Author: outdoordevin@gmail.com
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Hiking La Plata Peak: A Challenging Colorado 14er
Getting to the Trailhead From U.S. 24 south of Leadville, take Colorado 82 west toward Twin Lakes. Drive 14.6 miles, and you’ll find the clearly marked trailhead and parking area on the left. The lot can fill up quickly on weekends, so arrive early. The Hike Up La Plata Gulch From the parking area, walk…
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Backpacking Colorado’s Four Pass Loop: What We Learned After 3 Epic Days in the Maroon Bells Wilderness
Tucked deep in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, Colorado, this loop is one of the most scenic (and demanding) backpacking routes in the state. It crosses four alpine passes above 12,000 feet: West Maroon, Frigid Air, Trail Rider, and Buckskin—each offering unique terrain, exposure, and awe-inspiring views. We hiked the loop clockwise over three…
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My Backpacking Packing List: Everything I Bring on the Trail
These are the core items I bring on nearly every backpacking trip. I adjust my food and clothing depending on the length of the trip and weather conditions, but the rest of this list stays pretty consistent. Whether you’re just getting started or dialing in your own system, this should give you a solid baseline.…
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Hiking Boots, Trail Runners, and Approach Shoes: Choosing the Right Footwear for Your Adventure
A Different Footwear Mentality Abroad In places like Europe, South America, and parts of Asia, hiking (or trekking, as it’s more often called) is approached with a different mindset. Trails can be steeper, more remote, and more technical from the start, and the expectation is that you’ll be out longer and carrying more. Because of…
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Hiking Mount Elbert via the Northeast Ridge: Colorado’s Tallest Peak
Mountain Facts DOWNLOAD A QUICK TRAIL GUIDE HERE CLASS 1 ROUTE Elevation: 14,438 feet (4,401 meters) — the highest point in Colorado and the Rocky Mountains Location: Sawatch Range, Colorado Prominence: 9,093 feet — one of the most prominent peaks in the U.S. Trail Type: Out-and-back via the Northeast Ridge Distance: Approximately 9–10 miles round…
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Why the Himali Eclipse Sun Hoodie Is My Go-To for Hiking Above Treeline
Lightweight, Breathable, and Built for the Elements Clocking in at just 4.8 oz, the Eclipse is featherlight—but don’t let that fool you. The material is silky soft with a surprising amount of durability, and it’s been engineered with UPF 20 UV protection to help shield you from the intense sun you get above 10,000 feet.…
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Colorado 14ers
What is a Colorado 14er? A 14er is a mountain with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet. Colorado is home to 58 official 14ers, ranging from beginner-friendly hikes to technical climbs. These peaks attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world for their stunning views, physical challenges, and sense of accomplishment. Essential Equipment for Hiking…
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Beginner Camping Checklist: Everything You Actually Need
Shelter & Sleep System Tent Your tent is your home in the wild. Look for one that’s easy to set up, weather-resistant, and sized for how many people (and dogs) you’ll be camping with. Tip: Practice setting up your tent at home first — it’s easier to learn without the wind or darkness. Light Weight…
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The 10 Essentials for Hiking: My Must-Have Gear
1. Navigation Why it matters: Getting lost is easier than you think. Trails split, signage fades, and weather can turn fast. A good navigation setup can bring you home safely. What I carry: Compass -Even using a GPS and Navigation Apps I will always still carry a compass Gaia GPS– Having a great GPS app…