Giving Back: How Hikers Can Support Public Lands
Hikers and backpackers share a deep connection to the land. But preserving our trails takes collective effort. Here’s how you can support organizations working to protect the places we love.
Gifts Under $40 for Hikers, Backpackers, and Campers
Looking for low cost and useful gifts for outdoor adventurers? I curated this gift list from gear that I regularly use.
Best Day Hikes in Southwest Washington
This selected list of Southwest Washington hikes includes trails through old-growth forests, subalpine lakes, volcanic blast zones, and summits with panoramic views.
Best Mount Hood Day Hikes
With nearly 1,000 miles of trails in the region, hikes in the Mount Hood area range from lower elevation rambles in temperate rain forest with waterfalls and streams, to high altitude trails with alpine meadows and rocky ridges.
Review: Gossamer Gear LT5 Trekking Poles
At 4.9 ounces per pole, the LT5 trekking poles offer a fully adjustable, minimal design that makes them a favorite for ultralighters and those prioritizing light, efficient gear.
Recipe: Spiced Nut Mix
These spiced nuts combine a variety of nuts and seeds with buttery maple syrup and fresh rosemary, creating a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy treat you can easily customize.
Review: Flextail Tiny Helio 600Z Headlamp
Lightweight, bright, and versatile, the Flextail Tiny Helio 600Z offers multiple light modes, easy operation, and rechargeable convenience for camping and backpacking.
Review: Cressida FX Carbon AS Trekking Poles
The Leki Cressida FX Carbon AS poles for women feature a lightweight folding design, ergonomic cork grips, and built-in anti-shock — making them well-suited for long days on the trail.
Review: REI Traverse 35 Pack
Spacious, comfortable, and built to last, the REI Traverse 35 is a versatile pack designed for all-day adventures. Thoughtful features make gear access easy, while excellent padding ensures a comfortable carry.
Best Day Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is famous for its waterfalls, lush forests, and wildflowers – and a vast trail network for hikers to explore this diverse landscape.
Review: REI Trail 40 Pack
When I need a pack that can hold a lot of gear for cold weather adventures, the REI Trail 40 lets me carry it all and keep it organized.
Review: Silverlight Hiking Socks
The Silverlight Hiking Socks utilize silver fibers in the fabric mix to create a bacteria- and odor-free sock with light compression for a comfortable fit without feeling too tight.
Review: Ombraz Armless Sunglasses
Looking for sunglasses that won’t slip, pinch, or fall off during outdoor adventures? Ombraz armless sunglasses offer a secure, comfortable fit with polarized lenses for reliable sun protection on the go.
Best Hikes at Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is located in the high desert of Central Oregon. An internationally renowned location for rock climbing, the park also has plenty of trails for hikers who want to experience the majestic rock scenery.
Spring Wildflower Hikes Near Portland
Winter's rains are followed by spring wildflowers in the Pacific Northwest. These hikes showcase everything from open meadows filled with flowers to woodland wildflowers next to rivers and streams.
Leave No Trace Seven Principles
The I Heart Pacific Northwest website focuses on low impact practices and encourages backpackers to be mindful stewards of the wilderness. It is my belief that we are all responsible for taking care of the places that we adventure in.
Recipe: Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Protein Bars
These soft energy bars are full of nutty flavor and have plenty of protein to support physical activity.
Recipe: Mango Ginger Rice Crispy Bars
Loaded with the flavors of ginger and mango, these rice crispy bars are a crunchy alternative to boring trail bars.
Recipe: Sesame Oat Bars
Making your own protein bars is economical – and easy if you use a silicone bar pan! These bars contain peanut butter combined with whole oats and sesame seeds.
Best Waterfall Hikes Near Portland
The Pacific Northwest is known for having a plethora of waterfalls. These hikes – located within two hours of Portland – are best done in the winter through spring when the water levels are higher, although any time of year is a good time to hike to a waterfall.
Best Hikes at Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake was formed when Mount Mazama (12,000 ft.) exploded about 7,700 years ago, leaving a caldera that eventually filled in and formed the lake. These four hikes feature the best of the park's unique scenery.