Skills

Backpacking is not synonymous with efficiency and minimalism—but it’s pretty close. That same utilitarianism applies to hygiene as well. So what DO you need to stay clean on the trail?

Dogs can be excellent company on outdoor adventures, but only if you plan properly. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know, bring, do, and avoid to optimize the fun for both you and your pet.

Steep slopes and snow make for fun—but hazardous—terrain. Bring the right gear to get to the summit and back.

Reason #57 to love a good brew: The carbonation in beer makes for extra-fluffy flapjacks.

Push through big climbs and banish quad burn by increasing your lactate threshold with these three workouts.

Put a dent in your hunger—not your trip budget—with three tasty meals for less than $2.50 per serving.

When you're putting your body through the strain of 5 months on the trail, you need to take care of it.

Dr. Tom Myers, a guide and medical advisor for the Grand Canyon Association Field Institute, faces triple-digit temps every season. Follow his advice to keep cool.

A newly minted trip leader takes on tropical mud, bugs, and rainstorms.

Maximize fun and minimize hassle with these essential tips on comfort, safety, cooking, and finding solitude during the high season.

Limber up and quiet your mind with these easy poses.

The internet is in a panic over a huge invasive plant that can cause severe burns and temporary blindness. Here's what hikers should keep in mind.

Learn how to treat poison ivy exposure and avoid it altogether, and brush up on the science behind the backcountry's least-loved vine.

Nature can be brutal. Learn how to to deal with wounds from all kinds of thorns, spines, splinters, shards, quills, needles, and anything else that might get under your skin when you’re on the trail.

There's calorie density, nutritional profile, and bulk to consider. But it has to taste good, too.

Everyone does it. But it takes a special kind of hiker to make tripping look good.

Great photography is more accessible than ever, thanks to affordable camera tech. But you still need the know-how to use it.

Strengthen joints and banish sprains for good.

Turn up the fun factor with stuffed fruits and veggies. Best part? No dishes required.

Can a landlubber learn to paddle—and like it?

Get a backwoods kind of quiet—even when you drive there.

Trail art or nuisance? We answer your questions about backcountry sculpture.

Gear up for the United States' toughest long path with these expert picks.

There are many kinds of bears in the world. Which matches your personality?