Earlier this week, Andrew and I hosted a tutorial covering the foundational skills and gear needed for backpacking in the desert. I wanted to share it with you in case you missed it!
You can watch the replay here.
We discussed:
- Leave No Trace in the desert
- Trip planning: seasonality and daily flow
- HazardsWater: how much to carry, how to find it, carrying capacity, favorite bottles, treatment, electrolytes
- Footwear: ideal characteristics, favorite models
- Clothing: tops, bottoms, accessories
- Camp selection: best and worst desert camps
- Dry camping
- Best shelters for the desert
- Pitching shelters on slickrock and sandGear care and special gear
- Desert navigation
Desert backpacking gear lists and trip reports
Here are a few from my favorites desert hikes:
And my favorite sugar-free electrolytes:
It may feel like deep winter in many parts of the northern hemisphere, but the desert hiking season kicks off in just a few short months. I hope these resources help you feel prepared to get out there!