Recognizing a Trail That Is Missing From Your Map
How to distinguish an unmarked junction, an old trail, a false path, and a navigation error before committing to the wrong line.
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Miles, Meals & Mosquitoes
Backpacking adventures, trail wisdom, and lessons learned the hard way.
James McAfferyJames McAffery is a lifelong backpacker who believes the best lessons are learned somewhere between the trailhead and the next campsite. He writes practical guides about gear, trail skills, backcountry meals, and avoiding mistakes—especially the ones he has already made himself.
Recent articles
View archiveReading Avalanche Forecasts for a Non-Skier’s Spring Backpacking Trip
An introduction to recognizing avalanche terrain and understanding forecast language before planning a hike through snow-covered mountain passes.
Read articleRain Jackets, Ponchos, and Pack Covers: What Actually Keeps You Dry?
A practical comparison of rain jackets, ponchos, and pack covers for Pacific Northwest backpacking, with guidance on ventilation, layering, and keeping gear dry when the weather turns persistent.
Read articlePreventing Chafing During Long Backpacking Days
A practical guide to preventing and managing chafing on long backpacking days, from pack fit and clothing to moisture control, lubrication, hygiene, and early treatment.
Read articlePlanning a Loop Hike in the Canadian Rockies When Shuttle Logistics Are the Hardest Part
How to compare loop, out-and-back, and point-to-point routes while accounting for permits, parking, shuttles, and backup plans.
Read articlePlanning a First Winter Overnight Without Turning It Into an Expedition
A practical guide to planning a manageable first winter overnight in Canada, with advice on route choice, daylight, cold-weather systems, conservative goals, and sensible backup plans.
Read articlePlanning a First Backpacking Trip in the Canadian Rockies Without Overcommitting
How to choose a manageable route, account for elevation, arrange transportation, and build a safer first Rockies itinerary.
Read articleNavigating Forest Roads and Unmarked Junctions After Dark
A practical guide to handling forest roads and unmarked junctions after dark, with sensible ways to slow down, confirm direction, use track logs, and avoid turning a late arrival into a larger navigation problem.
Read articleNavigating Above Treeline When the Trail Disappears
Practical techniques for staying oriented and making conservative route choices when alpine trails fade or disappear in the Canadian Rockies.
Read articleMosquitoes, Blackflies, and Ticks: Building a Practical Insect Strategy
A practical, layered approach to dealing with mosquitoes, blackflies, and ticks in Northern Canada using clothing, shelters, repellents, timing, and post-trip checks.
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