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Trans-Catalina Trail Backpacking Guide

The view of a turquoise bay with rolling green hills.

If you are itching to hit the trail between late fall and early spring, then backpacking the Trans-Catalina Trail is a perfect choice. Located just an hour’s ferry ride from the Southern California mainland, the Trans-Catalina Trail is convenient and accessible while also feeling exotic and remote. The trail travels roughly 40 miles along the length of Catalina Island and typically takes four-to-five days to complete. The trail offers gorgeous views of rugged coastline, pristine beach campsites, interesting wildlife, and some great food along the way! I’ve now backpacked the Trans-Catalina Trail twice and loved it so much I’m already thinking about visiting again.

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California Hiking and Riding Trail Joshua Tree National Park

California Riding and Hiking Trail Backpacking Guide

The California Riding and Hiking Trail in Joshua Tree National Park is a perfect choice for a three- to four-day backpacking trip between late fall and early spring. The trail offers comfortable winter temperatures, easy hiking, solitude, and beautiful desert scenery.

Top Things to Do in Pinnacles National Park

At Pinnacles National Park you can explore talus caves, view wild California Condors, enjoy excellent day hiking, and experience rock climbing all in a single day. Because Pinnacles is California’s newest national park, it’s still relatively unknown and receives far fewer visitors than other nearby parks. Being small, it’s also easy to explore. Just 90…

13 Entertaining Podcasts for your Next Outdoor Adventure – 2018 Edition

I love listening to podcasts during long road trips and while hiking. They are a great way to pass the time while also learning something new. Here is my list of the most entertaining podcasts that I listened to in 2018.

High Sierra Trail Trip Report

The High Sierra Trail is a 66-mile route that traverses the Sierra Nevada from east to west. Because the route crosses a mountain range, the two trailheads are actually six hours apart, making getting to and from the trail challenging! But despite the logistical challenges, the High Sierra Trail was well worth the trouble. Along…

Backpacking Gear List: What To Take For Overnight Backpacking

A good backpacking gear list is essential for every backpacker. However, the first time I went backpacking I had no idea what I was doing. I packed far more than necessary and ended up with a 45-pound pack. I cursed its weight with every foot I climbed while daydreaming about every item I would never…

Twelve Free Ways to Lower Your Pack Weight

A lightweight backpack makes a huge difference in the backcountry. With less weight on your back you can cover more distance in less time, decrease your chances of injury, and enjoy the hike more. But investing in the fanciest ultra-light backpacking gear can get expensive. So instead of dropping a ton of cash, check out…

High Sierra Trail – Backpacking Guide

The High Sierra Trail is an unforgettable backpacking route located in the southern Sierra Nevada. The impressive trail crosses the Sierra by traveling over the Great Western Divide and the Sierra Crest. Along the way, hikers are treated to excellent alpine scenery, backcountry hot springs, and an unforgettable ascent up Mount Whitney.

A hiker walks along a grassy singletrack trail on a cliff next to the ocean.

The Lost Coast Trail: Complete Backpacking Guide

The Lost Coast Trail travels along a stunning section of coastline within the King Range National Conservation Area. In this region the mountains end abruptly next to the sea creating a section of rugged coastline that feels cut off from the rest of the world. Backpackers who tackle this isolated 3-4 day trek will be rewarded…