Mystery Ranch

Coulee 20L Backpack

Needs more diverse storage

1st...I own multiple Mystery ranch packs, Including 2 Blitz 35 packs (wife & myself) that have replaced our suitcases for short trips. The quality of their packs is outstanding & normally, the functionality/utility/storage capacity on their packs is outrageously good, thus allowing for the packs to be used for multiple things. I was looking for a smaller day hiking/run around type pack (35 ltr Blitz way too big) & the 20L seemed to be about the right size. Now, the quality of the Coulee 20 is standard Mystery Ranch...fantastic. AND, there are things I really like...the removable, padded waist belt with (extremely) small pockets, double water bottle pockets and even the extra pockets on the body where you could stuff a raincoat for quick access. BUT, I believe there is room for great improvement on this pack as well. I know this bag is primarily for hiking & the large open interior is great for ponchos, extra jackets, etc, but other than the small(ish) zipper pocket on the top, there is nowhere to store smaller items inside the bag. No extra zippered mesh pockets, no hook-loop options (like many of their competitors are using to add customizability within their packs). Nothing. So basically a cavern for big stuff, but then if I want any smaller items, I have to put them in a separate storage bag that then will go into the open body of the coulee. Example of that is...I have all my bags set up with basic EDC type items...multi tool, flashlight & headlamp, booboo kit, etc & unfortunately the small zipper pouch on top just doesn't cut it for all that. The lack of extra, diverse internal storage is pretty disappointing. Also, if you're going to have a water reservoir holder inside the bag, it needs to be a bit bigger to more easily accommodate larger water reservoir's (that's just a nit picky little thing BTW). The limitations make me feel like the bag is a single use type of bag only...day hikes, (again, I know its intended purpose) but as expensive as these bags are, I really like my bags to be able to serve multiple uses if I so desire (as well as be able to carry the before mentioned, standard EDC loadout). I marked YES on recommending this bag because there are many outstanding things about...just understand its limitations going in & you should be happy.

Awesome day pack!

This is a smaller day pack, but with the frame it's amazing how it can still handle a heavy load with ease and comfort, just another great pack from Mystery Ranch.

Winner

I backpack quite a bit, and typically take my Bridger 65 with me, but my recent trip was slightly different with more day hikes, so I scooped up the Coulee 20. First, the size is perfect for a day hike. Fit a 3L bladder no problem plus first aid, poles, water purifier, food and light jacket, no problem. (Could fit more for sure. Second, this might be the most comfortable MR pack I have. It sits perfect on the hips and the load feels secure and centered. Well done MR team, great pack!

You need this pack!

This is the most comfortable pack I've ever had including my trusty Osprey. Everything is easy to get to and I'm stoked that is has for a water bladder. 100% you'll get compliments on how sweet this Coulee looks! Taking this bad boy when my military buddy and I do some hiking in Utah in the fall.

Color selection we need more!

If this bag offered the black frame and forest or Loden or peak for the bag color I think you’d sell a ton more. orange inside would set it off even more.

Amazing pack

Hello, I am going to make somewhat the same comment as for my Radix 47. I needed a bag for the day only, so I chose the Coulee 20, and I am absolutely not disappointed, this bag is wonderful like the other bags of the brand. Super comfortable, a ton of possibilities, enough room to put everything I need for a day!!! Well done MR, great job

Outstanding lightweight daypack

I just got this a couple of weeks ago, and did a 7.5 mile hike last Sunday. The pack was light, the yoke / support felt great (like a real pack), the ventilation over my back was good, and it was easily accessible. My 2023 iPhone fit in the hipbelt pocket and you don't notice it's there, but I don't know if one of the phones with a larger camera or screen would.

Great pack, great price, really impressed.

Was looking for a daily bag to replace my old ODAP. This is similar in form factor, affordable, and high quality.

Wrong Color on Website

Familiarity:

I returned this product before using it

If you're looking at the Stone color, just be warned it's an army green color, not the light tan color pictured. Super disappointed as I needed this for a trip but don't want to keep a color I don't love. Please update with accurate colors, this feels like an ongoing issue with Backcountry.

Great pack except..

Just got this pack and on its first trip the water bladder holder broke. Didn't even do anything was getting something out of the pack and noticed it was hanging strange.