hiking gearThere are different tools to every trade and when it comes to traversing switch backs in a high elevation forest those tools include rugged shoes, a lighter, protein, water and a durable backpack. Hiking gear comes in all shapes, sizes, prices and strengths. From what I have seen online a backpack can go anywhere from 20 bucks to hundreds of dollars. Why I think the backpack is an important piece of hiking gear because its versatility. The right shoes offer support and an ability to grip loose steep ground. Water and protein give the body energy. And a backpack holds all those necessities to successfully climb to the peak. It can also be a pillow if stuffed with foliage or a place to store food, kindling and other treasures found on an overnight hike.

The weather is starting to heat up over here in Southern California, which is getting me excited to hit a real trailed head for the first time this year. I have done local hikes but all of them were well traveled and smack dab in the center of an urban environment. It’s time to get to nature with hiking gear.