When planning a backpacking trip to Olympic National Park, choosing the right food is crucial. The ideal backpacking food should be lightweight, calorie-dense, easy to prepare, and nutritious. This guide covers top dehydrated meals, lightweight snacks, high-calorie options, and essential cooking equipment for your Olympic National Park adventure.
What Are the Top Dehydrated Meals for Backpacking in Olympic National Park?
Dehydrated meals are a backpacker’s best friend due to their lightweight nature and easy preparation. Here are some top recommendations:
Mountain House
- Homestyle Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Calories: 280 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fat: 9g
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Preparation: Add hot water, wait 9 minutes
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Granola with Milk & Blueberries
- Calories: 260 per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fat: 9g
- Preparation: Can be prepared with hot or cold water
Peak Refuel
- Drunken Noodles
- Pesto Pasta with Chicken
- Average 163 calories per ounce
- Up to 37.6g protein per serving
- Rehydration time: 10 minutes
Nomad Nutrition
- Butternut Dal Bhat
- Calories: 870 per serving
- Protein: 23g
- Ingredients: Organic, non-GMO
- Preparation: Add boiling water
Itacate Foods
- Sunset Caldo
- Calories: 490 per serving
- Protein: 16g
- Type: Vegan soup
- Spice level: Moderate
What Are the Best Lightweight Snacks for Hiking in Olympic National Park?
Lightweight snacks are essential for maintaining energy levels during hikes. Here are some ideal options:
Fruits and Vegetables
- Apples
- Oranges
- Pears
- Bell peppers
- Carrots
- Bananas (rich in potassium and vitamin B6)
Nuts and Seeds
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Mixed nuts
Protein and Carb Dense Bars
- Granola bars with nuts, dried fruit, and honey/agave nectar
Cheese
- Small blocks of hard cheese (e.g., cheddar)
| Snack | Calories (approx.) | Protein (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | 95 | 0.5 | 25 | 0.3 |
| Almonds (1 oz) | 160 | 6 | 6 | 14 |
| Granola Bar | 200-300 | 4-10 | 25-35 | 6-12 |
| Cheddar Cheese (1 oz) | 115 | 6 | 1 | 9 |
What Are the High-Calorie Backpacking Food Options for Olympic National Park?
For longer treks or more strenuous hikes, high-calorie options are crucial:
Peak Refuel Meals
- Average 163 calories per ounce
- Up to 37.6g protein per serving
- Example: Butternut Dal Bhat (870 calories, 23g protein)
Mountain House
- Homestyle Chicken Noodle Casserole: 280 calories per serving
Pinnacle Foods Co
- Around 152 calories per ounce
- High protein content
- Note: Higher sodium levels
Cost Comparison
- Peak Refuel: $14-$16 per pouch (serves two)
- Mountain House: $10-$15 per meal
- Pinnacle Foods Co: $14-$16 per meal
What Is the Essential Cooking Equipment for Backcountry Meals in Olympic National Park?
To prepare your meals efficiently, you’ll need some basic cooking equipment:
- Portable Water Filter or Purification Tablets
- Weight: 6-12 ounces
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Examples: Sawyer Mini, LifeStraw
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Lightweight Pot
- Weight: 6-10 ounces
- Dimensions: 4-6 inches diameter, 3-4 inches height
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Material: Titanium or aluminum
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Utensils
- Weight: 1-3 ounces
- Recommendation: Spork or multi-tool
When choosing your backpacking food for Olympic National Park, consider the balance between weight, nutritional value, and ease of preparation. Dehydrated meals offer convenience, while lightweight snacks provide quick energy boosts. High-calorie options are ideal for longer treks, and don’t forget the essential cooking equipment to prepare your meals efficiently in the backcountry.