Ask Me: Advice on Backpacking in Grand Teton National Park

Michael,

Do you think Paintbrush Divide would be passable in late June… around June 23rd? Would snow equipment like crampons or ice axes be required?

Vince (submitted as a comment on the story at thebigoutside.com/american-classic-the-teton-crest-trail)

Vince,

I would expect snow at Paintbrush Divide into early July, unless there’s an unusually low snowpack and warm temps right before your trip. It may still be passable, depending on how firmly frozen the snow is and whether there’s a cornice at the pass. Continue reading →

Ask Me: Advice on Buying a Lightweight Backpack

Hi Mike,

Any recommendations on a lightweight backpack for overnight to five-day trips?

Todd
McCall, Idaho

Continue reading →

Ask Me: A Recommendation For a Family Backpacking Trip in Southern Utah

Michael,

Your site is fantastic. I found it while researching a trip to Spring Canyon at Capitol Reef. I live in Portland and have been packing with my two boys since they were in diapers (they are now 5 and 7). We do about three trips per year. There’s nothing better than being out there with the kids, and I’m glad your site is promoting that.

I was wondering if you have any suggestions for trips in southern Utah in June, in the 15-25 mile range? Hopefully something that has a spring somewhere along the way.  I’ve been eyeing Capitol Reef and the Escalante canyons. Continue reading →

Ask Me: The Ultimate Family Tour of Yellowstone

Hi Michael-

My husband and I live in Missoula with our two boys, ages three and five. We are spending three nights in Yellowstone over Mother’s Day weekend, and it will be our kids’ first visit. Two questions: Any particular Y’stone books you recommend for kids? Also, this is a bit of a silly question, but are there any sites or activities that were unexpectedly or just especially fun? Continue reading →

Ask Me: First Backpacking Trip With a Toddler

Morning Mike,

I saw some of your pictures in High Country News attached to an article about getting kids out with you nice and early. I am really hoping to do some backpacking and camping with Luke this summer (he’s 15 months now) and thought you would be a perfect person to go to for advice on how to get started. For starters… what do you do about diapers, just pack them out? I am sure there are some tricks of the trade–or maybe I am just desperately hoping for ingenious tips from a veteran. I am thinking about a 4-day trip into the Bighorn Crags (in Idaho’s Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness) in August and should probably do a few warm up trips before that. Any suggestions on places to start–any suggestions at all would be GREAT! Continue reading →