c/backpacking-routes

Local knowledge from a gas station clerk unlocked a new trail for me

I stopped at a small gas station near the trailhead last spring. The clerk saw my map and suggested a shortcut through an old logging road. It cut two miles off my planned loop and led to a quiet lake. I've used his advice on three trips since then. Talking to people who know the area can really improve your route.

3 comments

williams90•5d ago

Tried a new loop in the Sawtooths and the trail markers were nonexistent

Went out for a four day trip in Idaho last month. The map showed clear paths, but half the junctions had no signs or blazes. We got lost twice and had to use GPS to backtrack. Really frustrating when you rely on marked routes for safety.

3 comments

lilyross•5d ago

Permit day for the Wonderland Trail used to be an all-day affair

I remember waking up early to call for Wonderland Trail permits. You could be on hold for hours only to get a no. These days, it's all online and quick. Kinda miss the old drama, though.

3 comments

the_elliot•7d ago

Took my kids on the Pine Creek loop and learned a LOT about patience

Last summer, I planned a two-day hike on the Pine Creek loop with my two young sons. We got into a BIG argument about stopping for snacks every half hour. I had to adjust our pace and explain why we needed to keep moving. How do you handle family moods when the miles get tough?

4 comments

coleman.olivia•7d ago

Update: Silver Lake loop's changes hit me hard

I got back to the Silver Lake loop recently after a decade away. It used to be a free-for-all with campfires everywhere. Now, there are marked campsites and no fires allowed by the water. I miss the old vibe, but the path is less worn and cleaner. Shows how backpacking has gotten more mindful, I suppose.

3 comments

margaretd79•8d ago

Why does nobody talk about the Lost Coast Trail from back in the day?

I hiked the Lost Coast Trail years ago, and you could just show up and go. Now, you need permits booked months ahead, and there are strict rules about where to camp. I mean, it's good for protecting the place, but it feels less free. Idk, maybe it's just me, but I miss deciding things as I went. I remember finding a perfect spot by a creek and staying an extra day just because. These days, every site is reserved, and you have to stick to a plan. The trail is still beautiful, but the whole feel has changed.

3 comments

richard_king•9d ago

Vent: The new online permit setup for the John Muir Trail just would not work for me.

I spent all morning hitting refresh with no luck, so what's the best way to get a spot when the system acts up?

3 comments

terrywilson•11d ago

Switching to paper maps totally changed how I see the trails

Relying on GPS made me lazy and I missed so much cool stuff along the way. Now I plan every route with a map first and it feels like a real adventure again!

4 comments