Find the best hiking gear for your next adventure in the Sierra Nevada. From field-tested boots and backpacks to expert gear guides and the latest trekking equipment, we cover everything you need for a successful hike. Stay updated with new gear releases, industry news, and top-rated hiking essentials.
A Comfortable, Thoughtful Fit for Bigger Frames on Real Trail Days For the past five months, I’ve been putting the Gregory Arrio 22 Plus Size daypack through the kind of use most daypacks see in real life — fall hikes, moving days, travel, and quick trail escapes when a few extra layers and snacks make … Read more
One of the best parts of summer trade events like OMA is getting your hands on next season’s gear before it hits the broader market. In July, I met the HydraPak crew and walked away with a piece that immediately made sense for the way I hike: the HydraPak PackFlask™ 500ml with its integrated filtration … Read more
Nearly every piece of gear in this guide earned its place in the Sierra Nevada. High-elevation trails. Dry air. Big mileage days. Cold nights that drop fast after sunset. Long approaches, granite underfoot, and camps set just far enough off the beaten path to feel earned. This was Sierra testing in its truest form—gear used … Read more
Getting outside with a newborn can feel intimidating — especially in the mountains — but the right gear can turn those first outings into meaningful, confidence-building adventures. For our family, introducing our baby to the Sierra Nevada wasn’t about pushing limits or chasing miles; it was about sharing a place that already held deep meaning … Read more
For more than a decade, Arcade has gone a different direction during the holiday rush. While most brands race to slash prices, Arcade leans into something more meaningful: strengthening the outdoor community through their annual Paying It Forward initiative. But before I dive into the details, I want to be transparent about something:I’m not just … Read more
October 21, 2025 Arcade belts, which provide stretch and function for outdoor activities, joins the global roster of RECCO brand partners starting this fall. STOCKHOLM, Sweden (October 21, 2025) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ — RECCO , the global leader in rescue technology, announces its first product collaboration with Arcade, founded on the belief that belts could function better, last longer … Read more
Trail Tested Review: Katadyn BeFree Filter AC 1.0L – Slate Blue Fast, clean, and confidence-inspiring water filtration for the Sierra adventurer. The Sierra has a way of reminding you just how important water is. On long, sun-baked miles of granite and dust, having a reliable water system isn’t just a convenience—it’s survival. For years, I’ve … Read more
Comfort and Flexibility for Cool-Weather Adventure When I pulled on the Danner Lightweight Trail Pants for our Green Creek Canyon hike, I wasn’t expecting much more than comfort for the drive and a bit of wind protection on trail. But a few miles in, these pants started to impress me for all the right reasons. … Read more
Lightweight Warmth That Breathes When the Wind Bites When the fall winds started funneling through Green Creek Canyon last weekend, I was glad I’d packed the Marmot Aerothermal Jacket. The day’s forecast promised bright sun but cold gusts, the kind of Sierra day that keeps you guessing. With about a thousand feet of climb to … Read more
Trail-Tested in Yosemite | Trusted for 50 Years The Sierra doesn’t ease into fall. It snaps into it.One day you’re basking in granite heat; the next, you’re digging through your pack for a layer that actually works. That’s where Marmot steps in. This year, the legendary brand—celebrating 50 years of outdoor innovation—introduces two standout collections … Read more
Ultralight power meets trail-ready reliability in the Sierra backcountry. A Shift in Stove Strategy I’ve been a longtime fan of integrated pot stove systems like the MSR WindBurner—stable, efficient, and wind-resistant. But heading into our early September backpacking trip from Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley, I made a conscious decision: cut pack weight wherever I … Read more
For the past five years, I’ve relied on quilts as my primary sleep system, especially when hammock camping in the Sierra Nevada. They give me the freedom to move naturally, regulate heat, and stay cozy in ways a traditional mummy bag never has. So when I came across the Outdoor Vitals StormLoft™ 15° Quilt (Long) … Read more
A Delicious and Hearty Trail Dinner from Backpackers Pantry After years of taste-testing freeze-dried meals in the backcountry, I think I may have found the gold standard: Backpacker’s Pantry Pad Thai with Chicken. Simply put—it was the bomb. This meal hit all the right notes after a long day of backpacking in the Emigrant Wilderness. … Read more
The Sierra Nevada boasts some of the most spectacular trails in the US. It attracts hikers from around the world with its rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse landscapes. For women hikers, these trails can be both empowering and rewarding, but they also require thoughtful preparation to ensure safety and enjoyment. From unpredictable weather to … Read more
Socks, Soles & Sierra Miles: Why Your Feet Deserve Better on the Trail by Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Feature Writer From the dusty granite switchbacks of Sonora Pass to the cool, shaded creek beds below Castle Peak, your socks are the last line of defense between comfort and misery in the Sierra. We’ve … Read more
If you’ve hiked the Sierra on a warm summer day, you know how quickly your feet can overheat, leading to discomfort and fatigue. One sock we’ve recently put to the test on Sierra trails is the Paka Trail 3/4 Crew Sock, made with alpaca fiber for breathable, lightweight comfort. Founded in Peru, Paka’s mission goes … Read more
Performance-Driven Sunwear Without the Weak Links By Sierra Rec Magazine Staff If you’ve spent any real time in the alpine, desert crags, or backcountry trails, you already know: traditional sunglasses are kind of a joke. Hinges break, sidearms snap, and if you’re sweating out a skin track or hanging halfway up a granite face, they’re … Read more
Field-Tested by Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Overview Handcrafted Italian quality meets Sierra trail grit in the Zamberlan Devero Mid GTX, a Spring 2025 release that promises performance, sustainability, and long-haul comfort in a lightweight mid-height hiker. We tested these boots over four rugged days and nearly 30 miles of granite slab, dusty singletrack, … Read more
When it comes to hiking in the Sierra, comfortable, moisture-wicking socks can make or break your day. One brand we’ve used regularly on day hikes and Sierra wanderings is Minus33, a New Hampshire-based company with deep roots in wool craftsmanship and mountain-tested gear. While we use a variety of socks depending on the trail, weather, … Read more
An ultralight, trail-tested solution for simple, safe hydration in the Sierra. As someone who’s tested just about every popular backpacking water filter out there—from pump systems to the Sawyer Squeeze and Platypus QuickDraw—I can honestly say the LifeStraw Peak Series Solo impressed me for what it is: a minimalist’s dream for weight savings and ease … Read more
Your New Favorite Base Layer for Sierra Adventures When it comes to Merino wool base layers, I’ve had my fair share of frustrations—especially as someone with a larger frame. Too tight in the shoulders, too short in the torso, or scratchy after a long day on the trail. But the IBEX Goat Tee? It may … Read more
At Sierra Rec Magazine, we’re always on the lookout for brands that match the spirit of the Sierra — rugged, authentic, and built for adventure. That’s why we’re excited to announce our new affiliate partnership with KÜHL Clothing, a brand known for blending performance and style like no other. As temperatures rise and the trails, … Read more
AllTrails Peak Membership Launches June 11 Sierra Rec Magazine is excited to announce the arrival of AllTrails Peak, a new premium membership tier launching June 11 from the world’s most trusted outdoor trail platform. For Sierra Nevada adventurers, this means a new level of control and insight—both while planning your trip and once you’re on … Read more
By Charlie Pankey, Sierra Rec Magazine Escape the crowds and experience one of the Eastern Sierra’s most rewarding early-season alpine hikes. Hiding just off Highway 108, Leavitt Lake is a rugged, high-elevation gem near the summit of Sonora Pass that offers solitude, snowmelt waterfalls, and glacier-fed beauty just as the Sierra awakens in late spring. … Read more
Helly Hansen’s Shine Solen Half-Zip proves its versatility in both high Sierra hikes and multi-day rafting trips. By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine In the high-elevation Sierra, sun exposure isn’t a summer nuisance—it’s a full-season challenge. And when you throw in wind, snowmelt, and rapidly changing spring weather, you need layers that can do … Read more
At Sierra Rec Magazine, we believe in putting gear to the test—and when it earns our trust, we stick with it. For the past five years, Gregory backpacks have been our go-to on countless Sierra adventures, from multi-day treks in Yosemite to family hikes in Desolation Wilderness. So we’re thrilled to announce a brand-new affiliate … Read more
Minimalist carry meets real-world river durability in this multi-use sling pack. Whether you’re heading into whitewater, prepping for paddleboard season, or looking for a sleek alternative to the classic daypack, the Pelican Aegis SX3 Padded Sling delivers rugged utility with a refined, outdoor-savvy look. On a recent 21-mile overnight rafting trip down the East Carson … Read more
The great outdoors draws tourists with its promise of adventure, challenge, and connection with nature. Whether you’re hiking through rugged trails, camping under a starlit sky, or tackling a survival scenario, being prepared is key. Two essential tools that elevate your outdoor readiness are handmade custom knives and paracord beads. These items combine functionality, durability, … Read more
A Saturday Escape Down 395 It’s been a long month here at Sierra Rec Magazine, but as the weekend arrived and we wrapped up the Spring issue , that familiar urge to get outside and see something new took over. After all the editing, reviewing, and planning, it was time to fill our own cup … Read more
Redefine Lightweight Warmth for Spring 2025 By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine If your spring and summer adventures are calling you into high alpine terrain—or simply far from the beaten path—you’re going to want to travel lighter and sleep warmer. And this season, Mountain Equipment, the long-respected British brand born from the passion of … Read more
By Charlie Pankey, Sierra Rec Magazine You know that mid-afternoon desk moment when your energy crashes and your mind starts wandering to the mountains? Yeah, that happened to me today—post-Spring magazine launch, mid-dual-drum brain fog—and I remembered I had a little something new to try sitting right here on my desk. Canyon Crack Trail Butter. … Read more
Royal Robbins Declares War on Mosquito Infested Adventures One of the best parts of running Sierra Rec Magazine is getting the opportunity to test out new gear, especially when it comes from brands that truly understand adventure. This spring, I had the chance to check out the latest collection from Royal Robbins, a Yosemite-inspired clothing … Read more
If you’ve ever hiked deep into the Sierra backcountry, paddled across an alpine lake, or just spent a weekend camping under the towering Jeffrey pines, you know that comfort isn’t always guaranteed. Enter Crazy Creek, the pioneers of portable outdoor seating, who just launched two new products designed to bring next-level relaxation to the wild: … Read more
New style brings unparalleled visual clarity and performance from sea to summit Bellevue, WA – February 4, 2025 – Ombraz , the award-winning pioneer behind armless sunglasses, announces the launch of their Limited Edition Leggero with Polarized Blue Mirror Optics. Driven by customer feedback and the growing popularity of armless sunglasses for water and alpine … Read more
Lessons Form the Trail – A Tale by James Mckew With the legs of a pack mule and the brain of an ant, I marched boldly into the wild Sierra. I had convinced myself that a trip into the backcountry to photograph “nature” was a good idea. I was at the time, an aspiring photographer: … Read more
Elevate Your Outdoor Adventures: AllTrails’ New Off-Trail Alerts and Apple Watch Updates – A Perfect Gift for Tech-Savvy Trailblazers The holiday season is here, and if you’re looking for the ultimate gift for the adventurer in your life, AllTrails has just the thing. Their recent updates to the AllTrails Apple Watch app make outdoor exploration … Read more
Explore the Sierra Like Never Before: AllTrails’ Offline National Park Guides – The Perfect Holiday Gift The Sierra Nevada is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the world—Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, and even the rugged beauty of Death Valley. Each offers unique experiences and miles of trails to explore. … Read more
Exploring the Sierra Nevada is a magical experience for families, with countless trails, shimmering lakes, and sweeping mountain views waiting to be discovered. But whether you’re setting out for a sunny day hike near Lake Tahoe, an overnight camping adventure in Yosemite, or an impromptu picnic by a mountain stream, one thing is certain: staying … Read more
100% Merino Wool Hoodie The Perfect Winter Companion for Sierra Nevada Adventures Gear Review:- Sierra Rec Magazine- October 2024 – Winter in the Sierra Nevada demands performance clothing that can handle the cold, fluctuating weather, and the demands of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. The new Rockcraft Wool Hoodie from Royal Robbins, made … Read more
As temperatures in the Sierra drop, staying warm and comfortable becomes essential for outdoor exploration. I was probably the last in my social group to finally gravitate to the winter puffer for my recreation outings and overall general jacket comfort here in the Eastern Sierra. That being said, i now enjoy a variety of Puffer … Read more
