Pre-Trip Planning

Travelling a long trail end to end isn't the only way to thru-hike.

Beginner hikers often overpack and overprepare. But as Maggie Slepian learned the hard way, experienced hikers have their own special way of messing up.

Yes, you might have to get up early. But put in the effort to fit some trail time into your vacay, and you'll have a chance to sample hikes you might otherwise never do.

Thru-hiking is for everyone—but if you really want to build your life around the trail, some careers make it easier than others.

Everything you need to find a last-minute backpacking adventure before the leaves turn and the air turns frosty.

If you haven’t snagged a reservation to the growing list of timed-entry parks, it might seem like a trip there this summer is out of the cards. But fret not—we found some legal ways to visit.

We talked to Leave No Trace about the best ways to bushwhack.

It’s February, which means you’d better start reserving campsites for August now. We have a few tips for you.

Through thick and thin, health and injury, long slogs and zero days, your trail family will be there for you.

No workout can mimic the challenge of a thru-hike, but you can minimize initial soreness—and the risk of injury—by smart training. Start a fitness program at least eight weeks before your hike.

In 5 months, a new class of thru-hikers will start the trip of a lifetime. If you hope to be one of them, there are a few things you should start doing now.

Go big with these expedition trip planning tips.

If you play your cards right, you can turn your non-hiker friends into lifelong backpacking partners

Thru-hiking is a wonderful experience, but it’s not the only way to see a long trail. And for a lot of people, it might not even be the best.

We already know that backpacking is better for the planet than other forms of travel. But how much better, exactly? And can we make hiking even greener?

Some destinations may still be closed to US travelers, but that just means you have more time to plot out the perfect trek. Start planning now for the hike of a lifetime.

In a pinch, they can can keep you going—but only if we all do our part.

Buy, ship, or check hiker boxes and just hope for the best? Here's how to keep your stove running on your thru-hike.

Before you head out on a thru-hike, set expectations at home and at work, and make sure that everyone knows what to do when trouble arises.

From training to planning, prep right to maximize your chances of going the distance.

It's the perfect time to tackle one of these indoor DIY projects to set yourself up for a great hiking season.

Ditch summer camp for these five excellent adventures, where young women gain wilderness skills and the confidence to use them from real outdoor role models.

When you're hiking for weeks or months at a time, sometimes you need a little audio therapy. These podcasts are just what the doctor ordered.

Can you see America's best idea on a thru-hike? You sure can—if you can figure out how to pick up your permit.

Going on a long hike is complicated under the best of circumstances—but kids and a partner open up a whole new world of challenges.

Thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, or another long path? Make the most of your time before you blast off.

Want to check an epic hike off your life list? Start ticking off these boxes and make it happen.

Have the thru-hike itch, but don't want to ditch your career? A short long trail may be just what you need.

The trail can be a challenging place for parents and kids. Set aside your expectations of how a hike should go and learn what you can.

Want to go on a thru-hike but not sure where to start? Take our course to learn how.

Use your head to start checking adventures off your list.

Are your plans bigger than your pockets? These grants could help fund your next big effort.

New research shows that women are less likely to see themselves as leaders in the outdoors. That's everyone's loss.

Never hike alone again with this handy guide to convincing key people in your life to hit the trail with you.

Why should a backpacker want anything other than a tent? Michael Lanza can think of five good reasons.

From planning to execution, we've got 11 ways to become a better leader both on the trail, and off.