Posts

Posted on

Kanchenjunga Trek in Nepal

Looks fantastic.

Kangchenjunga as seen from the NNW. Taken from Pang Pema, Nepal


I watched Flora Gonning’s video of her Kanchenjunga adventure guided by Himalayan Masters. That’s the 3rd highest mountain in the world.

They had a lot of snow, changing their itinerary.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

I’m interested. But it’s a big commitment.

Here’s what Himalayan Masters offered in 2026 starting at USD $1900.

Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Facts

  • Duration of the trek: 20 days
  • Distance of the trek: Around 200 Km
  • Starting point: Amjilosa
  • Ending point: Yamphudin
  • Maximum elevation: 5,143 meters/ 16873.36 feets
  • Best Seasons to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
  • Accommodation: Teahouses/ Hotels
  • Transportation: Flight/Bus/Jeep
  • Trek Category: Difficult
  • Permits: KCAP and RAP

Highlights of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek

  • Cultural Immersion with local Sherpa and Limbu communities
  • Glacial Lakes such as Ghunsa and Kambachen
  • Monastic Visits to Ramtang and Oktang Monasteries
  • Challenging Terrain with varied landscapes
  • Base Camp Adventures at Kanchenjunga North (5143 m) and South (4780 m)
  • High Passes like Sele La (4290 m) and Mirgin La (4480 m)
  • Rich Biodiversity in Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
  • Traditional Villages showcasing local architecture and lifestyle
  • Breathtaking Sunrises and Sunsets over the Himalayas
  • Unique Trekking Routes through lush forests and alpine meadows
  • Opportunities for Photography of stunning landscapes and wildlife
  • Local Cuisine tasting traditional Nepali dishes along the trek
Posted on

Is Bikepacking BETTER Than Backpacking?

Darwin on the Trail is one of the most influential hiking vloggers

BUT he’s slowly adding bike touring trips to his annual calendar.

AND Darwin argues that Bikepacking is even better — overall — than thru hiking.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Gear guru Halfway Anywhere agrees:

10 Reasons Bikepacking Is Better Than Backpacking

Of course cycling requires more gear. Higher cost.

I bought my first touring bike about 10 years ago. As I age, I expect to do more and more cycling as it’s easier on the body.

In 2026 I plan to do plenty of both.

Section hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. Section cycling the Tour Divide.

Posted on

Mocking Arc’teryx

If you want to look cool — but kinda a douche — buy Arc’teryx.

Great stuff. But by far the most overpriced in the industry.

Though launched in Vancouver, Canada, I’ve only ever been able to afford one piece of Arc’teryx gear. A cap. 😀

It’s currently owned by Amer Sports, Inc., Finland. Which is owned by the Chinese company Anta Sports since 2019.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Posted on

Walking Malta

By BestHike editor Rick McCharles

Short montage from my unexpected visit to Malta in the Mediterranean, March 2026.

Great destination for a day hiker. I walked a lot both on the pretty coastline and in the ancient cities. Malta is particularly spectacular at night.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Posted on

Tent, Pack, Sleeping Bag & Pad under 2kg (4.4lbs)

Mountain Equipment Co-op in Canada launched online April 21, 2026 something they call The 2Kilo Project .

Gear looks great, but not inexpensive. You can pay by the piece if you don’t want the entire system.

In the era of Trump, many are trying to avoid purchasing from American companies. This is an alternative.

I’m looking forward to real world reviews.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

related – Bikepacking.com – THE MEC 2KILO PROJECT IS A COMPLETE ULTRALIGHT SYSTEM

Posted on

 7 days Great Ocean Walk, Australia

One of our top 10 coastal hikes in the world.

In 2004, the Great Ocean Walk opened, connecting 104 km of walking trails that follow the coastline near the Great Ocean Road, stretching from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles.

Parks Victoria Great Ocean Walk

Plenty of koalas.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.