BCA Stash 40L Backpack Review for Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding

By Adventure Hike Travel | January 28, 2026

If you spend any time in the backcountry, you already know your backpack can either make the day smooth… or absolutely miserable. After putting the Backcountry Access (BCA) Stash 40L Backpack through real backcountry ski and splitboard days, I can honestly say this pack has earned its place as my go-to. It’s built specifically for…

Washington Hikes with Lakes: Don’t Miss Heather Lake

By Samantha Panzera | July 31, 2025

If you’re looking for a short but rewarding hike with lush forest vibes, giant trees, and a peaceful alpine lake at the end, Heather Lake is an awesome choice. Tucked into the slopes of Mount Pilchuck off the Mountain Loop Highway, this 4.7-mile round-trip trail delivers a little bit of everything: waterfalls, wildflowers, old-growth trees,…

Splitboarding to the Lunch Counter on Mt. Adams

By Adventure Hike Travel | July 9, 2025

If you’re looking for a spring splitboard adventure with jaw-dropping views, endless snowfields, and an amazing descent, Mt. Adams delivers. The route to the Lunch Counter via the South Climb trail is a classic among backcountry riders-and now we know why. In this post, I’ll walk you through the route we took and a firsthand…

Why Splitboarders Love Burton’s GORE-TEX Vent Snow Pants (And I Do Too)

By Adventure Hike Travel | June 18, 2025

When it comes to choosing the right men’s snow pants for splitboarding or snowboarding, the Burton GORE-TEX Vent Pants hit that sweet spot between performance, comfort, and price. These pants are packed with rider-focused features – full GORE-TEX waterproofing, tons of ventilation, fleece-lined pockets, and a design that actually moves with you on the mountain.…

Why I Love The Jones Dream Catcher Splitboard For Backcountry Adventures

By Samantha Panzera | June 9, 2025

If you’re looking for a versatile, fun, and dependable splitboard for your next backcountry trip, let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite setups: the Jones Dream Catcher Splitboard. This board has been with me through deep powder days, icy early mornings, and everything in between-and it continues to impress me season after…

Best Men’s Splitboard for the Backcountry? Nitro Doppleganger Review

By Adventure Hike Travel | May 14, 2025

Backcountry riders know that the right splitboard can make or break a tour. You need something lightweight and responsive for the uphill-but also stable, dependable, and capable of handling a wide range of conditions on the way down. The Nitro Doppleganger strikes that balance. With its directional shape, carbon reinforcements, and Nitro’s Cam-Out Camber profile,…

Why Patagonia’s Insulated Snowbelle Snowboarding Pants Are the Best I’ve Tested

By Samantha Panzera | May 8, 2025

I’m no pro snowboarder, but as an avid rider who often spends 18+ days on the slopes each winter, I’ve had my fair share of experiences in every condition imaginable – from pouring down rain to -14°F days on the mountain and deep powder. Over the years, I’ve learned that the right gear can make…

The Best Splitboard Bindings? Nitro Vertical Splitboard Bindings Gear Review

By Adventure Hike Travel | April 25, 2025

For backcountry snowboarders, choosing the right gear is a necessity. When you’re navigating rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions, your bindings need to be reliable, comfortable, and quick to transition between touring and riding modes. In this gear review, I’m diving into the Nitro Vertical Splitboard Bindings: a sleek, performance-focused option built for riders who crave versatility and control in the backcountry. But do they live up to the hype? Let’s find out.

The Best Splitboard Poles? G3 Pivot Trek Poles Review

By Adventure Hike Travel | April 18, 2025

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.

The Mammut Alugator Light Shovel: A Must-Have For Backcountry Skiers & Splitboarders

By Adventure Hike Travel | April 3, 2025

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…

Gear Review: BCA Stealth 300 Carbon Avalanche Probe For Backcountry Safety

By Adventure Hike Travel | March 26, 2025

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…

Backcountry Touring at Hurricane Ridge: Sunrise & Maggie’s Splitboard Adventure

By Samantha Panzera | February 26, 2025

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…

Everything You Need to Know About the KAILAS Hurricane Hiking Backpack

By Samantha Panzera | January 14, 2025

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…

Summer Sun Solution: Elegear Beach Tent Sun Shelter Gear Review

By Samantha Panzera | July 3, 2024

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

Elegear Collapsible Wagon: The Must-Have for Your Next Beach Trip

By Samantha Panzera | June 26, 2024

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!

Trail Tested: Kailas Women’s Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoe Review

By Samantha Panzera | June 13, 2024

Hey there, outdoor adventurers! Today, I’m thrilled to spotlight the KAILAS Women’s Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes with an in-depth gear review. I’ve taken them on several hikes through Olympic National Park and the Buckhorn Wilderness, and have been using them daily on the trails behind my house for the past several weeks. Now, I can’t wait to share my thoughts on all the fantastic features packed into these cushy trail runners with you!

Adventure Essentials: KÜHL Women’s THE ONE™ SHELL Jacket Review

By Samantha Panzera | May 8, 2024

Hey there, outdoor adventurers! Today, I’m excited to introduce you to the KÜHL Women’s THE ONE™ SHELL Jacket through a detailed gear review. Huge thanks to the amazing team at KÜHL for providing me with this waterproof jacket to put to the test on my adventures. Whether I was snowboarding, hiking, or snowshoeing in the beautiful landscapes of Washington State, this jacket has been by my side through it all, from snowy peaks to lush forests. After thoroughly testing it out, I’m eager to share my insights and adventures with all of you.

Beat the Heat: Marchpower’s 10in Camping Fan – A Gear Review

By Samantha Panzera | May 7, 2024

As temperatures rise and outdoor adventures beckon, staying cool becomes essential. So in this post, we dive into the cooling comfort provided by Marchpower’s Portable 10in Battery Operated Camping and Travel Fan. In this gear review, we’ll take an in-depth look at this versatile cooling companion. From its adaptable design to its powerful performance, we’ll explore how this fan enhances comfort whether you’re lounging in your tent, sitting in an RV, hanging out at camp, or unwinding beneath the stars.

Gear Spotlight: KÜHL Women’s Spyfire Jacket for Outdoor Enthusiasts

By Samantha Panzera | May 1, 2024

Hey there, outdoor adventurers! Today, I’m excited to shine the spotlight on the KÜHL Women’s Spyfire Jacket with an in-depth gear review. I’ve taken this jacket on lots of hiking and snowshoeing escapades in Olympic National Park, and the Cascades of Washington State. I’ve even taken it on several snowboarding trips using the jacket as my mid-layer this past snowboarding season. Now that I’ve really given the Spyfire Jacket a workout, I can’t wait to share my thoughts and experiences with you.

Stay Warm in Style: A Comprehensive Review of the Venustas Women’s Heated FELLEX® Hooded Puffer Jacket 7.4V

By Samantha Panzera | April 11, 2024

When Venustas asked if I was interested in testing their heated jacket, I was like, “Heck yeah!” I mean, who wouldn’t be curious about how a heated jacket works? So, naturally, I jumped at the chance! So, for a while now, I’ve been putting the Venustas Women’s Heated FELLEX® Hooded Puffer Jacket 7.4V to the test. It’s been my go-to jacket for everything from brisk morning strolls to rugged hikes, camping trips, snowshoeing treks, and even a bit of snowboarding fun. Over the past few weeks, I’ve really given this jacket a workout. It’s been with me through chilly mornings, challenging trails, and breathtaking mountain views, from Mt. Rainier National Park to Olympic National Park and the Cascades. Now that I’ve had the chance to really test out this heated Jacket, I’m eager to share my honest thoughts and experiences with you.

Gear Review: Elegear’s Self Inflating Memory Foam Sleeping Pad For Outdoor Adventures

By Samantha Panzera | March 27, 2024

If you love camping, you know the importance of getting a good night’s sleep. It can make all the difference between waking up ready to take off on a hiking adventure or stumbling out of the tent needing to clutch a cup of coffee first. In this gear review on Elegear’s Self Inflating Memory Foam Sleeping Pad, we cover all the details about the cool new innovative technology that combines the luxurious comfort of memory foam with the convenience of self-inflation.

Water-to-Go: The Ultimate Adventure Water Purifier Bottle

By Samantha Panzera | October 25, 2023

If you are a hiker, backpacker, or traveler the last thing you want is to get sick while out on your adventure from bacteria or a parasite in your drinking water. Having a reliable way to filter your water while traveling in different countries or while out on the trail is a must. No matter how beautiful a lake or stream may appear, there is always the chance of bacteria or a parasite such as Giardia. In this blog post, I will be doing a gear review on the Water-to-Go filter bottle.

Gear Review Of The Klymit Static V Sleeping Pad

By Samantha Panzera | July 7, 2023

When backpacking you are often sleeping on rocks, roots, damp soil, snow, and other elements, and without a good sleeping pad, you will be feeling every rock and root and can be left having a miserable night’s sleep. After a long day in the mountains hiking miles in the backcountry, the last thing you want is to be exhausted and sore from a bad night’s sleep on top of aching from hiking. So in this article, I will be doing a Gear Review Of The Klymit Static V Sleeping Pad.

10 Amazing Must-Have Camping Gadgets

By Samantha Panzera | July 5, 2023

Are you planning a camping adventure with friends and family? Car camping is continually getting easier with the creation of new gadgets, tools, and accessories. In this blog post, I share 10 of my favorite camping items to give you some gear ideas to make your camping trip more enjoyable and comfortable.

15 Quotes to Fuel Your Passion for Skiing and Snowboarding

By Samantha Panzera | April 4, 2023

Ready to hit the slopes and take your skiing or snowboarding to the next level? Whether you’re an experienced pro or a first-time beginner, everyone could use some extra motivation and inspiration for their next snow adventure. Here are 15 Quotes to Fuel Your Passion for Skiing and Snowboarding. These quotes are sure to get you motivated, excited, and inspired to have a fantastic time on the slopes.