Southwest Hikes

Sign in Subscribe

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

Person walking with Gossamer Gear Aero Jet backpack and duffel bag from the new travel collection, showcasing lightweight travel gear in an urban setting.

Gossamer Gear Launches Ultralight Travel Collection for Smart Adventures

Gossamer Gear’s new Travel Collection is here! From the Aero Jet carry-on pack to minimalist cubes and hip packs, this lineup makes it easy to pack light and stay organized. Whether you're heading to the airport or the backcountry, this gear brings simplicity to your next trip.

Person sleeping inside the Hyperlite Bug Bivy under a tarp, demonstrating breathable mesh and Dyneema floor

Meet the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Bug Bivy: Ultralight Insect Protection for Serious Backpackers

Hyperlite’s new Bug Bivy is built for ultralight backpackers who need bug protection without bulk. At only 6.35 oz, it’s perfect for tarp setups and summer nights on trail.

Smiling hiker wearing the black Ridge Merino Solstice Hoodie on a sunny alpine trail with snowy peaks in the background.

Gear Review: Solstice Lightweight Wool Hoodie by Ridge Merino

The Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Wool Hoodie is a breathable, odor-resistant, and ultralight sun hoodie made with RWS-certified merino wool.

Rear view of a hiker wearing Fjällräven Keb Trousers Curved and a backpack while walking through a red rock canyon in the Southwest.

Gear Review: Keb Trousers Curved By Fjallraven

The Keb Trousers Curved by Fjällräven are built for women with hips and thighs, offering a perfect fit with pro-level durability, vents, and smart trail features. Check out our full review of these seriously tough—but flattering—hiking pants.

Six Moon Designs Haven Tent set up in a forested campsite, showing sleeping bags and water filtration gear under the tarp.

Ultralight Shelters from Six Moon Designs: Trail-Tested Favorites for 2025

Looking for an ultralight tent that won’t weigh you down? Six Moon Designs offers innovative shelters like the Skyscape Trekker, Haven Tent, and Gatewood Cape—perfect for fastpacking, thru-hiking, and minimalist backpackers.

Back view of a hiker wearing the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 40 pack on a dry trail in desert mountains, walking toward distant peaks.

Gear Review: Windrider 40 Backpack By Hyperlite Mountain Gear

Weighing just 30 oz and built from Dyneema, the Hyperlite Windrider 40 is a minimalist backpack for ultralight hikers. Here’s why it’s a top pick for thru-hikes, long trails, and backcountry adventure.

Person in an olive green Ibex Indie Hoody crouched on snow near a glacier with fall-colored hills in the background.

Gear Review: Indie Hoodie By Ibex

The Ibex Indie Hoodie is a lightweight merino wool baselayer with natural odor resistance, breathability, and a trail-ready fit. This is a go-to layer for hiking, backpacking, and multi-season use. Check out our review to learn more and see how it handles big adventure!