Neglecting your caloric and nutrition needs during your
outdoor adventures can make you sick - literally. Your body doesn't get what it
needs and you may as well lay out the welcome mat for nausea, cramps and
dizziness.
When packing food, consider its weight, shelf life,
packaging, prep time, costs and taste. Bringing cans of tuna is a great source
of protein, but do you want to haul the extra weight? Besides, you'll need a
can opener unless you've already got a multi-tool.
Likewise fresh fruit is great for vitamins and carbs, but
consider the squish factor. One slip and those peaches become jam.
Here are my choices for the perfect trail foods.
- Myoplex & Clif - Balanced nutrition, minimal packaging, Myoplex bars come in the
expected flavors, but CLIF bars come in three new flavors - Cherry Pomegranate Nectar, Blueberry
Crisp and Peanut Butter Pretzel. They have a mild artificial after-taste,
but their storability makes them a top shelf choice in my books.
- Nature Valley - Face it, granola
is the best trail food for a reason. Rolled oats, nuts, with a dash of
honey as well as optional berries and fruit - packed with a good mix of
fat, carbs and protein. Nature
Valley, is my favorite
choice for flavor and nutrition content.
- GORP - Granola Oats Raisins and Peanuts still rocks when you're looking for fast nutrition.
And isn't it refreshing that some of the best stuff for the trails is
what's always been the best. Even better, you pack it however you want.
What's in your pack?
Feel free to add to this list. Whether
you're a dedicated boulderer, a crazed canoe-camper or an intrepid weekend
warrior, the items in these basic categories will get you through the trail.
James W. Coates,
National Park Expert
