Shannon Davis

After finding her love for the trail, Welcome used hiking to process some of the most challenging moments of her life.

If you had to choose only a bottle or reservoir, which would it be?

Authorities theorize that toxic algae might be behind incident.

Taking your first unguided step onto a big mountain is a leap of faith. Backpacker editor (and retired guide) Shannon Davis tells you how to do it right.

Erika Jostad will take up the post immediately.

This descent into this Wind River Range highlight is one no hiker will ever forget.

The Roofnest Falcon XL is simple to set up and offers plenty of livable space.

From indestructible socks to mood-boosting snacks, these are what made the cut.

Thomas has thru-hiked more than 20 long trails, including the Pacific Crest, Continental Divide and Appalachian Trails (the Triple Crown). On top of that, she set a fastest known time on the AT for an unsupported woman and has completed dozens of urban thru-hikes as well. Now, she's joining Backpacker as a contributing editor. Here’s some of Thomas’s best advice and insight fed by more than 20,000 trail miles.

BACKPACKER is committing to making a better world for all hikers.

Two fair-weather enthusiasts tear down their fear of the fourth season.

The results of this fall’s election could change the outdoors for a long time. Make a plan and make your voice heard.

A globetrotter reflects on a place that stopped him in his tracks.

With even local trails getting clogged, our editor has some advice for you that he hoped he’d never have to give.

We're not just going to talk the green talk, but walk it as well.

The most memorable trails can be the hardest to find. New Editorial Director Shannon Davis reflects on a trip through canyon country.

Take your pick of adventures from this major ferry stop about three hours from Natales: Beach camp next to a private glacier or paddle to a gem lake.

Escape to trekking and horseback riding nirvana on Patagonia's high plains.

Explore peak-lined Chilean waters by boat or by foot—in solitude.

Explore Chile's mind-bending terrain without joining the throngs on the popular trekker circuit. On this paddle/hike/horse adventure, you'll have glacier-chiseled fjords, sky-piercing mountains, and best-ever camping all to yourself.

This culture activist is bringing diversity to the outdoors.

Turn an iPod into a campground sound system.

Student and president of the Hiking Club at the University of Colorado, Boulder

Climb dunes, find instant solitude, camp atop riverside bluffs, ascend to surprising above-treeline views, and hike along the St. Croix River.

This region's top mapper has notched 20 bag nights and 200 trail miles in 9 states this year scouting trails for BACKPACKER. Here are three of his favorite routes.

Ventilate your tent to avoid this danger.

Tryout tips from a Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. Veteran

Every backpacker dreams of a glory job in the outdoors. Senior Editor Shannon Davis heads to Mt. Rainier--and a grueling tryout with premier guide operation RMI--to find out what it takes to make the grade.

Hike these long trails in Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Kansas, and Oklahoma, and head south to Texas to see Horned Lizards.

Discover east Texas's longleaf pine forest; see the Boundary Waters on foot.

Sometimes, it's the little things that count.

Cut camp boredom with these playing cards.

Fight rough effects on your skin with this moisturizing climbing salve.

The best hikes near Minneapolis-St. Paul.

The best hikes near Columbus, OH.

The best hikes near Austin, TX.

The best hikes near Milwaukee.

The best hikes near Chicago.

The best local hikes near St. Louis.