Life Is Beta

Guides

Trip plans, gear lists, and how-tos worth printing out.

Backpacking

3-Day John Muir Trail Sampler: Happy Isles to Little Yosemite Valley

A perfect first JMT taste — iconic terrain, real backcountry feel, and close enough to bail if things go sideways.

May 21, 2026
Backpacking

How to Build Your First Backpacking Kit Under $500

You don't need to spend four grand to start backpacking. Here's how to build a real kit on a real budget.

May 21, 2026