Skills

More evidence that suburbia blows

A summer pick-me-up for all

A researcher concludes that $4/gallon gas can help curb America's obesity epidemic

You won't believe what some people blame for their extra flab

Another excuse to drink more coffee has arrived

Survey ranks the activity behind snowboarding and sledding as the most dangerous

4 Tips for an Active Fourth of July

4 Japanese meals adapted–and enhanced–for the trail

Nothing motivates like a fitness reality check

Stock your kitchen with everything you need to eat like a champ

Check out Dougald McDonald's author page.

Follow this reader tip to custom-build your own backcountry cutting board.

Any suggestions for making my 5-year-old's first backpacking trip a success?

Stay cool with expert tips for boiler days.

To tell the difference between a bad bump and a life-threatening blow, follow these crucial steps.

Does your pack's lid pocket resemble a junk drawer? To help you eliminate the mess–and find stuff fast when you need it–we created lightweight, custom systems to store and organize two vital stockpiles: gear repair tools and emergency provisions.

It's hard to beat a campfire after a long day on the trail. Here's how to enjoy the moment even when conditions are against you.

Sure, you know the mantra "leaves of three, let it be." But that warning alone doesn't help you detect those irritating plants that change colors, grow as vines, or mimic harmless species. Heed these tips to keep your summer itch-free.

Top alpine skiers endure altitude sickness and won't do anything about it

A study finds that people with easy access to public parks and lands exercise less

New research unearths more benefits to getting outside

A sports-nutrition trend gets called out

Fitness depends on who you surround yourself with

Now I know why I stay in shape

Want to hike farther, explore tougher terrain, and carry big loads without bonking? To achieve your biggest backcountry goals, you have to change how you eat.

Get trail-fit in six weeks with this simple exercise plan.

Achieve peak performance on the trail with our complete guide to training and eating like a backpacker.

Long-distance runner Russell Secker feels your foot pain–and he knows how to get rid of it.

You can't hike with a bum ticker–follow these heart-healthy strategies to stay on the trail longer.

A hiker cannot live on water alone. Next time out, try these coffee, tea, and wine updgrades.

4 hook-and-cook dinners just waiting to be caught

Add fresh-caught trout to the menu with these 6 easy steps.

Need to start a fire fast? Try a flammable cupcake.

Fly-fishing is part meditation, part ultralight technique (catch, don't carry, your dinner), and all fun.

Tired of commuting in a car around our national parks? Catch the best backcountry bus.

Check out The Backpacker Editors's author page.

Check out The Backpacker Editors's author page.

I'm on assignment for a week

No, I'm not kidding

There is no straight answer to the benefits of taking supplements

Got chronic back pain or knee pain? Try losing your shoes

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

Get ready for spring with 3 joint-specific routines.

The latest health news reveals that ankle injuries are more common than you'd think. Here's some beta.

Full schedule? Here's how to work in working out.

What to grab when you need a boost

Wild parsnip, burdock, and wild carrot grow throughout North America. Learn when and where they're prime for picking.

3 tasty, filling trailside finds that could save dinner–even your life.

4 strategies to feel and smell better

Air travel advice from an FAA expert

6 trail-tested tips to guarantee your friend's first trip isn't his last

Nature calls, even in the wilderness. We've found 5 products that will make your outdoor bathroom runs easy, hygienic, and safe.

Set Goals Just Beyond Your Comfort Level

Don't want to get lost? Heed this advice on four trail situations that routinely cause problems.

Clear out your car before heading into the woods.

You can do a lot in 50 seconds

GoLite founder finds out that it's really hard.

New features and web-based tools enable Backpacker's passionate online community to share trips, post pictures, and get the latest in gear reviews and adventure news and content.

Why spend time on a treadmill. Live instead.

A salad a day is one man's dietary salvation

No gyms, no weights–and, with our easy-to-follow plan–no bonking on the trail.

Research shows that the Golden Years are Truly Gold

The perfect workout maybe your backyard

Which is best for trail readiness?

New studies slam water’s perceived health benefits

Advice on kids and herbs at altitude.

Learn the mountaineer's secret for hiking up steep, high-altitude terrain.

Camp like a pro with 83 field-tested tips and techniques from experts who earn their paychecks in the backcountry.

How can I comparison-shop for a guided trek in Alaska?

He'd toss the titanium stove and build a big fire. Our man enrolls in a traditional guide school and learns how to survive - and think - like an American original.

To acquire stamina, you gotta sufer

Here's how Aron Ralston, Ed Viesturs, Les Stroud, and others get out and back again–and how you can, too.

GoLite founder's 40-day wonder workout

Take care of these gatekeepers to your active future

The Emotional Side to Injury Recovery

Is the end of muscle fatigue upon us?

A Quick Change in Climate Does a Mountain Guy In

These dozen creatures are threatened by global warming.

Scientists say Nebraska's wild prairies could become the Western Hemisphere's largest sandbox in as few as 30 years.

Check out Katie Herrel's author page.