Adventures

AdventuresGaia GPSHow-To

A Complete Intro to Bikepacking: How to Pack Your Bike & Plan Your Route

by Adrienne Schofhauser
written by Adrienne Schofhauser

If you enjoy both the excitement of biking and the solitude of backcountry camping, bikepacking offers a new thrilling way to explore wild places. With all of your gear packed strategically on your bike, you’ll cover more ground than you would backpacking, camp under the stars, and gain the skills for navigating a new type of adventure.

An evolution of bicycle touring, bikepacking travels along mostly backcountry singletrack and hiking trails, often using gravel paths, or fire roads to link them up. Bikepacking trips may be as simple as an overnighter in your local mountains or a multi-week international excursion. Because of the terrain, bikepacking gear setups tend to be lighter than those used for traditional bicycle touring, foregoing panniers for more streamlined solutions.

In this article, you’ll learn about bike options, how to pack your gear, and how to plan and navigate routes. This guide also covers tips for preparing your body and your bike for that first adventure, so you can focus on simply enjoying the scenery—and the descents.

Included in this guide:

  1. Bikes for bikepacking
  2. How to pack and carry your gear
  3. Essential camp gear & bike tools
  4. Best maps for bikepacking
  5. Preparing for your first bikepacking trip
  6. Bikepacking routes and resources

Bikes for Bikepacking

Just about any well-functioning mountain bike or touring bike with at least 2.4-inch wide knobby tires makes a suitable bikepacking option. If you’re just starting out, consider using the mountain bike you own—after all, you know you’re comfortable on it.

That said, certain bike styles do offer better experiences in backcountry terrain. In addition, frame material and components like gears and tires affect your ride.

Types of bikes

four bikepackers riding a gravel road in Colorado
WTF Bike Explorers ride through Routt National Forest, Colorado

To choose the right bike, consider the terrain you’ll be riding through. Does your route travel along mostly dirt roads or mountainous singletrack? Here are the main bike styles and where they excel.

  • Full suspension: Most popular for technical singletrack, these bikes feature suspension in both the fork and the “rear” of the bike. Suspension absorbs bumps, like rocks and roots, creating a smoother ride. But it adds weight and reduces pedaling efficiency. And though it’s rare, suspension forks and shocks can present issues—like leaking air—that can cause headaches in the backcountry.
  • Hardtail: These feature suspension in the fork only. Thus, they’re slightly lighter and offer greater pedaling efficiency on flat terrain, saving you energy. Yet they can be jarring on bumpy trails, which zaps energy. These bikes reign if your route is mostly double track, fire roads, or smooth singletrack.
  • Fully rigid: Best for pedaling efficiency and simplicity. For riders exploring mostly gravel paths, rigid bikes keep things simple. However, they’re likely too stiff to really enjoy any kind of backcountry singletrack.

Frame Materials

Frame materials influence your bike’s weight, price, and ride feel. Like anything, “ultralight” materials cost more. Fortunately, today’s mountain bikes weigh far less than their predecessors. (Besides, bikepacking isn’t always about distance, but rather the adventure.) The frame design plays a role in your experience, but here are general material guidelines.

  • Carbon fiber:
    • Pros: Ultralight.
    • Cons: Expensive. Slightly risky in rocky terrain, where a hard smash can crack the frame.
  • Aluminum:
    • Pros: Less expensive. More reliable than carbon in rocky backcountry terrain.
    • Cons: Generally heavier than carbon. A harsher ride feel.
  • Chromoly Steel:
    • Pros: Most durable. Typically the most affordable. Most plush ride feel.
    • Cons: “Heavy.” Limited offerings in full suspension.

Bike Components

After safe brakes, the drivetrain, tires and pedals impact your overall ride experience the most. Ultimately, the best bike is one that’s safely functioning, fit to you, and comfortable enough to spend long days in its saddle.

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  • Gears: Opt for easier gears to make pedaling your loaded bike less taxing, especially up climbs. Pedaling gets progressively easier with more large rings in the rear cassette and the more small chain rings up front.
  • Tires: Most modern mountain bike tires at least 2.4 inches or wider adequately handle backcountry terrain. In general, the wider the tire, the smoother ride. Those with more aggressive traction knobs require more effort to roll, but offer better grip.
  • Tubeless Tires: Tubeless tires shed weight and better resist punctures, making them popular. But they take extra effort to install.
  • Pedals: Choose between flats or “clipless.” Flat pedals allow you to get on and off your bike quickly, say for hike-a-bike sections. And flat shoes offer better traction for hiking. Clipping into your pedals (clipless) increases pedaling efficiency.

How to Pack and Carry your Gear

You want your bike as nimble as possible for bikepacking. This means strategically spreading out the weight of your gear while keeping most of it centered and low. Bikepacking-specific bags help you do just that. But if you’re starting out, you may opt for a more DIY approach using a day backpack and gear you already own.

Bike Bags and Gear-Carrying Options

LRG_DSC03322.JPG

Lightweight and tailored to specific places on a bike, bikepacking bags streamline gear carrying. This approach can ultimately make bikepacking more fun by improving how the laden bike handles.

  • Seat bags: Perfect for carrying soft, bulky gear. Seat bags take extra care to pack and attach in order to minimize sway below the seat. They’re available in five to about 15 liters and various levels of waterproof protection.
  • Handlebar systems: Two options: roll bag or harness. For mountain biking, roll bags provide a slimmer profile for better clearance when your suspension fork compresses. A harness offers maximum versatility for larger items, such as long tents.
    Frame pack: Finding the right frame pack to fit in your triangle takes a little finesse. Full-sized bags provide more volume but may interfere with a rear shock. Partial packs leave room for a water bottle cage beneath. Some packs feature organizational pockets.
  • DIY system: If you have a daypack and dry bags at home, you can bikepack. Place heavier gear in your day pack and lighter items in the bags that will go on the bike. Attach the bags to your handlebar and seat post with ski straps or bungees. Dangle things like a coffee cup or flip flops off any setup with a carabiner.

Additional Carrying Options

  • Stem bags offer easy-grab convenience for snacks, phones, and other small items.
  • Fork cages can carry larger water bottles or stove fuel on trips in less technical terrain; just ensure they don’t interfere with the stanchions on your suspension fork.
  • Small backpack provides another place for snacks, layers, sunglasses and water reservoirs. But keep it light—you have plenty of weight to maneuver.


Where to Place Gear on Your Bike

Smart packing leads to a safer, more enjoyable ride. Still, it may take a few trips to dial-in your system. Strive for a low center of gravity and evenly weighted handlebars and seat pack.

  • Light, bulky items go in your seat pack: Things like sleeping bags and clothing. If your seat bag is waterproof, pack your sleeping bag without its stuff sack.
  • Light, long items go in your handlebar roll: Items like tents, sleeping pads, and other larger gear. Take care to not over-pack your handlebars to maintain safe steering.
  • Heavy items go in your frame pack: Things like bike tools, stove, and fuel. Positioning most weight in the center of your bike increases stability.

Essential Camp Gear & Bike Tools

LRG_DSC05409.JPG

Space is at a premium on your bike. Prioritize compact gear—and the lighter, the better. Your current backpacking gear likely covers most bases. Fill in the gaps from there.

Camping Gear

  • Shelter: Tarps and bivy sacks certainly make the lightest, most compact options. Yet in buggy terrain or foul weather, you’ll likely want the protection of a minimalist, pack-small tent.
  • Sleeping bag / quilt: If conditions allow, a featherweight down quilt with an elastic foot box may be all the warmth you need, saving precious room in your pack.
  • Sleeping pad: Air mattresses offer greater comfort and roll up tighter, but require at least a ground cloth to prevent punctures. Closed-cell foam pads are bombproof, but offer far less cushion and may be too bulky for backcountry setups.
  • Stove: The lightest gas stoves weigh just a few ounces and fit in the palm of your hand. 4 oz. fuel canisters stow easily as well. Alcohol stoves remain your lightest and cleanest-burning option. They limit your cooking to water boiling, but they’re ideal if you won’t be passing any gear shops to refuel.
  • Water & water filter: Research water sources before your trip to help assess how much to carry each day, as well as the type of water filter to bring to combat contaminants you might encounter.
  • Clothing: Beyond your bike outfit, pack warm layers for camp and flip flops if you use clipless shoes. Pack multiple socks and underwear, but otherwise wear the same outfit every day.
  • Sunscreen & toiletries: Pack these as you would for any backcountry adventure. Just remember to Leave No Trace.
  • First aid kit: Biking in remote terrain increases the safety hazards. Adventure Medical Kits makes a wide array of great wilderness first aid kits. Include super glue, needle and thread, duct tape, and patches for your sleeping pad and tent fabric.
  • Don’t forget: Your headlamp, spare batteries and chargers, bear hang kit, sat device, and other essentials for minimalist backcountry camping.

Bike Tools

Preparing for every mechanical issue would require an entire workbench of tools. Instead, carry those that will triage most common issues—and that you know how to use. Again, consider the terrain. For example, in rocky terrain you might pack more spare tubes.

tire repair.jpeg
  • Spare tubes, tire plugs, tire levers & small pump: Rarely does one escape a backcountry trip without at least a few flat tires. Even if you run tubeless tires, carry spare tubes, as sharp terrain (and crashing) can rip the sidewall of your tire beyond repair with sealant or tire plugs. On longer trips, also carry a patch kit.
  • Bike multi-tool: Featuring multiple sizes of Allen wrenches, a multi-tool lets you tighten, adjust, remove, and replace most bits on your bike trailside. Ensure the sizes match your bike’s bolts. Choose one with a chain breaker.
  • Chain lube & wipe cloth: Lubing your chain each morning before your ride is one of the easiest ways to keep your bike running smoothly throughout your trip, especially if crossing streams.
  • Chain quick links: Chains break. Quick links allow you to use a spare length of chain to replace the broken section, quickly locking it in and getting you back in business.
  • Zip ties & ski straps: Your ultimate MacGyver gear. From taming unruly cables to providing bag tie-downs, these come in handy.
  • Also consider: Bike lights, spare brake pads, shock pump for full suspension bikes, spare derailleur hanger.

Best Maps for Bikepacking

Planning a bikepacking trip encourages you to get savvy about land use access and, you guessed it, terrain—because biking isn’t always possible where hiking is. Gaia GPS’s map catalog provides numerous planning and navigating resources, and a Premium membership gives you access to them all. Here are the most helpful maps for bikepackers, along with some pointers for building your route.

Satellite Topo Base Map: This topo-and-satellite hybrid makes an excellent base map for bikepackers, who need to really visualize the terrain. It places the contour lines of Gaia’s Topo map over ESRI world satellite imagery. Use the topo lines to calculate elevation and the satellite imagery to see terrain features such as forests and open areas.

Ensure you know how to read topo maps.

Wilderness Map Overlay: Bikes aren’t allowed in designated Wilderness zones. This overlay lets you pinpoint Wilderness boundaries and ensure that your route avoids them. Find this map under the Feature/Weather Overlay option.

USFS Recreation Sites Map: Quickly find bike-friendly trails and campgrounds along your route. This overlay highlights U.S. Forest Service campgrounds, trailheads, visitor centers, and land-use access through an easy-to-read legend. Find it under the Feature/Weather Overlay option.

24- and 72-Hour Weather Forecast Overlays: In addition to the 48-hour Precip Overlay, Gaia GPS includes 24- and 72-hour Forecast Overlays. Pack the right gear for the forecast with these options that you can display over your favorite base maps. Sourced from NOAA data.

Wildfire Overlay: Dodge road closures, avoid burn scars, and find views unobscured by smoke using the Wildfires (current) and Wildfires (satellite) maps, now free for all Gaia GPS users.

Finally, find free camping spots using the Public Lands Overlay—and sleep soundly knowing you’re not trespassing.

Building Your Route

Blog_Feature (Robyn Martin

Once you know where you want go, use the Gaia app or Gaiagps.com to build your route and add waypoints with helpful info along the way.

  1. Create a route in Gaia: This step-by-step video tutorial guides you through the process. Start with your preferred base map. Then add overlays, such as those mentioned above, to increase your knowledge of an area. Or, import GPX files: If you find GPX files for routes online, import them into your phone. Here’s how to do it for iOS, Android, and at gaiagps.com.
  2. Drop waypoints: Mark water sources, camping spots, trail junctures, and other key points. Tag them with symbols and color-coding, and add notes. Here’s how in iOS and Android.
  3. Download your map: Ensure you do this while in cell service in order to access your map offline.

Preparing for Your First Bikepacking Trip

With your bike, gear, maps and routes, you’re nearly there. But before you pedal out into the great unknown, be sure you and your setup are dialed. Here’s a checklist to help.

  • Gain the fitness and sit bones you need by doing longer rides in the months prior.
  • Give your bike a safety tune-up yourself or take it to your local shop.
  • Learn how to do trailside repairs.
  • Practice packing your gear to dial-in your system.
  • Ride your bike fully loaded to experience its handling; consider doing a single night adventure to test your setup.
  • Get current beta on the zones through which you’ll be traveling via ranger stations and trip reports.
  • Download (and print out) your Gaia GPS maps!

Bikepacking Routes and Resources

Multi-night mountain biking has soared in popularity, and with it the resources and inspiration to plan an amazing trip. Here are a few places to start.

  • Find routes: Bikepacking.com, Bikepacking Roots and pinkbike.com (search bikepacking) offer a goldmine of routes, stories, images, and sometimes the GPX files to kick off your journey. Also use these sites to indulge in bike and gear nerdery.
  • Dip your toes in: Catered adventures, such as those in Canada’s Chilcotins, allow you to give bikepacking a try without carrying all of your overnight gear or hassle with cooking for yourself each night.
  • Get social: Tap into communities on Facebook for everything from gear setups to adventure ideas.
  • Get to know the popular trails: This article highlights some classic routes.
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A hiker walks over a ridge with a snowcapped peak in the distance.
AdventuresGaia GPS

Record a Track to “Crush it 4 Climate”

by Abby Levene
written by Abby Levene

Whether you cherish skiing the perfect line, hiking up to breathtaking views, or overlanding through enchanting desert planes, we share common ground. We are united in our love of the world around us. And we can come together to protect these places we love to play.

This March, hundreds of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts are joining forces for our planet. We are proud to stand alongside climate change nonprofit Protect Our Winters as it brings recreationists of all types and creeds together to advance non-partisan policies that protect our world today and for future generations. Together, this “Outdoor State” — the symbolic collection of folks from all across the country who love recreating outside — holds collective bargaining power that any individual could never attain.

You can join the Outdoor State by participating in POW’s month-long “Crush It 4 Climate” campaign. The goal is simple: get outside for a chance to win a slew of incredible prizes — including a free Premium Membership from Gaia GPS! From finding new hikes, to navigating in the backcountry, to recording your adventures, Gaia GPS helps people explore and stay safe in the backcountry.

Over here at Gaia GPS, we are joining the “Crush it 4 Climate” campaign by getting outside and recording a track of that activity. Yes, it’s that easy! Here’s how you can join us:

“Crush It 4 Climate”

Five skiers skin up a ski slope.
Lap 2 of 20. Photo: Ramsay De Give

The beauty of the “Crush it 4 Climate” challenge is anyone can participate. There is no one “right way” to “crush it for climate.” Gaia GPS writer and editor Abby Levene (who also happens to be on the POW Athlete Alliance) climbed the equivalent of Mount Everest (29,032 feet) on skis.

On March 10, Abby and a couple other POW athletes set off into the pre-dawn darkness and skinned up Ski Santa Fe. Once they reached the summit, which tops out at over 12,000’, they skied back down and started climbing back up again. They repeated that 20 times, for a total of 15 hours and 40 minutes.

“While skinning up and skiing down a ski resort 20 times is not the same thing as scaling the world’s highest peak, it filled me with wonder over the magnitude of both Everest and earth at large,” Abby says. “When I finally reached the equivalent of the highest point on the planet, I was exhausted and depleted. But I was also filled with immense gratitude and respect. From the backyard to places as far away as Everest, the world is so beautiful and vast. Plus, what a privilege to get to spend the whole day outside doing something I love! In my opinion, there’s no greater motivator to want to help save our home planet than to go play on it.”

You can see Abby’s “Everesting” track here.

Screenshot of Gaia GPS tracks from Abby's "Everesting."
Abby’s track from ski “Everesting.”

You certainly do not need to do something as extreme as Abby! Round up your family for a walk around the neighborhood or go hike that trail that’s been on your bucket list for ages. If you get outside this month, you are taking action for our planet. And while you’re out there, record your activity in Gaia GPS so you can share it with friends and encourage them to get outside, too.

Record a Track in Gaia GPS

Two people look at Gaia on their phone while gazing at mountains in the background.

To record a track of your activity, first you will need to download Gaia GPS onto your phone. When you’re ready to start your adventure, open the app.

Next, tap the “Record” button on the top left of your screen. If you don’t see the “Record” button, you can add it by following these directions. Or you can simply tap the circle with the “+” in the middle (top right of your screen). From the menu that pops up, tap “Record a Track” (first option). You’re ready to hit the trail!

When you’re done with your activity, simply tap the timer on the top left of your screen. Select “Finish Track.” Alternatively, once again press the circle with the “+” in the middle. Hit “Finish Track.”

From here, you’ll be able to view your track, including all the stats like distance traveled, elevation gain, and time elapsed. You can also give your track a name, and make your track visible to the public if you wish.

Create a Free
Gaia GPS Account

Join the Outdoor State

Four skiers stand in the darkness in a line with their headlamps on. They are smiling for the camera.
The calm before 29,032′. Photo: Ramsay De Give

Once you’ve recorded your track, you’re ready to join the Outdoor State! Share your track with your friends and family to encourage them to get outside, too. Then simply click the button below:

Crush It 4 Climate,
Win Prizes

Bonus: we want to see how you are “crushing it for climate!” Share your tracks on social media, along with the hashtag #CrushIt4Climate and tag @GaiaGPS in your post. One more lucky winner will receive a free Premium membership. The Crush It 4 Climate campaign ends on March 31, so get outside over the next week and share those tracks. We look forward to joining you outside!

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Smithwick shoulders his skis while wearing a helmet and reflective googles.
AdventuresBackcountry SkiingGaia GPSOut and Back PodcastUser Profiles

Backcountry Skiing in the Himalayas with Mountain Guide Luke Smithwick

by Mary Cochenour
written by Mary Cochenour

How to listen: iTunes | Google Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | RadioPublic | Breaker | Castbox

Get up to 50% off
Gaia GPS

In this episode of the Out and Back podcast, Shanty and Mary catch up with Luke Smithwick — one of the most prolific ski mountaineers and guides in the world. Smithwick is 200 lines deep into his Himalaya 500 skiing project — a mission to highlight 500 of the most unique and beautiful backcountry runs on the world’s highest mountains. With more than 75 Himalayan mountain expeditions to his name, Smithwick unravels the mystery of skiing in places like Tibet, India, and Nepal.

“It’s truly a Wild West. It’s just very remote. We take several flights to get out there from Katmandu and then we go with horses up to the snow line,” Smithwick says of one of his expeditions in the Himalaya. “The skiing starts at around 11,000 feet and goes up to 18,000 or 19,000 feet. The snow is really good. And I just love the people out there. It’s like a different world.”

Smithwick explains why the Himalayas could become the next all-time backcountry ski destination. Tune in to find out what it takes to get on one of Smithwick’s guided Himalayan ski mountaineering trips, learn about his mission to ski 500 classic Himalayan descents, and get his take on the best zones in this colossal mountain range.

Learn more about Smithwick on his personal Instagram page or his Himalaya 500 page. Check out all the 2021 skiing and climbing expeditions that Smithwick plans to offer through his company Himalaya Alpine Guides.

Episode Highlights: A Ski Tour of the Himalayas with Luke Smithwick

3:00: Smithwick describes how he uses Gaia GPS to navigate in the Himalayas.
5:50: Learn why you might not have heard about Smithwick before. Hint: he’s been too busy skiing and climbing.
7:50: Smithwick has racked up 70 to 80 expeditions in the Himalaya over the last two decades.
8:30: Luke climbed Everest in 2011, but find out why he’s not focused on the classics.
9:40: The Himalaya 500 project highlights beautiful skiing with hopes to bring more people to the range in winter. The 500 lines get into everything from steep couloirs to glades, and the snow can be light and deep.
15:00: The Himalayas could become the next backcountry ski destination — Luke says it really is that good.
17:50: There are only a handful of ski areas with lifts in this giant mountain range.
20:00: The experiences with the different cultures along the way really become the best part of the trip to the Himalayas.
22:10: Hear how Smithwick got hooked on these massive mountains.
25:00: Smithwick explains local customs and how to be a respectful traveler through these Himalayan mountain communities.
33:00: COVID brought Smithwick back to the United States, and he’s settled down in Idaho, near Jackson Hole — and he even got a Husky!
39:00: The hearty local people draw Smithwick back to the Himalayas.
41:00: Smithwick says the effects of climate change have taken hold of these smaller communities and he describes the impacts.
47:00: Take a ski tour in the Himalayas with Luke Smithwick; all you have to do is sign up.

Special Valentine’s Day Episode: How the Outdoors Saved a Marriage

Necota and Sonya hold hands while walking on a leaf-covered trail in the forest.

A decade into marriage, Sonya and Necota Staples hit a crossroads. They needed to learn how to communicate better — or risk their relationship entirely. The couple stepped outside their comfort zone and turned to the outdoors. Fresh air was all that was needed to put them into an entirely new and better place in their relationship.

“Camping and off-roading were really almost the antitheses of the lifestyle that we were leading,” Necota says. “There’s nothing wrong with art and going to galleries and things like that. We still love those things. But going camping and off-roading allowed us to explore something different and be able to see each other within our relationship in a completely different way.”

Tune in next week for this special Valentine’s Day episode of the Out and Back podcast. Hosts Shanty and Abby get the Staples’ full story about how “glamping” and overlanding outside their home city of Atlanta and beyond saved the Staples’ marriage. Sonya and Necota share their heart-warming story while also passing along insight to couples looking to strengthen their own relationships. The Staples dig into how they combine their love for “the finer things in life” with nature, and their passion for bringing the outdoors to communities that may feel like they don’t belong there.

The Staples share their lighthearted yet honest tribulations and triumphs on their website Staples InTents, youtube channel Staples InTents, and Instagram handles StaplesInTents and BlackPeopleOffroad.

Last Episode: Backcountry Ski Gear with Big Mountain Skier Sophia Schwartz and Sean McCoy from GearJunkie

A skier stands at the top of an icy couloir.

If you’re wondering what kind of backcountry ski gear to buy this season, you’ll want to listen to our last show with big mountain skier Sophia Schwartz and Sean McCoy, editorial director of GearJunkie. A multiple top-ten World Cup finisher and the 2013 U.S. Freestyle champion, Schwartz begins the episode describing her transition from the mogul course to the backcountry glades and couloirs. Her gear, she says, was less than optimal. She’s learned a lot since.

Schwartz teams up with McCoy to chat about what’s good in the world of backcountry ski gear. They discuss everything from avalanche airbags to climbing skins to repair kits. Tune in to find out which boot they both love to ski at the resort and in the backcountry.

Watch Sophia Schwartz’s new movie Jack of All Trades to see her master a double backflip, take on Jackson Hole’s super steep “Trifecta,” and shred the Grand Teton. You can also follow Schwartz on Instagram to get a sense of what’s going down in the backcountry around her hometown of Jackson, Wyoming.

Meet the Hosts

Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin

In 2019, host Andrew Baldwin completed a southbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. After five months on the trail, Baldwin returned home to pursue a career in voice acting. A friend of the Gaia GPS company, Baldwin was a natural choice for hosting the Out and Back podcast.

In each Out and Back episode, Shanty strives to bring you conversations with people who spend an extraordinary amount of time outdoors. Listen in as Shanty taps into each backcountry expert’s superpower so that you can take their knowledge and experience with you on your next adventure.

Mary Cochenour

Mary smiles while lying down and resting her head on a rock. She's wearing a purple jacket, gloves, and a black buff around her ears.

Mary is the Out and Back podcast producer and a writer and editor at Gaia GPS. Before joining Gaia GPS, Mary worked as a lawyer, newspaper journalist, ski patroller, Grand Canyon river guide, and USFS wilderness ranger.

When she is not in the office, Mary works as a guide for Andrew Skurka Adventures in wild places around the west, like Rocky Mountain National Park, Yosemite, and the Brooks Range in Alaska. See some of Mary’s adventures on Instagram. Also, read her tips on how to plan your first solo backpacking trip and listen to her scary story about being stalked in the wilderness by a sketchy man.

Abby Levene

Abby smiles through a face caked in snow and ice.

When she’s not busy writing and editing content for Gaia GPS, Abby Levene can be found trail running, biking, and skiing around her hometown of Boulder, Colorado. In 2017, Abby broke her wrist eight miles into her second ultra. She went on to win the race, and has been hooked on the sport since. She’s passionate about using her graduate education in environmental journalism and her love for playing outside to tell stories about the issues, people, and places of the outdoors.

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screenshot of route planning in the Wind River Range in Wyoming.
AdventuresFeaturedGaia GPSHikesHow-To

How To Plan a Route on gaiagps.com: Exclusive Tutorial

by Julien Friedland
written by Julien Friedland

In this first-ever Gaia GPS webinar, our Gaia GPS expert walks you through how to plan and build a multi-day backpacking route using the web map and tools on gaiagps.com. This in-depth 30-minute live webinar was an invite-only lesson that sold out within minutes and we’re excited to share it with you now. Always have a plan before you head into the backcountry with the best tools in trip planning.

How to Plan a Multi-Day Route Webinar

Learn how to use the Gaia GPS web map, drop waypoints, and create routes. Save all of your route planning in one shareable folder for offline use. You’ll also come away with a deep understanding of the web map tools, different route creation options, and where to find key details about your hike.

To help you find the most relevant pieces of the webinar, reference the time stamps below and skip ahead.

  • 4:21 – webinar overview, find out what type of trip you’re planning
  • 5:25 – how to use the web map and sidebar tools
  • 12:12 – creating waypoints
  • 14:40 – creating routes, linking multiple days on the trail
  • 19:40 – using and editing snap-to trail function
  • 23:24 – editing your route to go off-trail
  • 25:55 – using different map layers to pick your off-trail route
  • 34:04 – sharing your route with a friend

Before you head out, make sure you check out more tips for planning your trip, including how to choose your destination, what to pack, and the hazards you might encounter along the way. For more tutorials on using the Gaia GPS app, visit Visit youtube.com/gaiagps.

To access the entire Gaia GPS map collection and to download your maps for offline use and save your routes, get a Gaia GPS Premium Membership. You can save up when you purchase on gaiagps.com

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Mary smiles for the camera while backpacking through the alpine.
AdventuresGaia GPSOut and Back Podcast

Solo Backpacking with a Stalker

by Mary Cochenour
written by Mary Cochenour

How to listen: iTunes | Google Play | Spotify | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | RadioPublic | Breaker | Castbox

Get up to 50% off
Gaia GPS

When Mary Cochenour became a wilderness ranger, she was forced to conquer her fear of solo backpacking. It took some time but with a lot of practice, Mary eventually grew comfortable camping alone in the woods. That is, until she realized she wasn’t alone after all. A man had been stalking Mary even in the farthest corners of the wilderness.

Tune in to this week’s episode of the Out and Back podcast as Mary tells a thrilling tale about her early days as a wilderness ranger in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Hear about her first night spent alone in the wilderness and what happened months later when she discovered that a man had been following her around the backcountry.

Mary smiles while lying down with her head on a rock.

“It maybe was Sunday night and the weekend crowds were gone,” Mary recounts. “I felt really isolated there. And I was sprawled out on the granite slab. I took off my shoes and was watching the sun fade. All of a sudden I could hear footsteps coming up behind me.”

Mary reveals how this sketchy incident inspired her to keep backpacking solo and how she drew on this experience when working with victims as a violent crimes prosecutor in Montana. This story, although gripping at times, reminds us that sometimes you have to face your fears head on to finally overcome them.

Mary draws on her storytelling experience as a former journalist and trial lawyer to give you a narrative account of this unnerving event. We are excited to introduce you to Mary because she is the Out and Back podcast producer and a writer and editor at Gaia GPS. When she is not in the office, Mary works as a guide for Andrew Skurka Adventures in wild places around the west, like Rocky Mountain National Park, Yosemite, and the Brooks Range in Alaska.

Learn more about Mary on Instagram. Read Mary’s bio on Gaia GPS’s team page and view her hiking credentials on Andrew Skurka’s guide roster. Also, read her tips on how to plan your first solo backpacking trip.

A backpacker hikes down a trail through a meadow, towards tall peaks on the horizon.

Episode Highlights: Solo Backpacking with a Stalker

3:00: Mary did not grow up in an outdoor family. She grew up in the Detroit area.
4:25: Even in the suburbs, Mary was drawn to the outdoors.
7:30: Mary’s sister dropped her off at Lake Tahoe when she was 17 so she could pursue outdoor jobs.
9:40: Mary lands her dream job as a wilderness ranger in the Desolation Wilderness on the western crest of Lake Tahoe Basin.
11:00: There was one major problem: Mary had never solo backpacked before!
12:20: Mary’s first night out in the wilderness alone.
15:50: Mary became the resident expert in Desolation and finally got comfortable solo backpacking.
17:15: Mary meets Carl at the 90-foot wall, a popular climbing crag in Emerald Bay.
19:20: Mary runs into Carl in the backcountry.
21:00: Carl shows up at Mary’s house.
23:45: Underwear goes missing.
26:10: Mary is camping at her favorite backcountry campsite and Carl approaches.
27:15: Mary freezes.
32:26: Mary is constantly looking over her shoulder for Carl.
32:50: Mary sees Carl again on the trail.
34:00: Mary was mad at Carl for interrupting her dream job in the wilderness. She decided to stay in Desolation Wilderness and was mentally and physically ready to confront Carl if she saw him again.
39:00: Mary understands victims of violent crime and how they could freeze in the middle of an assault.
43:10: Solo backpacking is magical and a cathartic way for Mary to sort out issues.

Next Episode: Join Adventurers Fidgit and Neon on Their Epic Journey Across the Americas

Fidgit (left) and Neon (right) pose for the camera decked out in their thru-hiking setups. Big leafy trees tower behind them.

Next week, we catch up with world adventurers Bethany “Fidgit” Hughes and Lauren “Neon” Reed for an update on their journey across the Americas. Hughes and Reed have spent the last five years hiking, biking, and paddling their way across South and Central America, Mexico, and the United States on their non-motorized journey across the Americas. The long-distance hikers are hunkered down in the States waiting for Covid to subside before finishing off their adventure in the northern most part of the continent.

Hughes and Reed first met during their Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike in 2010, where they earned their trail names Fidgit and Neon, respectively. After Hughes completed her PCT thru-hike, she took a stab at conventional city life. She lived in a house, got a car, and landed a management position in an accounting office. But the pull of adventure tugged hard at Hughes’ heartstrings.

While sitting in a traffic jam, she became inspired by the book Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. From that, Hughes imagined “a human-powered traverse of the Americas, connecting the stories of the land and its inhabitants” and she dubbed the adventure “Her Odyssey.”

Hughes enlisted Reed to join the journey, acknowledging that their different personalities complement one another. Reed described their personalities with a Venn diagram.

“I usually lean towards the logical side,” Reed says. “And Fidgit is usually leaning towards the emotional side. We pull each other towards the center in a lot of ways.”

In this episode, Hughes and Reed discuss how they traveled through the wilderness in foreign countries, their incredible and heartwarming interactions with the locals they met along the way, and some tips for treading lightly through indigenous regions and cultures. We also hear about their safety plans and how their contrasting personalities serve their expedition mission in equal but different ways. Don’t miss this episode if you want to learn about getting off the tourist path in South and Central America.

Learn more about Fidgit, Neon, and Her Odyssey on their website. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook. Support their mission, or just simply buy them a meal, on Patreon.

Last Episode: Ultralight Backpacking Meals with Backcountry Foodie

Check out our last episode on ultralight backpacking meals. In 2017, registered dietitian Aaron Owens Mayhew quit her job to hike the PCT. The only catch: she hated eating — and hated paying for — freeze-dried meals. Worse yet, Owens Mayhew was horrified by the typical thru-hiker diet of Pop Tarts, Spam singles, and mac and cheese. So she put on her culinary thinking cap and created her own nutritious and delicious menu. Her PCT thru-hike didn’t go as planned, but Backcountry Foodie was born.

In episode 11 of the Out and Back podcast, Owens Mayhew shares stories from her two decades of backpacking and the behind the scenes of how she created her popular backpacking food site and meal planning service. She also shares how you can cut down on food weight while eating healthier and delicious meals on the trail.

Tell Us Your Story: Have You Ever Been Lost?

Have a great story about getting lost in the woods? Shoot us an email at media@gaiagps.com for a chance to be featured on the Out and Back podcast.

Tell us in 500 words or less how and where you got lost and what you did to get yourself out of trouble. Bonus points for humorous narratives and tales with surprise endings.

In addition to a podcast interview, the winner will receive free Gaia GPS swag and a Gaia GPS premium membership to help keep from getting lost on the next adventure.

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Kevin, Sarah, and their daughter Caroline smile at the camera
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Shift Gears Today with Lifestyle Overland on the Out and Back Podcast, Episode 5

by Mary Cochenour
written by Mary Cochenour

How to listen: iTunes | Google Play | Spotify | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | RadioPublic | Breaker | Castbox

Take a ride with Lifestyle Overland’s Kevin and Sarah McCuiston today in Out and Back podcast’s episode 5. Known for their full-time overlanding adventures, the McCuistons casually stepped into the sport when they were “looking for something to do” in rural New Mexico. Surrounded by public lands and sprawling open space, the couple quickly became obsessed with the freedom they felt on the backroads. They loved overlanding so much that they ditched the traditional 9-to-5 grind and took up residence on America’s lesser known trails, almost instantly becoming famous for their travels to wild places in their Toyota 4Runner “Silver.”

Lifestyle Overland's silver Toyota 4Runner and trailer parked in front of the Arctic Ocean sign.

You won’t want to miss this episode as Kevin and Sarah discuss their transition from conventional life to full-time overlanding, taking up a nomadic life with their young daughter Caroline in tow. They talk about the nearly 800-mile Enchanted Rockies Trail they created in the beginning of their overlanding career and their northern trip through Canada, Alaska, and beyond the Arctic Circle. Of course, like any good overlander, the McCuistons dive into the details of their rig, explaining why they chose a Toyota 4Runner instead of the vehicle they thought they wanted. Sarah gives her tips for traveling long distance with a toddler and Kevin talks about their favorite meal out on the road. Together, they explain how to break into the sport of overlanding by seeking out trips on local trails and using the 4WD vehicle you already own.

Learn more about Lifestyle Overland in episode 5 of the Out and Back podcast. Follow the McCuistons on their Lifestyle Overland Instagram page, YouTube channel, and listen to their brand new podcast Campfire Confessions. You can also join Lifestyle Overland on Patreon to get exclusive content.

A silver 4Runner and a roof-top tent camped in a valley overlooking the toe of a glacier, mountains in background

Episode 5 Highlights: Lifestyle Overland Tours the West

02:50 – Introduction to Kevin and Sarah
4:32: Regular life before becoming Lifestyle Overland
8: 25: Kevin and Sarah describe the difference between overlanding, wheeling, and crawling.
11:10 – Getting their first rig, and why they’re not traveling in it right now
14:00 – Why they decided to purchase a Toyota 4Runner instead of the vehicle they thought they wanted
16:40 — How their rig “Silver” came to be.
17:40 – Making the transition to FULL-TIME overlanding
19:00 – How their YouTube channel “Lifestyle Overland” unintentionally became a hit
23:10 – Taking it next level to full-time overlanding
29:15 – Advice for basic vehicle maintenance/modification understanding prior to getting into overlanding
31:10 – Who drives the 4Runner most of the time? It’s not Kevin!
33:05 – Vehicle care and maintenance
36:12 – How they use Gaia GPS to plan their adventures
36:52 – How the McCuistons keep their young daughter Caroline entertained on the road without screens
40:50 – What Lifestyle Overland is doing during COVID-19 restrictions
44:50 – The Enchanted Rockies Trail, Lifestyle Overland’s perfect long-distance route for beginners
49:08 – The North Country Loop — from the Grand Canyon to as far north as you can drive in Alaska
51:00 – Favorite places to travel
54:00 – Advice for people wanting to get into overlanding
55:40 – The basic gear you need to start overlanding.
58:10 – Favorite camp food
58:55 – Craziest scenario they’ve ever been in
1:00:10 – If they could anywhere right now, where would it be?
1:00:45 – Where to find the best cinnamon rolls in the world!

Next Episode: Adventure Alan Dixon Ditches the Gear Spreadsheet and Explores the Deeper Meaning of Hiking

Adventure Alan Dixon wearing a backpack and holding trekking poles and smiling at the camera

Episode 6 of the Out and Back podcast brings a deep conversation with Adventure Alan Dixon, who inspires all of us to put “two feet on the trail” and get out there.

A trailblazer of ultralight backpacking and author of one of the most popular and comprehensive backpacking websites, Dixon is widely known for his spec-heavy, detail-oriented backpacking gear reviews and expert advice on all things backcountry. But in this interview, Dixon leaves behind his engineer background and the spreadsheets of grams and ounces to show us a more vulnerable side.

Dixon recounts one of the most harrowing mishaps of his outdoor career, bringing him to hallucinations and the brink of death. He talks about the “controlled chaos” of his upbringing that made him love high adventure in the outdoors. Although an early adopter of the most extreme versions of ultralight backpacking, Dixon tells us that you don’t need to wait until you have the perfect gear or are in better shape or get moving on the trail. He says there is no better time than now to get on the trail and start hiking.

Tune in to episode 6 to learn more about Adventure Alan’s backpacking philosophy, including the one thing you need to leave behind in order to lighten the load in your pack. Check out his website at www.adventurealan.com and follow him on his Facebook or Instagram accounts to tap into his gear reviews, backpacking trip reports, and expert backpacking tips.

Last Episode: the Blackalachian, Daniel White Talks about How Adversity Fuels His Fire to Keep Moving

the Blackalachian Daniel White giving the peace sign and smiling at the camera, wearing a backpack with green hills in background

It’s not too late to go back and check out the last episode of the Out and Back podcast with Blue Ridge Outdoors 2020 Hiker of the Year Daniel White. Known as the Blackalachian in the outdoor community, White tackled his first thru-hike in 2017 when he turned to the Appalachian Trail to get away from a bad break up and burn out at his job.

The AT left White craving a more culturally significant experience and he turned his focus to the Underground Railroad Trail. After teaching himself how to bikepack, the Blackalachian set off on a powerful experience that took him from Alabama to Canada, retracing the secret routes that slaves took in 19th century to seek freedom in the north. After that epic adventure, White jumped the Atlantic to hike across Scotland and complete the Camino del Norte, a pilgrimage journey along the northern coast of Spain.

White takes us through his unique trips and tells us what its like being only one of two Black thru-hikers he saw on the trail during his AT hike. He also describes instances of racism on the trail and gives insight into why the outdoors can feel like an unwelcoming place to Black people. Tap into the Blackalachian’s YouTube channel to learn more about his trips. Get exclusive content from the Blackalachian on Patreon. Follow the Blackalachian on Instagram and Facebook.

Meet the Host: Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin

the host of the podcast Andrew Baldwin wearing an orange hat and blue jacket with a frosty beard, smiling

In 2019, host Andrew Baldwin completed a southbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. After five months on the trail, Baldwin returned home to pursue a career in voice acting. A friend of the Gaia GPS company, Baldwin was a natural choice for hosting the Out and Back podcast.

In each Out and Back episode, Shanty strives to bring you conversations with people who spend an extraordinary amount of time outdoors. Listen in as Shanty taps into each backcountry expert’s superpower so that you can take their knowledge and experience with you on your next adventure.

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The Out and Back Podcast, Episode 4 with Daniel “The Blackalachian” White

by Mary Cochenour
written by Mary Cochenour

How to listen: iTunes | Google Play | Spotify | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | RadioPublic | Breaker | Castbox

Episode 4 of the Out and Back podcast drops today with Blue Ridge Outdoors 2020 Hiker of the Year Daniel White. Known as the Blackalachian in the outdoor community, White tackled his first thru-hike in 2017 when he turned to the Appalachian Trail to get away from a bad break up and burn out at his job. Having never been hiking or camping before, White planned to walk for two months and return home to North Carolina. But when the time came to quit, White felt compelled to move forward and he finished the 2,190-mile trail in six months.

Along the way, White found peace and friendship. But as one of only two Black thru-hikers he saw on the trail that year, White also endured racism. In the end, the AT left White searching for a more culturally infused experience. The next year he learned everything about bike touring and set off on the Underground Railroad Trail — a 2,000-plus-mile journey retracing the secret route that led Black slaves to freedom in the early-to-mid 19th century.

In this episode, White recounts the ups and downs of his AT completion, opening up about a racist encounter at his camp near the Mason-Dixon line on the AT. He takes us through his “powerful” ride on the Underground Railroad Trail, and his trips to Europe last year, where he hiked across Scotland and completed the Camino Del Norte in Spain. Fueled by both adversity and kindness from the people he met along the way, White’s drive for solo adventure shines through in this interview.

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Episode 4: Blue Ridge Outdoors Hiker of the Year, the Blackalachian

The first night Daniel White ever spent in his tent was on the first night of his 2,190-mile thru-hike of Appalachian Trail.

With brand new gear, heaps of YouTube knowledge and his new trail name, the Blackalachian, White steadily pushed north on the AT. The miles came easy. He learned that he could rely on his gear, hike farther each day than he planned, and that he was terrified of owls. Meeting all kinds of people along the way, White found a group of hikers that he clicked with and his trail family formed within days of starting the hike.

“It was love — instant,” White said of his AT experience.

But as he made his way north, White noticed that he was one of only two Black thru-hikers that he saw on the trail that year.
Just as in life back home, White endured racism on the trail. White encountered mostly micro-aggressions, the kind that White said he’s used to having to deal with on the regular. In one encounter, he felt physically threatened when a group of White men with dogs circled his camp near the Mason-Dixon line, forcing him and his hiking partner to break camp and walk through the night to safety.

“It only motivated me more, because I know you don’t want me here in this area and I’m not going anywhere,” White said. “I’m going to use that as fuel and fire to keep pushing.”

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Finishing the AT only left White wanting more time outside, but he wasn’t about to pursue the Pacific Crest Trail or the Continental Divide Trail, the obvious path of most dedicated thru-hikers. Instead, White searched for a historical and culturally significant experience. Since then he has kept his roster full of unique adventures, including bike touring from Alabama to Canada on the Underground Railroad Trail, hiking across Scotland, and trekking the Camino Del Norte, a pilgrimage route along the Northern Coast of Spain.

Never one to shy away from learning a new sport or entering unfamiliar terrain, the Blackalachian let’s us in on what fueled his AT trip, how he prepared for the journey, and why he bucked the trend and opted for a bike tour on the Underground Railroad instead of thru-hiking the triple crown. He talks about the dangers he’s encountered out in the world, including being hit by a car on his bicycle.

The Blackalachian gives his opinion on why Black people are underrepresented in the outdoors and what society can do to change the tide, making the outdoors more welcoming in the future. He reminds listeners that the outdoors are for everyone, and that the journey is best when shared with the friendly people you meet along the way.

You won’t want to miss this inspiring talk with White, who has become a powerful role model and inspiration to people everywhere, and especially to Black people and other under-represented groups in the outdoors. Plus find out what new sport the Blackalchian is training for right now. This one involves a boat. Also, you will never guess what his favorite piece of gear is. Listen in to find out.

Tap into the Blackalachian’s YouTube channel to learn more about his trips. Get exclusive content from the Blackalachian on Patreon. Follow the Blackalachian on Instagram and Facebook.

Highlights with the Blackalachian

7:08: White talks about what drove him to the Appalachian Trail.
9:06: How White prepared for the trail even though he had no backpacking or camping experience.
11:46: White describes his first days on the trail.
17:43 Learn why Maine was White’s favorite state on the AT.
19:23: White recounts meeting the only other Black thru-hiker during his trip.
21:08 White describes a racist encounter when group of White men with dogs surround White’s camp near the Mason-Dixon line, forcing him to pack up and hike through the night to safety,
23:36: White taps into adversity and uses it as fuel to accomplish his goals.
24:30: How White ended up taking up bicycle touring to pedal the Underground Railroad Trail.
26:03: Daniel describes the powerful experience of visiting places where slaves hid in their journey north to freedom in the early-to-mid 19th century.
29:48: White’s bike gets sideswiped on the highway, and the driver buys him a beer.
32:06: Communities along the Underground Railroad Trail were the best part of his trip.
33:43: White goes to Scotland, hikes across the country and meets the towns people.
36:05: White describes his trek on the Camino Del Norte in Spain and unexpectedly discovering a Black madonna in one of the villages along the route.
47:00: White gives his opinion on the reason why Black people are underrepresented in the outdoor community,
51:40: White points to a number of resource that BIPOC can reach out to for support and inspiration in getting started in the outdoors.
53:20: You will never guess what his favorite piece of gear is.
55:08: Daniel gives a shout out to all the people who are helping to keep the foot on the gas in this movement against racism.

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Next Episode: Lifestyle Overland

In our next episode, meet Kevin, Sarah, and 7-year-old Caroline McCuiston, who have been living full-time out of their Toyota 4Runner on America’s rugged backroads. A friend introduced the McCuistons to the sport of overlanding, which Kevin describes as a kind of “marathon” version of off-road travel. Within a short time, the couple became overland obsessed, quitting their jobs to tour around America with their Toyota 4Runner named “Silver” and their overland trailer.

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The McCuistons wanted to share their journey with family, so they filmed their travels and posted them on YouTube. To their surprise, their videos exploded in popularity and, without really trying, the McCuistons became Lifestyle Overland with thousands of dedicated followers. Now they manage their active Instagram page, YouTube channel and host a podcast on all things related to overlanding.

You won’t want to miss this episode with Kevin and Sarah as they discuss their transition from conventional life to full-tilt overlanding. They talk about the nearly 800-mile Enchanted Rockies Trail they created at the beginning of their overlanding career and their northern trip to Arctic Circle. Of course, they discuss their rig, why they chose the 4Runner instead of the vehicle they thought they wanted, and the concept of “airing down” or reducing tire pressure on trail. Sarah gives her tips for traveling with a tiny person, and Kevin talks about their favorite meal out on the road.

Follow the McCuistons at @LifestyleOverland on Instagram. Subscribe to their YouTube channel and join their Patreon for exclusive content.

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Last Episode: Andrew Skurka

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Check out Out and Back’s last episode with backcountry navigation expert Andrew Skurka. Widely known for making up his own unique and burly long-distance hiking adventures, Skurka recently turned his attention to developing shorter-distance off-trail routes in the Wind River Range, the Sierra, and the Colorado Rockies.

Author of The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide: Tools & Tips to Hit the Trail, published by National Geographic, and host to one of the most comprehensive websites for backpacking gear and tips, Skurka has become the definitive authority on ultralight, off-trail hiking. You won’t want to miss Episode 3, as Skurka passes along his insights on backcountry navigation, how not to get lost, and his favorite maps and navigation tools for hiking off the beaten path.

Meet the Host: Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin

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In 2019, host Andrew Baldwin completed a southbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. After five months on the trail, Baldwin returned home to pursue a career in voice acting. A friend of the Gaia GPS company, Baldwin was a natural choice for hosting the Out and Back podcast.

In each Out and Back episode, Baldwin strives to bring you conversations with people who spend an extraordinary amount of time outdoors. Listen in as Shanty taps into each backcountry expert’s superpower so that you can take their knowledge and experience with you on your next adventure.

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The Out and Back Podcast Releases Episode 3 with Backcountry Navigation Expert Andrew Skurka

by Mary Cochenour
written by Mary Cochenour

How to listen: iTunes | Google Play | Spotify | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | RadioPublic | Breaker | Castbox

Episode 3 of the Out and Back podcast releases today with a lesson on backcountry navigation from backpacking expert and guide Andrew Skurka. Known as an authority on traditional map and compass navigation, Skurka started his long-distance hiking career in 2002 when he completed the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail as a novice backpacker. From there, Skurka took his hiking status to the next level by laying down first tracks on three enormous, untouched routes in America.

Through those thousands of miles of solo hiking, Skurka has become a master at finding his way in the wilderness. Listen in on Episode 3 as Skurka takes us through his unusual progression of long-distance hiking, from the well-worn path of the AT to these high-risk, high-mileage adventures. In the process, Skurka also touches on the multiple high routes he’s created in recent years, what he carries in his backcountry navigation kit, and the one, simple concept that everyone can do to stay found in the backcountry.

Backpacker Andrew Skurka standing on a ridge above a wide valley in Alaska's Brooks Range.
Andrew Skurka in the Brooks Range, Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska

Episode 3: Adventurer Andrew Skurka Talks Backcountry Navigation

After hiking the Appalachian Trail as a beginner backpacker during his college years, Andrew Skurka wanted to expand his backcountry skill set. Rather than embarking on the next long-trail classic, like the Pacific Crest Trail or the Continental Divide Trail, Skurka discovered the never-been-done-before 7,700-mile Sea to Sea route and he quickly jumped on board. The Sea to Sea took him on a cultural journey from the Canadian eastern sea board, through America’s lonely plains of North Dakota and Montana, and across to the Pacific.

Two years later, in 2007, Skurka set out on the 6,875-mile Great Western Loop, connecting the Pacific Crest and Continental Divide trails with an amalgamation of side routes. This long trip through the West’s highest mountain ranges became an athletic feat for Skurka, who averaged 33 miles per day to finish the entire loop in just 208 days.

The next trip, though shorter in length than the other two at 4,679 miles, brought high-stakes adventure through the Alaskan wilderness and Canada’s Yukon territory. Over the course of six months, Skurka paddled alone down glacier-fed rivers, encountered grizzly bears, and skied over frozen swampland. At one point, Skurka traveled 615 miles without encountering another human.

The cover of Andrew Skurka's book The Ultimate Hikers Gear Guide.

“There was this constant uncertainty, where you wake up in the morning and you’re not actually convinced that you were going to have dinner that night.” Skurka said of his Alaska expedition. “That got old and it wore on me.“

Skurka recounts how he came out of that Alaska trip “still hustling and living on crumbs” but ready to try making a career out of his adventures. He started a robust blog on all things backpacking, wrote the Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide published by National Geographic, designed a handful of high routes, and started a guiding business.

Skurka reveals his super-simple method of teaching backcountry navigation to his clients, explaining how he uses both digital and paper maps and why he doesn’t teach triangulation in his courses. He also points out his favorite watch and compass and reveals what piece of gear that he’s been happy with for most of his hiking career. Skurka, though just shy of turning 40 years old, describes himself as firmly in the “old-timer camp,” reminding us that while he has been backpacking for almost 20 years it’s the miles that distill into experience and wisdom.

Tune in as he discusses the navigator’s story, what’s in his navigation kit, and the overall flavor of his guided trips.

Episode 3: Highlights with Andrew Skurka

3:25: Skurka’s first backpacking experience on the Appalachian Trail.
5:10: Why Skurka did not attack the normal Triple Crown progression but instead selected to embark on three never-before-hiked mega-adventures.
8:10: Skurka’s Alaska-Yukon adventure involved skiing, packrafting, and hiking.
9:10: The appeal of long-distance backpacking for Skurka is learning and expanding his skill set.
11:55: The Alaska trip made Skurka uncomfortable for 180 days, wondered if he would make it to dinner each day.
13:00: Skurka was living on crumbs, and that lifestyle reached an expiration date for him.
14:20: Skurka describes his guided trips, focusing on the education of backcountry skills.
16:00: Skurka says navigation is one of the most important backpacking skills, and definitely the most liberating.
17:25: The different grades of navigational competency.
18:20: Skurka describes the number one navigational mistake.
18:30: The navigational story is how Skurka teaches his clients to navigate in the backcountry.
21:40: Learn what’s inside Skurka’s backcountry navigation kit.
24:15: Reading the landscape in Alaska.
26:20: Paper maps versus digital maps, find out how Skurka uses both.
31:10: Skurka’s favorite compass and watch from Suunto, but not everyone needs an expensive one.
38:15: Skurka describes the high routes of the American west.
50:00 Skurka shines a light on that one piece of gear that’s been with him throughout almost his whole hiking career.

Next Episode: Long Distance Adventurer Daniel White, the Blackalachian

The next episode of the Out and Back podcast brings Blue Ridge Outdoors 2020 Hiker of the Year Daniel White. Known as the Blackalachian in the outdoor community, White tackled his first thru-hike in 2017 when he turned to the Appalachian Trail to get away from a bad break up and burn out at his job. Having never been hiking or camping before, White planned to walk for two months and return home to North Carolina. But when the time came to quit, White kept going and finished the 2,190-mile trail in six months.

After the AT, White has kept his roster full of unique adventures of more cultural import, including bike touring from Alabama to Canada on the Underground Railroad Trail, hiking across Scotland, and trekking the Camino Del Norte, a pilgrimage route along the Northern Coast of Spain.

Close -up of Daniel White known by his trail name the Blackalachian giving the peace sign with green rolling hills in the background.
Long-distance hiker and biker Daniel White, widely-known in the outdoor community as the Blackalachian.

In this episode, the Blackalachian recounts the ups and downs of his AT completion, touching on his experience as one of the few Black hikers he saw on the trail that year. Experiencing both friendship and instances of racism, the Blackalachian discusses how he emerged from the AT wilderness in search of a more culturally infused adventure. To accomplish this goal, the Blackalachian took up bicycle touring and peddled from Alabama to Canada on the Underground Railroad Trail, retracing the secret route that led slaves to freedom in the early-to-mid 19th century.

Since then, the Blackalachian has continued to seek out stories of history in the wild, hiking the Camino del Norte and a route across Scotland, recalling that one of his favorites parts of the trip involved meeting all the townspeople. A true adventurer, a history buff, and a dedicated solo traveler, the Blackalachian shows us that the journey forward is made by the people met along the way. Tune in on June 24 to hear the full story.

Tap into the Blackalachian’s YouTube channel to learn more about his trips. Get exclusive content from the Blackalachian on Patreon. Follow the Blackalachian on Instagram and Facebook.

Last Episode: The Real Hiking Viking

The Real Hiking Viking standing on top of the Forester Pass trail sign on the Pacific Crest Trail with blue skies in the background.

Drop in on our last episode with Thomas Gathman, known on trail as the Real Hiking Viking. Known for his gnarly beard and fun-seeking attitude, Viking served two combat tours in Iraq and one of those as a Marine Scout Sniper before stumbling into full-time hiking on America’s long trails.

Out and Back’s Episode 2 dives into Viking’s journey from sniper to pro hiker. Viking also recounts his recent efforts, including a trip to the Middle East to thru-hike Jordan and recovery from a knee injury. Viking also lets us in on which of the three classic thru-hike trails taught him to love wilderness adventure and why he’s dying to get back out there.

Best of all, Viking, in usual gregarious and free-spirited style, reminds us in this episode why hiking is so much fun, and why there can never be too much trail time for all of us. Follow the Real Hiking Viking on Instagram. View all Out and Back episodes here.

Meet the Host of the Out and Back Podcast: Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin

Out and Back podcast host Andrew Baldwin with a frosty beard on the Appalachian Trail.

In 2019, host Andrew Baldwin completed a southbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. After five months on the trail, Baldwin returned home to pursue a career in voice acting. A friend of the Gaia GPS company, Baldwin was a natural choice for hosting the Out and Back podcast.

In each Out and Back episode, Shanty strives to bring you conversations with people who spend an extraordinary amount of time outdoors. Listen in as Shanty taps into each backcountry expert’s superpower so that you can take their knowledge and experience with you on your next adventure.

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Backpacking Gear List: What to Pack for Three Seasons

by Jim Margolis
written by Jim Margolis

The team at Gaia GPS collaborated to build this three-season gear list for multi-day backpacking trips. Get an inexpensive scale and weigh everything before deciding what to pack. Websites like GearGrams and WeighMyGear can help you compile your list and calculate your total pack weight. You may not need everything on this list for every trip, and you may need other specialized equipment for some trips. There are many variations and options—consider this a starting point.

This post is a continuation of How to Plan a Backpacking Trip.

Clothing and Footwear

Set of clothing for backpacking including items for lower body, upper body, feet, head and hands

Footwear

Trail shoes or hiking boots. With a light pack and straightforward trail walking, trail running shoes work really well. Hiking boots can offer more support when you have a heavier pack or the terrain is uneven. The choice is personal and depends on many factors, but just make sure you have walked miles in your choice before your trip to break them in and find out if any hot spots will develop.
Wool socks. 2-3 pairs depending on the length of your trip and how wet you expect conditions to be. If you expect wet conditions, a pair of “sacred socks” that you only wear in camp and while sleeping, not while hiking, will help keep your feet healthy, warm, and dry.
Gaiters. Optional, but nice for keeping snow, dirt, and rocks out of your shoes.
Camp shoes. Optional. Extra weight and space, but some people like a separate pair of shoes to wear when they get to camp. Crocs are lightweight and dry quickly.

Lower Body Clothing

Underwear. Synthetic or wool underwear dries quickly. Some people swear by cotton underwear for preventing urinary tract infections, so consider carrying a pair of cotton underwear if you have a history of UTIs.
Long underwear. Wool is more expensive, but tends to stink less than synthetic materials.
Hiking pants or shorts.
Rain pants.
Puffy pants. Optional. If you expect cold conditions, consider insulated pants, fleece pants, or an extra pair of long underwear.

Upper Body Clothing

Hiking shirt. It’s nice for this to a different layer than your long underwear top so that you can change out of this sweaty layer.
Sports bra.
Long underwear top.
Midweight insulated jacket or fleece. Consider two of these depending on the temperatures you expect. A “midweight” jacket usually weighs about 1 pound, depending on the materials.
Rain Jacket.
Wind breaker. In light precipitation, a breathable windbreaker is more comfortable to hike in than a rain jacket, as you often sweat heavily inside a rain jacket.

Head and Hands

Sun hat. Something to keep the sun off of your head and neck.
Warm hat. Fleece or wool.
Lightweight gloves. fleece, synthetic, or wool. Ideally this is something in which you can also operate a stove or tie knots
Mosquito head net. If you expect insects, this is lightweight and makes life much more comfortable.
Buff. Can substitute for a hat in warmer temperatures, protect your face in cold temperatures, and can be used a sleeping mask at night.

Sleeping, Shelter, and Pack

Backpacking gear including backpack, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, tent, hiking pole, bear spray and sitting pad.

Sleeping bag. Choose an appropriate one for the temperatures you expect – here’s a guide. They usually come with compression sacks. If you expect wet conditions, consider lining the compression sack with a thick trash bag.
Sleeping pad. Inflatable mattresses are undoubtedly more comfortable, but also more expensive and prone to leaking. A humorous comparison: No one ever says “I can’t wait to go to sleep on my foam pad,” and no one ever says “I think my foam pad has a hole in it.“
Pillow. Lightweight options (Sierra Designs, Big Agnes) exist, and may help you sleep better. Some combination of your pack, a water bladder, and extra clothing also works.
Pack. Size and style is determined by the length and goals of your trip. Generally, you’ll want at least a 40 L capacity for a multi-day trip. Here’s a guide.
Trekking poles. Optional, but can save your knees. One is often sufficient. Some tents can be set up with two trekking poles strapped together.
Compactor trash bag. Lightweight and inexpensive way to keep critical items dry. The two mil thickness 20-gallon size is good for most applications.
Bear spray. If applicable for your area, check the regulations of the park or forest you plan to visit.
Tent or Rainfly. Consider a ground cloth or lightweight second sleeping pad if using only a rainfly. Here‘s a guide to choosing a tent for backpacking. Pre-attach utility cord for guy lines in windy conditions.
Stakes. You can also leave these behind and use utility cord around rocks.

Cooking Set Up

Backpacking kitchen including stove, fuel, pot, pan, spatula, spices and handle for pot.

Stove. Canister stoves are the lightweight and work for most conditions. Here’s a guide from Outdoor Gear Lab. Make sure to test your stove before you leave.
Fuel. Make sure it works with your stove. MSR has a detailed article on estimating fuel use.
Pot and lid.
Wind screen. Not pictured. Increases fuel efficiency. Only use one if it is compatible with your stove — some have caused explosions with canister stoves.
Pot grips. Makes it easier to lifts pots and pans and stir meals without burning yourself. If your multi-tool has pliers, those work well.
Frying Pan and Spatula. Optional, but it increases your meal options – quesadillas, pizza, toasted bagels are all quick fry pan meals.
Spices and oil. A lightweight spice kit can make your meals much tastier. I carry olive oil, hot sauce, and pre-mixed salt and pepper in Nalgene 1-oz and 2-oz bottles.

Miscellaneous Personal Items, including Emergency Kit

Personal items kit including GPS device, headlamp, sunglasses, knife and more.

Lighter.Bic Mini lighters are small and fit in a pill bag for waterproofing
Spoon. You can eat anything with a spoon–but not with a knife or fork.
Bowl. Lots of options: lightweight metal, foldable plastic, collapsible silicone. A bowl with a screw top lid, while on the heavier side, can allow you to carry lunch and snacks that can’t be carried in a plastic bag, such as leftover dinner.
Water bottles or water bladder. Bladders with a hose make it easy to drink while walking, but something like a Gatorade bottle is lighter and less expensive. Tie some utility cord around the neck of 16 oz juice bottle and clip it to the hip belt of your pack for a lightweight alternative to a bladder.
Hot water container. Lightweight mug, insulated thermos, or .5 L Nalgene bottle. The .5 L Nalgene can be filled with hot water and taken to bed on cold nights, but they also add weight.
Watch. This basic tool, whether it’s on your wrist or the one on your phone, is an essential piece for dead-reckoning navigation.
Knife or multi-tool. A lightweight multi-tool with knife and pliers can be really useful for cooking as well as repairing stoves and gear.
Water treatment. Iodine or chlorine tablets are simple – drop it in your bottle and wait. Some prefer AquaMira for the taste, but the mixing process is inconvenient. SteriPen (UV light) and pumps are heavier, but offer the advantage of faster treatment. Read a review of options here.
Sunglasses. Crucial for high elevation travel to protect your eyes from UV rays.
Headlamp, with extra batteries. Batteries can be stored in a small pill bag or taped together.
Satellite communication device. The inReach Mini is lightweight and pairs with your phone. You can also get weather forecasts with it.
Firestarter. In case you need to start a fire to stay warm in an emergency situation. Cotton balls covered in vaseline, stored in a plastic bag with an extra lighter, is an effective and inexpensive option. Backpacking Light has a forum with many ideas.

Toiletries

Toiletry kit including face wipes, hand sanitizer, and more.

Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. A small reusable bottle for toothpaste allows you to bring just what you need.
Lip balm.
Sunscreen.
Hand Soap. Washing your hands is the most effective way to prevent the spread of illness.
Hand Sanitizer. When it’s not possible to wash your hands with soap and water, hand sanitizer works well.
Nail clippers. Optional, and dependent on the length of your trip. Trauma shears (see First Aid Kit below) can work too.
Hair management system. Depending on your hair, a lightweight brush or comb, elastic, and bobby pins can be useful. Check out Melanin Basecamp’s guide to managing different kinds of hair in the outdoors.
Personal medications. Bring just what you need in a small pill bag or ather small bottle.
Tampons or pads. Some people also like to use a Diva Cup. Bring an extra plastic bag to carry out waste.
Baby Wipes. Useful for keeping genitalia clean and comfortable. Bring an extra plastic bag to carry out waste.
Pee Rag. Extra bandana used for wiping internal genitalia after urinating. Kula Cloth makes an antimicrobial version.
Toilet paper. Toilet paper must be packed out, so bring an extra plastic bag. To save weight and avoid the mess of carrying used toilet paper, consider natural materials like smooth rocks or snow, or use the backcountry bidet method.
Bug spray. Optional, and if applicable for your area. In my experience, bug spray either doesn’t work at all or doesn’t last very long, making it not worth carrying.

Navigation

Navigation kit including cell phone, map, extra battery and compass

Gaia GPS app on your smartphone. Make sure to download maps to use them offline.
Battery pack and charging cord. Extends the time you can use your phone on a longer trip. 99Boulders has a review of options. For very long trips, some people like solar chargers.
Paper Map and compass. It’s wise to bring backup navigation equipment if your phone is damaged or runs out of battery.

First Aid Kit

Hands on first-aid training is invaluable for managing wilderness medical emergencies. NOLS, SOLO, and Wilderness Medical Associates are well-known wilderness medicine course providers. NOLS has a comprehensive wilderness medicine book that is worth studying. It is best used in conjunction with hands-on training through a class.

The list below is a basic kit that weighs 8 ounces — you may need more or less depending on your objective. NOLS has a more detailed blog post about considerations for a first aid kit.

First aid kit

Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen (800 mg) with acetaminophen (1000 mg every 8 hrs can help with bad pain. Many doctors and hospitals use this combination instead of narcotic pain medications.
Acetominophen.
Diphenhydramine. For treating allergic reactions. If you have a known allergy that causes anaphylaxis, be sure to bring epinephrine.
Loperamide. For treating diarrhea.
Bismuth subsalicylate (chewable tablets). For treating upset stomach, diarrhea, heartburn, and nausea.
Athletic Tape.
Bandages.
Wound closure strips.
Gauze roll.
Antibiotic ointment.
Nitrile gloves.
CPR mask.
Tweezers.
Benzoin tincture. Useful for blisters. A Topical adhesive that helps tape and moleskin stick to your skin.
Moleskin. Useful for blisters.
Kinesio tape. Expensive, but really useful for blisters. The flexibility makes it stick on your feet longer than regular athletic tape.

Gear Repair

gear repair kit including rope, tape, tent pole splint, utility cord, duct tape and inflatable mattress patch kit.

Sewing needle and thread. A heavier-duty thread works better for repairing tents and clothing
Ripstop tape. Great for patching holes in sleeping bags and clothing.
Seam Grip. A general adhesive for repairing gear.
Tent pole splint. For repairing a broken tent pole.
Utility cord. 3 mm is a good size. This has many uses—extra tent guy lines, repairing broken straps, replacing busted shoelaces are a few examples.
Duct tape. Make into small rolls of 3 feet, or wrap around tent pole splint or pen or you’re bringing one
Inflatable mattress patch kit.

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The Real Hiking Viking Thomas Gathman standing on a trail sign, giving thumbs up signal. with Out and Back podcast logo on right side of frame
AdventuresFeaturedGaia GPSOut and Back PodcastUser Profiles

The Out and Back Podcast, Episode 2 with The Real Hiking Viking

by Mary Cochenour
written by Mary Cochenour

How to listen: iTunes | Google Play | Spotify | Stitcher | Pocket Casts | RadioPublic | Breaker | Castbox

The Out and Back podcast drops its second episode today with thru-hiking legend the Real Hiking Viking. In this episode, meet free-spirited and fun-focused Thomas Gathman, who picked up the Viking trail name due to his Norse-like beard and his warrior status as a former Marine Scout Sniper. Viking served two combat tours in Iraq before coming home, selling all his possessions in 2013, and hiking more than 20,000 miles on America’s longest trails.

Tune in as host Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin goes beyond the iconic beard and unravels Viking’s often-overlooked journey from sniper to pro hiker. Viking shines a light on how he was first introduced to thru-hiking culture and what inspired him to step on the trail in 2013 and never look back.

Episode 2: the Real Hiking Viking on his Journey from Sniper to Pro Hiker

Fresh out of the Marine Corp in 2012, Thomas Gathman crossed paths with some Appalachian Trail thru-hikers. They completely blew his mind.

“This Appalachian Trail thing isn’t just this idea of a trail, there are people walking from Georgia to Maine every year in this big, mobile community .. my brain exploded at the idea of it,” Gathman said of his first realization of what the thru-hiking community had to offer. “I was talking to these thru-hikers and, yeah, they were gross, they were dirty, they were stinky and I was, like, enamored by it.”

Nine months later, without any real backpacking experience, Gathman set out on his own Appalachian Trail thru-hike. Returning home to Pennsylvania with a trail name and a new direction in life, Gathman sold all his belongings and left town. Since then, one trail has led to another, taking Gathman to completions of the AT, the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and many more.

Thomas Gathman, also known as the Real Hiking Viking, with mountains in the background.
The Real Hiking Viking in his element.

In this Out and Back episode, Gathman brings an honest account of trail life, recounting both successes and failures, including failed attempts at the Pacific Crest Trail, two winter bail outs of the Long Trail, and a botched try at the Hayduke Trail. Gathman reveals his easy-going, free-spirited approach to hiking, bouncing from mountain range to mountain range in search of the best conditions and most beautiful scenery. When the trail doesn’t pan out, Viking quickly and easily changes course, sometimes ending up at Burning Man.

Viking reveals the long list of places he will go as soon as quarantine lifts, what luxury item he always put in his pack, and which Triple Crown trail he can’t wait to revisit. Gregarious, spontaneous, and untethered to conventional life’s responsibilities, Viking reminds us why hiking is so much fun.

Follow the Real Hiking Viking on Instagram or look him up on his website.

Episode 2 Highlights with the Real Hiking Viking

  • 2:00, Viking talks about his combat tours to Iraq, one as a Marine Scout Sniper
  • 2:30, Viking explains the meaning of his trail name the Real Hiking Viking
  • 5:30, Viking talks about his introduction to thru-hiking culture
  • 12:12, Viking talks about why he’s chomping at the bit to get back to the Continental Divide Trail
  • 14:45, Viking takes on the Appalachian Trail in winter, and how that trip was the pinnacle of danger for him
  • 27:15: Viking touches on the visiting the Jordan Trail in the Middle East in early 2019
  • 29:25: Learn why 2019 was a “train wreck” for Viking, felt like getting boxed by Mike Tyson
  • 41:11, As soon as quarantine ends, Viking is headed to a whole bunch of trails, listen to which ones are on top of his list
  • 46:60, Viking reveals the luxury item that he always takes with him
  • 47:15, Viking tells us what kind of music motivates him on the trail
  • 49:00, Find out the biggest town meal Viking ever ate
  • 52:15, Shanty asks about Viking’s cinnamon-colored beard

Next Episode: Adventurer Andrew Skurka Talks Backcountry Navigation

Andrew Skurka, backcountry navigation expert, with mountains in the background.
Mountain guide Andrew Skurka talks backcountry navigation in the next episode on Out and Back.

In Out and Back’s next episode, Shanty catches up with backcountry navigation expert Andrew Skurka. Widely known for
making up his own unique and burly long-distance hiking adventures, Skurka has more recently turned his attention to developing shorter-distance off-trail routes in the Wind River Range, the Sierra, and the Colorado Rockies.

Author of The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide: Tools & Tips to Hit the Trail, published by National Geographic, and host to one of the most comprehensive websites for backpacking gear and tips, Skurka has become the definitive authority on ultralight, off-trail hiking. You won’t want to miss Episode 3, as Skurka passes along his insights on backcountry navigation, how not to get lost, and his favorite maps and navigation tools for hiking off the beaten path.

Last Episode: Record-Setting Thru-Hiker Heather “Anish” Anderson

Heather Anish Anderson looking at the camera with rocks in the background,

In case you missed it, go back and check out Out and Back’s debut episode, featuring record-setting thru-hiker Heather “Anish” Anderson.

Shanty dives deep with Anderson, who spells out the complex set of factors that drove her to accomplish speed records on the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalachian Trail, and the Arizona Trail, as well as become one of a handful of athletes to nab all three of America’s long trails, some 7,500+ miles of hiking, in a single calendar year.

Listen in to find out what drove Anderson, a self-described overweight and unathletic kid, to subject herself to unimaginable sufferfests, ultimately becoming one of the backcountry’s most celebrated athletes.

Meet the Host of the Out and Back Podcast: Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin

Out and Back podcast host Andrew Baldwin covered in snow on the Appalachian Trail.
Andrew “Shanty” Baldwin finishing up his 2019 Appalachian Trail thru-hike.

In 2019, host Andrew Baldwin completed a southbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. After five months on the trail, Baldwin returned home to pursue a career in voice acting. A friend of the Gaia GPS company, Baldwin was a natural choice for hosting the Out and Back podcast.

In each Out and Back episode, Baldwin strives to bring you conversations with people who spend an extraordinary amount of time outdoors. Listen in as Shanty taps into each backcountry expert’s superpower so that you can take their knowledge and experience with you on your next adventure.

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