The Secret to Dealing With Fear on the Trail? Learn When to Listen to It.
We're taught from a young age to fight our fears. But in the outdoors, sometimes the smart thing to do is to respect them instead.
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The Latest Synthetic Base Layers Have Surpassed the Performance of Merino Wool
Just as cozy with remarkable technology? Consider me a convert.
What the Professor Learned by Trying to Hike the Most Miles Ever
Last January, Carl Stanfield set out to break the world record for the most miles ever hiked in a year. In failing, he found his temporary limit—and, he hopes, a renewed version of himself.
The Wind Chill Could Hit -110°F on Mount Washington This Weekend
With record low temperatures, unbelievably strong winds, and unusual weather patterns likely to drop the stratosphere to the level of the summit, it's a bad weekend to climb Mt. Washington.
You’ll Need a Permit to Climb Shenandoah’s Most Popular Mountain in 2023
The national park has announced it will bring back its ticketing program for Old Rag this year.
3 Ways to Bring Your Tired Shell Back to Life
Don't buy new—just give your shell a little TLC
A 20-Year Ban on Mining Near the Boundary Waters Is Back. Here’s Why That Matters.
The government reinstated Obama-era protections near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
The Gear That Backpacker’s Editors Loved in January 2023
Down booties, gossamer-thin wind jackets, and struggle-free snowshoes: Here’s what our editors brought with them on their winter adventures.
How One Thru-Hiker Turned Ultralighting into a YouTube Career
Hint: He never stopped hiking.
After 3 Years, Havasu Falls Will Reopen to Visitors in 2023—With One Big Catch
Hikers who had their trips canceled by Covid closures will get first crack at a new date—though others may be able to score a cancellation.
What Do Beginners Need to Know About Camp Cooking in Winter?
Get ready to get fed on winter adventures with these cold-weather cooking tips.
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Stories, gear reviews, hiking guides, and more just for Outside+ members.
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Fitness
The Best Hiking Workouts for Every Fitness Level
Reality check: Hitting the gym is the quickest way to hike farther, easier, faster, and pain-free. Get into a routine—or take yours to the next level—with these smart workouts for three different levels.
The Best Hikes
The Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
Full of rock scrambles, cactus clusters, and desert views for days, Joshua Tree National Park is the southwest at its finest.
Backpacking Skills
Why You Should Use Trekking Poles
Ending too many hikes with sore, wobbly legs? Trekking poles can help you make it that extra mile.
Gear Round-Ups
The Ultimate Smokeless Fire Pit Showdown
Which of these popular aprés accessories burns brighter?
Trail Guides
The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Zion Narrows
The Narrows at Zion National Park offers an incredible adventure in America's most amazing slot canyons. Here's how to safely explore them.
Survival Skills
How to Remove and Treat Thorns, Splinters, and Other Prick Wounds
Nature can be brutal. Learn how to to deal with wounds from all kinds of thorns, spines, splinters, shards, quills, needles, and anything else that might get under your skin when you’re on the trail.
Classic Destinations
The Easiest 14ers in Colorado
If you're new to Colorado's 14ers or simply looking for a day hike into the clouds, try these (relatively) easy adventures on Colorado's tallest mountains.
Backpacking Gear
Best Backpacking Tents of 2022
Find shelter from the storm with these excellent backpacking tents.
Long Trails
100 Years Ago, the Appalachian Trail Was One Man’s Dream. Now, It’s Everyone’s.
Benton MacKaye's original proposal for the Appalachian Trail came out 100 years ago. While the trail may have changed, the appeal hasn't.
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Out Alive
Real people who survived the unsurvivable
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Impossible Odds
Two friends, 8,000 trail miles, one year
Featured Story
The Best Places to Hike in 2023
This is the year to dream big. With the world's last destinations finally reopening to visitors, now's the time to plan a life-list hike that you'll never forget. Even better: Backpacker's done the work for you.
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