It is genuinely refreshing to see a brand that prioritizes actual adventure over studio setups. The fact that they have fifty-one films ready to watch suggests a consistent and reliable output of high-quality content. You can tell the team has been doing this for a decade, so the experience shows in every frame. From the volcanoes in Guatemala to the high peaks in Colorado, the availability of diverse scenarios means there is something for everyone interested in outdoor pet culture. The partnership opportunities listed include major brands, which adds a layer of trust. It seems like a very accessible platform for anyone looking to collaborate or just enjoy some really well-shot videos. I appreciate that the work is shot on location, which gives it an authenticity that is hard to fake. Keeping up with their updates feels like following a real journey rather than just a marketing campaign. It is a joy to see this level of dedication to the outdoors.
Questions about Simon the Backpacking Kitty
What is Simon the Backpacking Kitty?
Simon is a black cat from Boulder, Colorado, who summits fourteeners and volcanoes. He is part of a personal brand led by filmmaker JJ Yosh, featuring content on hiking, climbing, paddling, and travel. The brand operates as a media project documenting Simon's adventures, including summits of Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, and a trip to Volcán Atitlán in Guatemala.
Who is this brand for and how can I get started?
The brand is designed for cat owners seeking adventure gear and training advice. It offers a 7-step training guide, a safety breakdown, and a checklist for beginners. Visitors can start by reading the safety guide honestly and letting their cat set the pace, as the method requires confidence and curiosity.
What specific mountains and elevations has Simon summited?
Simon has summited fourteeners like Mount Elbert at 14,440 ft and Mount Massive at 14,428 ft. He also climbed Volcán Atitlán in Guatemala at 11,598 ft and the Flatirons in Boulder at 5,430 ft. The brand highlights specific elevations to show the range of terrain Simon handles.
Which brands and partners are featured on the site?
The brand partners with companies like Purina, GoPro, Canon, DJI, Cotopaxi, and The North Face. These partnerships result in field-tested campaigns shot on real expeditions by Higher Earth Media rather than in a studio. The website explicitly lists these brands under the Partnerships section.
How did Simon learn to hike and what is the training progression?
Simon's training involved gradual steps starting with harness training indoors, then backpack acclimation at home, quiet yards, and short trails. The process moved from months of gradual steps to real mountain summits. This progression is detailed in the 7-step training guide available on the site.
How does the brand ensure Simon's consent and happiness on trips?
The brand emphasizes a consent-based approach where Simon gets a vote on every trip. On days he does not opt in, he stays home. This honest tell is that Simon runs to the backpack when it comes off the shelf, proving he actually likes hiking.
What media appearances and upcoming projects are mentioned?
Simon is featured in films and TV work for Discovery, TLC, and Tastemade. A Simon movie and book are in development, and the brand invites people to join a list to hear about both first. The website also mentions a show where Simon explains himself.
What additional guides and resources are available for visitors?
The brand provides a first aid guide, a winter gear guide, and a guide for flying with a cat. It also covers best cat breeds for adventure and cat harness guides. These resources are listed in the frequently asked questions section.
Where is the brand located and what local landmarks are referenced?
The brand operates out of Boulder, Colorado, where the Flatirons are described as the backyard. The website footer mentions Higher Earth Media and jjyosh.com as the human's side of the story. The location is central to the brand's identity as an outdoor adventurer.
What specific outdoor activities does Simon participate in?
The brand includes a section on slot canyons as one of the activities Simon participates in. Other activities listed include snowboarding, sledding, and mountain biking. These specific activities are part of the comprehensive list of pursuits on the site.
What practical tools and checklists are provided for campers?
The brand has a dedicated section for cat backpacks and a checklist for camping travel. It also offers a guide on teaching a cat to come when called. These practical tools are designed to help owners prepare for outdoor adventures.
How does the brand handle specific risks like loose cats or road trips?
The brand addresses what happens if a cat gets loose and provides advice on road trips with a cat. It also covers cat paw care outdoors. These specific scenarios are handled in the frequently asked questions section.
How long has the brand been operating and what is the history?
The brand mentions that it has been operating for ten years since Simon was rescued in 2016. The website states that Simon has been climbing for a decade in the field. This long-term commitment is highlighted in the storytelling section.
What is the current rating and how many followers does the brand have?
The brand has a Trustburn rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 2 reviews. The website mentions that six and a half million followers ask questions daily. The brand also notes that it has been featured by the TODAY Show, GMA, and PEOPLE.
On which social media platforms and websites can the brand be found?
The brand operates on TikTok with 6.5M followers and 181M+ likes, and on YouTube through jjyosh.com. The website also mentions a Facebook page and a newsletter for new adventures. These platforms are used to share daily adventures and films.
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2 Reviews
The expedition footage looks impressive. I wonder if the pricing for those field-tested campaigns is listed somewhere or if I need to start a conversation to find out.
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About Simon the Backpacking Kitty
Simon the Backpacking Kitty is a personal brand centered on a rescue cat named Simon who accompanies his owner, filmmaker JJ Yosh, on outdoor adventures from Boulder, Colorado. The website documents Simon's hiking, climbing, paddling, and travel activities, including summits of high-altitude peaks such as Mount Elbert and Mount Massive in Colorado, as well as a trip to Volcán Atitlán in Guatemala. It also shares his story of being rescued in 2016 and his early days adjusting to life with JJ Yosh. The site includes sections for storytelling, films, press, and information about working with Simon, indicating that the brand operates as a content and media project tied to the cat's outdoor pursuits.
- Website
- backpackingkitty.com
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