The Most Glamorous 30 Mile Backpacking Trip I've Ever Done


Last week, I experienced my first-ever Fjallraven Annual Classic! Let’s just say it was nothing short of incredible!

Over three days and 30 miles, I got to trek amidst the majestic Colorado Rockies, learn more about why Fjallraven puts on their Annual Classics (globally), and meet some rad individuals. For someone who just moved to Denver and was looking to build a new community and see nature out here, it was the perfect opportunity for me!

If you’re interested in backpacking but haven’t done much of it or would like to be a part of a huge event, I think the Fjallraven Annual Classic USA is perfect. But I’ll leave that up to you as you read through the trip’s breakdown, what I learned, and the photos along the way.

Newsletter Sponsor: Overlook Maps

If you want a map that isn't tracking or selling your data, AND one that overlays the most recommended food and drink spots from experts like Eater, Thrillist, NYTimes, or Michelin Star Restaurants?
Overlook Maps is the way to go!
It's a new way to do mapping that offers tons of benefits and none of the downsides!
Try it out FREE today.

5 Takeaways from North America’s 2025 Fjallraven Annual Classic

After completing my first Fjallraven Annual Classic USA, I want to share some of the biggest takeaways from the trek. Hopefully, this will inspire you to join the US Classic next year!

Read my full article with plenty of photos and trek details here.

Gear Corner

As a media member, Fjallraven gave me some gear to test out. I had never tried any of their clothes before, and I enjoyed the opportunity to use the gear and put it to the test! Everything worked perfectly, and I even needed the rain jacket for some afternoon rain and hail.

Yes, their gear is a bit pricey, but they have a decent Limited Lifetime Warranty, and it truly is built to last decades.

  • Keb Eco Shell Rain Jacket: Men’s | Women’s - Lightweight and kept me dry, but it is probably not great for full-on soak sessions.
  • Expedition X-Latt Insulated Jacket: Men’s | Women’s This one's hoodless, but is a nice summer down jacket where you know it won't be frigid, but you need it for mornings and evenings to stay toasty!
  • Abisko Hybrid Trail Shorts – Men’s - I usually find hiking shorts to be a bit blah. These were comfortable, flexible, and didn't fall down/ride up even with my pack. The only downside is that there are no back pockets.
  • Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers – Men’s - Similar style to the above, these pants were warm and flexible, but also not overbearing with warmth. Great for mornings or nights in the mountains, but stylish enough to wear out to the brewery. (Also, no back pockets. Boooo.)


Thank you to Overlook Maps for supporting this newsletter. Try it out for free today!

Recent Articles You May Have Missed

Gear Guide for Hiking 14ers: What to pack for your next summit

Ireland Itinerary: How to Spend 7 Days in Ireland

Hiking Guide to Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain National Park

Is Visiting the Space Needle Worth it? Plus Sunset Photos from the Top

6 Days in Maui: Ultimate Maui Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

The 19 Best Activities and Things to do in Maui

The 11 Best Mirrorless Cameras on the Market (and 5 beginner friendly options)

The 11 Best Hikes on Highway 2 in Western Washington

Ultimate Guide: Stunning 2-day Yoho National Park Itinerary

Four-Day Mariposa and Yosemite National Park Itinerary

Hi! I'm Alec, an outdoor writer, photographer, and content creator.

Alec is a landscape photographer and outdoors storyteller with a zeal for pushing boundaries in the wild. He enjoys hiking, backpacking, and visiting remote places, allowing him to photograph locations the rest of the world shies away from. In addition, Alec loves to write about his travels and craft articles that help educate and inspire others to find their joy in nature.

Read more from Hi! I'm Alec, an outdoor writer, photographer, and content creator.

Happy Friday! Been a little quiet over here as not much is going on. I'm battling through a hurt hip flexor/groin that has basically kept me from hiking since the end of July. But some exciting adventures are coming up that I cannot wait to share with you all! The biggest is a trip to Rwanda, which kicks off in 11 days, for 11 days. Keep an eye out for my newsletter later in September, and you can follow along on social media as we venture across the small African country, seeing gorillas,...

EEEK! Well, here goes nothing! I'm hosting a group trip next June 2026 in the Canadian Rockies! Ever since I first visited Canada in 2017, it has been at the very top of my adventure list. Glaciers. Stunning Lakes. Jagged Peaks. It's all incredible, and I want to help you see it, too. But not just see it. Experience it. Touch a glacier. Get soaked while rafting. Immerse yourself in the greatest mountain range. See bucketlist locations. So, who is this trip for? Anyone! But it's probably the...

Long time no chat, y'all! I hope summer is treating you well. Jaimie and I recently moved from Seattle to Denver, where she'll start her fellowship program at the children's hospital. It was a LOOOOONG three days of driving, but we did it safely. Now, we're all unboxed (thanks to my parents' help) and trying to move the final random boxes into their new homes. For me, I'm excited to explore a new region of the country, but at the same time, very sad to leave Seattle. The mountains up there...