Exo Journal — Backpacking

As you walk away from your truck, you feel a mix of excitement, anticipation, and nerves. And probably some doubt. You have several days worth of food and gear on your back. Adventure awaits. Am I ready for this? Will I find any animals out there? Will I be warm enough on the cold nights? If I am lucky enough to fill my tag, am I ready for the work that follows? These questions are completely normal — especially if you are a new hunter. Or maybe you aren't new to hunting, but you are new to backpacking into the...

Looking back on my journey, and the journey of fellow hunters, there seems to be a certain path of growth for backpack hunters. Reflecting on this journey reminds you how far you've come and helps you recognize those little victories throughout the years. This journey is the Evolution of a Backpack Hunter.

When it comes to hunting big game, primarily in the vastness of the west, versatility is the name of the game. It applies to the method of take, the gear we use and even the time of year we choose to hunt. We need to be swiss-army knives in the hills, and this includes how we camp.

If you have spent any time on extended hunts — backcountry or not — you have experienced the grind. All of us go through it from time to time; some of us deal with it better than others. Those that can endure it have a chance to fill their tags on the last day. Those that surrender to the grind will never know what could have been.