Ted Alvarez

Should you climb a tree to get away from a bruin? Do bear bells really attract bears? We tackle these questions and more.

Humans have been starting fires without matches longer than with them. Can our modern man measure up?

Grizzlies vanished from North Cascades National Park five decades ago. Or did they?

Deep in the wilds of Northern British Columbia's Spatsizi Wilderness Provincial Park, our scout proves there’s no joy like misery.

This 11-mile out-and-back climbs to two high-altitude lakes in New Mexico's Carson National Forest.

This easy loop hops islands and sand dunes beside Lake Michigan.

No one knows the ins and outs of the trail like professional guides. Learn a few of their secrets to take your trips to the next level.

Learn how to stay safe in bear country from myth-busting scientist Tom Smith.

Leave it to the pros to have the outdoor world figured out. These tips are what turn hikers into guides—and guides into heroes. Learn from their experiences with gear, skills, and people.

Few blazes, fewer trail angels: Canada’s Great Divide Trail offers a rare chance to go back in time and experience the birth of a thru-hike.

Can a needle newbie sew a DIY backpack that promises to save weight and money?

Need to find food in a crisis? Just foraging for fun? Learn to raid nature's pantry, which is full of easily harvested, highly nutritious meals.