A largely ignored factor is time on your feet. Covering 10-12 miles/day carrying even a light pack where the Elk live is very much an endurance event. An 8 hour hike once a week wearing/carrying what you will be using is a valuable training and learning tool. Many do not have altitude and mountains where they live but most have access to uneven ground on which to perform a valuable reality check.
mike r
I agree with this 100%. The soft tissues in your feet, ankles, knees, hips, all need conditioned as well. Time spent on your feet is invaluable. I used to have issues with my feet on long hikes (10+ miles). Once I started spending alot more time on my feet during workouts (running and rucking), my feet issues went way down. My feet are still my weak spot but don't hold me back unless I do a monster packout with alot of weight or ALOT of miles (17-18+).
