2023-11-15 19:10
With the holidays peeking over the horizon, it’s that cozy time of year when we swap trail boots for slippers and gather ’round to give and receive. Now, if you’re anything… Read More
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isobaa merino blend
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Back o' Beyond is a hiking blog that features hiking guides, trip reports, best backpacking gear, and original photography.
2023-10-30 21:57
In a world dominated by technology and urbanization, the allure of the untouched wilderness has a magnetic pull.
For fishing enthusiasts, the backcountry offers a unique opportunity to escap… Read More
2021-12-18 00:02
Trip Data
Dates: Thu, Oct 21, 2021 to Sun, Oct 24, 2021
Route: Lipan Point > Grandview Point
Weather: Sunny, with partly cloudy afternoons. Highs in the 60s and 70s, lows i… Read More
2021-09-02 21:14
This summer, Funwater sent us one of their best selling paddle boards to review.
Kim poses next to our Funwater board at Snooks BottomBetween all of the hiking, rock climbing, and RV’i… Read More
2021-08-19 01:03
A few months ago, Isobaa gave me a pair of their Merino Blend Trainers to review.
I know what you’re thinking – “But Max, isn’t Back o’ Beyond a hiking blog? Th… Read More
2021-08-15 19:38
Overview
In anticipation of our arrival to the Western Slope this summer, I started doing research on climbs and hikes in the area.
Monument Canyon got onto my radar when I found out about I… Read More
2021-07-30 19:37
Trip Data
Dates: Wed, Jul 21, 2021 to Sun, Jul 25, 2021
Route: West to East. Uinta Highline Trailhead > Hacking Lake Trailhead
Weather: Partly cloudy mornings, afternoon t-stor… Read More
2021-07-12 19:39
Overview
I have never been able to get a straight answer on where Lake 22 got its name. It is a strange and mysteriously indistinct title for such a unique alpine lake. All the same, the hik… Read More
2021-07-10 18:32
Overview
The Park Butte Trail takes you to a historic fire lookout built in 1932, on top of a knoll with 360° panoramic views. From the lookout, Mount Baker (aka Koma Kulshan) steals the… Read More
2021-07-09 21:08
Overview
Blanca Lake is one of the most picturesque alpine lakes in Washington. Its waters are often described as “teal”, “turquoise”, or “vibrant blue,”… Read More
2021-07-07 21:37
Hidden Lake Lookout is one of our favorite overnight backpacking trips! The trail is a steep son of a gun, but 360-degree panoramic views from a historic fire lookout make it all worthwhile… Read More
2021-07-01 05:11
Trip Data
Dates: Thu, Jul 24 2021 – Sun, Jul 27, 2021
Route: Phillips Canyon Trailhead > String Lake Trailhead
Weather: Afternoon rain on Days 1-2. Partly cloudy on Days 3-4.
D… Read More
2021-06-03 21:11
In May 2016, my wife Kim (an ICU nurse) convinced me to get bloodwork done. I was 26-years-old and it seemed like the adult thing to do, so I booked an appointment at the Salt Lake InstaCare… Read More
2021-05-21 21:02
Overview
If you’re looking for a quintessential Utah slot canyon experience but you don’t want to involve ropes, harnesses, and sketchy rappels, then Little Wild Horse Canyon is… Read More
2021-04-28 01:27
Overview
Grand-Staircase Escalante has no shortage of exceptional hikes, but the Golden Cathedral has to be in my top five.
At the lower end of Neon Canyon, near its confluence with the Esca… Read More
2021-04-24 22:30
Overview
Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon and Spooky Gulch are among Utah’s finest non-technical slot canyons. The canyons are adjacent from each other and are usually done together, often as a… Read More
2021-04-24 21:29
Overview
Zebra is one of Utah’s most picturesque non-technical slot canyons. It is a short and easy hike to the canyon’s entrance but those who venture into the slot may encounte… Read More
2021-03-06 02:12
Overview
Note: Indian Canyons has recently re-opened after closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Andreas Canyon is a natural desert oasis near Palm Springs in Indian Canyons. The 1-mile… Read More
2021-02-27 21:43
Overview
Pink Canyon (aka Pastel Canyon) is a short, narrow canyon in Valley of Fire State Park that is unknown by most. I highly recommend taking a jaunt through this otherworldly place dur… Read More
2021-01-07 22:00
Overall Rating: 9/10
Introduction
Viakix’s founder Elissa created her adventure sandals with one goal in mind: to perfectly unite beauty, function, and affordability.
The company was c… Read More
2020-12-28 19:53
Overview
This Sedona hike takes you to the top of Bear Mountain, which rises to 6,447 feet above sea level.
From the summit, you will get 360 degree views of the surrounding area. On a clear… Read More
2020-12-24 01:17
Overview
If you are looking for a short but steep hike near Sedona with great views, then Doe Mountain is the perfect option. The trail takes you to the top of a mesa with 400 feet of relief… Read More
2020-12-11 18:31
Overview
There is no doubt that The Subway is one of Utah’s finest slot canyons and indeed word has gotten around. To help protect the canyon’s fragile riparian environment, Zion… Read More
2020-11-27 06:57
Why We Converted Our Sofa Nook Into an RV Office
While it is hard to believe, we have been a full-time RV family for more than a year now!
There are a lot of upgrades, modifications, and pur… Read More
2020-11-09 17:50
Overview
Taft Point is an overlook at the top of a 3500-foot cliff with breathtaking views of El Capitan and Yosemite Valley. At the edge, there is a sturdy steel railing that if anything, g… Read More
2020-11-02 20:18
Why We Decided to Install Solar
When we took the leap and became full-time RVers in October 2019, we knew there would be upgrades down the road. Our mindset was to get started and figure thi… Read More
2020-10-19 06:41
Overall Rating: 9.8/10
Introduction
The Merry People Bobbi Rain Boot is a hard working yet stylish waterproof boot that can accompany you almost anywhere.
Australian entrepreneur Danielle Ho… Read More
2020-10-09 23:07
Overview
This hike takes you uphill through a forest on the flanks of Mount Baker to Coleman Glacier Lookout. The lookout sits atop Heliotrope Ridge and provides extraordinary views of the L… Read More
2020-10-07 05:42
Overview
This hike takes you along a wheelchair accessible, paved path to Rainy Lake in North Cascades National Park. The asphalt trail goes through a dense coniferous forest that opens up t… Read More
2020-09-20 00:21
Overview
Heybrook Lookout is a fire lookout in Washington State, first constructed in 1925. Over the years, it has seen continual maintenance and improvements. It now stands 67 feet tall and… Read More
2020-09-15 21:37
Overview
Near the Bavarian town of Leavenworth (but hidden from sight), The Enchantments loom. This ethereal landscape of lakes, basins, and rugged peaks is a delightful place to hike throug… Read More
2020-09-01 06:33
Overview
High up in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, there is a shimmering blue lake surrounded by soaring, snow-covered peaks. The experience of hiking to Jade Lake feels like a dream, especial… Read More
2020-08-16 23:20
Overview
If you are looking for a dog-friendly hike near Glacier National Park, Stanton Lake is a great option. The trailhead is just a 15-20 minute drive from the town of West Glacier and t… Read More
2020-08-16 22:58
This article is part of a series on Wilderness First Aid. Skip to another post:
Treating Cuts and Wounds
Preventing and Treating Nausea and Diarrhea
Preventing and Treating Blisters
Intro
A… Read More
2020-08-13 06:10
Overview
Often referred to as the Highline “Loop”, this end-to-end route runs somewhat parallel to the Going-to-the-Sun Road but at a higher elevation. Geographically, it follows… Read More
2020-08-10 05:59
Overview
Avalanche Lake has a reputation for being one of Glacier National Park’s “must-do” short hikes. Thanks to its incredible scenery and close proximity to the West Gl… Read More
2020-08-05 06:50
Overview
Phelps Lake is an inviting lake with crystal clear waters at the bottom of a gorge named Death Canyon. You might not expect to find paradise in a place named after mortality, but th… Read More
2020-08-03 08:06
Overview
Delta Lake is a stunning body of water found high in the Grand Tetons. There is no official trail to the lake, which makes reaching it a difficult venture for the unwary.
If you hav… Read More
2020-07-28 20:09
Overview
Hidden Falls is a magnificent 100-foot waterfall on Cascade Creek in the Grand Tetons. It’s found near the bottom of Cascade Canyon.
The fastest approach is to ride a shuttle… Read More
2020-07-27 18:12
Overview
Taggart and Bradley are natural lakes in the Grand Tetons, formed by glaciers that have melted since the last ice age, the Pleistocene Epoch.
Taggart is found at the terminus o… Read More
2020-07-21 05:26
The feeling of freedom is why we love backpacking. With the Katadyn BeFree water filter, you’ll feel light and free knowing you always have safe drinking water!
Intro
A quality water f… Read More
2020-07-21 05:23
With gravity, there’s no need to work hard to get clean water in the wild. For group camping, check out the Sawyer One-Gallon Water Filtration System!
Intro
As a backpacking guide in N… Read More
2020-07-16 17:55
Overview
The hike to Upper and Lower Lola Montez Lakes features a moderate climb to the first lake and a more advanced, technical scramble up to the second. The trailhead for this hike is be… Read More
2020-07-13 15:43
Intro
This past New Year’s Eve, Kim and I experienced the Solo Stove for the first time. We spent the night hanging out on our friend’s back patio in SLC next to their Bonfire. I… Read More
2020-07-05 20:21
Overview
Bloods Lake is a lovely little lake in the Wasatch Mountains and one of the few dog-friendly hikes that can be accessed from the Cottonwood Canyons.
The trailhead is found about a m… Read More
2020-07-05 18:51
Overview
Nestled in a cirque at the base of Notch Mountain, Ibantik Lake is one of the Uinta Mountain’s finest destinations. Unlike a lot of Uinta hikes, it’s fairly short and un… Read More
2020-05-29 05:11
Overview
Grosvenor Arch is a one-of-a-kind double arch in Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument. The arch’s trailhead is accessed from a side road of Cottonwood Canyon Road calle… Read More
2020-05-16 16:25
Overview
Directly east of Cedar City, there is a prominent red hill that forms a stark contrast against the forested mountains that surround it.
Behind it runs Red Hollow Trail, which is act… Read More
2020-05-14 02:49
Overall Rating: 6.8/10
Introduction
In an attempt to fortify his adventure flip flops, Founder Mike Dally came up with his first Earth Runners prototype using athletic tape from his hiking d… Read More
2020-05-14 02:49
Overall Rating: 6.8/10
Introduction
In an attempt to fortify his adventure flip flops, Founder Mike Dally came up with his first Earth Runners prototype using athletic tape from his hiking d… Read More
2020-05-10 22:30
Trip Data
Dates: Fri, May 1, 2020 to Sun, May 3, 2020
Route: Willis Creek Slot Canyon > Sheep Creek > Upper Paria River > off-trail route over mesa > back to Sheep Creek shu… Read More
2020-05-06 19:25
Overview
Red Reef Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, a swath of desert lands set aside to protect desert tortoises (among other things).
The trailhead is fo… Read More
2020-04-26 23:48
Introduction
On April Fools’ Day 2020, ZiZZO offered to send us a folding bicycle to review. I read the email twice, just to make sure it wasn’t a prank 😜
Their outreach… Read More
2020-04-22 04:25
Note: In response to COVID-19, Bear Gulch Cave is closed to visitation. For more info visit the official Pinnacles National Park site.
Overview
This short hike takes you through Bear Gu… Read More
2020-04-15 21:33
Overview
Hellhole Canyon is an unbelievably gorgeous hike in Southern Utah. The trailhead signage refers to it as “Kayenta Canyon”, but I’ve never heard anyone call it that… Read More
2020-04-13 18:11
Overall Rating: 8/10
Introduction
Knack Bags Founder and CEO, Chad Mellen, was inspired to create the Knack Pack after a trip to Costa Rica, where he found himself fumbling with a duffel bag… Read More
2020-04-11 19:00
Overview
Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site is an easy, short hike near St. George on the Arizona Strip. The BLM-managed site contains 500 petroglyphs that date back 6,000 years.
The petr… Read More
2020-04-10 03:01
Overview
The Enepitsi Trail is a wide, family and dog-friendly trail that runs along the Santa Clara River near St. George. There are several petroglyph panels in the boulders and cliffs nex… Read More
2020-04-06 19:00
Intro
One of the things I have been missing most since we moved into our trailer full time is watching birds sample from my backyard feeders. I especially missed my hummingbirds, who w… Read More
2020-02-24 19:34
Overview
Fortynine Palms Oasis is a natural palm oasis set in a canyon at the northern edge of Joshua Tree National Park. The parking lot and trailhead are just a few minutes outside of the… Read More
2020-02-19 04:07
Overall
With its Renegade Pant, KUHL has achieved the impossible – make a hiking pant that actually looks good. Being ready to hike at a moment’s notice no longer means you have… Read More
2020-02-13 20:58
In September 2019, we did a crazy thing (or was it sane)? Kim and I bought an RV to live in full time with our toddler and cattle dog. We traded in 2,223 square feet, 3.42 acres, and a pool… Read More
2020-01-21 21:51
Overview
Pushawalla Palms is a natural palm oasis found at Thousand Palms Oasis in the Coachella Valley Preserve. It’s one of several oases that dot the hills along the San Andreas Fau… Read More
2020-01-14 00:49
Overview
South of Hoover Dam (on the Arizona side), there is a natural arch called Liberty Bell Arch, perched high on a barren butte. The name comes from its resemblance to the iconic Libert… Read More
2020-01-06 15:57
Jaybird has produced a pair of wireless bluetooth earbuds that is catered toward athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The Vista promises “earthproof” durability, sweat proof constru… Read More
2019-12-24 20:02
Overview
Near the southernmost edge of Utah, there’s an area called The Rimrocks where bizarre hoodoos dot colorful badlands. It’s an unfamiliar landscape, like something from an… Read More
2019-12-17 01:39
Overall
Rating: 9.6/10
Merino wool socks are an essential purchase for any serious hiker. I’ve bought dozens of pairs over the years from a number of brands, including Smartwool, Darn… Read More
2019-12-09 23:10
Overall
Rating: 9/10
If you are into water sports, these are the sunglasses you’ve been looking for.
We threw a pair of Rheos in Sabino Creek to test their buoyancy. They definitely fl… Read More
2019-11-25 14:57
Overview
A few miles north of Kanab, there’s a magnificent slot canyon colloquially called “Peekaboo Canyon” but named “Red Canyon Slot” on maps. In a region wi… Read More
2019-11-18 15:00
Overview
The Wave is a geologic wonder in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness of Northern Arizona, formed by Navajo Sandstone. Over millions of years, forces of wind and erosion hav… Read More
2019-11-15 18:14
Summary
Dark Peak was kind enough to send me one of their NESSH Lightweight Down Jackets in return for some honest feedback. I’ve been loyal to my North Face ThermoBall for about 8 yea… Read More
2019-11-07 23:08
Overview
On any given weekend during May, September, and October, thousands of zealots pour out of vehicles, shuttles, and even busses to hike the Grand Canyon rim to rim.
The park rangers h… Read More
2019-10-11 23:20
When you buy something on Gear.com, they’ll give you 10% back AND let you donate 10% to a charity or friend
I hadn’t heard of Gear.com until they approached me, asking if I would… Read More
2019-10-06 22:02
This article is part of a two part hiking guide on Upper and Lower Tanque Verde Falls.
Overview
While not as tall as the lower falls, Upper Tanque Verde Falls are easier to get to and still… Read More
2019-10-03 22:35
Summary
A couple weeks ago, Kim and I received two pairs of Z-Trail sandals from Xero Shoes. They asked us to provide an authentic review of the Z-Trail, so we tested them on short hikes aro… Read More
2019-09-21 21:35
Disclaimer: I was compensated by Eat Your Coffee for the time spent on this post. The review is my own, along with all opinions expressed.
Unboxing Video
Full Review
As a coffee lover… Read More
2019-09-20 02:42
Overview
Description
Sahale Glacier Camp is a high-altitude backcountry camp that sits below the Sahale Glacier in North Cascades National Park. Because of its jaw-dropping views of jagged g… Read More
2019-08-22 18:00
Testing out DaVinci Barefoot Primavera shoes in the historic Barrio Viejo neighborhood of TucsonFull Review
DaVinci sent me a pair of their Primavera boots for feedback. These are “bar… Read More
2019-08-01 20:23
Summary
A little over a year ago, I bought a Massdrop x Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt. This quilt was produced as a collaboration between Massdrop (since rebranded to Drop) and Enli… Read More
2019-07-10 00:44
The natural landscape that surrounds Tucson is far more than a hot, dry, and dusty desert. It is truly a hiker’s paradise, with endless trails and variety. The area is known for its ca… Read More
2019-07-03 00:33
Trip Data
Dates: Wed, Jun 19, 2018 to Mon, Jun 24, 2019
Route: Day hikes around Yellowstone NP
Weather: Mostly cloudy with scattered rain and snow showers. Highs in the mid to… Read More
2019-06-11 04:50
Summary
Recently, Skinners sent me a pair of their sock shoes to review. They are designed to be a lightweight, minimalist footwear that feels like wearing socks but provides a bit more prot… Read More
2019-06-07 18:30
Kim tests out the Forged Denim Pants on an evening hike at Agua Caliente HillFull Review
Black Diamond sent me a pair of their forged denim pants to review. They are designed for climbing an… Read More
2019-05-27 16:00
Overview
This loop hike starts at Devil’s Kitchen Campground, follows the bottom of a rift valley, climbs over the Pinnacle – an amalgamation of needles – skirts along the… Read More
2019-05-17 21:23
Overview
This short hike takes you to a natural amphitheater formed by white Navajo Sandstone. It also features a white sand hill that kids love to play on.
As an added bonus, it has plenty… Read More
2019-05-06 15:28
Overview
Description
Reflection Canyon is a tributary of Lake Powell found in southeastern Utah. From the water, you can reach it by boat, jet ski, or kayak. However, the most spectacular vi… Read More
2019-04-22 15:19
Overview
This hike takes you to the top of Blackett’s Ridge, a prominent ridgeline that sits between two major drainages: Sabino Canyon and Bear Canyon.
From either Sabino Canyon Visit… Read More
2019-04-15 14:55
Summary
My Hoka One One Speedgoat 2s have finally reached the end of their life after carrying me over 400 miles of trails. I was so pleased with their performance, I decided to upgrade to t… Read More
2019-04-01 16:58
Background
OptiShokz is the child of AfterShokz, a company that makes bone conduction headphones. The Revvez are OptiShokz’s debut product – a pair of sunglasses that delivers st… Read More
2019-03-25 14:52
Overview
Finding water and treating it is one of the unavoidable chores that goes along with hiking in the backcountry. A fast and effective solution for this will give you more time to cove… Read More
2019-03-18 15:05
Overview
Description
People often say “Havasupai”, when referring to Havasu Canyon, a tributary of the Grand Canyon. It has been made famous by illustrious images of turquoise wa… Read More
2019-03-04 15:30
This article is part of a gear guide series on the “Big Three” heaviest backpacking items. These include your backpack, shelter, and sleep system. Skip to another post:
9 Best Li… Read More
2019-02-25 18:43
Overview
The hike through Fay Canyon is short, easy, and beautiful, which makes it an excellent choice for groups with young children and elderly members. For the more adventurous, there is… Read More
2019-02-12 21:58
Overview
Soldier Pass Trail is a popular hike that is typically accessed from Soldier Pass Trailhead in West Sedona. It can be done as a short 2 mile out and back or combined with Brins Mesa… Read More
2019-02-07 16:27
Hatching a Plan
I didn’t intend to move to Tucson when I first visited in January of 2017. But there’s something magical about winter in the Sonoran Desert. Washes are flowing, f… Read More
2019-01-28 16:04
Overview
Chiva Falls is an outstanding waterfall in the shadow of the Rincon Mountains east of Tucson. Found in Joaquin Canyon, it only flows after heavy rain events, periods of consistent r… Read More
2019-01-22 15:49
Note: Kanarraville Falls is closed for the winter and will reopen on March 1, 2019.
Overview
Kanarraville Falls is a picturesque waterfall set in a slot canyon near the sleepy town of Kanarr… Read More
2019-01-14 14:14
Overview
Elephant Arch is a natural sandstone arch in Southern Utah, appropriately named after its uncanny resemblance to an elephant’s profile. This is most apparent when viewing the… Read More
2019-01-10 16:11
Overview
Located in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arch Canyon Trail is a short, well-maintained path that turns to a Class 2 scramble after 3/4 miles. The trail begins in Arch Canyon… Read More
2019-01-07 15:26
Overview
Cathedral Rock is an oft-photographed butte near Sedona. It is quite popular and deservedly so, given the rock formation’s striking beauty. To get a good view of it and the su… Read More
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