Ozark Highlands Trail: Day 17: The Norfork Trail Section and An Unexpected Party

Learn how to leverage these insights to elevate your projects and harness the full potential of this versatile technology. Because it’s basically a single compartment stuff bag, I did have to make sure the items inside were distributed properly. I have used the hydration compartment for items like my iPad. All told, I’ve had the pack on my back for about 50 miles. Keeping the load under 15 pounds seems to be the key. I really wanted to use it for our fall two-nighter on the AT, but was unable to fit my bivy with a 20 degree Kelty Cosmic down bag inside.

This pack fits me fine and is very comfortable for lightweight loads. It’s light enough that I don’t mind putting it in my backpack and it takes up almost no space at all. And on summit day, I sure am glad I have a daypack! For day hikes this is just as good as (and lighter than) my Osprey Daylite that retails for almost four times more. We like that this pack has a lot of pockets including a zipper that allows you to access the middle of the pack without opening the top.

At mile 15 in the Trace Creek section, you will find the scenic Council Bluff Recreation Area, which includes a lake and a 12-mile loop to explore the beautiful landscape of southeast Missouri. The Ozark Trail Association marks and improves the trail and ensures campsites are well maintained. No photo, illustration, data, or text on this website may be reproduced, published, copied, or distributed without prior written permission and license.

If you’re on a multi-day hike, toilet paper and a cathole shovel are necessities. When you have to answer nature’s call, make sure to stay at least 200 yards away from a water source and bury any solid waste at least 6 inches deep. A backpacking stove is a convenient way to boil water for dehydrated meals and instant coffee without adding a lot of weight to your pack. Exploring Missouri’s scenic backcountry is one of the best reasons to head out on the Ozark Trail.

I’ve been attempting to drop weight for the past ozark trail sleeping bag several years, mostly because my knees can’t handle it. My shelters have gotten lighter as have my sleeping system — next in line for a diet was my carry system. Funds, however, were non existent and my CFO (i.e. my wife) wouldn’t increase my discretionary fund.