Skills

Experience begets skill—and blind spots, ruts, and inefficient routines. Just because you’ve taken to doing something one way doesn’t mean it’s the right way.

Unlearn your bad hiking habits today with these simple, instant changes to your routine.

Plan your trips better and enjoy yourself more.

Battle blisters and learn to pack a sensible first aid kit.

The wilderness can be a hazardous place, but the biggest danger to you is, well, you.

Stay away from bears and show some respect for the humble mouse.

Your gear is your lifeline. Pack it right and maintain it correctly for a fun, hassle-free trip.

Use pressure-point stretching, known as myofascial release, to loosen key hiking muscles and boost recovery.

Grab a paddle to access quiet coves, mirror lakes, or exhilarating rapids. Best part: You can pack like you’re car camping when you trade boots for a boat.

Want to avoid growing a science project in your water bottle or hydration bladder? We’ve got the cleaning tips and tricks to keep them squeaky clean

You can't get delivery on the trail, so do the next best thing and make it yourself. Learn to make a personal pizza on your camp stove with Senior Digital Editor Adam Roy

Outsmart the weather with these tricks from our experts.

Can two hikers keep their feet happy while splashing through creeks for days?

Even with no agenda, a spontaneous day trip serves up many rewards

This backpacking staple can do more than make sandwiches.

Follow these guidelines so you don't have to cut your trip short.

Tomatoes: tasty food, lousy fireworks.

Cook and imbibe better by learning how to shop, transport, and use your spirits, wine, and beer.

Leave the freeze-dried meals at home and treat yourself to a gourmet trail meal with our most popular recipes.

The best backpacking game is the one you don't have to carry.

Capabilities vary widely. Use these questions to make the best choice for your needs.

Nothing quite says "warm weather" like wild snake orgies. Here's everything you never wanted to know about trailside tangles of slithering serpents.

Find your way the old-school way by mastering the map.

Follow these tips to make sure you and all the essentials get where you’re going.