Real survival knives don't look as sexy as the Rambo knives I loved as a kid - but they are far more useful in the backcountry. Here I review the Ontario Knife Company RAT-7 - and compare it to a couple other options including the legendary Esee 6. FULL VIDEO HERE!
A knife is one of the most useful tools in the backcountry, but they can be heavy and awkward to carry if you don't have the right one. Here I review my backpacking knife of choice - the Esee Izula II. FULL VIDEO HERE!
Often hailed as the most popular trail in Yosemite National Park, the Mist Trail / John Muir Trail loop includes beautiful views of Happy Isles, Illilouette Falls and cascades, close encounters with both Vernal and Nevada Falls, the idyllic Emerald Pool and Silver Apron, a vertical look from the base of Liberty Cap, Merced River … Continue reading Yosemite’s Mist / John Muir Trail Loop
Can you have too many backpacks? Is there any justification for owning multiple packs of the same type? You bet! FULL VIDEO HERE!
I like keeping a day pack ready to go at a moment's notice. It's easy enough to store my basics (gear minus food, water, and tech) in a small backpack and simply unload anything I don't need at the trailhead. Here I briefly go over my day hike loadout. FULL VIDEO HERE!
The Geigerrig RIG 700M is one of several small packs that come with the Geigerrig Hydration Engine - a pressurized bladder that does not rely on suction to deliver water and can even be used as a mini-shower!CLICK HERE FOR FULL VIDEO!
In my last video I showed you my one-day hike to the top of Half Dome Yosemite and back. Here I will show you the safety gear I used and discuss alternatives that might make for a better climb for you. FULL VIDEO HERE!
Like many hikers, Half Dome has been on my bucket list for some time. The first problem is that it requires a 17+ mile hike in addition to the climb - and if you don't get a wilderness permit on top of your Half Dome permit, you can't make it an overnight. The second problem … Continue reading Half Dome in a Whole Day
The Osprey Talon 22 has been widely hailed as one of the best day packs out there. I picked one up about a year ago and share my thoughts in this review. FULL VIDEO HERE!
Leavitt Meadows is just to one side of Sonora Pass California. It's a wild and beautiful area with several stunning mountain lakes. But - as I discovered - its trail system is sketchy in places. But if you're going to get "lost," this is a great place to do it! Join me on this fun … Continue reading Getting “Lost” in Leavitt Meadows
Backcountry Pilgrim 