Northbound Somewhere

The Osprey Eja 58 and the Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 are my current choices for my PCT endeavor. I listed a breakdown of specifications to determine how each will cater to slightly different hiking styles and preferences. Weight & Materials The Osprey Eja 58 weighs around 2.7 lbs (1.22 kg), made of high-tenacity nylon, which is durable but heavier. Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 weighs about 1.4 lbs (635 g), made of Gridstop fabric, which is ultralight but less abrasion-resistant than traditional nylon. For the win: Zpacks for ultralight hikers; Osprey for durability. Suspension & Comfort Osprey Eja 58 has an Airspeed mesh back panel, which keeps your back ventilated, and padded hip/shoulder straps, making it comfortable for heavier loads. Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 uses an adjustable arc frame for ventilation but has minimal padding on the straps and hip belt. It’s best for lighter loads. For the win: Osprey for comfort, especially with heavier loads; Zpacks for breathability with ultra...

Journaling on the trail allows me to connect with nature, capture its raw beauty, and reflect on my experiences during a hike or adventure. Whether I am trekking through rugged mountains, strolling along a quiet forest path, or hiking across desert landscapes, journaling deepens my connection to the environment and help me process the journey, both physically and mentally. The Perks for Journaling on the Trail: Mindfulness and Presence: Writing in a journal while on the trail encourages mindfulness—allows me to fully immerse myself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. The act of hiking my own hike forces me to be present, helping me absorb the beauty and serenity of the moment. Capturing the Moment: The outdoors is full of fleeting moments that can easily be forgotten, but journaling allows me to capture them. From the way the sunlight filters through the trees to the sound of a distant waterfall or the texture of moss on a rock, these small details bring my journey to life w...

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson 2024: A Year in Reflection As I look back on 2024, it’s clear this was a year of growth, challenges, and milestones. Here’s a recap of the moments that defined it: Highlights of the Year • Personal Growth: I stepped out of my comfort zone more than ever. From making uncomfortable decisions to building stronger connections, I made strides toward becoming a better version of myself. • PCT Preparation: This was a huge focus. Training hikes, gear research, and blogging about my journey all laid the groundwork for my upcoming thru-hike. • Community Connection: Whether through shared adventures or online discussions, I found a sense of belonging in groups and communities that align with my values and passions. Challenges Faced • Balancing Priorities: Juggling between work and health related issues have been a challenge. • Overcoming Dou...

“Light as a feather, tough as nails.” For ultralight enthusiasts and thru-hikers, finding the perfect shelter is a crucial part of the journey. The Zpacks Duplex has long been a favorite in the ultralight community, and after spending some time testing it, I understand why. Here’s my detailed review of this tent, broken down into key factors that matter on the trail. Specifications • Weight : ~17.9 oz (tent body) • Material : Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) • Setup : Requires two trekking poles or Duplex Free Standing Flex Kit (purchased separately) • Capacity : 2-person • Price : $699 Design & Setup Desolation Wilderness The Duplex is simplicity itself. It’s a single-wall, two-trekking-pole design that eliminates the need for traditional tent poles, saving weight and space in your pack. Setting it up takes just a few minutes, though I recommend practicing at home to perfect your tensioning. The learning curve is very minimal, and once you get it dialed in, the taut pitch withs...

When nature calls in the backcountry, sometimes she  really  calls—loud and clear. For those who’ve ventured into the wild, the prospect of “shitting in the woods” is less a topic of polite conversation and more an inevitable reality of life on the trail. While it may not be glamorous, let’s dig in (pun intended) and explore the do’s, don’ts, and the hilarity that ensues when nature takes its course in the most liberating way. Step One: Location, Location, Location When scouting a bathroom spot, you have to think like a real estate agent. Your prime poop property must be: 1. 200 feet from water sources – because “shit floats” and no one wants a “poo creek” situation. 2. Away from the trail – because surprising hikers with your bare buns is  not the type of trail magic anyone wants. 3. Flat and stable ground – slopes are for skiing, not squatting. Bonus points for a scenic view, because why not? Who says nature’s call can’t come with a little ambiance? You ever wonder h...

Twin Lakes - Desolation Wilderness The MSR Hubba Hubba Solo holds a special place in my gear collection—not just because it’s my first tent, but because it’s taught me so much about what to look for in a reliable shelter. Designed for solo hikers who value comfort, durability, and ease of use, this tent has been my trusty companion on early hiking adventures. Here’s an honest review based on my experience. Specs at a Glance Weight : 2 lbs 14 oz (trail weight) Setup : Freestanding Material : Ripstop nylon with Xtreme Shield waterproof coating Interior Dimensions : 85” x 30” floor space; 36” peak height Price : Around $450 What I Love About the MSR Hubba Hubba Solo Easy Setup  - The freestanding design is incredibly user-friendly, even for a beginner. Color-coded poles and clips make pitching straightforward and quick, which is a lifesaver after a long day of hiking. Spacious and Comfortable  - For a solo tent, the Hubba Hubba feels roomy. The 30-inch width provides enough space...

When it comes to hiking, especially long-distance treks like the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), the phrase “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear” couldn’t be more accurate. Weather is unpredictable and uncontrollable, but with the right equipment and mindset (of course), one can face almost any condition head-on. The PCT presents a wide variety of weather challenges, from the desert heat in Southern California to the snow-covered Sierras and the wet conditions of Washington. Preparing for these extremes means carefully selecting gear that can handle Since 2008, I have focused on building up my gear list for comfort in most conditions. I have tested gears to ensure they perform as expected. In the next week or two, I’ll be sharing some lowdowns and insights on the big 4 (pack, shelter, sleeping bag, sleeping pad) that I have collected & used overtime as a multi-day and section hiker.