January 2013 Table of Contents

Adventure Travel Issue

What Kind of Hiker Are You?

Do you like peaks or wildlife? Want to bring the kids or a kayak? Read our profiles to find your ideal trip.

Chile: Private Patagonia

The far-out scenery in Puerto Natales rivals Torres Del Paine—minus that park’s crowds. Shannon Davis scouted unknown hiking, paddling, riding, and climbing.

Himalayas: The Path to Shangri-La

Himalayan expeditions don’t require big money or porters. In eastern Tibet, Mark Jenkins found unclimbed, hiker-friendly summits and centuries-old monasteries.

Canada: Treasure Island

Haida Gwaii, a lush archipelago off British Columbia—just six hours from Seattle—is rich in bears, whales, and hot springs. What it lacks, discovered Ted Alvarez, is people.

Norway: Home of the Giants

Glaciers, lakes, and tundra make northern Europe’s highest peaks a land of extremes, but plush huts made it suitable for Michael Lanza’s family on a five-star weeklong hike.

Wales: Fresh Tracks Thru History

The new Wales Coast Path traces a wild shoreline past ancient castles and quaint fishing villages. Barney Scout Mann found the best sections for ultralight exploring.

United States: Best of the Grand Canyon

Steep. Hot. Rugged. And totally worth every drop of sweat. Annette McGivney and Andrew Matranga mapped the most sublime day, weekend, and weeklong treks.

ADVENTURE TRAVEL GEAR

FIELD TEST: Two-person tents

After 155 camp nights and wind speeds up to 52 mph, our testers report on the best new shelters.

Plus: All-purpose shoes, ultratough pants, a bomber duffle, cozy baselayers, and a midweight puffy jacket.

ADVENTURE TRAVEL SKILLS

See more wildlife, climb more peaks, and hike more miles with these tips that’ll help every adventure traveling backpacker raise their game.

HEROES: Austin Taylor, 27

Taylor created Haiti’s first backpacking tours — and keeping the profits local.