The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite inflatable mattress is a marvel of warmth in a small package. I was still using the very first NeoAir model, which was revolutionary when it came out but only had an R-Value of 2. The NeoAir XLite has an R-Value of 3.2. It doesn’t sound like much but it was noticeably …
I’ve been testing the Sierra Designs Nitro 800 sleeping bag all summer and can report that it’s a very warm bag that is lightweight and comfortable. I love my other bag, the zipperless Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed, but when the temps dip down into the teens and 20s, I prefer the added warmth of a mummy …
I had the opportunity to go backpacking at Point Reyes National Seashore twice this year. Since I only live about an hour away, it’s surprising that I’ve never hiked the trails there. I have wonderful memories of walking along Limantour Beach and having big bonfires in high school but haven’t been out to the coast …
After a restful day hanging out with Casey Cox from Sonora Pass Resupply at the midpoint of our section hike from Tahoe to Yosemite, we were ready to move on to Sonora Pass to Yosemite on the PCT. Please see the previous article, “Tahoe to Sonora Pass,” to learn about the first 76 miles of …
For a lightweight pack, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa feels beefy. The shoulder straps and hip belts are thick and sturdy. You can feel the slim metal frame that provides support when you grasp the top of the pack. A foam pad provides additional structure and support to the back and doubles as a removable sit …
This trip report represents the first half of our Echo Lakes to Yosemite hike: Tahoe to Sonora Pass on the PCT. My last trip report turned into a book, literally (see Highs and Lows on the John Muir Trail), so I tried to limit myself to the bare-bones facts to provide a quick review of …
For a visitor from the U.S., the first steps onto the tarmac in India can assault the senses. Humid air, a cacophony of sounds, vivid colors and the odors of a thousand sources can be overwhelming. It helps to have a plan to tackle a country so large and diverse. Here, I’ll share our one-month …
I never knew I needed ultralight trekking poles until I had the Gossamer Gear LT4S Trekking Poles. Not only are they feather light but they have a substantial cork-like grip that is exceedingly comfortable. Once you start weighing gear, it’s hard to go back. I’ve been trying to lighten my load, but I’m mostly focused …
Geneva is a great place to get over jet lag with its walkable historic core, endless sidewalk cafes, glittering blue lake and fascinating glimpses into international organizations that reach around the globe. Its central location means that trains, buses and cars can transport you to magical moments in the nearby Alps or destinations in France, …
Once you’ve decided which direction you’re traveling in and where you’re starting, you’re ready to dig into the planning a section hike of Tahoe to Yosemite on the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail). See “Tahoe to Yosemite PCT Section Hike-Permits and Planning” for additional information. 15 Day Itinerary-Tahoe to Yosemite on the PCT When Steve examined …