Spring Backpacking the Enchantments: Snow Lakes Trail to the Core
If you’re planning an early season Enchantments backpacking trip, this post shares real trail conditions and trip details from our hike in mid-May. Includes Snow Lakes Trail mileage, elevation gain, snow and ice conditions, key landmarks, mountain goat sightings, gear used, and what the Core Zone looked like in spring near Leavenworth, Washington.
Read MoreMoose Lake and Moose Peak | Backpacking in Olympic National Park
If you’re looking for a stunning backcountry adventure in Olympic National Park, the Moose Lake & Moose Peak backpacking loop should be at the top of your list. This trail blends scenic ridgeline walks, fun rock scrambles, and striking turquoise alpine lakes—so unbelievably gorgeous that your friends might think your photos are AI-generated. Along the…
Read MoreBCA Stash 40L Backpack Review for Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding
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…
Read MoreRoyal Basin & Royal Lake Backpacking In Olympic National Park
If you’re dreaming of an alpine backpacking trip filled with turquoise lakes, wildflower meadows, and jaw-dropping mountain views, the Royal Basin Trail in Olympic National Park deserves a top spot on your list. This incredible route winds through lush old-growth forest, past cascading waterfalls, and leads you deep into one of the most breathtaking alpine…
Read MoreSeattle Terrors Ghost Tour Review: Sinister Sins, Scandal & Shadows
Love history and looking for a spooky, fun night out in Seattle? The Seattle Terrors Ghost Tour by US Ghost Adventures combines chilling stories, haunted history, and a nighttime walk through the city’s darker past. Recently, the Adventure Hike Travel team (that’s me, Samantha, along with my brothers Robert and Jason!) was invited to experience…
Read MoreSeattle Aquarium | Family-Friendly Things to Do on the Seattle Waterfront
If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, Washington, the Seattle Aquarium is one of the city’s top attractions, especially for families seeking a fun, educational, and interactive experience. Located on Pier 59 along the Seattle waterfront, the aquarium has been delighting visitors since 1977 and is now a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.…
Read MoreMelakwa Lake, WA | One of the Best Hikes Near Snoqualmie Pass
If you’re looking for an unforgettable day hike that is a bit of a challenge near Snoqualmie Pass, look no further than Melakwa Lake. Tucked away in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, this trail delivers a little bit of everything: lush vegetation, sweeping views of the valley below, forests, gorgeous rivers and waterfalls, a natural rock…
Read MoreWashington Hikes with Lakes: Don’t Miss Heather Lake
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,…
Read MoreSplitboarding to the Lunch Counter on Mt. Adams
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…
Read MoreWhy Splitboarders Love Burton’s GORE-TEX Vent Snow Pants (And I Do Too)
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.…
Read MoreWhy I Love The Jones Dream Catcher Splitboard For Backcountry Adventures
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…
Read MoreBest Men’s Splitboard for the Backcountry? Nitro Doppleganger Review
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,…
Read MoreWhy Patagonia’s Insulated Snowbelle Snowboarding Pants Are the Best I’ve Tested
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…
Read MoreWhy Tulip Town Is a Must-See Stop During the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
If you’re planning a springtime getaway to Washington State, Tulip Town in Skagit Valley should be at the top of your list. Renowned for its stunning displays of vibrant tulips, this farm is one of the standout attractions of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which takes place every April. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a…
Read MoreThe Best Splitboard Bindings? Nitro Vertical Splitboard Bindings Gear Review
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.
Read MoreThe 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.
Read MoreThe 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…
Read MoreGear 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…
Read MoreBackcountry 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…
Read MoreEverything 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…
Read More