The Helena Hydration Pack is awesome! I just went to Yosemite and needed a pack that would keep me hydrated for the 15 mile (10-15 hour) Half Dome hike. This was perfect because it was big enough to stuff gloves, a jacket and food but also store enough water for me as well. There are also loads of great straps to hook on additional waterbottles or whatever. I also think the "women's fit" shoulder straps are a great improvement as they make hiking long term at lot more comfortable on your chest if you know what I mean!

Not only does this pack hold 3L of water and fit like a dream (you can barely even tell you're wearing it...), I was able to fit 2 maps, a first aid kit, camera, sunscreen, keys, cell phone, and extra shirt, an extra pair of socks, 2 energy bars, and sunglasses. It's basically perfect. I love the lumbar strap to keep it steady while biking (and take pressure off the back/shoulders), and the compression straps are nice too if you have a smaller load. Love it!

love the bag. Took it on a family hike yesterday and apart from feeling like I'm nursing again (four kids taking turns sucking from my chest), it was absolutely fantastic! Comfortable, roomy, and holds LOADS of water. One slight quality issue with the front elastic tearing, but backcountry ROCKS and I'll be getting my new one in just a few days.

I love the Camelbak systems and was in need of a larger unit and also wanted additional space for layers, lunch, etc. The Helena is perfect in every way. It did the trick in the Grand Canyon and is now perfect for spring and summer hiking in the Northeast.

Helena looked small at first, but it easily holds everythign I need for a day--AND more water than I've ever used, ever. It has nice features--pockets, padding, compression straps, ventilation for your back.
Problem--This is a woman's pack but the torso length is too long for me by atleast an inch. Disappointing. Im 5'2"--not exceptionally short for a woman. Thats the most annoying thing with the Helena-taller people already have options--what about me? They couldve made the torso lengh shorter, they even couldve made the whole thing a little wider to make it more versatile. Other minor things. The hip belt slides open despite the elastic, but you can always knot it. Also there were no instructions for first use and cleaning of the bladder and tubing.

This was a gift for a friend of mine, and it is the first piece of gear that she has owned that has actually been designed for outdoors sports. She loves it!

Been day packing for a lot of years and finally went the camel back route. This pack is awesome! I'm 5'2" and it fits me perfectly. Lots of room for first aid kit rope and sil tarp that I always carry plus food. I live in AZ so the 3 litre is a must.
I'm thinking of buying one for my sister.