Activity Guide
Backpacking Guide
Carry your world on your back and sleep under stars you can't see from the road.
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What is Backpacking?
Backpacking means carrying everything you need — shelter, food, water treatment, clothing, and navigation — in a pack on your back. It's the key that unlocks places no road reaches, and the quiet that no campground can offer.
The 10 Essentials
Every backpacking trip should include these categories:
- Navigation (map + compass + GPS)
- Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Insulation (extra layers, rain gear)
- Illumination (headlamp + batteries)
- First aid supplies
- Fire starting (lighter, matches, fire starter)
- Repair tools (knife, duct tape, gear repair kit)
- Nutrition (extra day of food)
- Hydration (filter + extra capacity)
- Emergency shelter (bivy or emergency blanket)
Weight Targets
| Experience Level | Base Weight |
|---|---|
| Beginner | 25–35 lbs |
| Intermediate | 15–25 lbs |
| Ultralight | Under 10 lbs |
Base weight = pack weight without food, water, and fuel.
Your First Backpacking Trip
Start with a one-night trip on a well-marked trail with reliable water sources. A 4–6 mile approach is ideal for a first outing. Choose a trail with a designated backcountry campsite so you don't need to make Leave-No-Trace decisions on the fly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Popular Destinations for This Activity
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Glacier National Park
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Backpacking Packing List
The lightweight backpacking checklist — what to bring, what to leave, and how to get your base weight under 20 lbs.
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