Fastpacking is the next evolution of wilderness trips for those who want to go farther and faster. Practically speaking, such an endeavor entails jogging the descents, shuffling the flats, power-hiking the hills, and eating a lot of snacks, all while carrying a minimalist pack. Here’s how to get started.
Gaia GPS
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Finding your way in the backcountry may be as simple as paying attention to the natural world around you. Raging rIvers, prevailing winds, and moss growing on tress can help you stay on course. Learn these top natural navigation clues to stay found even when you don’t have a compass handy.
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Find out where you can send texts, make calls or access the internet along any route or trail. The new Cell Phone Coverage maps define where major cell phone carriers reach across the United States including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Whether you’re headed to the national parks, planning a thru-hike, or going into the backcountry for a few nights, use these maps to find out if you’ll have cell service anywhere you plan to go in the US.
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Overlanding upgrades often include expensive add-ons like lockers, a winch, or a new suspension. But there is a simple upgrade that will improve your vehicle’s traction, and it doesn’t have to cost a penny. Try airing down your tires. In this article, you’ll learn how to gauge tire pressure, the different methods for airing down, tools to make it easy, and how to air back up when you hit the pavement.
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Sunny spring days make us eager to hit the trails. But warm, dry conditions at the parking lot do not necessarily indicate that all the snow has melted out on the high mountain passes and deep into the woods up ahead. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use the FreshSat, Snow Depth, Snow Stations (Daily), and Weather Forecast layers in conjunction with other trusted resources to get a good sense of how much snow to expect on your next trip. Use these tools to help inform your route choice, as well as what gear, traction, and layers to bring.
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Looking for a peaceful (and free) escape to the outdoors? Many National Forests across the United States allow free dispersed camping. Use Gaia GPS to find those free camping spots before heading out and navigate when you get there.
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If you’ve ever wondered why your pack felt so heavy, it might be time to re-examine what you’ve stuffed in it. In this deep dive, our in-house expert walks you through how to plan your multi-day backpacking trip from scratch. Review how to choose a location, understand the history of your destination, plan your route, manage hazards, and find resources for planning food and gear. Plus, get a detailed three-season gear list to help you pack.
What do you do when you’re unhappy in your corporate job? You hit the road and drive…all the way to Australia. That’s how Monique Song found her way into offroading and eventually becoming the beloved Overland Lady. Learn how Monique breaks down gender, racial, and cultural norms on her solo adventures around the world.
We sat down with Brad and Regena Kowitz of the wildly popular YouTube channel TrailRecon to get an exclusive look into their lives and perspectives as overlanders. Learn how they started documenting their adventures, how they’re expanding TrailRecon in new directions, and how you can join them on an overlanding trip this year.
No need to rifle through various guidebooks, websites, and maps on your next snow machine trip. Our brand new Snowmobile Trails map lets you plan and navigate in one place. Trails found around the world contain key details like trail width, grooming status, and trail closures. Plus, with food and fuel stops, parking lots, and warming huts, the Snowmobile Trails map provides all the info you need for a full day of adventure.