Danielle Vilaplana

Danielle Vilaplana

Danielle Vilaplana is a freelance writer, photographer, and guide based between Utah and Wyoming with expertise in long-distance hiking, running, cycling, and all other activities that involve sleeping under an open sky. She is a certified Wilderness EMT and has hiked 7,000 miles across the country and further explored the West by bike and dory. And also contributes to Bikepacking.com, Outside Magazine, Women's Running, and Utah Stories.

If she's not writing about gear, she's probably out testing it.

Prior to getting into the professional writing and photography, she earned a Bachelors of Arts in Anthropology and Globalization Studies at Ohio State University.


Recent articles by Danielle

The 10 Best Men's Hiking Sandals of 2025, Tested & Approved

The 10 Best Hiking Sandals for Men, Tested & Approved

Whether preparing for a backpacking adventure or just a day hike, these tested and approved sandals have you covered

The 8 Best Camping Cots of 2025, Tested

The 8 Best Cots for Camping & Backpacking, Tested

Lightweight, comfy, highly-packable, these camping cots make getting a good night's rest outdoors easier, without the noise and feel of an air pad

11 Best Camp Showers of 2025 for Staying Clean Off-Grid, Tested & Approved

The 11 Best Camp Showers for Staying Clean Off-Grid, Tested & Approved

We put the newest portable shower designs to the test because rinsing off after a long day outdoors can make roughing it feel a little less... rough

A Local's Guide to Visiting Jackson Hole This Summer

A Local's Guide to Visiting Jackson Hole This Summer

More than just a scenic stopover—here’s why Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the ultimate place to stay and play this summer

The 10 Best Hiking Sandals for Women, Tested by Women | 2025 Update

The 10 Best Women's Hiking Sandals for Wet and Dry Adventures

Tested over hundreds of miles and different types of terrain from Utah to Wyoming, these hiking sandals can handle it all

How Durston Turned an Ultralight Tent Idea Into a Beloved Hiking Gear Brand

Why Durston Gear's Weatherproof, Affordable Tents are Beloved by Backpackers

Informed by years of thru-hiking, British Columbia's Dan Durston and his namesake outdoor equipment have earned a loyal following among UL backpackers

Durston X-Dome 1+ Review: A Light, Roomy, Freestanding Tent for Backpacking

The New Ultralight Durston X-Dome 1+ Punches Way Above Its Price Point

A hands-on test of the UL gear brand's new freestanding tent reveals an easy-to-pitch, roomy design with one possible dealbreaker for desert campers

Pa'lante Snow Pack Review: A Backcountry Pack Inspired by Ultralight Hiking

Ultralight Innovator Pa'lante Introduces Its First Bag for Backcountry Ski Missions

Hands-on with the new minimalist backpack designed to haul just the essentials (avy gear included) on fast and light backcountry missions