Summit Hut and Backpacker.com

Mike · Post by **Mike** » May 31 2002 5:35 pm

I got a card in the mail today from Backpacker Magazine. They're having a presentation in Tucson at the Summit Hut at Whetmore and First Avenue, on June 15 at 6:30 pm.

They also have an online log where you can enter information about your nights out in the wild. You can check that out at http://www.backpacker.com/getoutmore. Interesting concept, I wonder how they came up with that idea...

ck_1 · Post by **ck_1** » May 31 2002 8:44 pm

What's the presentation on?

I've been following the backpacker website for a while now...I use their email account...the GET OUT MORE or GOM is something they started last year in the magazine...it was like a year long special...so the website has done the same...last year's GOM bag night winner was a scout troop...huge number of days in a bag...there are some other cool options like a wish list...specific to each state, that allows you to pick the area you want to explore (National Parks/forests/monuments/state parks/wild.areas/etc) and add it to your own personal list...cool added feature is that if Backpacker has done an article on the area, a link is included for you to read the article...way cool.

BoyNhisDog · Post by **BoyNhisDog** » Jun 01 2002 1:01 pm

I need to go by the Summit Hut today anyway so I'll see if I can get some details.

desert dweller · Post by **desert dweller** » Jun 01 2002 1:29 pm

Not to usurp Glen's future reply, but I went to the Get Out More presentation last year at the Summit Hut on Speedway. Basically, there were two folks contracted by Rodale (Backpacker's owner) to talk about gear, packing ideas and reasons/methods to get out and hike. They gave away a lot of nic-nacs and there was some audience participation.

About 25 people were there including the Store's employees. None of the advice was radical but, it was fun to go anyway.

John

BoyNhisDog · Post by **BoyNhisDog** » Jun 01 2002 2:34 pm

Yes DD that sounds like the jist of it. They say "all new" tips on gear, destinations, menus, fitness and more. I'm certain this would be very invaluable to a new backpacker and of at least some interest or fun to a seasoned vet.

I dropped $400 on a new tent and a couple of misc things while I was there. That store is like a dream world everytime I go in. They seem to only stock the very best quality gear and have such quality folks making sure it fits you perfect. I asked to see the tent and they set it right up.

These outdoor excursions are definately not roughing it anymore. They are luxury getaways.

Mike · Post by **Mike** » Jun 01 2002 2:43 pm

BoyNhisDog wrote:That store is like a dream world everytime I go in.

You're right about that! I wonder if they're ever going to open a store here in the Phoenix area... Not that I mind a trip to Tucson now and then!

desert dweller · Post by **desert dweller** » Jun 01 2002 10:33 pm

Mike wrote:You're right about that! I wonder if they're ever going to open a store here in the Phoenix area...

Summit Hut will probably open a place in the Phoenix area when REI opens one here in Tucson.

I have to stay out of places like the Smut Hut and REI. I literally lose the ability to see the value of my old gear and start justifying that new tent.