outside world. That connection - [Small but Strong: The Lever Gear Toolcard Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/lever-gear-toolcard-review/) - Lighter and lighter is the game these days. How light can we go and still pack more and more stuff into each thing. Tools like the Leatherman are popular with outdoorsy types because they can do so much. You can do 20 things with one tool. And why stop at 20 things in a multi-tool - [L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Sweater Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ll-bean-ultralight-850-down-hooded-sweater-review/) - A lightweight down jacket should be in everyone's gear closet. The combination of minimal weight with maximum warmth is hard to beat with any kind of synthetic. Down's issues with moisture keep a lot of people from getting one. A new down treatment from Down Decor might change all that.This review is my results of - [Vancouver Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show](https://packandtrail.com/blog/vancouver-outdoor-adventure-travel-show/) - Gear, tours, bikes, tourism, tents, so many tents. March 4 and 5 outdoor enthusiasts braved the crazy weather and made the trip to the Vancouver Convention Centre for the Vancouver Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show. Vendors as far as you can see made up of tour operators, gear makers and sellers, demonstration bikers and bike shops - [How to set up a hammock: Rallt Double Camping Hammock Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/rallt-double-camping-hammock-review/) - Hammocks are dangerous if you sit in them wrong. But face the right direction and you can sleep in them all night. I set up the Rallt double hammock recently to start my testing. First time setting up a gathered-end style hammock. I’ve hooked up spreader-bar hammocks before. Easy. Hook the ring onto the hook. - [Tiny Power: The GoalZero Flip 30 Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/goalzero-flip-30-review/) - GoalZero started in 2009 out of Robert Workmans work abroad to reduce poverty. He was frustrated with all the obstacles to helping people create sustainable lifestyles. After almost giving up and leaving the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where he was helping at the time, he came to a realization:“If not us, who? If not - [Alpaca Power: Ausangate Alpacor Hiking Socks Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ausangate-alpacor-hiking-socks-review/) - Merino is all the rage these days for outdoors base and mid layers but alpaca is better in almost every respect, on paper at least.Merino seems to be the best choice for most garments: soft, doesn’t stink, warm when wet, sustainably produced. But alpaca is all that plus some. Today’s review is all about Ausangate - [Better than merino? The Royal Robbins MerinoLux 1/4 Zip Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/royal-robbins-merinolux-14-review/) - The elusive perfect merino shirt. Does it exist? Or do they all fall apart after wearing them hard? After finding out about merino working in a gear shop nearly 10 years ago, I’ve been infatuated with its amazing abilities. No smell, regulates your temperature, keeps some heat when wet. It seems like the perfect fabric - [Light, Soft, Stretchy: Royal Robbins Traveler Stretch Pant Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/lightweight-soft-stretchy-royal-robbins-traveler-stretch-pant-review/) - Making a good hiking pant is tough. It has to be light but durable and fit well. Traveler Stretch Pant from Royal Robbins has met those and then some. I’ll dive into the specs and my experience with the Traveler Stretch Pant in this article but won’t touch on much of the history of Royal - [Swiss army toque: A Review of the Buff](https://packandtrail.com/blog/buff-review/) - Say buff to someone and they won’t be thinking lightweight, multipurpose outdoor garment. They might be thinking some dude with huge muscles strutting around on the beach. That’s what you were thinking, right?Well it’s actually a lightweight, multipurpose outdoor garment. It’s basically a tube of fabric that can be worn in many different ways. I - [Buff Hats: The Anti-Stink Toque](https://packandtrail.com/blog/buff-hat-review/) - I always thought Buff just made Buffs. But I reviewed the Canadian Collection Buff last week and mentioned Buff doesn’t just make the one thing. They now have balaclava’s, bandana’s, hats and toques as well.I’m never very far from a toque on most trips. Out running, skiing, riding, hiking and sailing I throw on a - [Boost your hiking energy: Glutathione Rapid Boost Sports Drink review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/glutathione-rapid-boost-drink-review/) - I’m always on the lookout for things that are going to help me go faster, farther and hurt less after an adventure.Better food, gear and technique all count. You can be way more fit than the next guy but if you can’t get out of bed for 2 days after then you won’t be on - [Haeleum Rad Insect Shield T-Shirt Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/haeleum-rad-insect-shield-t-shirt-review/) - Bugs can ruin a hiking trip.Mosquitos, no-see-ums, ticks, black flies, horse flies, wasps. They're all over the place when the temperature heats up. I do the majority of my hiking in the winter and spring when the bugs haven't peaked yet. Bug sprays sometimes work but some of them are full of chemicals like Deet. - [Top 5 Things to Pack for Winter Hiking Trips](https://packandtrail.com/blog/top-5-things-pack-for-winter-hiking-trips/) - This post is from Rebecca, a world traveller and hiker from the US. More about Rebecca below.* Hiking trips are very different depending on the season, so it’s no wonder you need specific equipment in the winter. It’s more difficult to navigate through the snow, with harsh winds and cold temperatures in addition to the - [Aqua Quest Sport 30 Pro Backpack Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/aqua-quest-sport-30-pro-backpack-review/) - The Osprey Talon 33 backpack has been my favourite pack for the last 9 years.It’s been to Australia and New Zealand, Europe, into the US and countless other trips. It’s still going strong and in amazing condition aside from 1 broken toggle. I’ll be putting together a 9 year review of the Talon soon. But - [Minus33 Acadian Merino Wool Boxers Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/minus33-acadian-merino-wool-boxers-review/) - Base layers are important for keeping you comfortable and happy on any trip. They keep you warm and wick moisture away from your skin. After days and days of being against your skin though, base layers can smell terrible. Synthetic ones do at least.Merino is different.The bacteria that cause the smell aren't able to cling - [Satellite Communication: Can a GPS unit help you get rescued? (Part 2)](https://packandtrail.com/blog/can-gps-rescue/) - There are 4 parts to this series: Intro: Satellite Communication GPS: Can they get you rescued? (this article) Spot vs Garmin inReach (coming soon) PLBs and Sat Phones (coming soon) In the intro to this series on Satellite Communication, I did a brief overview of what's out there now to communicate through satellite.There are GPS - [Top 20 in the Best Outdoor Adventure Blogs](https://packandtrail.com/blog/top-20-best-outdoor-adventure-blogs/) - It's an honour to be named in the Top 20 Outdoor Adventure Blogs by Outdoor Veteran. There are some big names there and a ton of good inspiration for your next adventure. Lots of love for the Pacific Northwest in the list too which is great to see!If you are (or even if not) looking - [Superlight light: UCO Air Headlamp Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/superlight-light-uco-air-headlamp-review/) - Everyone needs a good headlamp. And a bright one. And a lightweight one. And a rechargeable one. It would be nice if they were all the same one. UCO get pretty close with their USB-rechargeable Air headlamp. Headlamps are starting to do away with the AAA and AA batteries and go to rechargeable battery packs. - [Jabra Elite Active 65t Headphones Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/jabra-elite-active-65t-review/) - Near perfect headphones for running, working or commuting. It just needs one thing and they would be perfect. - [OptiShokz Revvez Bone-Conducting Headphone Sunglasses Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/optishokz-revvez-bone-conducting-headphone-sunglasses-review/) - I have a hard time running without music. I don’t run as long. I don’t run as fast. I don’t stay as focused. Truly wireless headphones have been a saviour for me. But there’s a problem with them. You can’t hear anything around you.The Revvez sunglasses with built-in headphones solves the problem of having music - [How technology can enhance and change your outdoors experience](https://packandtrail.com/blog/how-technology-can-enhance-change-outdoors-experien/) - Over the past decade, we’ve seen many advancements in technology; from small-scale personal devices and apps to larger innovations and trends that impact all corners of our lives. Unsurprisingly, some of these new devices, apps and gadgets have reached the outdoor industry, offering the ability to make a camping trip, hike or backpacking adventure more - [Norrona Lyngen Gore-Tex Jacket Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/norrona-lyngen-gore-tex-jacket-review/) - In the Pacific Northwest it’s dangerous to go anywhere without a waterproof jacket. Weather can change in minutes. Forecasts can be completely wrong. That said, jackets spend a lot of their time stuffed into the bottom of your backpack because the weather is actually good. So light and packable is important. Waterproof and breathable is - [Christie Falls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/christie-falls/) - Christie Falls is a beautiful Vancouver Island waterfall not far from Ladysmith, BC. The photos below are a day after heavy rain so the falls aren’t normally this large. Directions are below the photos. #block-yui_3_17_2_1_1580656435900_3921 .sqs-gallery-block-grid .sqs-gallery-design-grid-slide .margin-wrapper { margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px; } Directions to Christie Falls There are multiple ways to get to - [Garmin Basecamp: Send a track to your GPS](https://packandtrail.com/blog/garmin-basecamp-send-track-to-gps/) - After you have created a GPS track on your computer, this is how to get it onto your Garmin GPS. - [Upper Banon Creek Falls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/upper-banon-creek-falls/) - Banon Creek Falls is a well-known, easy to access waterfall off Chemainus River but this is not that waterfall. Most people haven’t seen this one: Upper Banon Creek Falls. Upper Banon Creek Falls is what I call them anyways. The folks at the District of North Cowichan said they don’t have a name but if - [Backpacking Packs: Everything You Need to Know](https://packandtrail.com/blog/backpacking-packs/) - Small backpacks are great for day hikes and travelling but when it comes to staying out in the backcountry for multiple days we need something a bit bigger. It needs to hold our shelter like a tent, sleeping gear, food, water and clothes in a light enough package to carry for days straight. Backpacking packs, - [Cameras for Backpacking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/cameras-for-backpacking/) - There are 2 camps when it comes to hiking photos: those that never take a picture and just soak it all in and the rest of us. For the rest of us, it’s nice to take photos to share the trip and save the memory. Many small cameras out there are easy to take hiking - [GoPro Hero8 Action Camera Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/gopro-hero8-action-camera-review/) - There are 3 kinds of cameras these days. Phones are obviously the biggest category now as many people just have them in their pocket. Larger cameras with interchangeable lenses are (for the most part) the only way to get very large, professional-level photos. There are lenses that can take photos from hundreds of metres away - [Sony RX0 II Camera Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/sony-rx0-ii-camera-review/) - The line between travel cameras, action cameras, vlogging cameras and just a “camera” is blurry these days. There’s a lot of overlap between all the different types so does it really matter? The Sony RX0 II is a ridiculously small camera that, because of its size, can be great travel, action or vlogging camera. And - [Fjallraven Keb Eco Shell Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/fjallraven-keb-eco-shell-review/) - Fjallraven was a relatively unknown name in North America until a couple years ago. Now I see their backpacks walking around every day. Despite being new in North America, they’ve had years to perfect their products in Europe. They are among the most durable, comfortable and sustainable products in the world. The outdoor industry is - [Adventure-Ready USB Battery Packs](https://packandtrail.com/blog/adventure-ready-usb-battery-packs/) - Everything is USB powered these days and I’m thankful for it. It means we can recharge quickly from any laptops and battery packs without having to carry around a bucket of disposable AAA and AA batteries. Battery Pack Reviews EcoFlow Delta Mini Portable Power Station Review It’s tough to on a road trip, camping or - [Akaso V50 Pro SE Action Camera Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/akaso-v50-pro-se-action-camera-review/) - The Akaso V50 Pro SE is a cheaper action camera that doesn’t skimp on video quality. - [Hiking on Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hiking-on-vancouver-island/) - Hiking is a huge outdoor activity on Vancouver Island. It should be. There are so many beautiful places, many within an hour of where you're staying. Check back on this page as it will be continuously updated with the best hikes on Vancouver Island. Near Campbell River Flower Ridge Elk River Trail Near Tofino Canso - [Benson Access Road in the snow](https://packandtrail.com/blog/first-snowshoe-this-year/) - "Let's go for a snowshoe," someone says."Ok!" I say."Where?" I say."Ummm," they say. We decide on the access road that begins on Nanaimo Lakes road and heads up the back of Mount Benson. For some reason the track from last year didn't work, so I loaded up some waypoints for the trail in my Colorado - [Motivation for running? What motivation?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/motivation-for-running-what-motivation/) - I love running. I always have. Even when the high school gym class teacher said we had to go run the biggest run ever (around the block, maybe) in the pouring rain. He said it built character, we said it sucked. All the sports I've played were more just an excuse to get out and - [Geocaching is harder than I thought](https://packandtrail.com/blog/geocaching-is-harder-than-i-thought/) - I've been working hard lately and was looking for an excuse to get outside and run around. Enter geocaching! I had never done it before and it sounded like the perfect thing to give my girlfriend and I one more reason to stay outside. I didn't really know where to start when it came to - [Sea to Summit](https://packandtrail.com/blog/sea-to-summit/) - In 1990 Tim Macartney-Snape made a 4 month solo journey on foot that began in the waters of India's Bay of Bengal and finished on the peak of Mt Everest; he became the first man to truly climb the mountain from 'sea to summit.' Taking a cue from this adventurer we decided to host - [MOMAR Squamish](https://packandtrail.com/blog/momar-squamish/) - Ever since I moved to Vancouver Island I've heard about the legendary MOMAR (Mind Over Mountain Adventure Race) race series and dreamed of competing in one. It's evoked many emotions for me over the years, awe, determination, jealousy, respect, fear and very recently, pain. You see, last weekend was when I finally ballsed up - [Hornby Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/hornby-island/) - Hornby Island is one of of those places that everyone knows and loves to visit. The island is primarily known for its beautiful sandy beaches, warm ocean water, beautifully maintained mountain biking trails, outdoor education centre and the laissez-faire attitude most locals seem to have. This year round population is drastically different than the influx - [Assault on Benson: Numero uno](https://packandtrail.com/blog/assault-on-benson-numero-uno/) - For us here in Nanaimo, Mount Benson is right in our backyard. It's a solid hike up, provides interesting views along the way and, if the weather cooperates, a stellar view of Nanaimo at the top. If you haven't been to the top yet, I highly recommend it. Best to go with someone that's been - [Outdoor Stores in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdoor-stores-nanaimo-vancouver-island/) - My goal is to make this an awesome and exhaustive list of the rad outdoor shops in Nanaimo and on Vancouver Island. If you notice any that are missing, comment or email and I'll add them to the list right away! And away we go.... Outdoors Valhalla Pure Outfitters Everything you need for heading into - [Get Up, Get Outside: Sticking To That Morning Run](https://packandtrail.com/blog/sticking-to-that-early-morning-run/) - One of my challenges(resolutions) this year is to participate in as many races (trail, snowshoe, adventure and mountain biking) as I can. I've tried to do this in years past and had a lot of fun doing it but it's not quite as fun when your placing is getting higher and higher as the year - [Coastal Crew Ep.1 - Saturday](https://packandtrail.com/blog/coastal-crew-ep-1-saturday/) - Coastal Crew Ep.1 - Saturday from The Coastal Crew on Vimeo. Also check out the blog at http://coastalcrew.blogspot.com/ This is video is part of a series. Don't miss the next episodes. Coastal Crew Ep.2 – Semenuk & Norbraten Get The Shot Coastal Crew Ep. 3 - Dunes & Loam - [The Season Ep 2 Paul Kuthe](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-2-paul-kuthe/) - The Season Episode 2 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith. Get more info at The Season TV Missed the first one? The Season Ep 1 - It Begins Check out the next one at The Season Ep 3 - Anya Miller and Gold Bar Bouldering - [The Season Ep 1 It Begins](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-1-it-begins/) - The Season Episode 1 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith. Get more info at The Season TV Catch the next episode at The Season Ep 2 Paul Kuthe - [The Season Ep 4 Jonaven’s Close Call](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-4-jonaven-close-call/) - The Season Episode 4 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith. You can get more info at The Season TV. Missed the last one? The Season Ep 3 Anya Miller and Gold Bar Bouldering Check out the next one: The Season Ep 5 A Little Bit of Superman - [Coastal Crew Ep.2 - Semenuk & Norbraten Get The Shot](https://packandtrail.com/blog/coastal-crew-ep-2-semenuk-norbraten-get-the-shot/) - Coastal Crew Ep.2 - Semenuk & Norbraten Get The Shot from The Coastal Crew. Also check out the blog at http://coastalcrew.blogspot.com/ This video is part of a series. Don't miss the next episodes: Coastal Crew Ep. 1 - Saturday Coastal Crew Ep. 3 - Dunes & Loam - [Coastal Crew Ep.3 - Dunes & Loam](https://packandtrail.com/blog/coastal-crew-ep-3-dunes-loam/) - A whole bunch more deadly videos by The Coastal Crew Previous Episodes Coastal Crew Ep. 1 - Saturday Coastal Crew Ep.2 – Semenuk & Norbraten Get The Shot - [The Season Ep 6 Rock Climber Matt Maddaloni](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-6-matt-maddaloni/) - The Season Episode 6 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith. Get more info about the season at The Season TV. Missed the last one? The Season Ep 5 A Little Bit of Superman - [The Season Ep 5 A Little Bit of Superman](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-episode-5-bit-of-superman/) - The Season Episode 5 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith. You can find more info at The Season TV. Missed the last one? The Season Ep 4 Jonaven's Close Call Check out the next one at The Season Ep 6 Rock Climber Matt Maddaloni - [The Season Ep 8 Paul Arrives at the Butze](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-8-paul-arrives-at-the-butze/) - Paul and crew arrive at the Butze Rapids in near Prince Rupert BC to find they're not exactly what they expected. The Season Episode 8 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith on Vimeo. Just tuning in? Check out The Season Episode 7 Anya Battles Injuries The next one is already out! The Season Episode 9 - [The Season Ep 9 Will It Go?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-9-will-it-go/) - The Season Episode 9 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith on Vimeo. Previous Episode: The Season Episode 8 - Paul Arrives at the Butze Next Episode: The Season Episode 10 - Jonaven Gets After It - [The Season Ep 10 Jonaven Gets After It](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-10-jonaven-gets-after-it/) - After the avalanche, everything changed for Jonaven. Things move a little slower, things mean a little more, things are more Jonaven's way. He's taking things back to how he wants to do them. I think we all need to do this a little more with everything we do. Out with the old greedy, fast-paced sponsors - [The Season Ep 11 Half Way Through](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-11-half-way-through/) - The Season Episode 11 from Fitz Cahall and Bryan Smith on Vimeo.Didn't see the last one? Take a peak at Episode 10 Jonaven Gets After It - [VI Spine Trail Relay June 5 to June 27](https://packandtrail.com/blog/vi-spine-trail-relay-june-5-to-june-27/) - You may not have heard of the Vancouver Island Spine trail that's in the process of being but right now. Picture this. A trail stretching all the way from Port Hardy at the north end of Vancouver Island right down to the southern end at Victoria. A solid 700km of trail, it will run through - [The Season Ep 13 – Where is Jonaven](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-13-where-is-jonaven/) - Often when you're stuck, you need a major change in your life to shake things up. This lets you work things back into the place the way you want them to be instead of how they were before. Sounds like Jonaven's doing just that re-arranging his life to about what he wants to be and - [The Season Ep 14 – Searching for Answers](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-14-searching-for-answers/) - Like all of us Anya Miller was frustrated with her injuries. A bunch of surgeries put her on the couch for a while. Not wanting to do that again she began her search for answers. Why does she get injured? Is it how she thinks or how she moves? She arrives at an answer through - [Feed Your Addiction](https://packandtrail.com/blog/feed-your-addiction/) - All though elementary school, all through high school, all through life we're taught that addictions are horrible, evil things only bad, lazy people succumb to and you should stay away at all costs.Throw those ideas out the window. Right now. Erase everything you think about when you hear "addiction". It doesn't have to be a - [The Season Ep 15 – It’s Time](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-season-ep-15-its-time/) - It's alive! Finally it's time for Matt to test out the Anti-Cam. Is it going to work? Is it going to be a complete failure? Matt has to put his body on the line to test out his new invention and it may not go exactly as planned. The Season Episode 15 from Fitz Cahall - [The Ultimate Motivation Playlist for Running](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ultimate-motivation-running-good-tunes/) - Beep. Beep. Beep. My alarm's going off. It's 6am. Every weekday I wake up and get ready for work. I'm a web developer. I sit in a chair all day and stare at a computer. I do love the work but I have an issue with it. It's not physical. I love being outside too. - [Valhalla Grand Re-Opening on June 5 With Great Prizes!](https://packandtrail.com/blog/valhalla-grand-re-opening-on-june-5-with-great-prizes/) - After years of serving the outdoor community in Nanaimo at their location on Metral by Romeo's, Valhalla Pure Outfitters has moved. The new location is prime and nestled in next to a few of my favorite stores in Nanaimo.Straight from Mike Allen, Manager of Valhalla Nanaimo: We have successfully moved to our new Longwood Plaza - [Outdoor Stores in Tofino, Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdoor-stores-in-tofino-vancouver-island/) - Even though Tofino is small they have a variety of outdoor shops, mainly catering to the surfing crowd in the area. Surfing Bruhwiler Surfschool Run by the famous Bruhwiler surf family. Website | Directions | 250 726 5481 Live To Surf Live to surf does sales, rentals and lessons for surf, skate and skim. Website - [Ski Touring Day Trip Gear Checklist](https://packandtrail.com/blog/ski-touring-day-trip-gear-checklist/) - With the winter upon us in full swing on the West Coast, it's time to haul out the ski touring gear. Most of the gear I take on my day trips is similar no matter where we are going. Depending on the weather the number of layers and thicknesses will change but the basic gear - [Outdoor Stores in Ucluelet, Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/outdoor-stores-in-ucluelet-vancouver-island/) - Like in Tofino, Ucluelet is a great place to go to surf. Although they don't have any hiking specific stores, it's also a great place to launch to some great hikes in the area. Check out Ukee Bikes below to rent a bike to see the area. Surfing Relic Surf Shop Website | Directions | - [Snowshoe Day Trip Gear Checklist](https://packandtrail.com/blog/snowshoe-day-trip-gear-checklist/) - I've been trying to ski as much as possible lately but if the trip is with people that don't have skis or is in more technical terrain sometimes we opt to go with snowshoes. Here are the things I bring with me snowshoeing. Let me know what you bring in the comments. Main Items Snowshoes - [Resort Skiing Gear Checklist](https://packandtrail.com/blog/resort-skiing-gear-checklist/) - No matter how much we want to be touring every day, there are times when conditions push us towards just skiing a day on the resort. Resort skiing doesn't demand as much gear as touring, but it still sucks to forget something so here's a check list for it. Ski Gear Skis (with bindings) Boots - [The Yeti Strikes Again](https://packandtrail.com/blog/the-yeti-strikes-again/) - The muscles are sore. The gear is dirty. The pictures are taking a while to upload. My mind is still buzzing from all the activities. All signs of a good weekend. - [New Gear in 2010: First Impressions](https://packandtrail.com/blog/new-gear-in-2010-first-impressions/) - 2011 was a great year for adventuring for me. I think it's finally clicked that I would like to be outside adventuring around as much as possible. I always had an idea before but not until this year has it been so obvious. For every new adventure there's always another piece of gear that would - [Julbo Nomad Sunglasses Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/julbo-nomad-sunglasses-review/) - When I first found the Julbo Nomad sunglasses I was a little skeptical. They were from a french company that I had never heard of, they were expensive, and they were a little different style than I was used to wearing. I was actually looking for some big white sunglasses at the time, so I - [Wanna sail around the world?](https://packandtrail.com/blog/wanna-sail-around-the-world/) - These guys look like they're having a great time.... - [Crossfit Challenge Week 1](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-1/) - It has begun. Last week the first of 12 weeks of CrossFit started. Why? I'm not really sure actually. I've heard here and there that CrossFit is pretty crazy. Maybe not P90x crazy but pretty crazy. Some people have mentioned puking while trying it. I certainly had no plans to try it but I wanted - [CrossFit Challenge Week 3: Endurance Tests](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-3-endurance-tests/) - [Update] This is actually stuff from week 4. Apparently I'm not good at my counting and skipped last weeks workout in a post! I'm pretty stoked with this week. Back at Nanaimo CrossFit with Katie whipping us into shape. The heat started to cool down a bit so we could think without overheating (not that - [CrossFit Challenge Week 5: Strength Test](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-5-strength-test/) - So, I'm awesome at counting. For my week 3 post I put in my week 4 workout. We're actually into week 5 of the challenge and I don't have a week 4 post. Oops! I'm just going to leave the hole and pretend no one noticed! Okay, on to week 5 then. Welcome to Strength - [CrossFit Challenge - Week 6: Humbled by Overhead Squats](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-6-humbled-by-overhead-squats/) - Another week and another 2 wicked CrossFit workouts from Katie at Nanaimo CrossFit. This week definitely had tough workouts and I really gave everything I could. It got me thinking about how hard I was trying with the workouts and how hard they (might) sound in my writing about them. You Choose Your Workout Someone - [CrossFit Challenge Week 7: The Sickness](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-7-the-sickness/) - If you've been following along with the CrossFit Challenge, you'll probably be wondering where I've been the last couple weeks! Hard at work at the Nanaimo CrossFit gym, of course! Well, every week except for Week 7 of the challenge. September 11 and 13th I had to miss out on my workouts because I was - [CrossFit Challenge Week 8: What's Mobility](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-8/) - Alright, it's back at it for CrossFit. The Sickness in Week 7 wasn't so great but it's getting better. Even after a week off of CrossFit and some time off work, I don't feel 100 percent but getting there. Way better than laying around hacking up a lung! Tuesday's WOD was a 20 Minute AMRAP - [CrossFit Challenge Week 9: Butterflys and Grip Strength](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-9-butterflys-and-grip-strength/) - This week had great new WOD's with new exercises in them then I hadn't tried yet. The Sept 25 CrossFit Workout was my first partner workout. Partner workout?! That means I actually have to get myself moving faster because I have a partner to answer to?! Yup. Working with a partner can push you harder. It - [CrossFit Challenge Week 10: Turkish Get-ups and Too Many Sit-ups](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-10-turkish-get-ups-and-too-many-sit-ups/) - 4 updates left in the Nanaimo CrossFit Challenge! Follow along for the final updates. ** This week we got to experience the Turkish Get-Up. Dun dun dun. They're not that scary really. But they do make you think. Buy-in: Ring rows and handstands Our Buy-In this week was ring rows and handstands. Ring rows are - [CrossFit Challenge Week 11: Goats, Beefcakes and Good Shoes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/crossfit-challenge-week-11-goats-beefcakes-and-good-shoes/) - I still laugh at the title of this one. I just had to throw that out there. Sorry for it being a week late! Buying a house apparently takes up more time than I thought. I did get a bit sidetracked researching CrossFit shoes too. I've got some good pointers for shoes at the bottom ## Pages - [Home](https://packandtrail.com/) - We research and test the best outdoor gear on the market. You get free in-depth gear reviews. Less reading, more outside. - [Pack & Trail Social Stuff](https://packandtrail.com/social/) - Hi! We are Pack & Trail. We go outside, test gear, and tell you about the best stuff. The latest links we post to our feeds are on this page. Follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to get the latest gear stories. Check out the Annual Sale on Backcountry.com. 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If you have gear you would like to see reviewed on PackandTrail.com or would like to write for us, send us a note below! Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last Email * Comment or Message * Submit Follow - [About Us](https://packandtrail.com/about/) - About Us Our Story Getting outside can be tough. There can be a lot of gear involved and information online, in books, in forums. Where do you turn to first when you want to learn how to get outside? Pack & Trail was born out of a need for high-quality information about how to get - [Pack & Trail Product Rating System](https://packandtrail.com/pack-and-trail-product-rating-system/) - We review a lot of products. Each of those products are reviewed with our rating system to try and get the most value to our readers when looking for new products for your adventures. ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/uncategorized/) - [Random](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/random/) - [Hiking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/hiking/) - [Trails](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/trails/) - [Events](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/events/) - [Epic Guides](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/epic-guides/) - [Running](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/running/) - [Skiing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/skiing/) - [Cameras](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/cameras/) - [Geocache](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/geocache/) - [Snowboarding](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/snowboarding/) - [Snowshoeing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/snowshoeing/) - [Kayaking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/kayaking/) - [Biking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/biking/) - [AdventureMobile](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/adventuremobile/) - [Training](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/training/) - [Surfing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/surfing/) - [CrossFit](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/crossfit/) - [Climbing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/climbing/) - [Paddling](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/paddling/) - [Sailing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/sailing/) - [Gear Reviews](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/gear-reviews/) - [How-To](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/how-to/) - [Athletes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/athletes/) - [Adventure Race](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/adventure-race/) - [Backpacking Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/backpacking-gear/) - [Pillars](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/pillars/) - [Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/gear/) - [Battery Pack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/battery-pack/) - [SUP](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/sup/) - [Headphones](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/headphones/) - [Sunglasses](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/sunglasses/) - [Vancouver Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/vancouver-island/) - [Jackets](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/jackets/) - [Hiking Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/hiking/hiking-boots/) - [Waterfalls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/waterfalls/) - [Backpacking Stove Reviews](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/backpacking-stove-reviews/) - From month long expeditions to making coffee on a short hike, a small stove can drastically up your off-grid food game. - [Backpacking Stove Tips](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/backpacking-stove-tips/) - How to buy, light and use lightweight, packable backpacking stoves. - [Photography Tips](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/photography-tips/) - It’s not the camera, it’s the photographer. Tips for adventuring with cameras and getting the most from your photos. - [Headlamp Tips](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/headlamp-tips/) - How do you get the most of your headlamp batteries? Tips for buying headlamps? Our best tips in this section. - [Headlamp Reviews](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/headlamp-reviews/) - What is the best headlamp out there? Read our reviews to find out. - [Juan de Fuca Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/juan-de-fuca-trail/) - [GPS](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/gps/) - [Hiking Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/hiking/hiking-trail/) - [Nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/nanaimo/) - [Backpacking Tents](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/backpacking-tents/) - [Hiking Boot Tips](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/hiking/hiking-boots/hiking-boot-tips/) - [Hiking Boot Reviews](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/hiking/hiking-boots/hiking-boot-reviews/) - [Hiking Shoes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/hiking/hiking-shoes/) - [Trail Runners](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/trail-runners/) - [Car Camping](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/camping/) - [Gift Guide](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/gift-guide/) - [Sleeping Mats](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/backpacking-gear/sleeping-mats/) - [Interview](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/interview/) - [Water Bottles](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/water-bottles/) - [Power Station](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/power-station/) - [Solar Panel](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/camping/solar-panel/) - [Backpacking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/backpacking/) - [News](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/news/) - [Photography](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/photography/) - [Camera Backpack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/camera-backpack/) - [Tools](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/tools/) - [Mugs and Cups](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/camping/mugs-and-cups/) - [Camp Chairs](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/camping/camp-chairs/) - [Outdoor Tech](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/outdoor-tech/) - [Drones](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/outdoor-tech/drones/) - [Overlanding](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/overlanding/) - [Fishing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/fishing/) - [Cabin](https://packandtrail.com/blog/category/cabin/) ## Tags - [green mountain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/green-mountain/) - [nanaimo lakes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nanaimo-lakes/) - [blog carnival](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/blog-carnival/) - [mount becher](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-becher/) - [Ammonite](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ammonite/) - [nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nanaimo/) - [waterfalls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/waterfalls/) - [mount benson](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-benson/) - [snow](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/snow/) - [mount washington](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-washington/) - [snowshoeing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/snowshoeing/) - [birthday](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/birthday/) - [Raven Lodge](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/raven-lodge/) - [snowshoe](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/snowshoe/) - [winter camping](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/winter-camping/) - [Mt Washington](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mt-washington/) - 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[hike in nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hike-in-nanaimo/) - [hiking in nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hiking-in-nanaimo/) - [trails in nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trails-in-nanaimo/) - [waterfalls in nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/waterfalls-in-nanaimo/) - [witchcraft lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/witchcraft-lake/) - [haslem trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/haslem-trail/) - [lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/lake/) - [suspension bridge](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/suspension-bridge/) - [Trans Canada Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trans-canada-trail/) - [Trip Report](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trip-report/) - [koksilah river](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/koksilah-river/) - [shawnigan lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/shawnigan-lake/) - [trees](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trees/) - [biking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/biking/) - [diving](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/diving/) - [port alberni](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/port-alberni/) - [Epic Guide: Hiking Mount Benson](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/epic-guide-hiking-mount-benson/) - [gps tracks](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/gps-tracks/) - [mount gemini](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-gemini/) - [camping](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/camping/) - [cobalt lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cobalt-lake/) - [mount 5040](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-5040/) - [juan de fuca trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/juan-de-fuca-trail/) - [summer](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/summer/) - [trail running](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trail-running/) - [surfing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/surfing/) - [ucluelet](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ucluelet/) - [yeti](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/yeti/) - [mount cain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-cain/) - [skiing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/skiing/) - [woss](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/woss/) - [running](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/running/) - [Comox Glacier](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/comox-glacier/) - [Mountains](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mountains/) - [Mt Becher](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mt-becher/) - [ski touring](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ski-touring/) - [Photography](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/photography/) - [Bears](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/bears/) - [Day Hike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/day-hike/) - [Glossary](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/glossary/) - [Learn to Hike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/learn-to-hike/) - [Multi-Day Hike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/multi-day-hike/) - [Start Hiking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/start-hiking/) - [geocache](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/geocache/) - [start geocaching](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/start-geocaching/) - [treasure hunt](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/treasure-hunt/) - [Garmin](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/garmin/) - [Gear Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/gear-review/) - [GPS](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/gps/) - [Montana 600](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/montana-600/) - [arcteryx](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/arcteryx/) - [gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/gear/) - [Jackets](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/jackets/) - [Reviews](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/reviews/) - [flower ridge](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/flower-ridge/) - [flowers](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/flowers/) - [gold river](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/gold-river/) - [strathcona](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/strathcona/) - [Ski Pack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ski-pack/) - [Hi-Tec](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hi-tec/) - [Trail Runners](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trail-runners/) - [alberni outpost](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/alberni-outpost/) - [arrowsmith bikes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/arrowsmith-bikes/) - [campbell river](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/campbell-river/) - [oak bay bikes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/oak-bay-bikes/) - [victoria](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/victoria/) - [buttle lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/buttle-lake/) - [kayak](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/kayak/) - [marble peak](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/marble-peak/) - [mount mcbride](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-mcbride/) - [strathcona park](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/strathcona-park/) - [Mount Elma](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-elma/) - [Paradise Meadows](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/paradise-meadows/) - [canso crash](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/canso-crash/) - [hike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hike/) - [mud](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mud/) - [plane crash](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/plane-crash/) - [tofino](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/tofino/) - [Backpack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/backpack/) - [Osprey](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/osprey/) - [julbo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/julbo/) - [sunglasses](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sunglasses/) - [Atlas](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/atlas/) - [msr](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/msr/) - [Canon](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/canon/) - [dirtbike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/dirtbike/) - [Saga](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/saga/) - [Hiking Boot](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hiking-boot/) - [ion-mask](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ion-mask/) - [ortholite](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ortholite/) - [v-lite](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/v-lite/) - [Vibram](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/vibram/) - [Carmanah Walbran](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/carmanah-walbran/) - [Old-Growth Trees](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/old-growth-trees/) - [Photo Essay](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/photo-essay/) - [Movie Monday](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/movie-monday/) - [Sailing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sailing/) - [Volvo Ocean Race](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/volvo-ocean-race/) - [Mount Brenton](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-brenton/) - [CrossFit Challenge](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/crossfit-challenge/) - [Nanaimo CrossFit](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nanaimo-crossfit/) - [race](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/race/) - [Gym](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/gym/) - [Air Squats](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/air-squats/) - [Shoulder to Overhead](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/shoulder-to-overhead/) - [Overhead Squat](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/overhead-squat/) - [Adder Mountain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/adder-mountain/) - [creek](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/creek/) - [CrossFit Nanaimo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/crossfit-nanaimo/) - [Fall](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/fall/) - [Smith Rocks](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/smith-rocks/) - [Adventure Coop](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/adventure-coop/) - [Outdoor Social](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/outdoor-social/) - [Virginia](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/virginia/) - [SpiBelt](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/spibelt/) - [Evoq #1](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/evoq-1/) - [Para Boot](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/para-boot/) - [cheif](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cheif/) - [Events](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/events/) - [Momar](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/momar/) - [squamish](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/squamish/) - [RIBZ Front Pack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ribz-front-pack/) - [cross training](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cross-training/) - [time](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/time/) - [Hornby Island](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hornby-island/) - [road cycling](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/road-cycling/) - [Roberts Roost](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/roberts-roost/) - [day trip](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/day-trip/) - [notch hill](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/notch-hill/) - [Christie Falls](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/christie-falls/) - [sup](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sup/) - [australia](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/australia/) - [balmain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/balmain/) - [glebe](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/glebe/) - [manly](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/manly/) - [sydney](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sydney/) - [sydney opera house](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sydney-opera-house/) - [Camp stoves](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/camp-stoves/) - [pocket rocket](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/pocket-rocket/) - [Primus](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/primus/) - [Snowpeak](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/snowpeak/) - [Climbing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/climbing/) - [cotton carrier](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cotton-carrier/) - [photos](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/photos/) - [strapshot](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/strapshot/) - [Teva](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/teva/) - [TevaSphere](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/tevasphere/) - [Vibram Five Fingers](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/vibram-five-fingers/) - [trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trail/) - [vispine](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/vispine/) - [mapvi](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mapvi/) - [Book Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/book-review/) - [The Mountaineers Books](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/the-mountaineers-books/) - [rain](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/rain/) - [wind](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/wind/) - [west coast trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/west-coast-trail/) - [avalanches](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/avalanches/) - [app review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/app-review/) - [trailmix pro](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trailmix-pro/) - [Adventure Race](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/adventure-race/) - [Cumberland](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cumberland/) - [Backpacks](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/backpacks/) - [Century Sam](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/century-sam/) - [Comox Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/comox-lake/) - [Cruickshank Canyon](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cruickshank-canyon/) - [Glacier](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/glacier/) - [Trails](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trails/) - [ladders](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ladders/) - [cowichan lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cowichan-lake/) - [port hardy](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/port-hardy/) - [relay](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/relay/) - [spine trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/spine-trail/) - [motivation](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/motivation/) - [tips](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/tips/) - [workout music](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/workout-music/) - [challenges](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/challenges/) - [morning](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/morning/) - [rock climbing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/rock-climbing/) - [the season](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/the-season/) - [mountain bike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mountain-bike/) - [bouldering](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/bouldering/) - [video](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/video/) - [surf kayaking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/surf-kayaking/) - [butze rapid](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/butze-rapid/) - [outdoor research](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/outdoor-research/) - [prince rupert](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/prince-rupert/) - [sea kayaking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sea-kayaking/) - [matt maddaloni](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/matt-maddaloni/) - [split boarding](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/split-boarding/) - [addiction](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/addiction/) - [dirt](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/dirt/) - [outside](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/outside/) - [helmet](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/helmet/) - [ocean](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ocean/) - [ocean kayaking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ocean-kayaking/) - [splitboard](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/splitboard/) - [5 peaks](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/5-peaks/) - [parksville](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/parksville/) - [single track](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/single-track/) - [top bridge](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/top-bridge/) - [bonnell creek](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/bonnell-creek/) - [loggin roads](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/loggin-roads/) - [nanoose](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nanoose/) - [review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/review/) - [salomon](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/salomon/) - [shoes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/shoes/) - [xt wings](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/xt-wings/) - [checklist](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/checklist/) - [ski tour](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ski-tour/) - [resort skiing](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/resort-skiing/) - [how-to](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/how-to/) - [fitness](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/fitness/) - [delica](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/delica/) - [tacoma](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/tacoma/) - [trip reports](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trip-reports/) - [VI Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/vi-trail/) - [Mount Arrowsmith](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-arrowsmith/) - [probe](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/probe/) - [ski poles](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ski-poles/) - [skis](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/skis/) - [transceiver](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/transceiver/) - [Elk River Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/elk-river-trail/) - [wasps](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/wasps/) - [waterfall](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/waterfall/) - [trails conference](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/trails-conference/) - [alberni inlet trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/alberni-inlet-trail/) - [Stoves](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/stoves/) - [White Pine Trail](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/white-pine-trail/) - [Garmin Basecamp](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/garmin-basecamp/) - [Software](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/software/) - [aether 70](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/aether-70/) - [colonel foster](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/colonel-foster/) - [hubba hubba](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hubba-hubba/) - [landslide lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/landslide-lake/) - [Ladysmith](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ladysmith/) - [Stocking Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/stocking-lake/) - [link roundup](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/link-roundup/) - [Mount Apps](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mount-apps/) - [Zella Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/zella-lake/) - [Kovea](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/kovea/) - [Optimus](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/optimus/) - [Nitinat River](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nitinat-river/) - [Tuck Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/tuck-lake/) - [Abyss](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/abyss/) - [Extension](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/extension/) - [Nanaimo Lakes Road](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nanaimo-lakes-road/) - [Riparian](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/riparian/) - [Shadenfreude](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/shadenfreude/) - [Whisky Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/whisky-lake/) - [Wonderwall](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/wonderwall/) - [cape scott](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cape-scott/) - [canister stove](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/canister-stove/) - [litemax](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/litemax/) - [Stove Review](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/stove-review/) - [mistic beach](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/mistic-beach/) - [basecamp](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/basecamp/) - [epic guides](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/epic-guides/) - [cape scott 2015](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cape-scott-2015/) - [cape scott lighthouse](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cape-scott-lighthouse/) - [experiment bight](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/experiment-bight/) - [guise bay](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/guise-bay/) - [arrowsmith](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/arrowsmith/) - [Cameron Lake](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cameron-lake/) - [Cokely](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cokely/) - [GoPro](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/gopro/) - [XShot Pro](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/xshot-pro/) - [battery life](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/battery-life/) - [garmin montana 600](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/garmin-montana-600/) - [nels bight](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nels-bight/) - [san josef bay](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/san-josef-bay/) - [InReach](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/inreach/) - [Spot](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/spot/) - [Solar](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/solar/) - [SunJack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sunjack/) - [Food](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/food/) - [Paleo Meals](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/paleo-meals/) - [Recipes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/recipes/) - [Lever Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/lever-gear/) - [Multitool](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/multitool/) - [Toolcard](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/toolcard/) - [Down Jacket](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/down-jacket/) - [LL Bean](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/ll-bean/) - [cotopaxi](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cotopaxi/) - [Hammock](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hammock/) - [Rallt](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/rallt/) - [Battery Pack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/battery-pack/) - [GoalZero](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/goalzero/) - [iPhone](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/iphone/) - [Solar Charger](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/solar-charger/) - [Merino](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/merino/) - [Polyester](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/polyester/) - [Royal Robbins](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/royal-robbins/) - [Sorona](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/sorona/) - [Hiking Pant](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hiking-pant/) - [Buff](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/buff/) - [Canada 150](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/canada-150/) - [polygiene](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/polygiene/) - [toque](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/toque/) - [glutathione](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/glutathione/) - [rob keller](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/rob-keller/) - [supplements](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/supplements/) - [AquaQuest](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/aquaquest/) - [Waterproof](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/waterproof/) - [Base-Layer](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/base-layer/) - [Haeleum](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/haeleum/) - [Wicking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/wicking/) - [Minus33](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/minus33/) - [Backpacking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/backpacking/) - [Winter](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/winter/) - [contest](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/contest/) - [Vancouver Outdoor Show](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/vancouver-outdoor-show/) - [adventure](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/adventure/) - [outdoor veteran](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/outdoor-veteran/) - [top 20](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/top-20/) - [UCO Gear](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/uco-gear/) - [Headlamps](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/headlamps/) - [Atlas Packs](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/atlas-packs/) - [camera backpack](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/camera-backpack/) - [Cascadia](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cascadia/) - [headphones](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/headphones/) - [Jabra](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/jabra/) - [music](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/music/) - [truly wireless headphones](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/truly-wireless-headphones/) - [wireless headphones](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/wireless-headphones/) - [hitec](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hitec/) - [AfterShokz](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/aftershokz/) - [bone conducting headphones](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/bone-conducting-headphones/) - [OptiShokz](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/optishokz/) - [whywehike](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/whywehike/) - [geocaching](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/geocaching/) - [lantzville](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/lantzville/) - [Morsel Spork](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/morsel-spork/) - [Spork](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/spork/) - [Spoon](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/spoon/) - [Utensils](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/utensils/) - [Cooking](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/cooking/) - [Hiking Boots](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/hiking-boots/) - [Fjallraven](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/fjallraven/) - [Tents](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/tents/) - [Action Cameras](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/action-cameras/) - [Goal Zero](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/goal-zero/) - [Kuhl](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/kuhl/) - [Akaso](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/akaso/) - [Helly Hansen](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/helly-hansen/) - [Litheli](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/litheli/) - [LowePro](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/lowepro/) - [Electric](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/electric/) - [emoose](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/emoose/) - [USB-C](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/usb-c/) - [USB-A](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/usb-a/) - [Runhood](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/runhood/) - [MiiR](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/miir/) - [Thermos](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/thermos/) - [Coffee](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/coffee/) - [Klean Kanteen](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/klean-kanteen/) - [Big Agnes](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/big-agnes/) - [Therm-a-Rest](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/therm-a-rest/) - [NEMO](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/nemo/) - [REI](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/rei/) - [EXPED](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/exped/) - [Strongback](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/strongback/) - [Dometic](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/dometic/) - [Helinox](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/helinox/) - [Alps Mountaineering](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/alps-mountaineering/) - [Bluetti](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/bluetti/) - [Chamelo](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/chamelo/) - [Electrochromic](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/electrochromic/) - [Smith](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/smith/) - [Photochromic](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/photochromic/) - [DJI](https://packandtrail.com/blog/tag/dji/)