Backpacking Pohono Trail to Old Inspiration Point - Yosemite NP, CA
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
Such a classic Yosemite hike, the Pohono Trail traverses the southern rim and offers some of the best views of the valley you’ll find. The entire trail is 13 miles from end to end, but with multiple starting/exit points, there is a hike variation that works for everyone. There are several different viewpoints and options for campsites, each with its special perspective of the iconic granite formations that Yosemite has become known for. The majority of visitors that come to Yosemite will drive the loop at the bottom of the valley looking up at rocks towering above, some even make the drive out ..read more
Visit website
Backpacking the Lost Coast Trail — Northern California
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
Arguably the finest coastal backpacking trail in the United States, this 25 mile stretch of California coast is truly a unique trail where you’ll get to experience untouched wilderness and true remoteness. Due to the cliffs being too steep to build roads, the Lost Coast is the longest stretch of undeveloped coast in California, but the cool thing is we can still experience it by hiking it! When thinking about backpacking in California, most people automatically assume Yosemite or the Sierra. The Lost Coast isn’t a well-known area to the general public, but this remote area is considered a top ..read more
Visit website
My complete weekend backpacking pack list
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
Here I’m sharing everything I pack for a weekend backpacking trip. Feel free to use it as a complete packing check list or to get ideas and inspiration for deciding what to bring for a backpacking trip of your own. I always love seeing what other backpackers are packing. People are so creative and have such well thought out systems. As a gear junkie, I’m on an endless mission to try new things and fine tune my own setup. Click here for a list of all my current favorite outdoor gear When I first started backpacking, I also started out with just the essentials, buying used and borrowing things ..read more
Visit website
2021 Backpacking Permit Deadlines for California and More
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
Getting backpacking permits for popular spots like Yosemite, Eastern Sierra, or other parks and areas can sometimes be the hardest part about backpacking. It’s become increasingly difficult to get wilderness permits over the years, with more people wanting to get out and hike while the quota restrictions remaining the same. Plus, each area has their own system and permit deadlines for when to apply. I’ve compiled an updated guide so you can start understanding local regulations and not miss an important date in the overnight permit booking process. This year for 2021, I’ve added some of the up ..read more
Visit website
Food time! My Favorite Backpacking Meals
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
Some of the most common questions I get are about what I eat when I go backpacking. Everyone has their own preferences, but after many trips I've narrowed down some of my favorite foods that are packable, nutritious, and get me excited for meals. A typical lunch complete with perfect lunch views! Despite most people thinking backpackers eat trail mix for days straight (if you do, more power to you!), I really enjoy variety and indulging when I'm in the mountains, and I'm willing to carry the extra weight to treat myself to proper meals. I'm pretty much the opposite of an ultralight backpacker ..read more
Visit website
Backpacking Island and Twin Lakes — Desolation Wilderness, CA
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
This is a great relatively leisurely trip to make early season, for beginners, or as a quick overnight into the backcountry. It’s only four miles up to Island Lake at the end of the trail, and there are also infinite opportunities to explore and scramble up to various peaks of the basin. For more advanced hikers, you can also make this trip a semi loop by traveling cross country to the Enchanted Pools and various other small falls along the river. Affiliate disclaimer: this article includes some affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission on any purchase made - at no additional ..read more
Visit website
How I Save Money on Camping and Hiking Gear
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
Spending time outdoors can be a great budget-friendly activity, but a lot of the time the technical gear involved with outdoor activities can quickly add up. Every outdoors enthusiast understands the constant struggle of upgrading gear, new technologies, and new trends. Here are a few tips and tricks I've picked up over the past couple years to help save a little when it comes to buying gear. Looking to backpack California soon? Here is a list of important permit deadlines you wont want to miss. Affiliate disclaimer: please note that this article includes some affiliate links, which means I m ..read more
Visit website
Four Days in Norway's Spectacular Western Fjords
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
When planning this Norway trip, we were overwhelmed with all the things to see and do. Most people who travel to Norway will head to Pulpit Rock and Trolltunga, but we wanted to experience what Norway is famous for - fjords! After many hours of research, here is our four day road trip itinerary focused on nature and the outdoors that would take us through the only two UNESCO World Heritage fjords. We headed to Bergen to start our road trip along the coast through prime Norwegian fjord territory after spending the first half of our trip exploring the stunning Lofoten islands. Hopefully this pos ..read more
Visit website
2020 Backpacking Permit Deadlines for California and More
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
The latest version of this post for 2021 can be found here. Getting permits and overnight reservations for the outdoor scene has gotten harder and harder over the years, with more people wanting to get out and hike while the quota restrictions remaining the same. I’ve compiled an updated helpful guide so you can follow local regulations and not miss an important date, and this year for 2020 I’ve included some additional parks that I personally have my eye on hiking and backpacking! If you don’t get your desired trail or hike dates, don’t worry, the mountains aren’t going anywhere! Try to be mo ..read more
Visit website
A Lofoten Road Trip Itinerary — Exploring Norway's Scenic North
Backcountrycow
by Alice Kao
2y ago
Lofoten has always been a dream destination of mine. This archipelago on the northern end of Norway has everything I love: dramatic mountain ridges with unlimited hiking opportunities, scenic coastal views, and small towns that still feel undiscovered, which all make for the perfect road trip opportunity! We spent five days driving back and forth across the islands, and we could have spent so much longer soaking in the beauty of Norway’s north. Headed to Bergen? Click here for our itinerary exploring Norway’s fjords on the Western Coast! I’ve broken down some of our favorite points of interest ..read more
Visit website

Follow Backcountrycow on FeedSpot

Continue with Google
Continue with Apple
OR