February/March 2009 Table of Contents

FEATURES

The World’s Best Unknown Treks

Hike ’em now, before the masses find ’em. From Nepal to New Zealand, we offer 10 undiscovered trips that belong on every backpacker’s life list. By Michael Lanza

The People’s Hiking Revolution

In China, a million new backpackers are hitting the trail. But can their passion fuel the world’s next great environmental movement? Craig Simons finds out.

The Godfather of Trekking

Where does a man who’s been everywhere like to hike? Leo Le Bon sits for a Q&A with Michael Behar.

Closer Than You Think

Sometimes, a passport can stand in the way of real adventure. Mark Jenkins praises the local micro-expedition.

Higher Calling

Spain’s Aitana Mountains hold a summer’s worth of climbing, hiking, and biking. Plus: 7 do-it-all vacation meccas. By Michael Lanza

ADVENTURES

Hike the Classics

It takes a certain kind of trail to earn such a lofty title. But our top 10 deliver unrivaled scenery, challenge, local culture, and most of all–fun.

The Perfect Circle: Hiking the Annapurna Circuit

Chile’s Torres del Paine Circuit

Corsica’s GR 20

Peru’s Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Italy’s Alta Via 1

New Zealand’s Milford Track

England’s Pennine Way

Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro

Everest Base Camp, Tibet

Tour du Mont Blanc

NATURE

International World Wonders

Elephants, lions, and giant redwoods. The tallest wild waterfall. Find all of these and other spectacles in our where-to-gape hiking guide.

SKILLS

Travel Like A Pro

Maps, food, first aid, permits, guides, bargains, and more. Our tips for navigating foreign trails and customs will help you plan the perfect trip.

GEAR

Dress For Success

Tested: indispensable duds for trekkers, plus first-aid kits, duffels, and daypacks.

Field Test: Global Apparel

For Men

For Women

Load Lifters

Traveling heavy? Transport–and protect–your cargo in these globe-tested bags.

Field Notes

The latest word from our testers.

Therm-a-Rest Comfort System

Utensils: Primus Meal Set

Aloksac ShieldSak

Adventure Medical Kits SmartTRAVEL

Montrail S’presso

Sony Reader