Climbing is something I’ve always wanted to do, but never had a good opportunity to get started. My preferred approach to activities is autodidactic, which…
Coast Mountains
Stein Valley Speed Record Traverse (19hrs 51min)
The Stein Valley wilderness played a formative role in my development as an ultralight backpacker, and repeated trips there have grown my heart fonder, and…
TarpTent Saddle 2 vs StratoSpire 2
(Update: My full review of the Saddle 2 is now available) TarpTent recently released their new Saddle 2 tent, which has led to discussion over…
Stein Valley Easter
On Easter weekend, T and I did our first real backpacking trip of the season with a few friends. We headed to the Stein Valley…
A Return to Ski Touring
T and I have been enjoying the slow life since we left the city and our jobs 3 weeks ago. We’re not really in a…
[Darn Tough] Socks for Backpacking
Sock Functionality Why wear socks? Opinions differ widely in what functionality a backpacking sock should deliver, but the main candidate functions are warmth, cushioning and a reduction in abrasion/blistering…
A Guide to Ferns of the Pacific Northwest
It’s amazing how much time you can spend outdoors and still know so little about nature. Before I hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2014…
Looper Canyon
T and I went to Looper Canyon this past weekend to dip a toe into the canyoneering world. It was a good opportunity to get…
Stein South Divide: Attempt 1 Recap
This past week I made my first attempt at the Stein South Divide Ski/Raft route. I had given myself an 80% chance of completing the route…
2016 Winter Hard Trip: Stein South Divide
Since 2012 the southern skyline of the Stein Valley has been, for me, the pinnacle of outdoor aspiration. I first glimpsed it in 2010 – heavily glaciated, remote…