A Polar Bear Attack Is a Hiker’s Worst Nightmare. Here’s How to Prevent One.
And how to tell if a polar bear is aggressive or just passing through the area.
You could never prepare for every single wilderness threat you might encounter—that’s impossible—but you can learn the techniques you need to survive most wilderness threats by mastering these basic backcountry safety skills.
And how to tell if a polar bear is aggressive or just passing through the area.
Knowing how to identify these five common venomous snakes, found across the United States, can save you stress on the trail.
For hikers on the western U.S.'s long-distance paths, large wildfires are part of the new normal.
Irresponsible campers put forests, people, and hiking seasons at risk. Do your part by making sure your blaze is dead out.
With blazes blanketing much of the western US, we sourced some expert tips for staying safe on the trail.
Remember these tips for a safer summer.
These six long-distance trekkers have no problem hitting the trail alone—and often prefer it. We rounded up their best tips for female solo hikers.
Guys, we're sure your intentions are good. But the women you run into on the trail need to know that. Here's how to help solo female hikers feel safer.
Many people fear that women hiking alone are particularly vulnerable to getting lost, hurt, assaulted, or raped in the wilderness. They're wrong.
Your imagination is required to think about the future of our wilderness.
Close encounters of the serpentine kind from BACKPACKER Forum users
Check out Katie Herrel's author page.
Mosquitoe bites can be simply annoying or dangerous depending on where you are. Learn how to fend off their attacks.