Northbound Somewhere

“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.

My love for backpacking didn’t develop overnight—it was a slow, steady journey. Growing up in an archipelago of diverse landscapes, I spent a lot of time outdoors, but it wasn’t until I went on my first multi-day backpacking trip that something clicked. I still remember the weight of my pack (30+ lbs heavy), the quiet of the woods as the sun set, and the way the stars looked, brighter and more vivid than I’d ever seen beforee What began as a casual escape from the routine 9-5 quickly turned into something deeper. Each trip out into the backcountry taught me more—about myself, my trail family, the land, and the simple joy of being disconnected from the modern world. I learned to embrace the challenges, whether it was trudging up steep inclines, navigating tricky terrain, drinking from questionable water sources, or dealing with unpredictable weather. There’s something about carrying everything you need on your back that gives a sense of freedom unlike anything else. Over time, I started...

I’m excited to finally share this: In May 2025, I’ll be starting a northbound (NOBO) thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)! This journey will take me from the U.S.-Mexico border in California all the way to Canada, covering over 2,650 miles through deserts, mountains, and everything in between. I’ll be posting updates on my training, gear reviews, and prep progress. I’m thrilled to take you all along for the ride—virtually, at least! Your support, tips, and encouragement will mean the world as I prepare for this adventure of a lifetime. Make sure to follow this dirtbag on Instagram @ONGSKIES for regular updates and behind-the-scenes moments as I get ready to hit the trail!