Glossary U

Articles containing information regarding Glossary U

• Ultralight Backpacking

  Ultralight backpacking is a style of long-distance hiking that emphasizes minimizing pack weight through careful gear selection, streamlined systems, and efficiency-focused decision-making.

• Ultralight Philosophy

  Ultralight philosophy refers to the mindset and decision-making framework behind reducing carried weight by focusing on efficiency, necessity, and intentionality rather than accumulating gear.

• Umbrella (Sun or Rain Umbrella)

  A hiking umbrella is a lightweight sun or rain umbrella used by backpackers for shade, precipitation protection, and improved ventilation compared to traditional rainwear.

• Underquilt (Hammock)

  An underquilt is an insulated layer suspended beneath a hammock to provide warmth by eliminating convective heat loss from below.

• Unmaintained Trail

  An unmaintained trail is a route that receives little or no formal upkeep, resulting in navigation challenges and natural obstacles.

• Unofficial Campsite

  An unofficial campsite is an informal camping location not designated or managed by land agencies but commonly used by hikers.

• Unpaved Road Walk

  An unpaved road walk refers to hiking along gravel, dirt, or maintenance roads that form part of a route or connect trail sections.