Stories

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

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

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

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

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

Sierra scenery at L.A.'s backdoor.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

In this classic story from a 1977 issue of Backpacker, Abbey describes days of solitude in Mexico.