Latest posts
6 Best Backpacking Trails in the US (Life-List Trips Under a Week)
The best backpacking trails in America — Teton Crest, Wonderland, Lost Coast, Four Pass Loop and more, with permit strategy and prep guides.
8 Best Desert Hikes in the US (Slot Canyons, Arches & Red Rock)
The best desert hikes in America — The Narrows, Angels Landing, Delicate Arch, Big Bend and more, plus the desert safety rules that keep them fun.
How to Cross a River Safely (A Backpacker’s Guide)
How to cross a river safely while hiking — how to judge if a crossing is safe, the upstream-facing technique, group crossings, and what to do if you get swept.
Lightning Safety Outdoors: What to Do When a Storm Catches You
Lightning safety for hikers, anglers, and campers — the 30-30 rule, where to shelter (and where never to), the lightning position, and first aid for strike victims.
What to Do If You Encounter a Bear (Black Bear vs. Grizzly)
Exactly what to do if you encounter a bear — black bear vs. grizzly responses, how to handle a charge, when to play dead vs. fight back, and bear spray that works.
Best Microspikes for Winter Hiking (vs. Crampons & Snowshoes)
The best microspikes for icy winter trails — microspikes vs. crampons vs. snowshoes, what to look for, Kahtoola picks, and when to put them on.
Best Hiking Socks: Why Merino Wool Wins (Darn Tough & More)
The best hiking socks and why merino wool beats everything else — cushion levels, fit, blister prevention, and the Darn Tough picks hikers swear by.
Best Hydration Packs & Bladders for Hiking (Size Guide + Care)
The best hydration packs and bladders for hiking — how many liters you need, the features that matter, top picks, and how to keep a bladder mold-free.
Best Outdoor First Aid Kits (And What to Add to Them)
The best first aid kits for hiking and camping — pre-built vs. DIY, what a trail kit must handle, top Adventure Medical Kits picks, and the items worth adding.
Best Backpacking Water Filters (Squeeze, Gravity, Straw & Tablets)
The best backpacking water filters and how to choose — squeeze vs. gravity vs. straw vs. purification tablets, top picks, and filter care mistakes to avoid.
