Backpacker.com v’s YourHikes.com

[BirdShooter]

If you are a subscriber to Backpacker Magazine (like I am), you probably noticed that they have revamped their website and have heavily promoted it in this month’s issue. Their ultimate goal is to load a database of all the hikes from the last 20-30 years, allow subscribers to upload trip reports, maps, photos, etc. tied to the hikes, and continue to grow their online community. Sound familiar? I actually can’t believe it took them this long to do it. They have a loyal readership and have some really high quality content. I can only guess that they see the future of their magazine online where it can be accessed 24/7 rather than solely in a magazine that comes out 9 times a year.

So what does that mean for the little guys: thebackpacker.com, whiteblaze.net, yourhikes.com, etc. Backpacker.com has deep pockets. We do not. We’ve already proven there is demand for user generated content, but will our loyal members abandon us for this new mega-medium that Backpacker.com has developed? I guess you will be the judge.

[Tree Top Flyer]

I’ve spend A LOT of time on the backpacker site, checking it out, even before the big upgrade. I’ve told you in email but let’s make it public. I really don’t care for the backpacker site very much. Bigger, flashier, more “busy” is not the way to go in my opinion.

Also, I’m not happy with the changes to the magazine. Some of the better features like tear out a card hikes, regional hikes aren’t there anymore and lasat month there’s an article about some rock star (didn’t read it). I truly hope backpacker isn’t losing it’s way and turning into some type of fashion magazine for the outdoors.

Keep it up Bird Shooter.

[Oshow]

I’m not going anywhere. Just getting back into packing, after being mostly inactive for the past couple of years. You were my first outdoor site, you are just a regular guy, and I’ll stay where I’m welcome and wanted.

[Author]

Posts