Gear Institute Announces Gear of the Year for 2014

If you're still looking for that last minute Christmas gift for the outdoor adventurer in your life, and could use a little extra help, that perhaps the Gear Institute could be of assistance. The website, which is dedicated to all things outdoor gear related, has announced it's gear of the year picks for 2014, naming the items that are Best in Class in over 45 different categories that range from climbing, hiking, camping, running, and more.

Some of the items that earned this distinction from the expert staff over at the Gear Institute include the Lowa Camino LL Flex boots, which were named the best backpacking boot, and the Patagonia Ascensionist 35L which won best daypack. Joining those items in the winner circle were the La Sportive TC Pro climbing shoes (best all-purpose climbing shoe), and the Primus ETA Lite (best rapid-boil stove). Mountain Hardware's Skyledge 3 earned the distinction of being the best 3-person backpacking tent, while the Brooks Cascade 9 went home with the trophy for top comfort trail running shoes.

The Gear Institute has been around for a few years now, and over that time it has become one of the best online resources for anything outdoor gear related. Their team consists of numerous individual experts on specific gear items, and they put that expertise to good use testing and reviewing all kinds of items that will likely be of interest to you. Be sure to check out their Best in Class 2014 list to see what gear items have impressed them the most this year.

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Help Support the Pacific Crest Trail

With the recent release of the movie Wild, starring Reese Witherspoon, there has been a lot of attention called to the Pacific Crest Trail. In the biographical film, Witherspoon plays Cheryl Strayed, who decided to through hike the PCT while she was going through some personal crisis in her life. Now, the real Cheryl Strayed is calling on us to help support the trail in its time of need.

In the video below, we get a glimpse of just some of the outstanding landscapes that the PCT passes along its course, which starts at the U.S.-Mexican border in the south, and runs to the U.S.-Canadian border in the north. In total, the trail is an incredible 2663 miles (4285 km) in length, and passes through some of the most amazing wilderness locations in all of North America. But the PCT is also under constant threat from developers, big companies, and careless people who neglect the environment.

The Pacific Crest Trail Association is a non-profit that works tirelessly to protect the PCT. The organization could use our help to ensure that this great hiking route remains one of the best on the planet. If you can, volunteer some time, or donate some money, to help keep the Pacific Crest Trail a fantastic resource for outdoor enthusiasts now, and in future generations.

Check out the video below for more information, and then take a virtual walk on the PCT yourself.

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Outside Names the 20 Most Deadly Hikes in the World

Most people don't regard hiking as being a particularly dangerous activity. After all, millions of people go hiking on a regular basis, and most return home without even a hint of a harrowing tale to share with their friends and family. But depending on the destination, hiking can be a serious adventure, and even quite dangerous at times. With that in mind, Outside magazine has listed their selection for the 20 Most Dangerous Hikes, with some surprising trails making the list.

These 20 hikes are amongst some of the most amazing places to trek on the planet, and the locations range from Guatemala to China, to South Africa, and beyond. In fact, there are hikes on the list from just about every corner of the globe, although North America is particularly well represented.

Amongst the trails that make he cut are Huayna Picchu in Peru, a  trail that wanders up an ancient staircase carved out of a mountain by Inca craftsmen 500 years ago. The route climbs more than 1000 feet (305 meters) in less than a mile (1.6 km), offering spectacular views Machu Picchu along the way. But the route is slippery, steep, and crumbling with age, which has earned it the nickname "the Hike of Death."

With its narrow slot canyons, deep gorges, and remote location, The Maze in Canyonlands National Park is another dangerous hike. Just getting there can be quite an adventure, and Outside says that just 2000 people actually go on any given year. Those that do, find a series of twisting, confusing rock corridors that are a clear indication of how the place got its name. The potential for flash floods and rock falls only add to the danger, although thankfully no one has died in The Maze just yet.

Scotland's Aonach Eagach Ridge also earns a spot on Outside's list thanks to its narrow ridge trail, steep slopes, and unpredictable weather. The knife-edge approach to the top of the trails twin mountain peaks is very exposed, often leaving hikers feeling vertigo, and a deep desire to get off the route as quickly, and easily, as possible. Accidents often occur on the descent, as hikers pick the wrong line for their exit from the mountain.

These are just a few examples of the trails that Outside has put on their list. To read the entire collection, and find your next hiking challenge, click here.

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Gear Closet: 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 Backpack

As I mentioned in a previous blog post, a few weeks back – just before I left for Ecuador – my friends at 5.11 Tactical were kind enough to ship me a box filled with all kinds of goodies. Amongst them were the Stryke Pants, which I took with me to South America and put to good use in the field. But also in the box was a wonderful daypack that I think many people will find is a great addition to their own gear closets. It is the Rush 12 pack, a versatile, durable, and well built bag that can be used in a variety of situations from the backcountry to the boardroom.

As with all of 5.11 Tactical's gear, the Rush 12 takes a lot of its design cues from military and law enforcement gear. This looks like a pack you would expect to find on the backs of soldiers deployed in just about any theater of operations around the globe. It is incredibly well built, and designed to last, and as such it resists abrasions, tears, and scuffs very well. This is the kind of pack that you'll be able to abuse for years, and still continue to put to good use while hiking, hunting, or carrying your urban gear around town.

The designers of the Rush 12 put a lot of thought into this bag, and have managed to put in a surprising number of features. For instance, there are 16 different compartments, stow pockets, and storage chambers on the pack, giving you plenty of options for keeping all of your important items in just the right place. Those compartments include a fleece-lined pocket that is perfect for sunglasses or a smartphone, with the soft lining ensuring that lenses or screens don't get scratched. There is also a 60oz (1.77 liter) hydration sleeve, a pocket with built-in organizational slots, and large main storage area that can swallow up plenty of gear as well.


Unlike most other pack manufacturers, who generally indicate the size of the bag in the name, 5.11 Tactical took a different approach. The "12" in the Rush 12 name indicates the number of hours the bag would be used for. Thus, the Rush 12 is a good daypack for up to 12 hours of use. This is in contrast to the Rush 24, which would be an overnight bag, or the Rush 72, which is a three-day pack. In terms of traditional size however, the Rush 12 offers a solid 21.2 liters of capacity, which puts it on the smaller end of the daypack scale, but with more storage capacity than that number might typically indicate.

The Rush 12 features thickly padded shoulder straps, which help to distribute a heavy load nicely. A sternum strap locks the back into place, although their is no hipbelt at all, which may cause some to find the fit to be a bit more loose than they would like. The back stayed well in place during testing however, and unless you are attempting to use it for trail running, or some other fast-paced aerobic exercise, it will more than likely meet the demands that you put on it.

All of the straps, buckles, and zippers on this pack are of exceptional quality, and only add to the feeling that this pack can withstand plenty of punishment. 5.11 Tactical has gone to great lengths to ensure that Rush 12 can survive in harsh environments, and that includes integrating self-reparing zippers, with pull tabs that are easy to operate, even while wearing gloves. The great quality even extends to the stitching, as the entire package has been constructed in a manner that simply makes the Rush 12 feel practically bullet proof.

The back panel on the Rush 12 doesn't feature any type of frame to help facilitate ventilation. In fact, there isn't even much in the way of contouring that could provide relief when wearing this bag in a warm environment. It is not unusual for a pack of this size to lack those kinds of features, but it is worth pointing out none the less. If you're someone who works up a sweat while wearing a daypack, the lack of ventilation system may be of ca concern. Depending on how you plan to use the pack however, it may not be something you would notice at all.

While this pack may lack some of the more technical features of bag designed specifically for hiking, it definitely makes up for it with its level of versatility. This is a pack that you can use as part of your everyday commute, just as easily as it can pull double duty out on the trail. It has a nice, classic look to it that would feel just as at home in an office environment, as it does sitting around a campsite. Military and law enforcement personnel will absolutely love this pack, and I think it will be a hit with hunters too. It has all of the storage space that those individuals will need, all wrapped up in a nice compact design. Casual hikers will find that it is more than up to the challenge of day-hiking along your favorite trail, although serious trekkers may want to look towards a more technical pack designed specifically for their needs.

With a price tag of $100, the Rush 12 is a great bargain for the market that it it going after. You'll have a tough time finding a pack of this quality from any other manufacturer at that price. Durability and dependability are the name of the game, and 5.11 Tactical has delivered those qualities, and then some. If this is the type of pack you need, then don't hesitate to order one today. You will not be disappointed.

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Gear Closet: 5.11 Tactical Stryke Pants

Just a few days before I set out for Ecuador, a box was unexpectedly delivered to my door. Since I wasn't really expecting anything, I wasn't sure what was inside. I opened it up to discover several excellent pieces of gear from 5.11 Tactical, a company that makes great clothing and other items for outdoor enthusiasts, military personnel, and law enforcement agents. While not all of it was appropriate for my trip to South America, I did immediately add their Stryke Pants to my backpack, as I though Ecuador would a perfect place to test them. It didn't take long for me to realize that they were a great addition to my pack, and a vital piece of equipment for my trip.

Made from Flex-TAC ripstop fabrics, the Stryke Pant features a cut that fits the body nicely, without inhibiting motion in any way. Comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time, these pants allow you to move as necessary over rough terrain, and in difficult conditions. On top of that, they are treated with a Teflon coasting, that provides protection from stains and dirt, as well as a measure of moisture resistance as well. This is a nice benefit for travelers who like to travel light, as it allows you to carry fewer items with you when you go. In my case, I brought only two pairs of pants on my trip to Ecuador, with the Stryke Pant getting the bulk of the use during active pursuits.

Tactical 5.11 knows their customers well, and when designing these pants they incorporated plenty of pockets and stash points to store all of your important items. In addition to the traditional pockets on the front and back, there are also cargo pockets conveniently located on each leg. Inside those two pockets, you'll find organizational compartments as well, which are perfect for a cell phone, digital camera, a pocket knife, or what ever other items you want to keep close at hand. Both the cargo and rear pockets also feature velcro flaps to ensure a level of security too. Those flaps stay solidly in place, and are nearly impossible to open without drawing the attention of the wearer. This is also a nice feature for travelers, who want to keep their wallet, and other valuables, safe while on the road, although they also come in handy for making sure nothing falls out while you're scrambling up a mountain, or hiking a difficult trail.


I was impressed with how durable and rugged these pants are, without being overly weighty. The articled knees include knee pads to help protect the fabrics when you're kneeling on the ground, and other important areas of the design are reinforced as well. I put these pants through the wringer on multiple hikes in the Andes, as well as on mountain bike and horseback rides, and they came away looking brand new. They are even incredibly easy to wash while traveling, which allowed them to stay looking fresh, even though I had just worn them on a hike up a 4200 meter (13,779 ft) mountain.

As mentioned above, the Stryke Pant is moisture resistant, but not water proof. I found this out the hard way when I got caught in a rainstorm on an afternoon hike in the Andes, and ended up having to descend for about three hours in a squall. Surprisingly enough however, the pants still performed very well, and repelled water far longer than I would have expected. At the end of the day, they also dried fairly quickly, and were ready for use the next day without a hint of moisture remaining. While I wouldn't recommend wearing them on an adventure in which you expect to get wet, if the need arises they can certainly keep you moving, even when conditions are less than optimal.

While these definitely look like a pair of pants that you would wear on an adventure to some far flung destination, they also look good enough that you can also wear them about town, and not feel out of place. In fact, I wore them around Quito on more than one occasion, including grabbing dinner at a nice restaurant. I have the black version of the Stryke Pant, and they actually have narrow pin-stripes incorporated into the design. This actually makes them look a bit like dress slacks, even while carrying all kinds of extra gear in the pockets. Again, as a frequent traveler, it is nice to have versatile apparel that can pull double duty on the trail and at a nice dinner.

Tactical 5.11 sells the Stryke Pant for $70, which I feel is quite the bargain. They are incredibly well made, and seem like a piece of gear that you can rely on taking with you on multiple adventures for years to come. Very durable and comfortable, these pants will be a welcome addition to any outdoor enthusiast or adventure traveler's wardrobe. I know that I will be carrying them with me on many of my future journeys for sure.

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Gear Closet: Granite Gear Kahiltna 29 Pack

It has been interesting to watch the evolution of the backpack over the past couple of years. Outdoor gear manufacturers have managed to continue to add excellent –and often surprising – new features, without compromising on the size, storage capacity, or overall design of their bags. Take for example the Kahiltna 29 pack from Granite Gear, a versatile technical daypack that feels larger than it actually is, while still managing to deliver on the promise of a comfortable fit that can see you through a full day of adventure in the backcountry, around town, and beyond.

Granite Gear has a legacy of creating excellent technical packs designed for a variety of outdoor activities. The company has sent their gear to some of the most remote places on the planet, including Everest, and the North and South Pole. Over the years, they've continued to refine those products, improving on their designs after every generation. The Kahiltna is a culmination of those efforts, combining years of experience with technical know, to create a pack that is versatile enough to take with you anywhere.

What struck me first when putting on the Kahiltna pack was how well padded the shoulder straps, hip belt, and back panel actually are. For a small daypack, Granite Gear has certainly gone to great lengths to ensure the comfort of the wearer. The thick, plyable padding allows you to carry a heavier load than you would think possible with a 29-liter pack, without straining or struggling in anyway. The back panel does lack a frame system that would allow for better ventilation however, although a series of contours etched into the panel does provide some relief in that area.


In terms of storage, the pack features a large main pocket that can hold a surprising amount of gear, especially when the side compression straps are released to provide extra space. A front pocket includes several nice features for organizing smaller items, with the internal zip pocket proving especially useful. A handy key clip and a variety of other organizational pocket, show that this pack can pull double-duty in the backcountry or urban environments. Two large pockets on the hip belt make for perfect storage for a cell phone, digital camera, or trail snacks, while small mesh pockets on each shoulder straps are good for stowing small items that you want to keep close at hand. The Kahiltna also features twin water bottle holders, one on each side of the pack as well.

The pack includes a few extra features that will come in handy in certain situations. For instance, the Kahiltna is hydration ready, supporting up to a 2-liter water bladder. Customers will have to purchase a bladder separately however, as Granite Gear doesn't include one. For those looking to shave a few extra ounces off the weight of the pack, the hip belt can be removed. Considering the Kahiltna tips the scales at  2 pounds, 1 oz (.93kg) this may be a welcome option for some, although it does comes at the expense of some stability.

A built-in rainfly, located in a zip-pocket at the bottom of the bag, is another welcome addition. It can be deployed in a matter of seconds, keeping the contents of the pack safe from excess moisture from an unexpected rainstorm. In recent years I have really come to appreciate a pack that includes this feature, as it has saved my gear on more than one occasion. I was happy to find that Granite Gear has included one on this pack as well. It may seem like a minor feature, but it is really good to know that it is there when you need it.

Considering the price, the Kahiltna truly delivers a lot of value for the money. Granite Gear sells this pack for just $139.95, which is a solid bargain for everything that it delivers. It is a versatile, comfortable, and durable daypack that will fit the needs of most people. With a capacity of just 29-liters, it is a bit on the small side for some bigger adventures, but the bags ability to handle larger loads makes it a solid performer on most active outings. The Kahiltna's capacity to serve as a good travel pack, as well as for lugging gear around town, makes it an even better bargain, as it truly can be a bag for all occasions. If the outdoor enthusiast on your list has requested a new pack this holiday season, this just might be the perfect choice.

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Gear Closet: adidas Terrex Swift R Mid Women's Hiking Boot

The search for the perfect hiking boot can be a daunting proposition at times. When we're plunking down our hard-earned cash, we of course want boots that are comfortable, provides plenty of support, and fit our feet properly. They should also be durable enough to survive many adventures in the backcountry, and it doesn't hurt if they look good too. For us men, the challenge of finding something that meets all of those qualifications can require a great deal of patience, even though we tend to be less concerned with what we put on our feet. Imagine how difficult it can be to find the right hiking show for a woman, many of whom put far more thought into their footwear than we ever will.

Recently, my better-half has had the chance to test out the Terrex Swift R Mid women's hiking boot from adidas, a company that is more well known for its basketball, soccer, and running shoes. But over the past few years, adidas has quietly built a great collection of outdoor gear, some of which is incredibly innovative, and delivers a high level of performance.

The designers at adidas have taken their extensive knowledge of sports and athletics, and brought some of that sensibility to the outdoor gear market as well. As a result, their hiking boots and apparel tend to be lightweight, performance focused, and incredibly well built. I have met with reps from adidas several times over the past few years while attending the summer Outdoor Retailer show, and each time I've come away very impressed with what they have in the pipeline. In fact, I've wanted to get my hands on a pair of their Terrex hiking boots for some time, but jumped at the chance for them to outfit my fiancé instead. She has been in need of a good pair of hiking boots for some time, and was struggling to find something that fit her needs. Fortunately, adidas had something that provided the fit she was looking for, as well as comfort that rivaled the sneakers that they are so well known for.
Just one look at the Swift R Mid, and you can tell that you're not going to encounter anything else like them out on the trail. They definitely have a unique design, and the color combinations are unique and attractive, without becoming overly obnoxious. With a background that is deeply rooted in the athletic shoe market, adidas could have easily gone overboard with their color combinations, but I feel they managed to strike a good middle-ground with giving these shoes a distinct look that shouldn't immediately turn off most hikers.

Out of the box, the Terrex boots are a bit stiff, and it has taken some time to break them in. In fact, my SO had a difficult time even getting her foot in the shoe at first, as the portion of the boot that provides high-ankle support didn't provide a lot of give. But after wearing them for a bit, they've loosened up some, providing better access over time. That same portion of the show does help to keep the ankle from rolling on uneven ground however, and it seems these boots are a good fit for anyone who requires that extra support.

Built with a number of adidas' own proprietary fabrics and materials, the Terrex Swift is built to be very breathable, while also remaining extremely durable as well. The company did use a lightweight Gore-Tex liner however, which makes the interior of the shoe waterproof, while still managing to wick moisture away from the foot. The same liner should provide a level of warmth on cool-weather, or early winter hikes, too.

Built like a lightweight hiking boot, but with the soul of an athletic shoe, the Swift performs well on the trail. Its outsole is built to provide a solid grip on a variety of surfaces, even in wet conditions. It is also made designed to be agile and fast on the trail as well, which makes this shoe a great choice for everything from light hiking to fast packing to adventure travel. Its level of comfort is unmatched, and because it is lightweight, it is also very packable.

Not everything was rosy with these boots however. After our initial hike, my fiancé came home with a few blisters, even though she was wearing excellent hiking socks. Of course, everyone's foot is different, and blisters can occur for a variety of reasons, but it is important to point out that they did occur. I've found that over time, hiking boots tend to loosen up some, and blistering tends to go away, but as with any athletic shoe, it is important to get the right fit, and wear appropriate socks too.

Overall, the adidas Terrex Swift R Mid gets a thumbs up with my favorite female gear tester. Lightweight and comfortable, they bring a unique styling to the trail, while also offering solid performance that belies their athletic shoe heritage. With a price tag of $160, they fall squarely into the mid-range level of hiking shoes, but provide plenty of high-end amenities. If you're in the market for a good pair of hiking boots (adidas makes a men's version of the shoe as well), and you're looking for something that is built for speed, then take a look at the Terrex Swift. Chances are, you won't be disappointed.

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Get Ready for Fall with New Gear From The Clymb

For me, there is simply no better season for hiking than autumn. The cooler days bring welcome relief following a long hot summer, and the crisp air is invigorating while out on the trail. Nothing beats wandering beneath the trees, with the sun casting its light through leaves of orange, red, and gold.

If you’re like me, and enjoy a good fall hike, then now is the time to head out to your favorite trail. But before you go, you may want to drop by The Clymb to pick up some new gear first.  If you’re not already shopping for your equipment at The Clymb, but you’re an outdoor enthusiast of any kind, then you need to become familiar with the site. It uses a flash-sale approach, providing steep discounts on name brand products. The items are on sale while the stock lasts, and once it is gone, it is replaced with new items. That means there can be some incredibly good deals to be had, but you often have to act fast to grab the gear you want before it is gone. 

The Clymb’s Hiking Gear Sale has just about everything you could possible need, including hiking boots from Hi-Tec, Wolverine, and Merrell. There are also backpacks, hiking pants, jackets, knives, socks, and more. All of the gear is offered at substantial discounts, often at as much as 50-70% off retail. For example, you can currently purchase a new pair of Hi-Tech Men’s Altitude Sport I Waterproof boots for just $54.98. These excellent light hiking boots typically sells for $100, and are perfect for fall days on the trail.  And when temperatures drop a bit further, and a jacket is required, the Brooks-Range Isto Softshell will certainly come in handy. It retails for $130, but The Clymb is offering it for $74.98 while supplies last.

The site does require a membership to take advantage of the discounted prices, but the membership is free, and open to anyone who wants to sign up. You can even earn cash that you can apply towards your purchases by inviting friends to join too.  So, if you’re in need of some new gear for your autumn hikes, head over to The Clymb, and save yourself some money in the process.  

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Gear Closet: Obōz Bridger Mid BDry Boot

While I was at Outdoor Retailer last month, I saw a number of really great looking, lightweight hiking boots. These new shoes promise to provide plenty of comfort and support, in a package that weighs next to nothing, while still managing to look great too. In the months ahead, I hope to provide several reviews on different models of these types of boots, and recently I've been putting my first pair through their paces. They are the Bridger Mid BDry from Obōz, a company that specializes in making shoes designed for those with an active outdoor lifestyle.

One of the first things that will catch your eye about these boots is their sense of style. At first glance, they look like a classic boot that you could have found on the trail 20-years ago. This is in no small part thanks to the durable leather upper, which gives these shoes a great look that feels like it was designed for the outdoors. In recent years, some manufacturers have started to incorporate flashy colors and odd design choices into their shoes, but Obōz has given the Bridgers an understated look that still allows them to stand out, without being overly obnoxious.

Personally, I like my boots to look good, but perform even better. The classic look of the Bridger boots is supported by some decidedly new technology that your feet will most certainly appreciate. For instance, Obōz has incorporated a multi-layered sole into these shoes that is designed to protect the foot while on rocky, punishing terrain. This sole includes a lightweight chassis that provides comfort and added stability, along with serving as a shield from the tough ground. They've added even more protection inside the boot in the form of a tailor made insole that cradles the foot, providing good support for your arches. On the outside,  a molded heel cup helps with helps to keep the shoes firmly in place, while adding yet another level of stability from lateral movement. Add in the company's proprietary BDry fabrics, and you have a shoe that will keep your foot free from external moisture, while still allowing them to breathe nicely on warm days.



Of course, all of these features look good in a product description, but it's how they perform on the trail that really matters. The Bridger Mid doesn't disappoint in this department either. They are incredibly comfortable to wear, offer nice support for your ankles, and have excellent traction, even on wet surfaces. I was impressed with how well they clung to the ground, keeping me moving up and down hills without missing a beat, and because they weigh just 19 oz (538 grams), they don't feel like you're lugging around cumbersome, heavy boots on your hike.

The Bridger Mids have a snug fit, which happens to be something that I personally prefer. For me, this helps to convey a better sense of the trail I'm hiking, keeping me well connected to the ground. That fit also helped me to feel more agile and light-footed, which is not something you find all that often in a boot. The lacing system, and pliable leather upper, on these shoes allow you tailor the fit to some degree, wrapping them more snugly around the ankle for instance, while providing a bit more room in the toe box. This versatility comes in handy when you're searching for just the right fit for your needs.

There is a bit of a break-in period with these boots, although it isn't particularly long. When I first put them on, I was a little dismayed with how they felt around the ankle, as they seemed a bit stiff, which in turn restricted movement to a degree. I was relieved to find that that stiffness didn't last long however, and within a short time of wearing them on the trail, they loosened up nicely. The rest of the boot, while comfortable from the start, also gave way some after some hiking as well, and while they maintained the snug fit that I like so much, they also became more flexible to the varying trail conditions.

Obōz lists these boots under their "Mid Hiking" category, but quite honestly they provide enough support and comfort to be used on backpacking excursions as well. Their lightweight design, matched with all of the built-in support, makes them a great option for extended trips, or for fast packing expeditions. Personally, I think their comfortable enough to wear around town too, and the BDry fabrics will be most welcome on rainy or snowy days.

Considering the amount of performance that these shoes deliver, they are also quite affordable. With an MSRP of just $160, Obōz has managed to deliver top tier performance and versatility, at a wallet-friendly price. The Bridger Mid boots are lightweight, without making compromises, and they will make an excellent trail shoe for three season hiking and backpacking excursions across even challenging terrain. I think they make a great shoe for beginners just getting into the outdoor scene, but they have enough features and comfort that veterans will love them too.

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Video: Hiking and Flying in Norway

Hiking and paragliding in Norway sounds like a wonderful proposition, and this video makes it look amazing too. The two-minute clip provides some impressive shots of the landscape, which looks great from the ground, but even better from the air.

Hike and fly Liadalsnipa (3031 ft) // Norway from Marius Beck Dahle on Vimeo.

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Pure Michigan: Hiking the Porcupine Mountains

Last month I had the opportunity to visit Michigan's Upper Peninsula, a fantastic travel destination that was seemingly built with the outdoor adventurer in mind. For my money, the U.P. – as it is referred to by the locals – is quite possibly the best wilderness setting east of the Mississippi River, providing visitors a great outdoor playground for just about all of their adventure needs. In fact, in previous blog posts I have shared my experiences kayaking on Lake Superior, and mountain biking the outstanding trails that are found there as well. But hikers, backpackers, and campers will discover their own little slice of heaven in the U.P. as well. That comes in the form of the Porcupine Mountains, a beautiful and remote landscape that just begs travelers to come explore.

Spread out over more than 60,000 acres of prime U.P. real estate, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a fantastic destination for those looking for scenic day hikes, or a place to make an extended stay in the backcountry. The park falls along the northwest corner of the Upper Peninsula, and looks out onto Lake Superior itself. Known locally as the "Porkies," the park features rolling hills covered in old growth northern hardwood forests, which consist mainly of Maple trees, Yellow Birch, American Basswood, and Eastern Hemlock. The park is also home to a myriad of wildlife, including deer, moose, gray wolves, bobcats, lynx, and river otters. Black bears are also quite common throughout the region, and visitors are encouraged to stay vigilant while hiking there.

The park has approximately 87 miles of mixed-use trails that crisscross the Porkies, and grant access to some of the more scenic areas, as well as the wild backcountry. Those trails are mainly for hiking in the summer, and cross-country skiing in the winter, although a few are open to mountain bikers as well. Visitors will find that the trails are well developed, and provide easy walking, when close to the trailhead, but as you get further away from the parking lot, the routes become narrower, more rugged, and demanding. Backpackers can pick from a number of routes to take them deep into the wilderness, and for the most part, they'll be the ones most likely to see the truly wild sections of the trails.


Backpackers and campers will also discover that there are a number of modern and primitive campsites available, as well as rustic cabins that can be reserved in advance of a planned visit. These sites make for a wonderful place for travelers to truly experience everything the Porkies have to offer, starting with spending a night in an amazing wilderness setting, far from the noise, lights, and commotion of any city.

Water plays a crucial element throughout the park, helping to shape its over time. As mentioned, many of the park's vistas overlook Lake Superior, but there are also a number of smaller lakes and rivers that flow through the Porcupine Mountains too. Several of the rivers cascade down the sides of the steep hills, creating breathtaking waterfalls that are amongst the most popular hiking destinations in the entire park. These beautiful settings are mesmerizing to watch, and make for a memorable travel experience.

The crown jewel of the park is, without a doubt, the Lake of the Clouds, a massive body of water that sits between two tall ridges, and is completely surrounded by dense forest. The lake is fed by the Carp River, which flows in from the east, and out the west as it continues its long march to Lake Superior. An easily accessible scenic overlook makes it a breeze for any visitor to the Porkies to see the Lake of the Clouds in all of its glory, but in order to actually walk its banks, you'll need to hike deeper into the park itself. I'm sure the Lake of the Clouds overlook is amongst the most popular locations in the entire park, and can be quite busy at times, but when I visited it was relatively quiet, and easy to enjoy the fantastic view.

Now, lets make one thing clear. The Porcupine Mountains are not really "mountains" in the strictest sense of the word. You won't find snow-capped peaks rising above the tree line in Michigan, and visitors won't be contending with altitude on their excursions into the backcountry either. But, these steep hills and thick forests are still a wilderness playground worthy of any outdoor adventurers attention. The landscapes are rugged, remote and demanding, and the Porkies are located far from any major city. Cell service is practically non-exstant, and if someone were to run into trouble in the wilderness, it could take some time for help to reach them. In short, the Porcupine Mountains are a destination that needs should be respected, both for what they offer, and what they could do to someone who takes them lightly.

In my brief stay in the Porkies, I was able to hike a couple of excellent trails, and get a very brief taste of what the location has to offer. What I saw was an outdoor setting on par with anything you'll find in the eastern United States, and a worthy adventure destination in its own right. After spending a few days in the region, I have simply come to the conclusion that I need to go back to see more of the area for myself. There are trails to be hiked, and remote places to be visited, that I simply did not have time for on my most recent visit. Hopefully I'll get the chance to change that in the future, but in the meantime, you should add the Porkies to your list of places to visit. You won't regret it in the least, and you're likely to fall in love with park too.

Find out more about what the Upper Peninsula, and the rest of Michigan, has to offer at Michigan.org.

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