Where the Trail Begins
An introduction to human-powered off-road adventures
Something about stepping off the pavement and onto dirt changes everything. The air feels different. The ground demands more from you. The miles seem to stretch longer, but the rewards run deeper.
If you’ve ever felt the pull of the trail—whether for hiking, running, biking, or something in between—you already know that the best adventures begin where the road ends.
That’s where Dirt and Hills comes in.
This newsletter is for those who want more than just workouts and trip reports; it’s for adventure, challenge, and a deeper connection to the outdoors. Whether you’re new to trail running, curious about rucking, or looking to improve your endurance, we’re here to help you get started and keep going.
Here’s what you can expect.
What Are Human-Powered Off-Road Adventures?
We’re talking about hiking, backpacking, rucking, trail running, fastpacking, and mountain biking—each offering a different way to explore the world under your own power. Some take patience. Others demand speed. All of them require grit.
These activities go beyond simple fitness. Pushing yourself outdoors builds endurance, self-reliance, and quiet confidence.
Let’s break them down.
Some of My Favorite Types of Off-Road Adventures
Hiking
Before we ran, we walked. Hiking is the most accessible way to experience the outdoors, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. The right gear, a solid understanding of navigation, and a bit of conditioning can turn a simple hike into an all-day adventure. Best for beginners looking to explore and anyone who enjoys slowing down and soaking in their surroundings.
Backpacking
For those who crave the challenge of multi-day adventures and the solitude of the woods, add a pack loaded with everything you need to survive, and you have backpacking. Covering long distances with food, shelter, and gear on your back teaches self-sufficiency like nothing else.
Rucking
For those looking to improve their fitness and prepare for more demanding hikes, rucking is one of the best ways to build endurance and strength. Military-tested and growing in popularity, rucking is a full-body workout disguised as an adventure. It’s like backpacking - just without a specific destination.
Trail Running
For runners who crave variety and want to leave the predictable pace of the road behind, trail running is all about adapting. Every step is different, whether climbing steep hills, hopping over roots, or descending rocky paths.
Fastpacking
Part trail running, part backpacking—fastpacking is about covering long distances with minimal gear, quickly. Think of it as speed-hiking with a trail runner’s mindset for those who like to go far, fast, and light.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking offers a different way to experience trails for those who prefer wheels over feet. It requires skill, balance, and a willingness to take a few falls for speed junkies, endurance riders, and those who love technical terrain.
Finding Your Path
Not sure where to start? It depends on what you’re looking for:
Want to explore at a relaxed pace? → Try hiking or backpacking.
Want to get stronger while you move? → Load up and ruck.
Want to push your endurance? → Trail running or fastpacking is your game.
Want to cover serious ground? → Get on a mountain bike.
No matter which path you choose, every off-road adventure shares a few common threads:
The Right Gear – From hydration to footwear, having the proper setup makes all the difference.
Navigation Skills – Knowing where you are (and where you’re going) is essential.
Weather Awareness – Conditions change fast in the wild. Being prepared is part of the game.
Endurance & Adaptability – The trail will test you. That’s the point.
What Dirt and Hills Brings to You
This isn’t just another fitness blog. Dirt and Hills is about real-world adventure delivered straight to your inbox.
Trail running insights: How to train, what gear to use, and how to tackle technical terrain.
Hiking & backpacking essentials: From first steps to multi-day treks.
Rucking & endurance training: Build strength, stamina, and mental grit.
Mountain biking tips & tactics: Skills, gear, and trail strategies.
Adventure mindset: Learn how to push limits without burning out.
We’re also creating downloadable guides—concise, practical PDFs covering everything you need to get started in these sports. They’re free for subscribers and are designed to give you actionable advice without the fluff.
Ready to Join the Community?
Here’s how to get involved:
📩 Subscribe to Dirt and Hills and get exclusive content, tips, and adventure guides delivered straight to your inbox.
📥 Look for links to download our Free Guides for learning the essentials of trail running, rucking, backpacking, and more.
🔥 Join the Dirt and Hills Strava Club – Connect with like-minded adventurers and share your progress → Join here.
The Trail is Calling. Are You Ready?
No matter your experience level, there’s an adventure waiting for you. Whether it’s a short hike, a grueling ultra, or something in between, the trails don’t care about your pace or gear—they ask that you show up.
If that sounds like your challenge, stick around. Subscribe, grab a guide, and start exploring. It’s time to get off the pavement and get dirty. Let’s go.
