Zpacks Free Duo Tent 2021

Though it’s more expensive than my Hubba™ NX Solo ( 1.12 kg / 2 lb 7 oz.), I would love to try the 2-person Z packs Free Duo as a shelter for just myself.

I could keep everything inside, this way.

I don’t hike with poles so will always need a free standing tent.

$699.00 – Weight 30.1 oz / 852 g

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Read a detailed review.

Neck Point Park, Nanaimo

AllTrails calls it Neck Point Park Loop.

Right in the city of Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, the small park is popular with runners, walkers, dogs, and scuba divers.

A great day hike any day of the year.

Nearby is the Pipers Lagoon hike. Do both on the same visit.

Click PLAY or get a 2-minute glimpse of Neck Point on YouTube.

Read more on Outdoor Vancouver – Neck Point Hike in Nanaimo.

Walking Banff’s Rivers in Winter

By BestHike editor Rick McCharles.

In Banff, Alberta for medical tests — all labs in the big city of Calgary booked for weeks — I made time to walk all the hikes available directly from the Rocky Mountains townsite.

Gorgeous.

I’m now convinced that April is the best month for the local town hikes. It’s fascinating to watch the spring breakup of rivers.

One night I saw elk crossing on Bow River ice. A few days later it was liquid.

Click PLAY or watch 1 minute of River highlights on YouTube.

related – more Banff winter hikes

Pipers Lagoon, Nanaimo at LOW TIDE

Pipers Lagoon Park is a 1.8 kilometer loop trail in Nanaimo, British Columbia.

It’s good year round. But BEST at low tide.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.

Built on an isthmus that extends out to a rocky headland, this 8 hectare park features twisting trails that lead to a number of seaside lookouts.

From the headland you’ll have a great view of historic Shack Island and the southern point of Neck Point Park.

Beware Spurge-Laurel (Daphne laureola) which can cause skin rash on contact.

Pyramid Point Trail, Michigan

Pyramid Point Loop is a 4.5 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail located near Maple City, Michigan that features a lake and is rated as moderate.

The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips and is best used from September until November.

AllTrails

If you have never visited the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — add it to your list.

GREAT dunes. Bring shoes for both hiking and the sand.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.