Adventure Hike Travel
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Adventure Hike Travel is dedicated to helping you get outside into the great outdoors. Our goal is to connect you to the natural world, equip you for adventure, and inspire you to start your own journey.
Hi, I'm Samantha Panzera. I love taking off on adventures, traveling, and spending lots of time in the mountains. I especially love hiking, backpacking, snowboarding, and rock climbing. I started Adventure Hike Travel to help others get outside into our beautiful world. I aim to inspire, empower, and equip others to start going on their own adventures.
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Recent Blog Posts
The Best Splitboard Poles? G3 Pivot Trek Poles Review
When you’re heading into the backcountry on a splitboard, the right gear makes all the difference—especially your poles. A solid set can boost your efficiency on the skin track, give you stability during transitions, and pack down small when it’s time to ride. That’s one of the reasons I’m really loving the G3 Pivot Trek Poles. They’re durable, lightweight, and super packable—clearly designed with splitboarders in mind. While there might be better options out there for skiers, these poles are a standout pick for anyone splitboarding who values convenience and reliable performance.
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The Mammut Alugator Light Shovel: A Must-Have For Backcountry Skiers & Splitboarders
When venturing into the backcountry, having the right avalanche safety gear is essential. A high-quality shovel is a critical part of any backcountry skier or splitboarder’s kit, and the Mammut Alugator Light Shovel is one of the best options available. Designed for strength, efficiency, and portability, this lightweight and compact shovel is a must-have for those who prioritize safety without adding unnecessary weight to their pack. Why the Mammut Alugator Light Shovel Stands Out The Mammut Alugator Light is built with high-end materials and innovative design features that make it a top choice for avalanche preparedness. Here’s why this shovel is an essential addition to your backcountry gear: Mammut Alugator Light Lightweight & Compact Weighing only 475 grams, the Alugator Light is designed to be ultra-light yet highly durable. The space-saving blade design allows it to fit into small backpacks, ensuring it won’t take up unnecessary space while you’re on the move. Durable & Strong Made from hardened, anodized aluminum, the Alugator Light offers excellent rigidity and strength. The stabilization ribs provide maximum stability, and the sharpened, tilt-resistant blade is built for cutting through dense snow and ice with ease. Additionally, the straight blade back is perfect for cutting precise snow profiles, making it a great tool for snow analysis. Fast & Efficient Assembly In an emergency, every second counts. The oval-shaped telescopic shaft ensures quick deployment, and the automatic spring lock allows for fast, precise guidance during assembly. This feature ensures you can have the shovel ready for use in seconds, whether you’re digging out a buried companion or constructing a snow shelter. Ergonomic Handling Shoveling snow can be exhausting, but the symmetrical T-grip on the Alugator Light is designed for optimum energy transfer. This means more efficient digging with less fatigue, which is crucial in an avalanche rescue situation. Versatile & Multi-Functional Beyond just digging, the Alugator Light has attachment holes that allow it to be used for building a snow anchor or a rescue sled, adding even more value to this essential piece of gear. Mammut Alugator Light Key Specifications Weight: 475 g Blade Width: 21 cm Blade Length: 24 cm Collapsed Shaft Length: 37 cm Extended Length: 75 cm Collapsed Length: 54 cm Certification: UIAA 156 avalanche shovel standard Final Thoughts If you’re a backcountry skier or splitboarder looking for a lightweight, durable, and efficient avalanche shovel, the Mammut Alugator Light is an excellent choice. Its compact design, strong construction, and easy handling make it one of the best shovels on the market for avalanche safety. Whether you’re heading out on a ski tour or deep into the backcountry, having this shovel in your pack could make all the difference in an emergency situation. Stay safe, be prepared, and enjoy your backcountry adventures with the Mammut Alugator Light Shovel! Shop Now Want To Fill Your Life With Adventure? Join our newsletter for an adrenaline-fueled journey! Receive exclusive updates on travel tips, gear reviews, epic hikes, captivating stories, and inspiration to turn your dreams into reality. Don’t…
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Gear Review: BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe For Backcountry Safety
When you’re out on the slopes or exploring the backcountry, avalanche safety is non-negotiable. One essential piece of gear that every backcountry skier and splitboarder should have is a reliable avalanche probe. In this review, we’re diving into the BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe-a must-have tool that’s designed to help you stay safe when venturing into avalanche terrain. Here’s why this probe is worth considering for your avalanche safety kit. BCA Backcountry Access Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe Why Choose the BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe? The BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe is an amazing option for anyone who spends time in deep snowpacks or avalanche-prone areas. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a passionate backcountry enthusiast, this probe is designed to help if an avalanche should happen. BCA Backcountry Access Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe Key Features of the BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe: Size & Weight:At 300 cm (118 inches) in length, this probe is long enough to reach deep snowpacks, making it ideal for professionals and serious adventurers. Despite its extended length, it weighs only 10.2 oz (290g), which is impressively lightweight for the level of performance it offers. This makes it a great choice for skiers and splitboarders who want to keep their pack weight to a minimum without sacrificing functionality. Fast Assembly & Deployment:One of the standout features of the BCA Stealth 300 is its fast assembly, ensuring you’re ready for action when every second counts in an avalanche rescue. The Quick-Lock hardware system is engineered for rapid deployment, allowing you to extend the probe in record time. With no loose cables to cause hangups, this probe eliminates delays and ensures smooth assembly every time. Innovative Design for Packability:The top segment of the probe nestles inside the next section, reducing the overall size when collapsed. At only 17.0 inches (43 cm) when packed down, it fits easily in your backcountry pack, leaving more room for other essential gear. Laser-Etched Depth Markings:The laser-etched depth markings on the probe make it easy to measure snowpack depth and victim location, so you can quickly assess how deep to dig during a rescue operation. This ensures you’re able to accurately estimate the excavation area and make the right decisions when it matters most. Durability and Reliability:Built with carbon fiber construction, the BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Probe is lightweight yet incredibly strong. Its rugged design ensures it can withstand the toughest backcountry conditions and perform reliably in a rescue scenario. BCA Backcountry Access Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe Perfect for Backcountry Skiers and Splitboarders If you’re a backcountry skier or splitboarder, the BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe is a game-changer. Not only is it lightweight and easy to carry, but it’s also incredibly effective when you need it most. In the event of an avalanche, the ability to deploy your probe quickly and efficiently could be the difference between life and death. Whether you’re navigating through deep snow or working in remote terrain, this probe’s…
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Backcountry Touring at Hurricane Ridge: Sunrise & Maggie’s Splitboard Adventure
Interested in skiing or splitboarding the Sunrise and Maggie’s runs at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park? In this post, I’ve got all the key trail details from our adventure on February 16, 2025. I’ll share the mistakes our group made (and how you can avoid them), along with tips to help make your backcountry day as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Plus, I’ll provide the exact locations where we started our ascent on Sunrise and Maggie’s, and more! Backcountry Ski/Snowboard Tour Specs: Sunrise & Maggie’s Route from Hurricane Ridge Route: Sunrise & Maggie’s at Hurricane Ridge Distance: 3.78 miles Ascent: 967 feet Descent: 1,017 feet Max Elevation: 5,446 feet Min Elevation: 4,692 feet Total Time: 4 hours 39 minutes Moving Time: 2 hours 40 minutes Stopped Time: 1 hour 58 minutes Parkig Permit: Olympic National Park Day Pass or America the Beautiful Pass Cell Phone Coverage: Some in spots Distance from Seattle: 2.5 hours Safety Disclaimer: I’m still new to backcountry riding, and this post is simply a recap of our experience, including our GPX track. Backcountry skiing and splitboarding come with significant risks, including avalanches, sudden weather changes, and other hazards. Conditions can vary greatly, and what was safe for us on this day may not be safe for you. I highly recommend checking the avalanche forecast, weather conditions, and trail reports before heading out. Always carry proper safety gear (beacon, probe, and shovel), know how to use it, and consider taking an avalanche safety course if you haven’t already. Your safety is your responsibility-please make smart, informed decisions when venturing into the backcountry. Tour Overview: Sunrise & Maggie’s Splitboard Adventure from Hurricane Ridge To complete the full backcountry tour of both Sunrise and Maggie’s, our group covered 3.78 miles, gaining 967 feet of elevation and descending 1,017 feet. The entire tour took us 4 hours and 39 minutes, with 2 hours and 40 minutes of moving time. We spent 1 hour and 58 minutes stopped-chatting, soaking in the views, discussing our route, and transitioning our splitboards from ski mode to snowboard mode. (Skiers can probably save close to an hour on this tour since they only need to adjust their skins and lock down their ski touring bindings, while splitboarders have to fully transition their boards into ride mode.) During the tour, we reached a maximum elevation of 5,446 feet and a minimum elevation of 4,692 feet. We enjoyed two solid runs with amazing powder and one shorter one after a failed attempt at a sketchy section where we decided to turn back and head up to the road. Sunrise and Maggie’s were an absolute blast, but I’d recommend sticking to just one area unless you have a car-to-car shuttle system set up with two vehicles. Our group lost a lot of potential ride time with the long road walk. That said, if you’re looking for a quiet backcountry ski or splitboard tour with epic views and incredible powder, I highly recommend giving this route a try. Click To See…
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Everything You Need to Know About the KAILAS Hurricane Hiking Backpack
When it comes to outdoor adventures, choosing the right backpack can make or break your experience. Whether you’re heading out for a short day hike, or need a good backpack to take with you to the airport on your next adventure, comfort, durability, and organization are key factors to consider. That’s why I decided to put the KAILAS Hurricane Hiking Backpack to the test, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on this impressive pack. After testing out the 26L version in a beautiful Sea Green, color here’s my full review. Quick Disclaimer: I received a Kailas Hurricane Hiking Backpack from the company for the purpose of testing and providing my honest review. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, and the following gear assessment is my own genuine opinions after using this product on multiple hikes and adventures in the great outdoors. My Thoughts On The Kailas Hurricane Hiking Backpack I’ve been testing out the Kailas Hurricane Hiking Backpack, and I’m genuinely excited about all the features it offers. Whether you’re going on a short day hike or heading out on a more technical trail, this pack has you covered. Hands down, one of my favorite features of the Kailas Hurricane Backpack is the deep, stretchy side pockets. I’ve had way too many moments where my 32oz water bottle fell out of my pack-like when it bounced down the stairs at Diamond Head in Hawaii and nearly took out a bunch of people behind me. Super embarrassing. The side pockets on this pack are just the right depth to securely hold my water bottle or bear spray without worrying about them falling out. They’re roomy enough to fit my water bottle snugly, and I can still get to my gear easily without messing around. Another big win for me is the breathable suspension system design. My back stayed cool throughout the hike, and the ergonomic belt helped distribute the weight evenly, which relieved pressure on my shoulders and is something I really appreciate on longer hikes. After tearing my ACL, I’ve been on a mission to reduce pack weight, so I was thrilled to test out the Kailas Hurricane Backpack. The 26-liter version weighs just 1.98 pounds, and the smaller 22-liter is even lighter at 1.37 pounds. That’s way lighter than a lot of daypacks, which can easily weigh 3 pounds or more. It’s perfect for reducing pressure on my knees without giving up on durability or quality. The 26-liter Kailas Hurricane Backpack has two large compartments, which is perfect for longer hikes or winter adventures. Over the years, I’ve been frustrated with my smaller daypacks, which are great for summer hikes but just too small for winter gear. This pack gives me plenty of room for essentials like a down jacket, outer shell jacket, ice axes, crampons, and even extra safety equipment. I love that I no longer have to choose between my bulky overnight backpacking pack and cramming everything into a small daypack. The…
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Adventure Gear Spotlight: Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket Review
The perfect fleece jacket for every adventure? The Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece might just be it. I’ve put it to the test, and I’m sharing all the details—fit, performance, and why it’s my new favorite. 🏔️ #OutdoorGearReview #AdventureReadyJacket #HikingLife
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Christine Falls: A Quick, Stunning Must-See Stop at Mount Rainier
If you’re planning a trip to Mount Rainier National Park, there’s a hidden gem you can’t miss-Christine Falls. This quick, scenic stop offers a perfect glimpse of the beauty the park has to offer, all without having to embark on a lengthy hike. Whether you’re just passing through or making a day out of exploring the Paradise area, Christine Falls is an easy addition to your itinerary that won’t disappoint. Quick Facts Height: 69 feet Average Width: 10 feet Formation: Tiered Plunges Number of Drops: 2 Difficulty: Easy (No hiking required) Elevation: The falls are located at 3,706 feet Dogs: No dogs allowed Restrooms: None available Parking Permit: Standard Entrance Pass, Mount Rainier Annual Pass, America the Beautiful Pass Why Christine Falls Should Be on Your List Christine Falls may not have the grandeur of some of Mount Rainier’s larger waterfalls, but its charm lies in its accessibility and beauty. The falls drop gracefully in two tiers over a total of 69 feet, creating a serene scene framed by a beautiful stone arch bridge. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in the park, offering stunning views in just a matter of minutes. Plus, it’s an ideal place to take a break if you’re headed up toward the more popular hiking trails in Paradise. Getting to Christine Falls Located just off the main road that leads to Paradise, Christine Falls is an easy stop as you make your way through the park. It’s only about a 10-minute drive from the park’s Nisqually Entrance, so if you’re entering from the southwest side of Mount Rainier, it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs. There’s a small pull-off parking area right near the falls, but parking can be limited, especially during the summer months and peak visitor times. Arriving early or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the crowds and score a parking spot. Even if the lot is full, it’s worth circling back after visiting another nearby site, as this spot is truly worth a stop. If parking at Christine Falls is filled you can snag a spot at the Commet Falls Parking lot and walk across the stone bridge and descend down to the Christine Falls Viewpoint. What to Expect at Christine Falls? Once you park, you’ll find a well-marked viewpoint just a short walk from the road. The sound of rushing water will guide you toward the falls, and within minutes, you’ll be standing at the overlook, where you can take in the full beauty of Christine Falls. The combination of the waterfall, stone bridge, and surrounding old-growth forest creates a postcard-worthy scene. The best part? No hiking required! Christine Falls is a great stop for those who want to enjoy some of the park’s beauty without committing to a long hike. It’s also a fantastic spot for families or anyone looking for an easy, accessible way to experience a beautiful waterfall at Mount Rainier National Park. Upper Christine Falls To get a better view of Upper…
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Mount Rainier in One Day: Best Hikes and Scenic Stops for a Day Trip
Mount Rainier National Park is absolutely stunning with its many breathtaking views, spectacular waterfalls, beautiful meadows of wildflowers, and awe-inspiring glaciers. This gem in the Pacific Northwest has so much to offer residents and visitors alike. This magnificent place can be visited over and over again and explore new trails each time. But if you are planning a one-day trip and see the best sites that you can in a limited window I have created a one-day itinerary to make it easy to have an amazing day packed with many of the must-see spots and hikes.
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Top 15 Things To Do For Free in Waikiki
If you are traveling to Waikiki on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, you don’t need a lot of money to have a good time! Just being in this beautiful, plumeria flower scented tropical paradise with the soft sound of ukulele music filling the air is wonderful. But what if you want some action and unique things to do? Our post, Top 15 Things to Do For Free in Waikiki, will help you create fun, memorable experiences with your family and friends without draining your wallet.
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Honu Hotspots: Where to Find Sea Turtles in Oahu, Hawaii
Discover the best beaches to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles on Oahu! From Laniakea Beach to Kailua Beach, these honu hotspots offer incredible opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers alike, don’t miss out on these must-visit locations. Grab your reef-safe sunscreen and snorkeling gear, and dive into the adventure! #Oahu #SeaTurtles #Honu #Hawaii #TravelTips #Wildlife
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Summer Sun Solution: Elegear Beach Tent Sun Shelter Gear Review
Stay cool this summer with the Elegear Beach Tent! Perfect for beach trips, park picnics, and more. Easy setup and UV protection make it a must-have. #BeachDay #SummerGear #SunProtection #OutdoorFun #BeachEssentials #SunTent #FamilyPicnic
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Elegear Collapsible Wagon: The Must-Have for Your Next Beach Trip
Struggling to haul beach gear? Meet the Elegear Collapsible Wagon—lightweight, compact, and incredibly sturdy. Perfect for all your summer adventures. Dive into my review to see why it’s a beach trip must-have!
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