Alisha McDarris

From picaridin to herbal solutions, there's a wide variety of non-DEET repellents on the market. But which work, and which are just snake oil?

All trails have changed quite a bit in the past 5 decades. Here are the trails that changed the most.

Animal attacks are rare, but it's best to arm yourself with knowledge and know-how before you step foot in the backcountry. Here's how to know when four common animals are about to get defensive.

After decades of disrepair, the path reopened to adventurous trekkers.

Is a hiking resume complete without a long-distance thru-hike?

Hatchets, saws, and axes have a place—and it's not in the backcountry.

Sometimes you're compatible as friends, but not hiking partners. These tips will preserve your relationship and keep it off the trails, for good.

Don't let muck stop you from hitting the trails this spring.

This volcano hike was supposed to be once-in-a-lifetime. But the struggle almost outweighed the reward.

Outdoor brands are tackling the next frontier in sustainable manufacturing.

With a little ingenuity, one hiker improvises shelter.

The eco-friendly design trend is finally gaining momentum.

Knowing how to identify these five common venomous snakes, found across the United States, can save you stress on the trail. 

Trading in your tent for a hammock is perfect for warm summer nights and making camp on uneven ground. Here's how to enjoy the high life safely and comfortably.

These silent stalkers are the stuff of solo hikers' nightmares—but you need not worry.

Strange noises outside your tent keeping you up at night? Learn to cope with your fear of bears.

They’re slithery, occasionally venomous, and many hikers’ worst nightmare. Learning to coexist with these reptiles just takes a little knowledge.

Is all that extra breathability worth exposing your feet to sun, bugs, and toe stubs?

Just because you're packing in dinner shouldn't mean you have to skip the best course. These sweet treats are well worth the extra ounces.

Going meatless shouldn’t mean going hungry. These protein-packed vegan recipes will satisfy any hiker.