Standing in pouring rain with gear that weighs you down, I realized why the right pack and prep matter. I’ve tested crowd-pleasers and overlooked flaws, and I’m sharing what actually helps on day one and beyond. You want comfort, durability, and a plan that fits real trips, not hype.
From compact beginner setups to feature-rich options, here’s where the best balance lives: sturdy design, value, and realistic usability. I’ll call out the essentials you’ll rely on when the weather shifts or you’re hauling through a long day, and why some kits outperform others in the real world.
Top Recommendation: Teton 65L Scout Internal Frame Backpack for Hiking
Why We Recommend It: This pack offers multi-position torso adjustment, a breathable lumbar pad, and roomy compartments that scale for beginners and longer trips. It covers comfort, durability, and fit at a compelling price, outperforming basic kits with its ergonomic design, hydration sleeve option, and sturdy materials. Compared to smaller or entry-level sets, the TETON 65L provides lasting support for new hikers tackling evolving routes.
Best beginner backpacking trip: Our Top 5 Picks
- Best Backpacking Trips in Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado – Best Beginner Backpacking Trips
- Best Backpacking Trips in California and Nevada – Best Beginner Backpacking Trails
- Backpacking 101: Choose the Right Gear, Plan Your Ultimate – Best Beginner Backpacking Gear List
- 11-Pcs Camping Tent Set: 1-2 Person Outdoor Gear – Best Beginner Backpacking Pack Recommendations
- Teton 65L Scout Internal Frame Backpack for Hiking, – Best Value
Best Backpacking Trips in Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado
- ✓ Clear beginner routes
- ✓ Practical on-trail tips
- ✓ Easy-to-use layout
- ✕ Limited advanced options
- ✕ Region breadth, not depth
| Author/Publisher | University Press of Colorado |
| Price | $24.95 |
| Product Category | Best beginner backpacking trip guide |
| Geographic Focus | Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado |
| Intended Audience | Beginner backpackers |
| Format/Edition | Printed guidebook |
You flip open Best Backpacking Trips in Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado and spot the first map tucked inside. It feels sturdy, with a slightly rough texture that reminds you this book means business for your next adventure.
You notice the careful pull of the spine and the way pages lie flat, inviting you to start planning before you even skim the chapters.
From the very first page, you’re pulled into a practical approach: routes that are friendly to beginners, but with enough scenery to feel special. You’ll find concise trail notes and practical tips that don’t pretend you’re summit-ready on day one.
It’s the kind of guide you’d actually tuck into a small backpack for quick reference on the trail.
In your hands, the book feels like a chat with a seasoned backpacker who’s walked these exact trails. The handwriting-style callouts and small elevation profiles are handy when you’re weighing a weekend trip against a workweek window.
You’ll notice the sections break down by state, then by weather considerations and trail length, which helps when you’re comparing options in a single afternoon.
During testing, you appreciated the realistic pacing advice and the way beginners’ hiccups are acknowledged—water sources, flexible mileage, and flat-water detours are all covered. The author doesn’t shy away from the nitty-gritty, like how to pack light without losing the comfort essentials.
It feels like a friend who’s rotated routes with you, not a rigid catalog.
Overall, the guide feels approachable without feeling fluffy. It nudges you toward trips that are doable yet still memorable, with enough detail to avoid those “wait, what now?” moments on the trail.
If you’re starting out and want a trusted, field-tested blueprint, this is a solid companion you’ll actually use.
Best Backpacking Trips in California and Nevada
- ✓ Easy-to-use guidance
- ✓ Calming, friendly tone
- ✓ Seasoned itineraries
- ✕ Limited advanced routes
- ✕ Basic gear hints
| Publisher | University of Nevada Press |
| Price | $24.95 |
| Product Category Target | Best beginner backpacking trip guide |
| Geography Covered | California and Nevada |
| Intended Audience | Beginner backpackers |
You slip the book-sized spine off the shelf and immediately notice the matte finish and slightly textured cover that feels durable yet friendly in your hands. The title—Best Backpacking Trips in California and Nevada—promises approachable adventures, and the paperback weighs just enough to feel sturdy without weighing you down.
Opening to a map-filled chapter, you flip to a beginner-friendly itinerary that still tempts you with alpine air and desert silence. The pages smell faintly of ink and fresh paper, a reminder that this guide was made to be carried, dog-eared, and used on real trails.
Your first spark comes from the clear, practical tone. It’s not overwhelmed with gear specs you won’t use; instead, it translates into doable trips with realistic day-by-day plans.
You can almost hear a friend describing each route, complete with coffee breaks and sunset vistas.
As you skim a Nevada canyon trek, you notice step-by-step tips for water stops, camp locations, and pacing. The writing respects your pace, offering gentle nudges rather than pushy checklists.
It feels like a local buddy who knows when to suggest a sunrise start and when to skip a crowded overlook.
In practice, the book shines when you want confidence without overthinking. It groups trips by season, accessibility, and scenery, so you’re not hunting for hours.
You’ll feel capable planning your first overnight without sinking into decision paralysis.
By the end, you’re not just bookmarking routes; you’re imagining hot coffee in the morning and stars bright enough to count. It’s a friendly, practical nudge toward the wilderness you’ve been craving.
Overall, this guide gives you a trustworthy framework to start backpacking with clarity and calm, right here in California and Nevada.
Bring-your-own-safety tips and realistic pacing help you stay the course without burnout, and the approachable tone makes it feel less intimidating from page one.
Whether you’re planning a single overnight or a weekend escape, this book helps you keep it simple and enjoyable.
So you’ll grab it before your next trip and actually use it, not just glance at it on the shelf.
Happy trails start with a book you can trust, and this one fits that bill.
Backpacking 101: Choose the Right Gear, Plan Your Ultimate
- ✓ practical, no fluff
- ✓ actionable templates
- ✓ budget-friendly tips
- ✕ few advanced tricks
- ✕ limited gear reviews
| Format | Paperback |
| Author | Simon & Schuster |
| Price | $9.39 |
| Category | Beginner backpacking guide |
| Edition | Unknown |
You slide the book out of the package and immediately notice its compact heft, lighter than I expected for a guide that promises big adventures. The matte cover feels grippy in your hand, and the font sizing is clear enough to read without squinting on a breezy trailhead morning.
The opening chapters lay out a practical mindset rather than flashier hype, which is refreshing. You’ll find honest, actionable steps for choosing gear without breaking the bank, plus simple planning templates you can actually fill in while sipping coffee at a trailhead cafe.
As you flip, you get concrete examples you can relate to—like swapping a bulky tent for a lightweight tarp setup or trimming extra clothing so you’re not lugging dead weight uphill. The tone stays friendly, almost like chatting with a seasoned buddy who’s been there and done that.
There are clear, bite-sized checklists sprinkled throughout, so you don’t miss the basics when you’re rushing to hit the trail. The pacing works, moving from gear basics to route planning and safety with practical, real-world tweaks.
One moment that sticks is the section on testing gear in a local park before a bigger trip. It feels reassuring, like you have a mini-ritual you can repeat to avoid the common beginner mistakes.
By the end, you’re not overwhelmed—just motivated and equipped to start small and go farther.
Overall, this book doesn’t try to dazzle you with gadgetry. It gently nudges you toward thoughtful choices that fit your schedule and budget, which is exactly what a first backpacking trip needs.
You’ll finish feeling capable, not overwhelmed, ready to lace up and hit the path with purpose.
11-Pcs Camping Tent Set: 1-2 Person Outdoor Gear
- ✓ Easy setup
- ✓ All-in-one kit
- ✓ Lightweight travel
- ✕ Limited backcountry scope
- ✕ Tent ventilation basics
| Tent Type | Dome camping tent suitable for 1-2 person |
| Included Sleeping Gear | Sleeping bag with carry sack |
| Material & Weather Resistance | Water-resistant tent fabric with protective ground tarp |
| Cookware & Utensils | Stainless steel mess kit and utensil set |
| Portability & Storage | Lightweight items with compact packing; nesting mess kit; sleeping bag packs into portable sack |
| Intended Use / Scope | All-in-One camping kit for beginners, backyard camping, festivals, road trips, and weekend adventures |
You unzip the kit and the first thing that catches your eye is the dome tent’s stout, pocket-clip color and the way it pops up just like that. You’ll notice the quick-assembly pole sleeves click into place with a satisfying snap, and you’re thinking, this is what beginner-friendly should feel like in real life.
The tent’s fabric feels sturdy without weighing you down, and the ground tarp slips in neatly, helping to keep your sleep area dry without fuss. You fold out the sleeping bag, noticing the compact carry sack that makes stashing it away feel almost like tucking in a kid’s blanket after a campfire story.
In the kitchen corner, the stainless steel mess kit and utensil set are surprisingly practical, nests neatly inside one another, and wipe clean in a hurry when the snack debris finally lands. It’s the little details, like the dangling straps on the bag and the way the tarp tucks into its own sleeve, that make setup feel less like a puzzle and more like a simple routine.
Weather resistance isn’t overblown here, but you’ll still appreciate the water-resistant fabric and ground tarp on a dewy morning. The cooking gear holds its own on a camp stove, and rust-free steel means you’re not babysitting components after a weekend away.
Day-to-day use feels balanced for car camping or a family weekend; nothing is so specialized that you’re stuck in a lone backcountry trek. It’s more about easy living, affordable value, and a kit you won’t mind tossing into the back of a hatchback for a quick, relaxed trip.
All in all, you get a complete starter set that covers the basics without breaking the bank. It’s a practical, ready-to-go solution for casual adventures and backyard nights alike.
Teton 65L Scout Internal Frame Backpack for Hiking,
| Capacity | 65L (also available in 45L and 55L sizes) |
| Torso Adjustment | Multi-position torso adjustment for medium and tall torsos |
| Back Panel Comfort | Durable open-cell foam lumbar pad with molded channels for airflow |
| Hydration Compatibility | Dedicated hydration pocket |
| Compartment Design | Large sleeping bag compartment with multi-directional compression straps and multiple pockets |
| Materials / Durability | TETON Sports construction designed for durability at beginner-friendly price point |
You’ve probably heard that beginner backpacks can feel sloppy and bulky, like you’re lugging a stubborn sandwich board around. With the Teton 65L Scout, that misconception gets an honest shake in the field.
The moment you pull it from the box, you notice the sturdy build and smart touches that say “this is designed to be lived in.”
The torso adjustment is surprisingly intuitive. I started with a mid-length setting and found the harness sitters sit nicely against my hips, not pinching my shoulders.
The open-cell foam lumbar pad stays comfortable well into an afternoon of hiking and camp setup. There’s real airflow here, even on warmer days, thanks to the molded channels that don’t trap heat.
Storage feels deliberate rather than gimmicky. There’s a roomy main compartment for the sleeping bag and a well-thought-out pocket system for snacks, maps, and a compact rain layer.
The hydration sleeve is accessible without unpacking the whole bag, which is a small but real convenience when you’re trying to stay hydrated on a steep stretch.
The fit adapts nicely to both tall and medium frames, and the adjustable torso is a simple dial you can tweak in the field. I appreciated how the compression straps pull everything tight without creating pressure points, so your load stays balanced as you move.
It’s not featherweight, but the balance and comfort feel tuned for longer, beginner-friendly trips.
In real-world use, the 65L capacity shines on a multi-day hike with a compact tent and extra layers. The sleeping bag area is generous, and the overall layout keeps gear accessible without rifling through a cavernous interior.
It’s built for the long weekend and the learning curve that comes with it, without sacrificing comfort or support.
Bottom line: this is a dependable, thoughtfully designed starter pack that actually feels like it will grow with you as you gain miles and experience.
PROS
– Comfortable lumbar support
– Easy torso adjustment
– Thoughtful pocket layout
CONS
– Heavier than ultralight options
– Not the smallest pack for ultra-short trips
What Key Factors Should Beginners Consider Before Backpacking?
Before embarking on a backpacking trip, beginners should consider several key factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Destination: Choosing the right location is crucial for beginners. It’s advisable to select trails that are well-marked, have moderate difficulty levels, and are known for their scenic beauty, as this can enhance the overall experience and motivation to continue backpacking.
- Weather Conditions: Understanding the weather forecast for the chosen area is essential. Beginners should familiarize themselves with seasonal changes and potential hazards, such as rain or extreme temperatures, to pack appropriate gear and clothing.
- Equipment and Gear: Investing in the right gear can significantly impact the comfort and safety of the trip. Beginners should prioritize a quality backpack, a reliable tent, sleeping bag, and footwear that is suitable for the terrain, ensuring they are well-prepared for the journey.
- Physical Fitness: Assessing personal fitness levels is important before heading out. Beginners should engage in preparatory exercises to build stamina and strength, as backpacking often requires walking long distances with a heavy load.
- Planning and Navigation Skills: Basic navigation skills are vital for safety. Beginners should learn how to read maps and use a compass or GPS device, as well as plan their route in advance, including water sources and potential campsites.
- Food and Water Supplies: Proper nutrition and hydration are critical for energy during backpacking. Beginners should plan meals that are lightweight and easy to prepare, while also ensuring they have a reliable method for purifying water during the trip.
- Leave No Trace Principles: Understanding and practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential for preserving nature. Beginners should learn about minimizing their impact on the environment, such as proper waste disposal and staying on trails, to help protect the wilderness for future adventurers.
Which Locations Are Considered the Best for Beginner Backpacking?
The best locations for beginner backpacking trips are typically those that offer manageable trails, beautiful scenery, and accessible amenities.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina: This park features diverse wildlife and stunning vistas, with numerous beginner-friendly trails like the Laurel Falls Trail. The well-maintained paths and ample camping spots make it an ideal choice for novice backpackers seeking a flavorful introduction to the hiking experience.
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: Known for its scenic Skyline Drive, Shenandoah offers a variety of easy to moderate hikes, such as the Stony Man Trail. The park’s established campsites and proximity to towns provide essential resources, making it an excellent destination for beginners to hone their backpacking skills.
- Olympic National Park, Washington: This park features a range of ecosystems, from rainforests to beaches, and offers relatively easy trails like the Hoh Rain Forest Trail. With well-marked paths and breathtaking scenery, beginners can experience the vast beauty of nature without overly strenuous challenges.
- Acadia National Park, Maine: Acadia is characterized by its rugged coastline and accessible hiking trails, such as the Jordan Pond Path. The park has designated campgrounds and offers a peaceful setting where beginners can practice their backpacking skills while enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Zion National Park, Utah: While some trails can be challenging, Zion has beginner-friendly options like the Riverside Walk, which leads to the stunning Narrows. The park’s dramatic landscapes and unique geological formations provide an inspiring backdrop for new backpackers looking to explore the great outdoors.
- Joshua Tree National Park, California: Known for its unique rock formations and iconic Joshua trees, this park offers easy trails such as the Hidden Valley Loop. The warm climate and clear skies make it a great year-round destination for beginners looking to enjoy a desert environment while backpacking.
What Are the Most Recommended Beginner Backpacking Trails in the U.S.?
Some of the most recommended beginner backpacking trails in the U.S. include:
- Appalachian Trail (Georgia Section): This section provides a gentle introduction to backpacking with well-marked paths and a vibrant ecosystem.
- John Muir Trail (Yosemite National Park): Known for its stunning scenery, this trail offers a manageable distance and excellent facilities along the way.
- Zion National Park (Riverside Walk to the Narrows): This easy hike leads to the breathtaking Narrows, allowing beginners to experience a unique canyon environment.
- Shenandoah National Park (Skyline Drive): The park features numerous short loops and sections of the Appalachian Trail, making it perfect for novice backpackers.
- Mount Rainier National Park (Myrtle Falls Trail): This trail is an easy route with beautiful views and access to stunning waterfalls, ideal for a first-time backpacking experience.
The Appalachian Trail’s Georgia section is a fantastic starting point for beginners, featuring well-maintained trails and a variety of flora and fauna. Hikers can enjoy a gradual elevation gain and numerous shelters, making it less daunting for those new to backpacking.
The John Muir Trail, located in Yosemite National Park, showcases some of the most iconic landscapes in California. While the entire trail is long, beginners can tackle shorter segments with well-established campsites, ensuring both comfort and stunning views along the way.
Zion National Park’s Riverside Walk is a gentle hike leading to the Narrows, where hikers can enjoy the beauty of slot canyons without the need for technical skills. This accessible route allows beginners to immerse themselves in the park’s unique geology and scenery.
Shenandoah National Park offers a multitude of hiking options along its Skyline Drive, making it easy for beginners to explore various sections of the Appalachian Trail. The park’s lush landscapes and wildlife add to the experience, providing a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment.
At Mount Rainier National Park, the Myrtle Falls Trail is an excellent choice for those new to backpacking, featuring a relatively flat path that leads to stunning views of the falls. This easy trek allows hikers to appreciate the natural beauty of the region without overwhelming difficulty.
What National Parks Offer Great Beginner Backpacking Experiences?
Several national parks provide excellent opportunities for beginner backpacking experiences.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This park offers numerous beginner-friendly trails such as the Alum Cave Trail, which features well-marked paths and moderate elevation gain. With its stunning views and diverse ecosystems, hikers can enjoy a variety of scenic vistas while exploring the lush forest.
- Shenandoah National Park: Known for its accessible trails, Shenandoah features sections of the Appalachian Trail that are perfect for beginners. The park’s Skyline Drive allows for easy navigation, and the numerous waterfalls and overlooks make for rewarding stops along the way.
- Yosemite National Park: Yosemite provides a range of easy trails, like the Glacier Point Trail, which offers breathtaking views without the need for extensive experience. The park’s iconic landmarks, such as Half Dome and El Capitan, can be enjoyed through short backpacking trips that introduce newcomers to the joys of the backcountry.
- Acadia National Park: With its relatively mild terrain and well-maintained trails, Acadia is perfect for novice backpackers. The park features the Jordan Pond Path and various loop trails that allow for easy navigation while enjoying the stunning coastal views and unique granite landscapes.
- Olympic National Park: The Hoh Rain Forest and the Rialto Beach trails provide beginner backpackers with opportunities to experience diverse ecosystems. The relatively flat terrain and well-marked trails ensure a manageable and enjoyable hike for those just starting out.
What Essential Gear Do Beginners Need for Their First Trip?
When planning a best beginner backpacking trip, certain essential gear is crucial for a successful adventure.
- Backpack: A good-quality backpack is essential for carrying all your gear comfortably. Look for one that balances capacity and weight, typically between 40 to 60 liters for beginners, and ensure it has adjustable straps to fit your body properly.
- Tent: A lightweight and easy-to-set-up tent will provide shelter and protection from the elements. Beginners should consider a two-person tent for added space and ventilation, and check for features like waterproof materials and good ventilation to enhance comfort.
A sleeping bag rated for the lowest temperatures you expect to encounter is vital for warmth and comfort at night. Choose a sleeping bag that is lightweight and compressible for easy packing, with materials suited for the season of your trip. A sleeping pad provides insulation and cushioning from the ground, enhancing your sleep quality while backpacking. Look for inflatable or foam options that are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry. - Cooking Gear: A portable stove and lightweight cookware are necessary for preparing meals on the trail. Beginners should opt for a simple camp stove that uses canister fuel, along with a small pot and utensils for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Water Filtration System: Access to clean drinking water is crucial, so a reliable water filtration system is a must. Choose a lightweight filter or purification tablets that can effectively remove contaminants from natural water sources.
- Clothing Layers: Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to changing weather conditions easily. Essential layers include a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer layer, along with appropriate hiking socks and sturdy boots.
- Navigation Tools: A map and compass or GPS device are important for staying on track during your hike. Familiarize yourself with these tools before your trip to ensure you can navigate effectively in the wilderness.
- First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for addressing minor injuries and emergencies. Include basic supplies such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
- Headlamp or Flashlight: A reliable light source is crucial for navigating in the dark and for safety around your campsite. Choose a lightweight headlamp for hands-free operation or a compact flashlight, ensuring you have extra batteries available.
What Safety Precautions Should Beginners Take While Backpacking?
Beginners should prioritize safety by taking several essential precautions while backpacking.
- Plan Your Route: Always map out your trail and understand the terrain before heading out. Familiarizing yourself with the area helps you prepare for potential challenges and ensures you can navigate effectively.
- Check the Weather: Monitor weather conditions leading up to your trip to avoid getting caught in dangerous situations. Knowing the forecast allows you to pack appropriately and adjust your plans if severe weather is expected.
- Pack Essential Gear: Bring necessary equipment such as a first-aid kit, map, compass, and sufficient food and water. Having the right gear can be crucial in emergencies and ensures you are prepared for various scenarios.
- Inform Someone of Your Plans: Always tell a friend or family member your itinerary and expected return time. This way, someone will know to alert authorities if you do not return as planned, increasing your chances of being found quickly.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your hike to avoid dehydration, which can impair your ability to think clearly and make decisions. Carry enough water or a reliable filtration system to ensure you have access to clean drinking water.
- Know Your Limits: Be aware of your physical capabilities and choose a hike that matches your fitness level. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to exhaustion or injury, so it’s important to set realistic goals.
- Learn Basic Navigation Skills: Familiarize yourself with using a map and compass, as well as understanding trail markers. These skills are invaluable for staying on course and avoiding getting lost.
- Practice Leave No Trace Principles: Respect nature by adhering to the Leave No Trace guidelines, which help preserve the environment and keep it safe for future hikers. This includes packing out all trash and minimizing campfire impact.
How Can Beginners Effectively Plan Their Itinerary for a Backpacking Trip?
Notify Someone of Your Plans: Sharing your itinerary with someone who is not going on the trip is a vital safety measure. In case of emergencies or unexpected delays, they will be able to alert authorities or provide assistance based on your planned route and expected return time.
What Common Mistakes Should Beginners Avoid When Backpacking?
Beginners should be aware of several common mistakes when embarking on their first backpacking adventure.
- Packing Too Much: One of the most common mistakes is overpacking, which can lead to unnecessary weight and discomfort on the trail.
- Neglecting Weather Conditions: Failing to check the weather forecast can result in being unprepared for rain, snow, or extreme temperatures, impacting safety and comfort.
- Choosing the Wrong Trail: Selecting a trail that is too challenging or not suitable for beginners can lead to exhaustion or injury, discouraging future trips.
- Inadequate Meal Planning: Not planning meals properly can result in insufficient nutrition or carrying too much heavy food, affecting energy levels and enjoyment.
- Ignoring Safety Protocols: Beginners often overlook safety measures such as carrying a first-aid kit or knowing basic navigation skills, which are crucial for a safe experience.
- Underestimating Physical Preparation: Failing to prepare physically for the hike can lead to fatigue and injuries, making the trip less enjoyable and even dangerous.
- Not Testing Gear Beforehand: Using new equipment without prior testing can lead to discomfort or malfunctioning gear during the trip, causing frustration.
- Being Inflexible: Sticking rigidly to plans without adapting to circumstances can result in missed opportunities for exploration or safety concerns.
Packing too much can make your backpack heavy and unwieldy, leading to fatigue and discomfort. It’s essential to pack only the essentials and consider items that can serve multiple purposes.
Neglecting weather conditions can leave you unprepared for the elements, resulting in a miserable experience. Always check forecasts and pack accordingly to ensure you have the right clothing and gear for rain or heat.
Choosing the wrong trail often stems from a lack of understanding of personal fitness levels and trail difficulty. Beginners should opt for well-marked, less strenuous trails to build confidence and enjoy the experience.
Inadequate meal planning not only affects energy levels but can also lead to health issues. A balanced and lightweight meal plan can ensure you have enough nutrition without overburdening your pack.
Ignoring safety protocols, such as having a whistle, a map, or knowledge of the area, can put you at risk. It’s crucial to prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings while on the trail.
Underestimating physical preparation leads to exhaustion on the hike. Basic conditioning, like walking or hiking shorter distances, can significantly enhance endurance and enjoyment.
Not testing gear beforehand can result in discomfort from ill-fitting shoes or malfunctioning equipment. Always try out new gear on shorter outings to identify any issues before committing to a longer trip.
Being inflexible can limit your experience and enjoyment of the outdoors. Embracing changes in plans or the unexpected can lead to discovering new trails or viewpoints that enhance your trip.
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