Backpacking

Backpacking Coyote Gulch

May 1, 2013
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Hiker Skip Whitman beats the heat by walking through the stream in Coyote Gulch (Ryan Malavolta)

If you want life list hikes, Utah has them in spades. High on the list for me and a few friends had been Coyote Gulch in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. This riparian canyon boasts a natural bridge, huge alcoves, numerous arches and a stream that flows year round. Well, after many years of...
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Backpacking 101: Your Sleep System

February 26, 2013
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Choose a pad with insulation and a warm sleeping bag for mountain camping (photo: Ryan Malavolta)

Sleeping well in the backcountry is crucial; you don’t want to wake up sore and tired after a restless night. Of course, this is often easier said than done. Unfamiliar surroundings, chilly temperatures, creepy noises and your own imagination may team up to keep you from getting your beauty rest. One thing you can...
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Backpacking 101: Choose Your Bag

September 3, 2012
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Backpacking 101: Choose Your Bag

It’s a perfect day on the trail: blue skies with warm temperatures, and not a cloud in the sky. You’re hammering out the miles; only three more until you hit camp for the night. Your shoulders feel good, your feet don’t ache and your back is not a sweaty, uncomfortable mess. Everything you need...
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Backpacking 101: Getting Started

August 1, 2012
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Mountains or desert? You'll have plenty of options for overnights here in Utah. (Photo: Ryan Malavolta - UtahOutside.com)

Backpacking is awesome. There might be no finer way to truly experience the great outdoors: exploring remote areas, observing wildlife, and the unmatched solitude of a far away campsite are just some of the rewards awaiting you in the backcountry. There is also something to be said for the feeling of self reliance that...
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Kelty Rally 45 Backpack review

July 18, 2012
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The Kelty Rally 45 backpack (courtesy Kelty)

I had a chance to visit the Kelty booth at last summer’s Outdoor Retailer convention here in Salt Lake City. They were showcasing a wide array of products, but the ones that excited me the most were the brand-new “Agile Series” backpacks. Needless to say I was very happy when the Kelty Rally 45...
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Hike to Red Castle in the High Uintas Wilderness

July 16, 2012
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Score this view of Red Castle hiking from Broadbent Meadow. (Photo: Ryan Malavolta - UtahOutside.com)

The North Slope of the High Uintas Wilderness is a region of exquisite alpine splendor. The highest peaks in Utah rise up jaggedly against a wide open sky. Miles of well maintained trails allow hikers to wind their way through meadows, spruce and pine forests, and hundreds of scenic lakes filled with fresh water...
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Backpacking to Duck Lake in the Uinta Mountains

June 18, 2012
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View from the south end of Duck Lake. (Photo: Ryan Malavolta - UtahOutside.com)

One of the the great natural treasures of Utah is the Uinta Mountains. Hundreds of miles of trails deliver unmatched high alpine scenery; towering peaks, picturesque lakes and thriving forests are just a few examples of what awaits hikers in the Uintas. Backpacking is a very popular activity in these mountains, and if you’re...
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Explore Buckhorn Wash in the San Rafael Swell

May 6, 2012
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Window Blind Peak (left) and Assembly Hall Peak (right) tower over the San Rafael River near Buckhorn Wash

It’s desert time in Utah! If you haven’t already made a trip to the eye popping amusement park that is Utah’s red rock canyon country, then chances are you’ve got one planned. However, if you can’t decide where to take your next trip, or just need some inspiration, we’ve got your back. If you...
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Hiking A1 Peak in the Uinta Mountains

October 4, 2011
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A1 Peak viewed from Main Fork Stillwater Trail.

Summer may be drawing to a close, but there is still time to collect one last snow-free summit. A1 Peak in the Uinta Mountains checks in at 12,377′; certainly a worthy elevation to top off your season with. The easiest summit route is from Hell Hole Basin, an oft-forgotten area that is usually devoid...
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Hike to Packard Lake in the Uinta Mountains

August 30, 2011
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Packard Lake in the Uinta Mountains

Hiking in the Uinta Mountains is like a craps game where you win on every roll. It seems that no matter where you decide to go, you will be rewarded with eye popping views of amazing Utah scenery. Packard Lake is just a short hike off of the Highline Trail and makes a worthy...
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