"I'm not on vacation. I'm not out for a weekend. This is where I live. When you do that, all the other trappings of life fade away. " - George "Billy Goat" Woodard, Famous Backpacker

Backpacking, a vernacular term for outdoor recreation involving wilderness camping and hiking, is a popular sport in which participants carry all necessary supplies on their backs during one or more backpacking trips into wild, undeveloped areas.

The practice of backpacking began to explore the natural beauty of remote places that are often difficult to traverse by foot.

Backpackers frequently hike long distances without the aid of roads or trails, using topographical maps and navigational skills to avoid natural obstacles such as deep canyons or steep slopes.

There is a deep sense of freedom that accompanies backpacking. This form of self-reliant recreation allows backpackers to completely immerse themselves in the natural world by traveling through remote wilderness areas.  

Many people are drawn to backpacking for this reason. They seek a way to escape the drudgery of everyday life and find an opportunity to challenge themselves in wild settings.

It is not uncommon for backpackers to embark on extended journeys, sometimes lasting months or more, as they continue their quest for new challenges.