Just recently finished a Frost River trip with my “old” Black Diamond alpine pack and it was a little tight at 45L.

I decided to switch to a CCS guide pack in woodsy brown and I’m a big fan. Especially the hybrid pocket on the top for rain gear. I’m taking my two kiddos to Sylvania in July and I’m sure I will appreciate expanding it and tossing in some more sleeping bags. It just fits in nicely with some rubrix cube movements to fit behind my seat in my Magic canoe.

Tip o’ the hat to Dan. Thanks :-)

The CCS hybrid packs are awesome. All the grab loops, the quality stitching, padded straps and waist belt and the pocket on the flap make them excellent packs. The Guide is a monster pack though. Good for all the lighter, bulky stuff. Consider a Pioneer pack for your next purchase.

We have 3 Pioneers. Perfect size for our needs.

I'm very happy with my CCS packs. All I would change would be to pleat/gusset/whatever that top pocket so that it doesn't get pulled and flattened tight when I close and cinch the rest of the pack down.