I’ve been attempting to drop weight for the past several years, mostly because my knees can’t handle it. My shelters have gotten lighter as have my sleeping system — next in line for a diet was my carry system. Funds, however, were non existent and my CFO (i.e. my wife) wouldn’t increase my discretionary fund. A perk of hiking lesser-traveled trails are fewer (or non-existent) permits and parking fees. The Ozark Trail does not have permit, parking, or registration requirements for its trail sections. Wetlands give way to ridgelines at the start of the Blair Creek section.
Similar to the Ozark Trail cooler, the Pelican features orange wheel rims and also has orange clasp accents. You can get this cooler in three colors, Tan which is featured here, as well as graphite and white. The other two colors will have different rims and accents, so if you don’t love the orange you have options. The only issues I have with the bag is that the stitching isn’t as good as you might find on the more expensive bags and its weight. The more expensive will use higher quality materials that are generally stronger and lighter weight.
I sweated just a bit but not too much since the walk was short (and I didn’t want to sweat after a shower). I did finish my activities very sweetly and was able to walk and hike without carrying anything in my hands. Aside from the main pack bag, there is a small zippered compartment on the front, ozark trail canopy that, depending on how much you have stuffed inside, is pretty tight. I managed to fit my headlamp, lighter, map, compass, and some tp in the pocket. Fit and finish were pretty good — no loose seams or stitching. Stitches appeared evenly spaced and of uniform distance from the fabric edges.
All though I’ve been hiking for years, my hikes have been short ones no more than a mile or two. Normally they took place at a green space or a nearby park. For these outings it was carrying a Nalgene bottle of water in a pocket or on a strap and large jug kept in the car for the drive home. But over the last few years my wife and I are into longer hikes.
However, some sources may run dry during extended periods of drought. Plan accordingly and carry or cache water in case you are not able to find a source close by. Always treat any water for drinking and cooking along the trail. Specific water sources are indicated on Ozark Trail online and printed maps. I tried actually sewing one on, but I don’t have the right size buckle to go with the strap, so might won’t hold tight.
Find the best backpack for your next outdoor adventure using our independent reviews and ratings. We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail ozark trail canopy links in our product reviews. The Ozark Trail cooler is made from polyethylene, which is the most common kind of plastic in use today. Yes, you will most likely see differing results when adding cans or bottles into the mix.