Blog

Wilderness Permits 101: How and When to Get Them, and More!

If you are new to backpacking and want to learn more about backpacking permits, this guide breaks down some common permit processes and terminology to know about.

guide, backpackingLily TangNovember 1, 2024Comment

Backpacking the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne in Yosemite

This 30-mile point-to-point hike follows the Tuolumne River and takes 3-4 days to complete. Waterfalls, swimming holes, and impressive granite canyons are just some of the highlights.

backpacking, trip reportLily TangNovember 1, 2024California, multi-night, moderate, YosemiteComment

A Winter Island Escape: 3 Days on the Trans-Catalina Trail

The Trans-Catalina Trail off the coast of Southern California was the perfect choice for a winter backpacking trip. We hiked it in 3 days over President's Day weekend.

backpacking, trip reportLily TangAugust 12, 2024California, multi-night, moderateComment

Guide to Backpacking the Trans-Catalina Trail

The Trans-Catalina Trail is a 38.5 mile trail that spans Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California. The trail is typically completed in 3-5 days and is known for its ridge hiking, sprawling ocean views, and beachfront camping.

backpacking, guideLily TangJuly 22, 2024California, multi-night, moderate Comments

Lightweight Camera Gear for the Ultralight Backpacker

Photography and ultralight backpacking don't exactly go well together. Keep reading for my lightweight camear gear recommendations and tips on keeping your camera accessible while hiking.

gear, backpacking, guideLily TangApril 30, 2024 Comments

Guide to Thru-Hiking the Wonderland Trail

The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile circumnavigation of Mount Rainier in Washington. It is typically completed in 7-12 days.

backpacking, guideLily TangJanuary 30, 2024multi-night, Washington, difficult Comments

Guide to Backpacking the Lost Coast Trail

The Lost Coast Trail spans 25 miles of remote coastline in the King Range National Conservation Area. It’s usually done as a multi-night backpacking trip. Keep reading for info on permits, tide charts, suggested itineraries, and more.

backpacking, guideLily TangSeptember 16, 2023multi-night, moderate, California Comments

Yosemite Valley Backpacking to Cloud's Rest and Quarter Domes

This strenuous hike out of Happy Isles takes you to an off-trail camp spot with a view that rivals that of Cloud’s Rest.

backpacking, trip reportLily TangAugust 31, 2023overnight, California, Yosemite, difficult Comments

Women’s Backpacking Gear List (2024) — My Ultralight Approach

Whether you are a beginner trying to assemble your first set of gear or an experienced backpacker looking to make some upgrades, this post is for you! I will be going over all of the gear I love and currently use in detail.

gear, backpacking, guideLily TangAugust 15, 2023 Comments

May Flowers at Tomales Point, Point Reyes National Seashore

The Tomales Point trail is a family-friendly hike in Point Reyes National Seashore known for its coastal views, tule elk and other wildlife, and abundant wildflowers in the spring.

day hikingLily TangJune 13, 2023California Comment

Wildflowers at Soberanes Canyon and Rocky Ridge Loop, Garrapata State Park

This incredibly diverse, 5 mile day hike close to Monterey is even better in May when the hillsides are bursting with wildflowers.

day hikingLily TangJune 2, 2023California Comments

Snow in July: Backpacking Panorama Ridge and Garibaldi Lake

Panorama Ridge is an iconic 20 mi/32 km hike in Garibaldi Provincial Park that offers 360-degree views of Garibaldi Lake, Black Tusk, Helm Creek, and the surrounding mountains.

backpacking, trip reportLily TangMay 16, 2023overnight, difficult, British Columbia Comments