The Zpacks Mummy Sleeping Bag offers the warmth of a hooded sleeping bag and the ventilation of a quilt all in one. It has one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios among all the choices on the market, and will surely become a top choice for heat-seeking hikers looking to dial in their gear.

The C.A.M.P. Corsa Ice Axe is one of the lightest ice axes on the market, making it a top choice among weight-conscious backpackers and mountaineers who need the ability to self-arrest while crossing glaciers and steep snowfields.

f you're looking for the lightest possible shelter that doesn't compromise on space, the ZPacks 7x9 Flat Tarp is just about as light as they come. This minimal rectangular tarp packs down small, provides a ton of room for a single hiker, and is a bit more affordable than other tarps in its weight class.

The Enlightened Equipment Visp (men’s / women’s) is among the best value ultralight jackets on the market for its price, protection, and adjustability. We’ve worn this jacket for hundreds of miles, including stints in Colorado’s monsoon season and the first snow of the year in the Pacific Northwest. We hope our experience helps you decide if the Visp is the right jacket for you.

Aquamira purification drops are a popular water treatment option among backpackers because they’re affordable, lightweight, and easy to use. They work similarly to most other chemical purification treatments, but we find they leave less chlorine taste behind. Like other chemical treatments, you’ll have to wait a bit for Aquamira to do its job. But we find that the peace of mind from knowing our water is completely safe to drink is worth the wait. 

The winter fun has just begun, and REI has you covered with some great deals on cold weather gear. The Holiday Warm Up Sale is on from December 9-19th. It includes big discounts on some of our favorite winter clothing as well as some awesome gift items for the outdoorsy folks in your life.

We often point people to YETI when they’re looking for exceptionally durable, long-lasting, and stylish gear for frontcountry adventures. YETI products have found their way onto many of our Gear Guides because they’re very high quality and built to last – something that really stands out in today’s market.

REI shuts their doors every year on Black Friday to encourage everyone to #optoutside, but first they’re having their annual Gear Up Get Out sale from Nov. 11-21. Whether you’re getting a head start on holiday shopping or treating yourself to something nice, this is a great time to snag outdoor gear at deep discounts.

Use our Ultimate Day Hiking Checklist every time you hit the trail to make rounding up your gear quick and easy.

The Zpacks Vertice (men’s / women’s) is one of the lightest rain jackets available. This featherweight shell provides excellent coverage, is incredibly breathable, and is surprisingly durable for how light it is.

The NEMO Aurora Highrise is a great tent for those wanting something spacious and easy to set up. We love the big door on the front and the fact that you can see out of the windows on all four sides – even when it’s raining.

From the flower-filled alpine meadows of the Sawatch Mountains to the dramatic craggy peaks of the San Juans, a hike on the Colorado Trail is sure to be a journey full of challenges and rewarding experiences.