North Coast Trail, Vancouver Island

My Feet Hurt:

I hiked the North Coast Trail from August 27 to September 1 in 2014.  I spent 5 nights and 6 days on the trail.

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6

The North Coast Trail might be very, very tough.

We recommend easier alternatives to the standard route. There are other similar hikes on Vancouver Island of course, all easier than the NCT.

Overland Track, Tasmania

Mac posted an excellent overview on how to tramp one of our top 10 hikes in the world.

Overland

 PROS
  • Beautifully maintained track
  • Plenty of water available on the trail
  • Great side trips (Cradle Mountain, Hartnett Falls, the Acropolis)
  • Can stay as many days as you choose out on the track
  • Climb Mount Ossa, the highest peak in Tasmania (side trip)

CONS

  • Expensive – A$230
  • Bookings required October 1 to May 31
  • Crowded during the high season
  • Can only be hiked one direction
  • Leeches 

Based on Mac’s information, we’ve updated our Overland Track information page.

Mac actually liked Tasmania’s Western Arthur Traverse better than the Overland.

4 Wheel Bob – the film

Having been on Bob’s support team for his 2007 ascent of 14,252-foot (4344m) White Mountain Peak, California, I can highly recommend his inspiring documentary.

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Bob’s smiling here. But let me confirm that trip was bloody tough. I could never possibly have made it in his chair.

The new film covers his attempt to cross 11,845-foot Kearsarge Pass in the Sierra Nevada. It’s much rougher than White.

Click PLAY or watch the trailer on YouTube.

Click through for details.

4wheelbobfilm.com

protecting food from bears

Andrew Skurka:

Personally, I own a BearVault BV500 and Ursack Major. I use the BV500 when it’s required, and the Ursack Major in areas with bears and/or mini-bears but without canister regulations.

Buyers guide: Bear canisters || Comparison of volume per weight & cost

Good advice. I do the same.

I’m still using a clear BEARVAULT BV500. Or an Ursack.

The canister is a little better, but bulky.

I hang my Ursack, when I can.

But in areas with bears — and inappropriate trees — tying directly to a tree at eye level works too.  I’ve never had a bear approach my food … though I did once have a mouse get inside the Ursack.