17 Mar 2026

Embracing the Wild- A Journey on the Demon Trail

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

For those who seek the quietest corners of the world, New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park offers a landscape that feels almost prehistoric. In my latest video, I leave the relative comfort of Lake Alabaster Hut behind to venture onto one of the Hollyford Track’s most notorious sections: The Demon Trail.

Beyond the Swinging Bridge

The journey begins with a crossing of the Pike River via a classic New Zealand swinging bridge. In Fiordland, these bridges aren’t just practical; they are the gateway to the deep wilderness. Once you step off the wire and wood onto the far bank, the character of the Hollyford Track shifts dramatically.

The path becomes more rugged, more intimate, and significantly more demanding.

What is the Demon Trail?

The section between Lake Alabaster and McKerrow Island Hut is affectionately (and sometimes frustratingly) known as the Demon Trail. Unlike the lower valley’s gentle forest paths, this stretch is a constant dance with the elements.

  • The Terrain: Expect rocky outcrops, tangled tree roots, and detours around recent storm damage.
  • The Crossings: From sturdy swinging bridges to the adrenaline-inducing traditional three-wire bridge, your balance will be tested.
  • The Atmosphere: This is a temperate rainforest in its purest form. Towering ferns, moss-draped beech trees, and the constant sound of flowing water create a sensory experience that no narration could ever truly capture.

Finding the Rhythm of the Rainforest

In the video, I’ve chosen to let the environment speak for itself. There is no talking—only the crunch of boots on wet earth, the rush of hidden waterfalls, and the subtle, minimalist music that mirrors the serenity of the valley.

As the canopy opens, you’ll catch glimpses of steep, jagged mountain peaks rising above the mist—a reminder of the scale of the glacial valley we are traversing.

Why Hike the Hollyford?

Unlike many of New Zealand’s “Great Walks,” the Hollyford Track follows a low-elevation glacial valley. This means it avoids the alpine extremes of the nearby Milford or Routeburn tracks, allowing for a lush, green experience year-round. However, the “low elevation” doesn’t mean “easy.” The frequent rain and shifting landscape make it a dynamic, ever-changing environment that rewards those who appreciate the raw, unpolished side of hiking.

Watch the Journey

If you’re looking for a moment of peace or a realistic look at New Zealand’s backcountry, you can watch the full immersive experience below:

Hiking the Demon Trail | Hollyford Track Day 2

If you haven’t seen the first day of my Hollyford Track hike before the Damon trail, you may want to check out
Solo Backpacking New Zealand’s Hollyford Track Day 1

Have you braved the Demon Trail or crossed a three-wire bridge in the New Zealand wilderness? Share your stories in the video comments.

12 Mar 2026

Finding Solitude: Solo Backpacking the Hollyford Track Day 1

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

New Zealand is world-renowned for its “Great Walks,” but for those seeking a deeper connection to the wilderness—away from the crowds and the rigid booking systems—the Hollyford Track in Fiordland National Park offers something truly special.

Most hikers begin the Hollyford Track with a gentle transition, stopping at Hidden Falls Hut for their first night. However, when the Fiordland weather offers a rare window of clear skies and sunshine, sometimes the best move is to keep the boots moving.

In my latest video, I skip the traditional first stop at Hidden Falls Hut, and push all the way from the road end to Lake Alabaster Hut in a single, immersive day of solo backpacking.

Leaving the Road Behind

The journey starts in the deep greens of the beech forest, following the path of the Hollyford River. Without the typical Fiordland drizzle, the forest takes on a different character—light filters through the canopy, highlighting the vibrant mosses and ferns that define this glacial valley.

Beyond Hidden Falls

Reaching Hidden Falls is usually a milestone that signals the end of the day’s effort. After stopping to take in the 31-meter drop of the falls, I made the decision to keep going.

The section between Hidden Falls and Lake Alabaster is where the track starts to show its teeth. You leave the flat valley floor for the Little Homer Saddle. This climb provides a significant change in perspective, offering glimpses of the surrounding Darran Mountains that are often hidden by clouds. Little Homer Falls is another beautiful waterfall along this trail, and the bridge had been wiped out by a storm, so I had to cross the creek by hopping across rocks. Luckily the water was low, and I didn’t get my feet wet.

The Arrival: Lake Alabaster (Wawā)

Arriving at Lake Alabaster Hut after a dual-section day is an incredible feeling. The lake itself is a stunning sight—a vast, serene body of water framed by steep, forest-clad mountains.

Pushing through allowed me to experience the transition from river valley to lakeside wilderness in one continuous flow, heightening the sense of isolation and immersion that makes the Hollyford so special.

Experience the Journey

This video captures the entire Day 1 push in a “place over personality” style. No talking, no distractions—just the rhythm of a long day’s hike and the natural soundscape of the New Zealand backcountry.

Solo Backpacking the Hollyford Track | Road End to Lake Alabaster

You may also be interested in my second day along the Hollyford Track Hiking the Demon Trail | Hollyford Track Day 2

12 Feb 2026

3FULGear Tutor- A First Look at This 1.4lb Framed Ultralight Pack

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

For many ultralight hikers, the “holy grail” of gear is a backpack that balances weight with structure. Finding a pack that weighs just over a pound but still includes a frame is no easy task.

In my latest video, I take a deep dive into the 2025 redesign of the 3FULGear Tutor. Originally released in 2017 and recently brought back with modern updates, this 35L pack aims to bridge the gap between frameless minimalism and load-bearing comfort.

Watch the full first impressions video here.

Technical Specifications

The Tutor is designed for those who have already dialed in their gear list and are looking for a streamlined, lightweight carry.

  • Weight: ~650g (1.43 lbs) for the medium size.
  • Capacity: Total 35L (25L main compartment, with additional space in the front mesh, side pockets, and hip belt pockets).
  • Materials: * Main Body: 70D Nylon—flexible and lightweight.
    • High-Wear Areas: 210D Grid Nylon with UHMWPE (Dyneema) on the bottom for improved durability against rocks and debris.
  • Support: Internal carbon fiber rods (extremely thin, similar to coat hanger wire) paired with a foam back panel.

Key Features & Field Performance

The Frame System

One of the most surprising elements of this pack is the carbon fiber frame. Despite their thin profile, these rods effectively transfer weight to the hips. While the pack is rated for 25–30 lbs, I’ve found that it performs best when kept under 20 lbs. It handles 25 lbs for short stretches, but for long-distance comfort, staying lightweight is key.

Minimalist Storage

The main compartment is a single “ocean” of space. There is no hydration sleeve, internal key clip, or hose port. This simplicity keeps the weight down but requires a pack liner (like a Nylofume bag) as the material is not waterproof.

The exterior features:

  • Breathable Front Pocket: A fine-weave fabric that allows wet gear to dry while remaining durable against thorns.
  • Side Pockets: Capable of holding two water bottles each, with adjustable elastic tensioners.
  • Roll-Top Closure: Uses snaps rather than velcro or stiffening bars.

The Hip Belt

A standout feature is the pull-forward adjustment system, which allows for better leverage when tightening the pack. The belt also features four adjustment points to better accommodate the natural curve of the hips.

Pros & Cons

What works well:

  • Weight-to-Value: It is incredibly lightweight and inexpensive for a framed pack.
  • Clean Design: Unobtrusive and functional without unnecessary “bells and whistles.”
  • Comfort: Excellent weight transfer for loads under 20 lbs.

Points for improvement:

  • Back Ventilation: The foam panel can get quite warm during high-exertion hiking.
  • Pocket Hardware: The hip belt zippers use ribbon pulls which can be difficult to grip with gloves; a simple cord-and-knot replacement is a recommended DIY fix.
  • No Shoulder Pockets: You’ll need to add your own if you prefer easy access to snacks or electronics on the go.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 3FULGear Tutor is a solid choice for experienced hikers who prioritize a “light and fast” approach. If you are a summer hiker or a weekend warrior with a sub-10lb base weight, this pack offers the structure you need without the weight penalty of a traditional internal frame.

Have questions about the technical specs or how it handled the trail? Drop a comment on the YouTube video and let’s discuss.

25 Jan 2026

A Winter Backpacking Adventure in Caprock Canyons

by | posted in: OutdoorsDevon |

There is a unique kind of silence that only comes with winter in the high desert. Recently, I set out to capture that stillness at Caprock Canyons State Park, and the experience was a powerful reminder of why I love heading into the backcountry when the temperatures drop.

If you haven’t had a chance to watch the full journey yet, you can catch the video here:

WATCH: Winter Backpacking in Caprock Canyons | Snow, Wind, and Solitude

The Call of the Canyons

I arrived at the park just after a fresh snowfall. Seeing the striking red rock canyons highlighted with bits of white snow was incredible—it felt like stepping into an entirely different world. As a solo hiker, these quiet trips allow me to focus entirely on the environment, prioritizing the atmosphere of the place over everything else.

A Study in Extremes

The sky remained clear for the rest of my trek, which brought its own set of challenges. The overnight temperatures were brutal, hovering right at or below freezing.

When I woke up on the second morning, my primary goal was simply to get moving as quickly as possible. In those conditions, movement is your best heater. However, the desert had another surprise waiting for me: the wind. The gusts on that second morning were surprisingly powerful—at one point, a blast caught me so off-guard it nearly blew me over literally.

Shedding the Layers

One of the most interesting aspects of winter backpacking in this region is the dramatic temperature swing. By the middle of the second day, the biting cold of the morning felt like a distant memory. The sun warmed the canyons considerably, and I went from shivering in my insulation to being genuinely hot and shedding layers just to stay comfortable. It was a classic example of why a versatile layering system is the most important tool in your pack.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are an experienced thru-hiker or someone looking to get into ultralight backpacking, I hope this look at Caprock Canyons inspires you to see the “off-season” as an opportunity. There is a profound peace to be found in the solitude of a winter trail, even when you’re battling the wind to stay upright.

Join the Conversation Have you ever dealt with those massive desert temperature swings? What’s your go-to strategy for staying warm on those freezing mornings? Let me know in the comments of the video!

For more outdoor adventures and technical gear reviews, be sure to subscribe to the OutdoorsDevon YouTube channel.

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