Opinion

We do need to prioritize the parks, but not among each other, writes former National Park Service Director Jonathan Jarvis.

National Parks may be America’s best idea, but we’ve created more preserves than we can take care of. It’s time to rightsize the system.

Hunters fund conservation through taxes and tag fees. As their numbers decline, it’s time for hikers to step up.

Use some elbow grease to give back to the land you love.

A new report from a UN committee says that one million species worldwide are threatened with extinction by humans. What does that mean for the wilderness experience?

The longest government shutdown in history reminded us how we can be better stewards of our national parks—and each other.

Cutting off of a muddy trail may seem harmless, but it has real consequences.

One reason we love backpacking is because it’s hard—but those lessons shouldn't end when we get back to the car.

Whatever you celebrate, do it up different.

Maples and aspens are nice, but you better look down if you want to see fall's best color show.

Do we need trail markers where they're not needed or wanted?

We all slip, trip, and fall. So what's with all the embarrassment?

Is playing music through a speaker while you hike considered noise pollution?

Do our wild places really need so much infrastructure? M. John Fayhee thinks they'd be better off without it.

Can you have too much of a good thing? Let’s pressure our pols to designate new parks.

Eliminating entrance fees probably won’t change the economics behind a park visit—but it just might change how we think and feel about the experience.

When it comes to backpacking destinations, Hells Canyon takes the cake.

More than 600 million acres. Mountains, forests, and plains. Canyons, coasts, and deserts. It’s the American birthright. And it’s at risk.

No, it's not allowed (or a good idea) everywhere. But find the right spot, and navigating off trail can open up the wilderness in a whole new way.

Hiking in the Instagram era gives your followers great memories, but can rob you of your own. Our scout takes a break from the social hamster wheel—and likes it.

Wild places can be a space for reflection and healing. By shrinking protected lands, writes Rob Vessels, Secretary Ryan Zinke is taking that from us.

The best way to leaf-peep is by boat—as long as you don't end up in court.