How many web sites are there about hiking?  There are probably as many as there are grains of sand upon the earth.  You can look at over a dozen sites from general backpacking to ultra light enthusiast.  Everyone has their philosophy, and after a while they all seem to blend together.  There are some great sites out there with excellent information.  I will not begin to go into any basics of backpacking techniques or offer any counter arguments on other’s philosophy.  I plan on sharing my own progression in the sport and any unique tips that have worked well.  It’s an ongoing evolution in which most enthusiasts of this sport will agree. 

There are three core points that I follow when I backpack or do any travel for that matter: 

Knowledge of your environs:  Know your terrain, climate, hazards, and wildlife.  Plan accordingly and have an emergency plan and contingency plans.

Knowledge of your gear: Know your gear capabilities and especially its limitations.

Knowledge of yourself: Know what you are capable of achieving both physically and mentally.  Challenging yourself doesn’t mean trying to kill yourself.  A 10-mile hike may be easy for some and crushing for others.

There is probably a fourth point and I believe Nike uses it as their slogan:  Just do it.   Get out there and enjoy, whether you’re an ultra light enthusiast, a gear-loving mule, or somewhere in between.  Make a decision on what works for you and go have fun.  The sport allows for all experience levels and interests.  Whether you are just a day hiker on well maintained park trail or a more adventurous multi-day excursion backpacker hoofing it across some little know wilderness, backpacking/hiking offers much to all.

 The journey is the destination.