So Many Trails!

There are so many trails to discover! Depending on how much time you have, your skillset, and fitness level, you could choose anything from a short day hike to a multi-day backpacking trip.

Hikes that will not disappoint:

The Appalachian Trail is an all time favorite. 2200 miles from Georgia to Maine, USA. There are primitive shelters along the way, but services like hostels, stores and shuttle drivers are plentiful so you could hike for a day or hike for half a year!
The Appalachian Trail

The Bear Lake area of Rocky Mountain National Park. Just outside Estes Park, Colorado. An incredible day hiking area that boasts mirror lake views of snow-laced mountains. You will get world class views in as little as 5 minutes into the hike.
Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

Let's Talk Gear

If you're uncomfortable when you camp or hike, it's almost always because you don't have the right gear. We've all been there. Maybe the tent leaked, or the zipper rattled all night, or your sleeping bag had cold spots, or your feet got blisters 2 miles in. This is because you don't have the right gear! What if you could comfortably take everything you need on an overnight adventure to see some of the most amazing natural wonders in the world? You absolutely can.

There is no need for heavy gear anymore. My very first backpacking setup was 30 lbs and cost me about $1200 in 2018. That included food and water. For typical 3-season hiking (not winter), I recommend that your pack is no more than 35 pounds. Carrying over 40 pounds doesn't make you more impressive. It means you are slower and more uncomfortable than you should be.

I'm planning to include a lot of great information on gear, but for now enjoy this helpful planning tool: LighterPack is a great gear planning tool. It calculates the total weight of your pack and keeps a list of your items.

Training and Tips

Hiking fitness is somewhat unique - especially for a Florida flat-lander like me. In everyday life, for most people, it's difficult to emulate climbing mountains and walking on all sorts of different terrain. In training for the Appalachian Trail and Grand Canyon Rim-2-Rim and a Colorado 14er (mountain) I've had to learn what kind of training works. Discover a growing library of training and fitness content - made specially for hiking.

Fitness is great, but preparation is key. This includes knowing the routes and terrain, preparing for resupply points, preparing safety gear, and knowing what services and regulations are in the area.

Grand Canyon Rim 2 Rim
Hiking the Grand Canyon from North Rim to South Rim in one day.

100 Miles on a Recumbent Bike
Riding 100 miles on a recumbent bike along the Suncoast Trail.

Follow Me

@cory_outdoors