Maggie Slepian

Maggie Slepian

Title: Contributing Editor

Location: Montana

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Backpacking, bikepacking, trail running, camping, climbing, archery
  • Education: Bachelor of Arts, English / Creative Writing
  • Years of Writing: 15
  • Years of Gear Testing: 10+
  • Previous Publications: New York Times, Outside Magazine, Longreads, Backpacker, Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, The Strategist, Runner’s World, Travel + Leisure, The Trek, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Popular Mechanics, Runner’s World, Bicycling Magazine, Adventure Cycling, Backpacking Light, Wide Open Spaces


Why I Chose This Career

I have always enjoyed backcountry travel and writing, and somehow figured out a way to turn it into a career between writing, editing, and gear testing. 


How I Began My Career

I started as an intern with a local outdoors magazine. After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail I took a job as the managing editor for an outdoor publication and continued as a full-time freelance writer from there.

Recent Articles

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REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 Travel Backpack Review

Last Updated: March 31, 2025

For trips with a lot of moving around, I've found travel backpacks to be more convenient than rolling suitcases. I've been testing travel packs for the past few years, and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 40 is far and away my favorite. With a similar weight...

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Backpacking Sleeping Bags vs. Quilts

Last Updated: July 7, 2025

For thru-hikers, bikepackers, or anyone looking to travel light and fast, an ultralight sleeping bag or quilt is a no-brainer purchase that can shave noticeable weight and bulk from an overnight kit. But the choice between the two can be tricky...

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Best Women’s Backpacking Backpacks of 2025

Last Updated: April 30, 2025

Choosing a suitable backpacking pack can be a daunting task, with myriad models touting different capacities, organization, suspension designs, and more. Our breakdown—written by women, for women—will help you identify your personal style of...

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Arc'teryx Allium Insulated Jacket Review

Last Updated: April 3, 2025

This winter, I went on the hunt for a hoodless synthetic jacket to wear as a midlayer for skiing. Along with being trim enough to layer overtop, I wanted the jacket to be breathable and stretchy for higher-output activities without looking overly...