The Alps Backpacks are amazing. I currently own four of them, Three Cascade 90s and one Caldera 90. All four of these packs were used at Philmont; one of them has been there twice. They have held up just fine over the years with no issues. I also have several of their tents and they have held up great over the many campouts and years of abuse.

This backpack is very comfortable and has plenty of volume. The main compartment can be accessed from the top or the back. It has nice accessory pouches on the back, top, and waist straps. Rain cover is included. Mine has done well on hikes in the Sierra Nevada range, and I bought a second one for my son which has also performed well.

I originally had the Cascade 5200 which is the 85 liter version, no longer made. I really liked the side pouches on that model, but this redesign is larger and improved in most other features. They probably went away from the side pouches as they can catch on rocks, trees, etc. on a narrow trail.

I actually received my Cascade 90 from Alps Mountaineering as a free replacement for my Cascade 5200 when a seam began to tear. They honored the lifetime warranty and made the process fast and easy. And considering that I bought the original backpack at a steep discount available to BSA members, I have been super-impressed by the company, the value of the product, and the warranty service.

I'm writing this review partly in response to Dave Spies' review below. While I'm sure his review is legit, I think it is important to consider the value of the lifetime warranty. I don't think he misled his scouts by recommending Alps Mountaineering. Those that took the recommendation have a good pack at a significant discount, with a lifetime warranty. I think if Dave had called the company the day he wrote the review, he would have received a replacement pack in time for Philmont.

I bought mine for 144 off of amazon. I wanted something large i could pa k as much as i wanted. Unfortunately the straps dont hold up to the weight capacity. Other than that i love the bag and plan on having some of the stitching reinforced.