Stories

Plus 24 other round-the-campfire brain stumpers every nature buff should know.

The trails are lonely and the trout are always biting in this Inyo National Forest hideaway.

Tundra hiking in the shadow of Washington's ice-cloaked behemoth.

Look on the south sides of mountains to catch animals coming out in spring.

A 42-mile loop through America's version of the Black Forest.

The East Cactus Plain Wilderness brims with life and solitude. Just don't forget the water.

The ancient Uwharries have baffled geologists, but hikers know a good thing when they see it.

On its way from the Ohio to the Mississippi, Illinois' new River to River Trail takes you through a surprisingly wild side of the Corn Belt.

Smooth and easy hiking deep in the heart of Texas.

If the redwoods don't wow you, there's always the world-class California coastline.

Harriman/Bear Mountain State Park is only an hour from Manhattan, but you'll feel like you're worlds away.

Thirteen miles in the spectacular Sangre De Cristos.

Wilderness doesn't get much better, or higher, than Holy Cross.

Thrills and views by the minute on the Kinsman Ridge Trail.

South Carolina: A wealth of waterfalls and world-class swimming.

In a land with few trails, Alaska's Resurrection Pass stands above them all.

Quirky geology leads to even quirkier residents at Missouri's Hercules Glades.

A well-intentioned handout today could mean disaster for panhandling wildlife tomorrow.

Exploring the wilder, uncrowded reaches of our highest national park.

Explore Washington's storied old-growth forests plus an authentic ghost town.

A mysterious ravine, old-growth forest, and big climbs -- only at Mt. Greylock Reservation.

While the desert sizzles, Arizona's Kachina Peaks are cool and comfortable.

Challenge and a hint of risk are part and parcel in Ramseys Draft Wilderness.

Fifteen trails that'll take you from flaming maples to towering redwoods, with plenty of shimmering aspen in between.

Sierra scenery at L.A.'s backdoor.

A trek through the blast zone of a restless volcano raises questions about a father's legacy and a child's future.

Tackling the High Uintas Wilderness from the east offers big paybacks.

Go out at night for a whole new look into wilderness.

What makes those golf-ball-size lumps on trees? A tiny wasp with a lot of nerve.

Even though they eat boots and pack straps, there's newfound appreciation for porcupines.

The mountain lion is the only North American predator that occasionally stalks humans. Do you have anything to fear?

Big South Fork provides Utah-quality arches in Tennessee.

On their own and with help from the government, wolves are reclaiming their former range. Should you worry?

Hiking in grizzly territory requires preparation, respect, and a clear head. A little luck doesn't hurt, either.