Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # RidgeTrekker Hiking, Backpacking, & Camping ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://ridgetrekker.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [16 Essential Items for your Day Hike Packing List](https://ridgetrekker.com/day-hike-packing-list/) - 16 Essential Items for your Day Hike Packing List Are you planning a day hike and need guidance on what to carry with you? Perhaps you need more than you initially thought. Perhaps less. Let's take … Read more. - [Gossamer Gear G4-20 Backpack Complete Review](https://ridgetrekker.com/gg-g4-20-review/) - Gossamer Gear G4-20 Backpack Complete Review The Gossamer Gear G4-20 is an ultralight backpack weighing ~24.7 ounces and is designed to carry 25-lbs comfortably. Due to its weight, moderately low … Read more. - [The Elegear Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad Review](https://ridgetrekker.com/elegear-self-inflating-sleeping-pad/) - Elegear Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad Review When it comes to backpacking, typical sleeping pads are usually of the “air mattress” variety. Think Therm-a-rest’s NeoAir series, or the Tensor from Nemo. These … Read more. - [Sea to Summit Ember 35 Down Quilt Review](https://ridgetrekker.com/sea-to-summit-ember-35-down-quilt-review/) - Sea to Summit Ember Down Quilt Review The Ember from Sea to Summit is a high quality, ultralight down quilt offered in various sizes and temperature ratings. Constructed with a 10D nylon shell and … Read more. - [Ampex Codazzi 2 Person Tent Review](https://ridgetrekker.com/ampex-codazzi-2-person-tent-review/) - Ampex Codazzi 2 Person Tent Review The Ampex Codazzi 2 Person Tent is a budget friendly freestanding tent weighing 4.01lbs, or approximately 64.2 ounces. This weight includes the tent body, rainfly, poles, footprint … Read more. - [Best Knee Braces for Hiking (and Why You Should Wear One)](https://ridgetrekker.com/best-knee-braces-for-hiking/) - Best Knee Braces for Hiking (and why you should wear one) Hiking is a popular outdoor activity that offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. However, it can also be strenuous on the body, particularly … Read more. - [Should you hike in pants or shorts?](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-pants-or-shorts/) - Should you hike in pants or shorts? Having the right clothes when you go hiking can be a major factor in how much enjoyment you get from your time outdoors. We need to dress in a way that will keep … Read more. - [Hike Better with the KUHL Silencr Hiking Pants](https://ridgetrekker.com/kuhl-silencr-hiking-pants-review/) - Hike Better with the KUHL Silencr Pants When first getting into hiking, it’s hard to justify spending almost $100 on a pair of hiking pants. But what about after having gained some experience? Is a good pair of hiking pants worth it … Read more. - [The 5 Best Hiking Pants - Men’s and Women’s](https://ridgetrekker.com/best-hiking-pants/) - The 5 Best Hiking Pants - Men's and Women's Do not underestimate the value of a good pair of hiking pants. You do not need to spend $200 for a pair but taking time to research before making a purchase can … Read more. - [Summer Hiking Outfit Guide](https://ridgetrekker.com/summer-hiking-outfit-guide/) - Find out what outfit to wear on your summer hiking adventures! It's not only about staying cool, but protecting yourself from other hazards. - [How to handle knee pain when hiking](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-to-handle-knee-pain-when-hiking/) - How to Handle Knee Pain when Hiking Few things can ruin a spectacular hiking trip quicker than having to suffer through nagging knee pain. Unfortunately, this is all too common for hikers when navigating challenging terrains or … Read more. - [Washing and caring for your down sleeping bag](https://ridgetrekker.com/washing-and-caring-for-down-sleeping-bag/) - Washing & Caring for a Down Sleeping Bag A down sleeping bag can be one of the biggest investments in terms of your camping or hiking gear, but are they worth the steep cost? How long will a down sleeping … Read more. - [10 Tips to make your Uphill Hike better](https://ridgetrekker.com/10-tips-to-make-your-uphill-hike-better/) - 10 Tips to make your Uphill Hike better Hiking uphill can be a physically demanding yet incredibly rewarding experience. It challenges your endurance, strengthens your leg muscles, and rewards you with breathtaking views. There's a unique … Read more. - [10 Tips to make your Downhill Hike Better](https://ridgetrekker.com/10-tips-to-make-your-downhill-hike-better/) - 10 Tips to make your Downhill Hike better Hiking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature, challenge your physical limits, and discover awe-inspiring landscapes. While hiking uphill may test … Read more. - [Complete Review of the Tarptent Protrail](https://ridgetrekker.com/tarptent-protrail-review/) - Complete Review of the Tarptent Protrail The Tarptent Protrail is an excellent ultralight tent, assuming you know what you are getting with a one-person tent. There are lighter options, but rarely do you find them at such a great … Read more. - [Hiking Solo: How to tackle your fear](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-solo/) - Hiking Solo: How to tackle your fear There may be apprehension when it comes to hiking solo, either from yourself or your loved ones. However, solo hiking, the act of hiking on your own, can be a rewarding experience that … Read more. - [How to start and build a campfire](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-to-start-a-campfire/) - How to start and build a campfire A campfire is arguably the most iconic pastime when it comes to camping. However, a campfire can serve a greater purpose than roasting marshmallows or telling ghost stories … Read more. - [10 Useful Gift Ideas for Hikers](https://ridgetrekker.com/10-useful-gift-ideas-for-hikers/) - 10 Useful Gift Ideas for Hikers Do you need some help finding great gift ideas for the hikers in your life? Whether for the holidays, a birthday, or another special occasion, we have 10 useful gifts any hiker … Read more. - [Hiker Hunger Trekking Poles: High Quality on a Budget](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiker-hunger-trekking-poles-review/) - Hiker Hunger Trekking Poles: Quality on a Budget Amongst many non big brand names of trekking poles found on Amazon, the Hiker Hunger trekking poles stand out from the crowd. I prefer my trekking … Read more. - [Top 10 Best Recommendations for an Ultralight Sleeping Bag or Quilt](https://ridgetrekker.com/recommendations-ul-sleeping-bags-quilts/) - Top 10 Recommendations for an Ultralight Sleeping Bag or Quilt In the market for a new ultralight sleeping bag or quilt but not sure where to start? Maybe there are a few brands out there you’ve yet to discover, or … Read More - [UGQ Bandit Review: Is this the best quilt?](https://ridgetrekker.com/ugq-bandit-review/) - UGQ Bandit Review - The Best Quilt? Outdoor (UGQ) is a custom gear company based in Michigan whose claim to fame is the Bandit Quilt, a customizable, ultralight quilt offered in various configurations of your choosing. In 2019, I … Read more. - [How to use trekking poles the right way](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-to-use-trekking-poles/) - How to Use Trekking Poles the Right Way The benefits of hiking with trekking poles cannot be overstated. Most notably, they improve balance, reduce stress on your knees, and … Read more. - [Hiking Poles on a Plane? What the TSA says ...](https://ridgetrekker.com/tsa-hiking-poles-and-other-gear/) - What the TSA says about hiking poles and other gear Many hikers and backpackers hop on planes and fly across the country to get to their hiking destinations. This leads to many questions about what can and cannot … Read more. - [Elegear Double Sleeping Pad Review](https://ridgetrekker.com/elegear-double-sleeping-pad-review/) - Elegear Double Sleeping Pad Review You don’t come across double sleeping pads in the backpacking community often. Due to their size and weight, they just aren’t convenient to haul around … Read more. - [How to avoid ticks while hiking](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-to-avoid-ticks-while-hiking/) - How to Avoid Ticks while Hiking Ticks are small arachnids that feed on the blood of animals, including humans. They can be found all over the United States in tall grasses, shrubs, weeds, and … Read more. - [Bear Canister: A Simple Guide](https://ridgetrekker.com/bear-canister-guide/) - Bear Canister: A Simple Guide When camping or backpacking in an area with bears, for your safety and that of bears as well, you need to secure your food and other scented items in an approved manner. Most commonly, you … Read more. - [Cowboy Camping: A Remarkable Experience](https://ridgetrekker.com/cowboy-camping/) - Cowboy Camping: A Remarkable Experience If you want to get in touch with mother nature, what better way is there than hiking into it and setting up camp? But you can take it a step further and cowboy camp. What … Read more. - [40 Acre Rock - Edge of the World in the Middle of Nowhere](https://ridgetrekker.com/40-acre-rock/) - 40 Acre Rock - Edge of the World in the Middle of Nowhere Nestled at the boundary of the Sandhills and Piedmont regions of South Carolina is 40 Acre Rock Heritage Preserve. While not truly 40 acres (the preserve … Read more. - [Thru-Hiking 101: Your adventure starts now](https://ridgetrekker.com/thru-hiking/) - Thru-Hiking 101: Your adventure starts now Do you want to do something that will have you feeling great about yourself? Something that leaves you feeling accomplished? Maybe you just need to escape from … Read more. - [How to plan your hiking route](https://ridgetrekker.com/planning-your-hiking-route/) - How to plan your hiking route Regardless of if you are looking for an epic backpacking weekend along the Appalachian Trail or just planning a day hike in your local park, having a plan for your hiking route is essential ...Read more. - [Backpacking Base Weight - What it is and how to lower it](https://ridgetrekker.com/backpacking-base-weight/) - Backpacking Base Weight Explained Base weight in backpacking is the amount of weight in a hiker’s backpack minus consumables like food, water, and fuel. A lower base weight is desirable because it affords more comfort and allows a … Read more. - [Appalachian Trail thru-hike cost (and 9 ways to reduce it)](https://ridgetrekker.com/at-thru-hike-cost/) - How much does it cost to thru-hike the A.T.? Everyone who dreams of thru hiking the Appalachian Trail has heard about the physical and mental challenges that await them, but those aren’t the only things that can cut short your hike. Many people quit their hike simply because they ... Read More - [How long does it take to hike the Appalachian Trail?](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-long-to-hike-the-at/) - How long does it take to hike the AT? The Appalachian Trail is a hiking trail that stretches nearly 2,200 miles from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Tens of thousands of people set foot on … Read More - [How long is the Appalachian Trail? - Breaking down the miles](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-long-is-the-appalachian-trail/) - How long is the Appalachian Trail? - Breaking down the miles As of 2021, the Appalachian Trail is 2,193.1 miles (3,529.5 km), stretching across 14 states from its southern terminus at Springer Mountain in Georgia to … Read more. - [Backpacking & Camping Tents: Which is right for you?](https://ridgetrekker.com/backpacking-and-camping-tents/) - Backpacking vs Camping Tents If you are looking to get starting backpacking or camping, you likely found yourself looking for a tent, and you might have been faced with the option of choosing between a … Read More - [Ultralight 2 Person Tents - The best of the best](https://ridgetrekker.com/best-ultralight-2-person-tent/) - Ultralight 2 Person Tents - The best of the best Are you in the market for a new backpacking tent for you and your partner? Or are you a solo hiker wanting more space than your 1-person tent affords … Read more. - [The Uwharrie Trail - Informative Guide on Hiking and Camping](https://ridgetrekker.com/uwharrie-trail/) - The Uwharrie Trail - An Informative Guide for Hiking and Camping The Uwharrie Trail is a 40-mile trail through the heart of the Uwharrie National Forest in the North Carolina Piedmont. It climbs many notable mountains within … Read more. - [Hiking Alone in Black Bear Country](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-in-black-bear-country/) - Safe Hiking in Black Bear Country Whether you’re alone or in a group, hiking in black bear country requires extra precaution to avoid encounters with these animals. Fortunately, coming face to face with black bears rarely leads to any harm, but knowing what to do in … Read More - [Dispersed Camping: What it is and how to do it right.](https://ridgetrekker.com/dispersed-camping/) - Dispersed Camping: What it is and how to do it right. Are you familiar with the term “dispersed camping”? Perhaps not, but you probably already know what it is and not even know it. Dispersed camping, like … Read more. - [Fifty 2-person tents analyzed - Here are the small ones](https://ridgetrekker.com/small-2-person-tents/) - Small 2-person Tents: Here are the smallest Small, 2 person tents are the most common tents you will see when backpacking. They are convenient for couples and solo hikers who want extra space. Being small … Read more. - [Everything to know about a Tent Footprint](https://ridgetrekker.com/tent-footprint/) - Everything to know about a tent footprint A tent footprint, sometimes referred to as a groundsheet, is a piece of material that lays underneath the floor of a tent and protects it from abrasion and tears. It also … Read more. - [What size backpack do I need for backpacking?](https://ridgetrekker.com/what-size-backpack-do-i-need-for-backpacking/) - What size backpack do I need for backpacking? Intrigued by backpacking but aren’t quite sure what size backpack you need? The answer is very subjective and based on numerous factors, but this guide will … Read more. - [Best Hiking Backpack Under $100](https://ridgetrekker.com/best-hiking-backpack-under-100/) - The Best Hiking Backpack under $100 - 5 Contenders If you are looking for a new hiking backpack on a tight budget of, say, $100, you will not find many options at REI, yet you might be overwhelmed with the … Read more. - [How much should you spend on a hiking backpack?](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-much-should-you-spend-on-a-hiking-backpack/) - How much should you spend on a hiking backpack? If you are looking to get into hiking or backpacking but need a backpack, the first thing you will look for is the price. After all, you know what you can … Read more. - [Hiking vs Trekking](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-vs-trekking/) - Hiking vs Trekking - A useless discussion Maybe you want to hike the Appalachian Trail, or do you want to trek it? How do the activities of hiking and trekking differ anyway, and where do they come together? Is there … Read more. - [6 Best Sleeping Pads for Side Sleepers that Really Work](https://ridgetrekker.com/6-best-sleeping-pads-for-side-sleepers/) - 6 Sleeping Pads for Side Sleepers that Really Work For side sleepers, not just any sleeping pad will do on our backpacking or camping trips. We need a sleeping pad that is thick enough to keep our hips and … Read more. - [Elevation on the AT, from the Highest to Lowest Point](https://ridgetrekker.com/elevation-on-the-appalachian-trail/) - Elevation on the AT - Highest and Lowest Points The Appalachian Trail stretches from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, crossing through 14 states and climbing some of the tallest … Read more. - [Black Balsam Knob Visitors Guide](https://ridgetrekker.com/black-balsam-knob-visitors-guide/) - Black Balsam Knob - A wonder to behold Off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina is Black Balsam Knob, nestled between the Shining Rock Wilderness and the Middle Prong Wilderness. The trail up … Read more. - [Awesome Beginner Backpacking Gear for less than $200](https://ridgetrekker.com/beginner-backpacking-gear-under-200/) - Awesome Beginner Backpacking Gear for less than $200 If you are looking to start backpacking, you have likely come to the realization that the necessary gear can be quite expensive. But do not fret! There are … Read more. - [How to pick a hiking backpack](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-to-pick-a-hiking-backpack/) - How to pick a hiking backpack Looking to get into hiking and backpacking? If so, then one of the first things needed is a backpack. There are a lot to choose from with capacities, sizes, features, and prices! It can be overwhelming trying … Read more. - [How to make your hiking shoes more comfortable](https://ridgetrekker.com/how-to-make-hiking-shoes-more-comfortable/) - How to make your hiking shoes more comfortable Keeping our feet happy should be our top priority when it comes to hiking, you know, other than staying alive. If your feet get injured or are hurting, they won’t be able to get you where you’re going as comfortably, so ensuring that we have … Read More - [Hiking in Morrow Mountain State Park](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-in-morrow-mountain-state-park/) - Hiking in Morrow Mountain State Park Nestled in the ancient Uwharrie Mountains of central North Carolina, Morrow Mountain State Park offers some of the best hiking trails away from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the western part of the state. Morrow Mountain State Park offers over … Read More - [Wellax Ultralight Sleeping Pad Review](https://ridgetrekker.com/wellax-sleeping-pad-review/) - Wellax UL Sleeping Pad Review A sleeping pad is a critical part of your sleep system whenever you are camping. It helps insulate you from the ground to keep you warmer, and if you have an inflatable sleeping pad, the extra comfort should provide a much better night's … Read More. - [Granite Gear Crown 2 vs Osprey Exos](https://ridgetrekker.com/crown2-vs-exos/) - Granite Gear Crown2 vs Osprey Exos There’s no doubt that the Osprey Exos hiking backpack is one of the most commonly used backpacks, especially for long-distance hikers. However, the Granite Gear … Read more. - [Do you need a rain cover for a backpack?](https://ridgetrekker.com/do-you-need-a-rain-cover-for-a-backpack/) - Do you need a rain cover for a backpack? Not only do we want to keep our bodies dry when hiking, we also want to keep our gear dry. A rain cover for your backpack is one of the most effective ways to do …Read more. - [Do you need a sleeping pad for camping?](https://ridgetrekker.com/do-you-need-a-sleeping-pad-for-camping/) - Do you need a sleeping pad for camping? Whether you are an experienced camper, a novice, or completely new to the activity, there are probably a few things that come to mind first when you think about …Read more. - [Hiking in the Rain: A Guide to Staying Dry](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-in-the-rain/) - Hiking in the Rain: A Guide to Staying Dry If you spend enough days hiking, you’re bound to find yourself trekking through the rain at some point. Whether a light drizzle or a torrential downpour, you want to make sure … Read More - [17 Tips for getting better Sleep when Camping](https://ridgetrekker.com/better-sleep-when-camping-tips/) - 17 Tips for Better Sleep when Camping If you have ever been camping, chances are you have found difficulty in getting good sleep, and if you are reading this then I assume you’re looking for some advice on how to catch more ZZZs when sleeping outdoors. More than likely, you ... Read More - [What is NoBo and SoBo Hiking?](https://ridgetrekker.com/nobo-and-sobo-hiking/) - What is NoBo and SoBo Hiking? If you have heard the terms “NoBo” and “SoBo” while researching you own potential hiking or backpacking adventure, then you may have questioned what they mean … Read More - [Is it safe to hike during the coronavirus pandemic?](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-during-coronavirus/) - Is it safe to hike during the coronavirus pandemic? Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve heard all about the coronavirus. You’re probably sick of hearing about it. Turn on the news and it is all they are talking about ... Read more. - [Sleeping Bags and Quilts: What's the difference?](https://ridgetrekker.com/sleeping-bags-vs-quilts/) - Sleeping Bags and Quilts: What's the difference? A sleeping bag is synonymous with camping, but there is a growing trend of people opting to use quilts in place of their tried and true sleeping bags. So, what is the difference between a sleeping bag and a quilt and how do you choose one ... Read more. - [Do you need waterproof hiking boots?](https://ridgetrekker.com/do-you-need-waterproof-hiking-boots/) - Do you need waterproof hiking boots? If you are looking to get into hiking or backpacking, one of the first and most critical investments you will make is a pair of hiking footwear, whether that’s boots ... Read more. - [Triple Crown: What it is and how to achieve it](https://ridgetrekker.com/what-is-the-triple-crown/) - The Triple Crown: What it is and how to achieve it The Triple Crown is an achievement that the most dedicated hikers seek by completing the three major long-distance hiking trails in the United States: The Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail. An award is granted … Read More - [An Easy Guide to Backpacking Stoves](https://ridgetrekker.com/an-easy-guide-to-backpacking-stoves/) - An Easy Guide to Backpacking Stoves Most hikers and backpackers want a hot meal at the end of the day, or maybe they want to boil water for a cup of coffee to get them going in the morning. Whatever … Read More - [How to Charge Electronics when Hiking](https://ridgetrekker.com/charge-electronics-when-hiking/) - How to Charge Electronics when Hiking It is rare for any of us to go somewhere without our phones and that includes our backpacking trips. After all, our phones can serve as our camera, map, …Read more. - [Basic Overnight Backpacking Checklist](https://ridgetrekker.com/basic-overnight-backpacking-checklist/) - Basic Overnight Backpacking Checklist Being prepared for an overnight backpacking trip is critical to your comfort and safety but it can be overwhelming trying to compile a list of all the things you may need. Experienced hikers or backpackers have probably put together their … Read More ## Pages - [Welcome to Ridgetrekker.com!](https://ridgetrekker.com/) - FEATURED POSTS Hiking Solo: How to tackle your fear How to use trekking poles the right way Backpacking Base Weight Explained What size backpack do you need for backpacking? Hi! I'm Brian, author and creator of RidgeTrekker.com ... ... and I'm dedicated to helping new and experienced backpackers find more joy in the great outdoors, - [About](https://ridgetrekker.com/about/) - About the Author Who I am ... and who I'm not My name is Brian and I'm just a guy who loves to hike and backpack whenever I get the chance. I won't claim to be an elite backpacker, at least not in any way other than my enthusiasm. I haven't been all over the - [Trekking Poles & Gadgets](https://ridgetrekker.com/trekking-poles-gadgets/) - Trekking Poles & Gadgets - [Privacy Policy](https://ridgetrekker.com/privacy-policy/) - RidgeTrekker Privacy Policy Last Updated on: 02.24.2020 At RidgeTrekker.com, we respect your privacy and believe in protecting your valuable information. This privacy policy details the types of information we may collect from you, how it may be used, with whom we may share it, and the options we offer you regarding the collection and use - [Disclaimer](https://ridgetrekker.com/disclaimer/) - Disclaimer RidgeTrekker.com and its author, from here referred to as RidgeTrekker.com, do not guarantee the accuracy of any content on this website, though we try our best to make sure content is correct at the time of its posting. All content is subject to change without notice. Most content on RidgeTrekker.com is based on opinions - [Contact](https://ridgetrekker.com/contact/) - Contact Info Thank you for visiting RidgeTrekker.com! If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to submit your message here. I will do my best to reply as soon as I can. NameEmail*Message*Submit - [Blog](https://ridgetrekker.com/blog/) - All Blog Posts - [Camp Kitchen](https://ridgetrekker.com/camp-kitchen/) - Camp Kitchen - [Recommended Gear](https://ridgetrekker.com/recommended-gear/) - Recommended Gear - [Appalachian Trail FAQ](https://ridgetrekker.com/at-faq/) - Appalachian Trail FAQ - [Misc. Hiking & Backpacking Topics](https://ridgetrekker.com/misc-hiking-backpacking-topics/) - Misc. Hiking & Backpacking Topics - [Trip Guides](https://ridgetrekker.com/trip-guides/) - Trip Guides - [Gear Lists](https://ridgetrekker.com/gear-lists/) - Gear Lists - [Hiking Attire, Footwear, & Rain Gear](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-attire-footwear-rain-gear/) - Hiking Attire, Footwear, & Rain Gear - [Backpacks, Shelters, & Sleep Systems](https://ridgetrekker.com/backpacks-shelters-sleep-systems/) - Backpacks, Shelters, & Sleep Systems - [Hiking & Backpacking Tips](https://ridgetrekker.com/hiking-backpacking-tips/) - Hiking & Backpacking Tips - [Gear Reviews](https://ridgetrekker.com/gear-reviews/) - Gear Reviews ## Categories - [Gear Reviews](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/gear-reviews/) - [Tips & Tricks](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/tips-tricks/) - [Trips](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/trips/) - [AT Prep](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/at-prep/) - [Backpacks, Shelters, & Sleep Systems](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/backpacks-shelters-sleepsystem/) - [Gear Lists](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/gear-lists/) - [Hiking Attire, Footwear, & Rain Gear](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/attire/) - [Camp Kitchen](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/camp-kitchen/) - [Miscellaneous](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/misc/) - [Recommended Gear](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/recommended-gear/) - [Trekking Poles & Gadgets](https://ridgetrekker.com/category/gadgets/)