Ultralight Hiking & Camping

Hike further and stay longer with less weight to carry!

Once upon a time avid hikers were expected to lug tens of pounds on their backs as they traversed the near infinite trails that Colorado has to offer. Things have drastically changed in the last few years, and a new movement — ultralight hiking — has emerged. Even if you aren’t hyper-focused on reducing every ounce of weight, the lightweight gear offered these days can help alleviate the weight on your back, lessening the aches the next day. Many lightweight-hiking enthusiasts try to get their total pack weight under 15 pounds,  but to be that efficient and also have high-quality gear takes some research. Here are our top suggestions for starting your lighter journey.

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Water – Sawyer MINI Water Filter

One of the quickest ways to reduce weight is to dump out the water. Of course water is also the most crucial element to survival other than shelter, so a perfect compromise of weight and preparedness is the Sawyer MINIwater filter. You can use the filtration system to drink from just about any body of water you encounter on your path. Weighing only two ounces, this device lets you greatly expand the range of your travels as long as water can be found on the trail — typically not a problem for hikes in the Rockies.

Read the full article by Austin here.

LAST UPDATED

October 26, 2024

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Austin Clinkenbeard

Austin Clinkenbeard has been traveling the world with his wife for the past several years exploring food, history and culture along the way. He is a passionate advocate for stronger social science education and informed global travel. Austin holds degrees in Anthropology and Political Science from San Diego State. When he’s home there’s a good chance you can catch him cooking allergy friendly food. You can follow along Austin’s travel adventures and food allergy journey at www.NowWeExplore.com.

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