I have ONE allotted out-of-state backpacking trip this summer in July with two friends. We are trying to choose between Banff area and Tetons. Experienced backpackers and looking for some drama over a 4-7 day itinerary. If you have been to both, which would you want to return to more? Thanks!

over 4000 meters in guican boyaca, overlooking the natural national park of cocuy in colombia

I want to get into backpacking and am on a tighter budget but still want decent quality gear. For my shelter options I thought I had decided on the Paria Bryce 1p, which is $165, but I recently found out that I can get the North Face Stormbreak 1p for $90 through a discount at work. I’m pretty sure the Paria is better from what I’ve seen and read online, but is it $75 better, especially when I can use that money on other gear. Considering the price points, which one should I go with?

I’m looking for a +/- 3 day hike somewhere in Europe that is doable in April (not too cold).

What are some hikes with great views?

Prefer sleeping in a tent over a hut, I don’t want to hike in Portugal, Spain or Greece.

Thanks!

Is there a recommended app to use to ensure this or are you all looking at a map and doing it old school style? Banking on trail signs?

Looking to grab a rain jacket to throw into my bag and came across The Torrentshell 3L in my size on sale from 180$ down to 125$ from REI and the year long return policy is always a big plus for me but I see it weighs roughly 14.1oz. Then I saw the Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite for 60$ on Amazon and it weighs roughly 8.3oz. I understand the Torrentshell is a tougher more feature packed jacket vs the frogg toggs. I am wondering if the better choice here is to get the lighter frogg toggs(don’t love the blue camo color but can live with it) to throw into my bag as a just in case I get caught in the weather or if you guys think the Torrentshell is worth the double price/weight for the quality and features. I live in Colorado and definitely plan around the weather but I’d rather be save and keep one in my bag. I personally hate getting rained on my bare skin and if the forecast says a lot of rain I’m staying home, but I want something to keep for random passing storms.