

Our Story
Booking ski trips is just something we've always done. Back in college, our founder Dale Mathews discovered something special: Louisianans love to ski. Whether bombing down the slopes in camo or swapping stories in the base village, it was clear that the adventure and social spirit of skiing ran deep. That spark ignited a lifelong passion and a business.
In the 1970s, Dale opened the first Backpacker Outdoors store in Baton Rouge. After 32 years of inspiring outdoor adventures, he passed the torch to his youngest son, Michael. In 2007, Michael and his wife, Margo, expanded the legacy with a new store in Lafayette, followed by a third location in Mandeville in 2023.
Now, nearly half a century later, our core values remain the same: authenticity, fun, inspiring bold adventures. We're proud to announce our evolution into ALPINR, expanding our offerings to include worldwide destinations and unforgettable experiences.

The Backpacker Baton Rouge



The Backpacker Baton Rouge
7656 Jefferson Hwy
Baton Rouge, LA 70809