Think of base layers—aka long underwear or long johns—as the foundation for your cold-weather layering system.

These little-known trails offer all of the views, none of the traffic.

Nothing ruins a trip faster than the wrong pair of shoes—and nothing improves a hike like comfortable, well-fitting

Here are the key pieces of any layering system and how to manage them.

Two tools that make getting the fluids you need easy and convenient: hydration reservoirs and hydration packs.

To find the right pack for you, consider factors like comfort, capacity, durability, and price. Use this guide to

For any high-stakes activity, however, from winter excursions to multi-day treks to high-altitude missions, the ri

Is it possible to lighten up your sleep system without sacrificing the sleep part? Definitely: Ultralight sleeping

There's more than one way to waterproof! With the right rainwear, you'll be able to weather any storm.

Here’s what you need to know to make sure you buy the right waterproof or snow-proof gear for your needs.

You want a pack that accommodates all your gear, feels stable and comfortable, and has all the features you need fo

Making the jump from day hiking to backpacking can be intimidating. Use this checklist to get started.

Common mistake: spending a lot of time choosing outdoor shoes, and not enough time choosing socks to match.

Technical rain gear is your backcountry suit of armor: No matter how rainy, snowy, sleety, or windy it gets outside

From SPF ratings to safe and unsafe ingredients, here’s what you need to know to stay safe in prolonged, mid-day su

Hiking off-trail is a wonderful way to find solitude and explore the wilderness when it's done safely and appropria

It’s important to be respectful, thoughtful, and informed about a place and the Indigenous Peoples of that landscap

Highbanks is all about getting away from it all, on the 10 trails and 13-plus miles of wide, hard-packed paths thro

Whether by wheels or on foot, here’s a colorful route to cruise the best of the Ohio capital city’s art and eats.

Check out a new waterfall plus Ohio's first 'Via Ferrate" climbing route at this Columbus Metro Park offering outdo

Discover hidden outdoor adventure gems in Morgantown, West Virginia

There's no better way to witness the season than on foot. Whether you’re looking for an epic weekend or a short fam

While you can always create your own, there are plenty of existing peak-bagging lists to choose from, including som

Hidden away in the upper-right corner of the country, far from any big cities, the monument feels as remote as anyw

Here are some of the best wilderness areas across the country that might still be right out your back door.

Finding new land to protect, especially anywhere int eh Easter U.S., is no easy task.

This massive forest in West Virginia is a multi-sport hub easily accessible from Pittsburgh, Columbus, or Charlotte

Rhode Island doesn’t have as much hiking, climbing, or biking as other states (for obvious reasons), but what it do

Down gear will keep you warm and comfortable for decades—if you care for it properly.

Explore the best of these versatile backcountry shelters that help connect routes through the largest publicly prot

One of only two national forests in New England, New Hampshire’s White Mountains are home to the region’s highest p

Fun fact: You don't need to take 6-months off of work to get a proper long-trail experience. Discover these 6 thru-

Experience the best of the developing Jack-Ash Trail System on the scenic multi-use Sterling Mine Ditch Trail.

These hikes, tours, destinations and events provide opportunities to gain a better understanding of and respect for

Here’s how the largest dam removal in U.S. history, restoring flows to the lower Klamath River, will impact wildlif

These two short day-hikes provide a nice dose of exercise, delivering splendid views of the Rogue River Valley and

Less than an hour from Medford, a pair of hikes at Prospect Scenic Viewpoint deliver a fairyland of moss, mist and

Lope the loop trail at Prescott Park for an attainable summit with 360-degree views of Southern Oregon’s renowned R

The gardens and trees of Lithia Park are a feast for the senses, especially during the fall. That’s when the foliag

There are mountain trails and fire towers to climb, routes to hike and bike, and waterfalls to find.

If you’re planning a thru-hike—an extended backpacking trip of a few weeks to a few months or more—you will soon be

The tallest waterfalls in North America. Miles and miles of glacier-polished granite. The world’s most massive tree

A backpacking trip to Scioto Grove Metro Park is perfect if you’re a beginner, if you’re bringing the kids, or if y

The Highlands Nature Sanctuary is one of the oldest and best-known preserves of the nonprofit Arc of Appalachia, wh

Here are the choice spots on a few of the top fall foliage hikes near Columbus. Follow this guide to get outside a

You’re surely familiar with Old Man’s Cave, the most popular destination in Ohio’s Hocking Hills. If you aren’t, yo

Cool off by seeking out Central Ohio’s best natural swimming spots.

Hike overnight through some of the most rugged landscape in Ohio.

Bite off some or all of this varied long-distance trail that crosses West Virginia and discover the best of the Mou

Follow the blue blazes to a sweet trailside campsite on this developing trail system that encompasses Ohio.

From its Dr. Seuss-like namesake trees and reliably spectacular sunsets to an area named (without exaggeration) Won

Get inspired with everything from inventive group classes, local give-back opportunities and more unique and manage

Here are five amazing AT day hikes to give you a taste of America’s favorite trail.

You don’t have to be a dedicated birder to appreciate this mellow hike in Hogback Ridge Park—but seeing ospreys in

More than 100 miles of trails take you through forests, to beautiful waterfalls and to scenic vistas. Here are a fe

Hike to this collection of underappreciated falls and cascades outside of Columbus.

Try following the blue blazes on some of these lesser-known but comparably high-quality hikes along the 1,400-mile

The Rocky Mountains are a truly wild landscape: postcard-pretty and ruggedly unforgiving all at once.

Whether it’s 200 miles on the John Muir Trail or 3,000 miles on the Continental Divide Trail, the rhythm and routin

In remote southern Nevada, Kim Garrison-Means spearheaded the grassroots activism of door-to-door canvassing and ne

Tips to keep you cool hiking in the sweltering summer temps or dry desert air.

Protect your eyes with a fitting pair of performance shades.

Here’s how to identify and interpret blazes and cairns to keep you on the right trail.

From summiting peaks with expansive views to meandering alongside geysers and steaming pools, Yellowstone has it al

To start hiking now, a little know-how plus the right gear will increase your enjoyment and your safety on the trai

How to safely share the trails with everything from chipmunks to bears, moose to cows.

A few basics can save you a whole lot of trouble on your next outing.

Smack-dab in the middle of bustling Richmond, Va., James River Park opens up 600 acres of outdoor playground to res

Once you’ve gotten kids off the screen and in the field: How do you ensure that they enjoy themselves?

For some hikers, nothing replaces the solitude and independence and self-reflective time of a solo trek. If you're

If you avoid training because you think it takes too much time or an expensive gym membership, we’re here to change

What Josh Sutton learned over the 2,200-Mile Appalachian Trail with his wife and 5-year-old son.

According to the IMBA trails are common ground - trail etiquette starts with kindness and empathy.

Since the launch of Trail Sisters, Gina Lucrezi (she/her) has worked passionately, creatively, and tirelessly to e

Zion National Park in southern Utah is known for its cream, pink, and red cliffs, otherworldly slot canyons, and th

Pro insights from wildlife photographer and eco-adventure guide Josh Metten

Pick a worthwhile day-trip section to soak in the ever-changing views of the 125-mile Paumanok Path.

Explore one of Long Island’s most extensive singletrack networks.

Follow tidal creeks and climb coastal bluffs with the go-to, year-round hiking option at this ever-scenic state par

New York’s most alluring autumn views are not in the city, but from above the soaring cliffs across the Hudson Rive

Go subterranean to explore the geologic wonders of one of the world’s largest caves.

Summer or winter, head for standout activity options at the park-beach combo destination marking the far eastern en

Everyone “knows” the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s the most visited unit in the park system, with over

Unlike many national park units, which center around hiking through pristine landscapes, the New River Gorge Natio

From scenic drives and short hikes to technical climbs, the Southern Appalachians offer exciting options to see the

Traverse a collection of the best trails through the scenic estates of our Founding Fathers.

Check out the year-round activity options at this dynamic NPS site that punctuates the Washington, D.C. metro area.

Find open space and wild adventure in this West Virginia climbing hub that offers numerous, high-quality hiking and

Make the three-hour drive from Atlanta and you’ll likely spend most of your time in a boat (it is a swamp, after al

Shenandoah National Park might be one of the most user-friendly units in the country-wide system of preserves.

Whatever you’re looking for, the Ragged Mountain Natural Area offers a quiet escape amid some of Virginia’s most ic

Hike and camp among 2,000-year-old trees in California’s most unique national park.

Maximize your wildflowers per mile in these spring-vibrant national parks. 

Find adventure at this stunning, yet sparsely visited Colorado park.

Derick Lugo discusses his journey to long-distance hiking and his work educating others about the power of outdoor

Here’s how to experience the best trails of these neighboring Southeast Utah icons.

With more than 2.5 million visitors every year, Washington’s Olympic National Park is one of the 10 most-visited na

Explore the sprawling, new Great American Rail-Trail that connects 3,700 miles of converted railroad-to-recreation

Outfit with the latest technical footwear and apparel that best caters to your next adventures on (and in) the wate

The cultural history makes every visit to this land more meaningful—and makes it a destination unlike any other. Us

The new Big Agnes backpack line highlights the brand's longstanding commitment to preserving the environment.

Don’t be surprised if you have a sore neck after a hike through the Forest Cathedral, this state park’s pocket of v

Come for the hiking, stay for the beach.

Ohiopyle literally has something for everyone. We'll cover our recommended routes and more in this guide.

Less than an hour away from Downtown Pittsburgh, this loop makes for a quick weekend getaway or a great shakedown t

Go deep in the woods for a perfect overnight adventure with waterfront camping and ridgeline views.

This 36-mile loop explores the site of the world’s first oil well—which has been transformed into a scenic park.

For as much as we’d love to just rock our birthday suits every time we hit the trails (communing with nature, right

When purchasing a GPS device, consider elements like its size, battery life, and overall functionality. Here’s what

Yes, we love GPS technology too, but a phone app doesn’t mean you shouldn’t know how to read a topo map.

For backpacking, you want a stove that’s light, compact, fast, efficient, adjustable, and durable. Oh, and affordab

Explore one of the Northeast’s most beloved ranges for year-round outdoor action plus electric fall foliage.

Most backpackers daydream about one day thru-hiking one of America's spectacular long distance trails. Here's what

Head to Johnstown for a quick escape on Western Pennsylvania's premier trail.

Here are the first-aid skills you'll need to treat five common backcountry injuries.

Fortunately, survival essentials don’t weigh much or cost much. Here’s how to get outfitted for the unexpected.

Get the right poles for you with this guide to materials and features.

Many of us head into the backcountry looking to unplug from all of our communication devices—so why buy a gadget de

Polar bears have their blubber. Arctic foxes have their fur. When we want to be outdoors in the cold, we humans hav

The items on this list should handle the most common backcountry maladies for one or two people on a two- to three-

President Biden just restored this remarkable Utah Preserve to its original size. Here's how to explore it.

You know your favorite clothes can make you feel better, whether you’re going on a date or giving a presentation, a

Explore one of the world’s most unique ecosystems across four co-managed state and national parks.

Explore the vast and spectacular landscape that straddles the Continental Divide.

Here’s how to prepare for challenging hikes with significant elevation gain.

Follow these water treatment steps in an outdoor survival situation.

Survival tips for building and starting a fire in adverse conditions.

Stay fueled on the trail with these tips on packing the right food and planning the best meals.

Try this trio of trails that range in hiking difficulty, but that all offer stunning fall-foliage views. There’s no

Rather than working on conservation projects in far-flung national parks or forests, these teams focus on the close

From expansive mountaintop vistas to waterfall-laden hollows, Shenandoah National Park offers an awe-filled escape

You won’t fit them all in a single visit—but that’s all the more reason to keep coming back.

An expert forager shares her top 5 tips for finding wild mushrooms.

You’ve got your snowshoes, you’ve got your poles, and you’re itching to get out to explore the snowy landscape—now

Consider these simple, one-person sleeping shells when you’re going extra light, or needing the added assurance of

Tucked along the banks of the mighty Cuyahoga River, just south of Cleveland, lies a 33,000-acre pocket of verdant

We’ve broken the planning process down into 10 steps to help you get started, get organized, and get out there.

Use this guide to common materials, features, and sizing considerations to help you choose the best approach shoes

Reliable snowfall and endless trails make Medford, Oregon, a snowshoer’s paradise.

Hike, ski, and snowshoe just an hour and a half from Boston.

Western Virginia’s fall foliage is second to none. Here’s where to see it.

Virginia is a birder’s paradise. Here’s how to take advantage.

Work for one of Virginia’s best highpoint views of the Shenandoah Valley.

Frolic this alpine wonderland in the crown of the Rocky Mountains.

Record-setting distance hiker Heather “Anish” Anderson shares her tips for managing the post-hike blues and easing

Make this quaint Bavarian mountain town your next basecamp.

Explore Georgia’s most famous mountain in this sprawling adventure wonderland.

Zelzin “Quetzal” Aketzalli, the first-ever Mexican National to complete distance hiking’s Triple Crown, shares tips

Earn the seclusion of your own private Hawaiian beach campsite with an 11-mile hike into Kauai’s rugged and iconic

With glaciated peaks galore, the Pacific Northwest is blessed with a number of less-technical routes that cater wel

Mind these tips when you’re hiking trails and scrambling loose rock at elevations above the treeline.

Mountain travel is a complex but immensely rewarding endeavor. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Stage a day-hike or backpacking trip on one of the longest trails in central Massachusetts.

Head to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area for quiet wilderness and deep-woods hiking right in the he

Mountaineer and activist Molly Kawahata offers advice on putting an end to climate guilt, finding solutions, and en

Wander amid hardwood forest and cascading waterfalls in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

If three to four weeks of hiking still sounds like too much, have no fear: There are dozens of trailheads along the

Here are Goldie’s hard-earned tricks for staying warm in any winter weather—applicable to any active outdoor ventur

Forged by volcanoes and shaped by glaciers, southern Oregon’s Umpqua National Forest offers some of the most otherw

It’s not often that you can hike a whole mountain range within a single afternoon—and rarer still that you can acco

The end of summer triggers all sorts of coping mechanisms among hikers. Some dress in a panic, piling on giant jack

When crowds flock to Shenandoah National Park, keep going: The park’s lesser-known neighbor, George Washington Nati

Nika Meyers didn’t know she’d be attempting a speed record of the 486-mile Colorado Trail until just four days prio

Summer camp holds a special place in the American psyche. But for queer youth, traditional summer camps—with their

The whole loop tackles just 200 feet of elevation gain and generally takes one to two hours, making it a perfect wa

Myth: You need a car to access nature. Fact: There’s great public transit to trails all over the United States—no d

Long distance hiker and urban adventurer Liz Thomas shares tips on living a more active life.

Find solitude in the heart of Boston with these six hikes.

Arizona’s Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—and it’s not hard to see why. The marvels o

Arizona’s Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—and it’s not hard to see why. The marvels o

These lightweight packs squish down small inside your main backpack until they’re needed, then swallow the gear for

Today there are 11 National Scenic Trails that span 24,600 miles. In this piece we’ll get to know each one, and els

With a compass, you can orient your map, take and follow bearings, and locate yourself. The first step: learning th

Packing for a day hike is more of an art than a science, in that you’ll start to tailor your kit as you gain experi

Seek out the best hikes in the country’s most popular national park, plus time your trip to catch the fall foliage

If you’re enjoying the outdoors, it pays to prepare, pack and make the right choices when exploring at-risk areas.

Camp, hike, or climb Southern Oregon’s highest volcano in this wilderness playground.

How to hike one of the most stunning sections of the Appalachian Trail in northern Maine.

Launch a fast-and-light overnight adventure with these tips for planning, packing and pulling off an ultralight hik

There are so many different ways to get to know Shenandoah National Park when you visit. And at just 90 minutes fro

And the term “trail” is used generously: National Recreation Trails include routes that are open to diverse user gr

Fall asleep to the sound of the ocean while nestled beneath oak trees dripping with Spanish moss at Stafford Beach

A little planning, as well as a few critical pieces of gear, will set you up for success. Here are our top five tip

Dive into Big Bend National Park, located in far West Texas. Hemmed in by the nearly 8,000-foot-tall Chisos Mountai

Follow some local guidance below on how to best get outside—no matter the weather—and play like a Portlander.

Here’s how to avoid a problematic bear encounter while out hiking, trail running or mountain biking.

Sound advice to safely manage a close call with an apex predator.

From epic days to gentle rambles, here are nine hikes that will do you right.

Wildfire outbreaks were once confined to the hot, dry summer months. But that’s no longer the case.

Explore the prehistoric Native American earthworks Here are a few of the best earthwork destinations with interpre

Journey up Central Pennsylvania's historic Sandstone Stairmaster.

It's common for hikers to hang up their boots when winter comes around. But we have a message: don't. Bindle up and

Hike long enough in the backcountry, and you're bound to cross paths with a real river. Here are some safety tips t

Fall vistas in this remarkable, under-the-radar destination. Follow this guide to enjoy the best views of the fall

There are several technologies available, all with their own pros, cons, and best uses.