Our Favorite Hikes: The Boulder Mail Route

The entrance: slickrock hiking at its finest

As outdoor enthusiasts and adventure guides, we're always on the lookout for unique and awe-inspiring experiences to share with fellow nature lovers. One of our all-time favorite overnight backpacking trips is the incredible Boulder Mail Trail in Utah. Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, this trail offers a remarkable journey through time, offering glimpses into the past while immersing backpackers in the untouched beauty of nature.

Unveiling the Boulder Mail Trail: A Journey Through History and Nature

The Boulder Mail Trail is not just a path through the wilderness; it's a tangible connection to history. Dating back to the late 19th century, this trail was used by intrepid mail carriers to deliver mail to the isolated towns of southern Utah. Walking along its route is like stepping into the shoes of these pioneers, imagining the challenges they faced as they navigated the rugged terrain. As we guide you along this trail, we'll share stories of their resilience and determination, making your journey not only physically rewarding but emotionally enriching as well.

The descent leads to a lush riparian zone (but watch out for poison ivy!)

Utah is renowned for its striking landscapes, and the Boulder Mail Trail is no exception. The trail winds through a diverse array of environments, from arid desert expanses to lush riparian zones. Ancient rock formations stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, while the colorful hues of the surrounding cliffs and canyons create a breathtaking backdrop. Along the way, hikers will be treated to the sights and sounds of native wildlife, from the majestic golden eagles soaring above to the elusive desert bighorn sheep that call this area home.

Reasons Why the Boulder Mail Trail Tops Our List:

1. Remote Wilderness Experience: In today's busy world, finding solitude in nature can be a challenge. However, the Boulder Mail Trail offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The trail's remote location means that you're unlikely to encounter large crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serenity of the backcountry.

It’s a Moab-type hiking experience without, well, Moab.

2. Varied Terrain and Challenges: For those seeking a true adventure, the Boulder Mail Trail delivers. The terrain is as diverse as it is challenging, ranging from slickrock expanses that make you feel like you're walking on another planet to sandy washes that wind through narrow canyons. The journey will test your hiking skills and push your limits, but the rewards are more than worth it.

Canyon campsites rule

3. Night Skies and Campfire Tales: As the sun sets and the night sky emerges, the Boulder Mail Trail takes on a new kind of magic. Far from the city lights, the stars shine brilliantly, creating a celestial canopy that's perfect for stargazing. Gathered around the campfire, we share stories of the trail's history, local legends, and our own personal experiences. These moments foster a sense of camaraderie among fellow adventurers that often turns into lifelong friendships.

The high desert is just… wow

In the heart of Utah's rugged beauty lies a trail that beckons the adventurous spirit within us all. The Boulder Mail Trail not only offers a physical challenge and a connection to the past, but it also provides a chance to disconnect from the modern world and find solace in the natural wonders that surround us. As outdoor adventure guides, we invite you to join us on this unforgettable journey, where history, nature, and personal growth intertwine to create an experience that will stay with you long after you've left the trail behind. So pack your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on a remarkable adventure along the Boulder Mail Trail. Your next unforgettable adventure awaits!

Our Gear: Jetboil Flash Review

We’ve used a LOT of stoves in our many years in the outdoors, from the venerable MSR Whisperlite and Primus’ Svea and 8r, to homemade alcohol burners. One of our favorites- and the one that travels with us most frequently these days- is the Jetboil Flash Camp Stove System. The Jetboil is a top-of-the-line option for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a compact and efficient cooking setup. The system includes a 0.8-liter FluxRing cooking cup, a burner, and an insulated cozy with a handle.

Ol’ Faithful- the MSR Whisperlite

One of the standout features of the Jetboil Flash is its speed. The FluxRing technology prevents heat from escaping around the cup, allowing the stove to boil water in just under two minutes, making it one of the fastest camping stoves on the market. This is a great option for backpackers who are looking to minimize their time spent cooking and maximize their time spent exploring (or relaxing!).

The Jetboil Flash System

The Jetboil Flash is also super easy to use. The burner attaches securely to the cooking cup, and the fuel canister screws on with a simple twist. The color-coded cozy makes it easy to know whose cup is whose, and the handle on the cozy allows you to securely hold the cup while you're cooking.

Jetboil accessory pot in the wild

The Jetboil Flash is also very fuel efficient. One canister of fuel easily last a long  weekend for two, making it a great option for lighter packing when you want to minimize the amount of fuel you need to carry. 

Another great feature of the Jetboil Flash is its compact size. The entire system packs down into the cooking cup, making it very easy to pack and carry. The stove, cup, and fuel canister all nest together, and the cozy doubles as a measuring cup and a bowl.

The Jetboil Flash is a bit on the expensive side, and it does not simmer well when using the 0.8 linter cup, limiting it mostly to boiling duty.  But its speed, efficiency, and convenience make it well worth the investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts. It's a great option for backpackers, hikers, and anyone who wants a reliable and easy-to-use camping stove. 

Backcountry French Press? Yes, please!

Jetboil has also created many accessories and additional pots of various sizes. One of our favorite accessories is the integrated coffee press for the 0.8 liter cup. One should not lower his or her coffee standards in the backcountry!

The Jetboil Flash Camp Stove System is a great option for backpackers, hikers, and anyone who wants a reliable and easy-to-use camping stove. The FluxRing technology allows the stove to boil water in just under two minutes, making it one of the fastest camping stoves on the market. It's compact, easy to use, and efficient with fuel, but it's a bit on the expensive side.