Free vs Paid Hiking Trail Maps: Which Should You Use in California?
I get some version of this question constantly: “Do I actually need to pay for a hiking trail map, or…
Best GPS Watches for Tracking California Hikes
Before recommending GPS Watches for Hiking Trails, it’s worth asking honestly whether you need one at all. If your phone…
AllTrails vs. NPS: How to Read a CA Trail Difficulty Rating
AllTrails rates the standard route up Half Dome as “Hard”, not even its highest tier. The National Park Service’s own…
Best Hydration Packs for Hot-Weather California Hikes
A water pack for hiking isn’t optional gear once temperatures climb into California’s summer desert range; it’s the difference between…
Best Trekking Poles for California’s Steep, Rocky Trails
Trekking poles are one of the more polarizing pieces of hiking gear; some hikers wouldn’t touch a steep trail without…
Best Backpacks for Day Hikes in California
Most of the best hiking packs on the market are overbuilt for what a California day hike actually needs. You…
Best Hiking Boots & Trail Shoes for California Terrain
If yIf you’re shopping for the best hiking trail shoes or boots for California specifically, the honest answer is that…
AllTrails vs. Gaia GPS vs. Komoot: Best California Hiking App
If you’re deciding between AllTrails, Gaia GPS, and Komoot for the best hiking trail app in California, AllTrails wins for…
