February/March 2009 Table of Contents
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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