This post is sponsored by Merrell and Zappos.
Summer backpacking is just around the corner. But there’s a wee bit of a problem… we’re all mostly stuck inside. If you live somewhere where getting outside responsibly and safely isn’t an option, there are still ways to prep for a summer on the trails. Here’s how to train for summer backpacking during COVID-19.
Hiking Havasupai is one of the most coveted backpacking trips in the United States. It’s for good reason, too! There’s nothing like the red desert of the American Southwest. Add in the beautiful blue green waters, of which the Havsuw ‘Baaj derive their name, and you’ve got a recipe for magic.
After a rough breakup a few years ago, I looked at some photos of New Zealand somewhere and spontaneously booked a trip. My first solo trip! I originally wanted to do the Milford Track, but since that books up months in advance, the Routeburn Track was next on my list.
The Routeburn Track did not disappoint.
When Josh and I backpacked the Laugavegur from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork this past summer, we had the option of adding on 30 bonus kilometers! We decided to tack on the Fimmvörðuháls, the trail that connects Thorsmork out to Skógar, for another long day in the Highlands.
The Laugavegur is Iceland’s most famous trek. It’s not hard to see why. The 55 kilometer hike from Landmannalaugar to Skógar covers some of the most unreal scenery, from lush meadows, to foreboding glaciers, to burnt orange, volcanic hills.
When we decided we were going to Iceland this summer, the Laugavegur was the first thing I started booking. We were going to hike the damn thing, come hell or high water. Our itinerary was Landmannalaugar to Hvanngil, and Hvanngil to Thorsmork.