Heather Eldridge
Editorial Assistant

As an Editorial Assistant at CleverHiker, Heather contributes to all aspects of our content creation, including research, analysis, testing, writing, photography, and more. Heather also leads the CH communications department, answering reader questions and building relationships with innovative outdoor brands.

Originally from Oregon, Heather has been exploring the Pacific Northwest since childhood. Heather is an experienced thru-hiker, having completed both the Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. With a degree in Outdoor Education, Heather spent years encouraging youth to embrace outdoor recreation through various leadership positions. She has also worked as a backpacking guide, rock climbing instructor, and portrait photographer.

Heather takes a balanced approach to backpacking and camping, emphasizing comfort while keeping the weight and cost of her gear in check. Her love of photography is evident in the stunning images she captures on her adventures, which she uses to inspire others to explore the beauty of the natural world. When Heather’s not working, you can find her hiking with her dog in the local forests or obsessing over plants in her garden.

Articles by Heather Eldridge

Ultimate Day Hiking Checklist

Ultimate Day Hiking Checklist

Author
We love a good checklist to help us prepare for a trip – even if we’re just going out for a day hike…
Best Winter Ice Cleats & Traction Devices 2024
A hiker wearing the Hillsound Flexsteps with trail running shoes

Best Winter Ice Cleats & Traction Devices 2024

Author
Don’t let winter’s grip get you down on the ice. Our team of experts has trail-tested the ultimate traction devices to find the most secure and dependable options so you…
7 Best First Aid Kits for Hiking of 2024
The HART Extended First Aid Kit on a rock with moss and ferns

7 Best First Aid Kits for Hiking of 2024

Author
We never venture into the wilderness without at least a basic first aid kit. A small selection of supplies and some know-how will help…
Best Hydration Bladders of 2024
Waist-down view of a female hiker pulling the Gregory 3D Hydro hydration bladder out of her backpack along a trail

Best Hydration Bladders of 2024

Author
Hydration bladders all serve the same basic purpose: convenient hydration on the go. But there are some key differences to look…
How to Train for Hiking & Backpacking Trips

How to Train for Hiking & Backpacking Trips

Author
If you’ve got your sights set on a difficult hike or an epic backpacking trip, it’s smart to prepare your body in the…
Alvord Desert Camping Tips

Alvord Desert Camping Tips

Author
If you’re looking to really, really get away from it all, take a trip to the Alvord Desert. It’s an otherworldly landscape with nearly unparalleled stargazing and plenty of opportunities for rugged R&R.
NEMO Kunai Tent Review

NEMO Kunai Tent Review

Author
The NEMO Kunai is one of the most versatile 4-season tents on the market with the ability to cover all your needs from backpacking to mountaineering.
A Quick Guide to Thru-Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

A Quick Guide to Thru-Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

Author
Long-distance hiking is a beautiful thing, but overcoming the challenges of a thru-hike requires a lot of research, planning and dedication. We put together this guide to help get you started. Below, you’ll find tips about choosing a start date, buying gear, what to expect on the trail, and so much more.
Best Hydration Packs of 2024
A hiker in front of a waterfall with the Gregory Juno 24 H2O hydration pack

Best Hydration Packs of 2024

Author
Ditch your water bottle and free up your hands with our guide to the most comfortable, cool, and affordable hydration packs out there.
Best Camping & Backpacking Coffee Makers of 2024
Closeup of the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip brewing coffee into an ultralight backpacking cup on a volcanic rock

Best Camping & Backpacking Coffee Makers of 2024

Author
Spending time in the woods doesn’t mean you have to ditch your daily brew. We’ve tested the top coffee makers so you can embrace your morning coffee ritual wherever you are.
Best Winter Jackets for Women of 2024
A woman standing in the snow in The North Face Arctic Parka outside of a rustic cabin in the woods

Best Winter Jackets for Women of 2024

Author
Take on winter, and look good doing it! Our cold-weather-tested winter coat picks are approved for frolicking in the snow
Best Camping Cookware of 2024
The Stanley Adventure Base Camp 4 Cookset with the Camp Chef Everest 2x stove on a table in a campsite

Best Camping Cookware of 2024

Author
Climbing mountains is impressive, but conquering hangry moments is legendary. We’ve sautéed, simmered, and savored to uncover the top camping cookware available.
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