Hello,

I've put in a few good hikes since we last talked -- from a local favourite (Prairie Mountain about one hour west of Calgary, Alberta) to a tourist haven (Sulphur Mountain -- read my article online) to a few shorter strolls in Northern Idaho (article to follow). But this month was my daughter's birthday, and having raised an outdoor girl, it was a given that she would hope for a gear-related gift. It isn't until you go shopping for something specific that you begin to realise how specialized everything has become. Whether you're a first-time buyer or in need of new gear after years of making do, you'll appreciate this article on sleeping pads.

Sleeping Pads for the Backpacker
Sleep is often elusive for backpackers -- what with pointy sticks and stones sucking the heat from the core of your body. Finding the right sleeping pad is critical.

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art23142.asp

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Cheers,
Megan

Megan Kopp, Hiking & Backpacking Editor
http://hiking.bellaonline.com

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