About Me

Hi! I’m Chris, Founder of Step Massive –
Your Backpacking Resource

Since 2019, I’ve completed over 120 solo backpacking trips, building a wealth of practical experience along the way. I created Step Massive to help beginner and intermediate backpackers gain confidence and essential skills for safe, enjoyable outdoor adventures. My goal is to share the backpacking tips and insights I wish I’d known early on, helping you avoid some of the rookie mistakes I made.

Growing up around the foothills of the San Francisco Bay Area, I was always drawn to the outdoors. My true passion for backpacking was sparked in college, when a friend invited me on an overnight trip to summit Mt. Shasta, which was covered in snow. I went all in, strapping my snowboard and boots to my pack, which must have weighed around 50 pounds! The next day, we snowboarded down the mountain, and that exhilarating experience opened my eyes to how rewarding backcountry trips could be.

Inspired by that trip to Mt. Shasta, I set out on a few solo backpacking trips over the next couple years, figuring things out as I went. I packed way too much gear: canned fruit, all my water, a heavy book, etc. My pack was overloaded with things I didn’t need, but each trip taught me a bit more about how to lighten up, stay comfortable, and truly enjoy the experience.

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As I gained more experience, I began refining my approach to backpacking—swapping out bulky gear for lighter, more functional items and focusing on essentials for comfort and safety. Each trip offered an opportunity to test strategies and improve my backpacking setup. Eventually, I gained the skills and confidence to take on challenging terrain and learned valuable skills, like locating and purifying water, managing nutrition, and preparing for unpredictable weather.

Over the years, I’ve explored a variety of terrains, from the high peaks of the Sierra Nevadas—including more than two dozen trips in Yosemite alone—to the deserts of the Southwest. I’ve camped on top of El Cap in Yosemite, backpacked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, and completed multiple desert trips in the rugged Mojave. I’ve even through-hiked the Rockwall Trail in the Canadian Rockies.

My approach to backpacking emphasizes both comfort and efficiency. I focus on lightweight, functional gear that works well for long trips, while still bringing a few comforts, like my camp chair or an inflatable pillow. Over time, I’ve become proficient with both hammock camping and tents, refining my gear setup to focus on essentials. My experience has also taught me the importance of embracing Leave No Trace (LNT) principles to preserve these wild places for future generations.

Step Massive grew out of my desire to help others feel more confident on the trail. I remember all too well what it was like to be new to backpacking, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty with every trip. There’s a lot of information out there, but it can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. I wanted to create a resource that simplifies things, focusing on practical tips, real-world advice, and insights from my own experience. My goal with Step Massive is to share the essentials and make backpacking feel doable for everyone, even if you’re starting out with the basics.

Your Next Backpacking Adventure Starts Here!

Step Massive is designed to be a welcoming resource for anyone starting their backpacking journey. Whether you’re gearing up for your first overnight trip or fine-tuning your gear setup, you’ll find practical tips and insights to make your adventures safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Backpacking doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about finding what works for you and embracing the journey!

So if you’re ready to dive in or take your skills to the next level, explore what Step Massive has to offer. Start with our beginner resources, trip reports, and practical guides designed to make backpacking feel accessible and enjoyable. And if you ever have a question or need a bit of advice, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help.

Let’s make your next adventure unforgettable!

– Chris, Founder of Step Massive