March 2012 TOC

Adventure Travel 2012
Stop dreaming, start hiking. From a close-to-home trek on America’s newest long trail to an epic Himalayan trek, we’ve scouted the most affordable, exotic, and exciting trips on the planet.

Nepal
Everest Confidential
Everyone wants to trek to the world’s highest mountain, which makes Everest basecamp Nepal’s busiest hike. But you can see the Himalayan giants without the crowds on the Three Passes route, a high-altitude tour de force that cross three saddles more than 17,000 feet high. By Justin Nyberg

New Zealand
Died and Gone to New Zealand
Can’t decide which epic to tackle in the world’s adventure mecca? Sample the best with our month-long plan for
hiking, paddling, camping, and biking the North and South Islands. By Jonathan Dorn and Michael Lanza

Canada
The Big Empty
Explore rarely seen corners of the world’s second-largest country by foot, canoe, and crampon. From Newfoundland’s fjordlike coastal cliffs to British Columbia’s rainforest and skyscraping peaks, we found some of the planet’s wildest places. By Steve Howe

Switzerland
Around the Alps in 90 Days
As Mark Twain famously said, Switzerland would be a mighty big place if it was ironed flat. Our longtime contributing editor learned just how big on a 1,400-mile circumnavigation of this alpine kingdom. By John Harlin

United States
America’s Newest Long Trail
Find plenty of raw adventure close to home—passport not required—on the Pacific Northwest Trail. Our trailblazer pinpoints the finest two-week stretch between Glacier National Park and the Pacific. By Barney Scout Mann

Israel
The Jesus Trail
Two millenia ago, a young preacher trekked from Nazareth to the Sea of Galilee, spreading a message that would change history. Now hikers can retrace the journey on a 40-mile route that literally follows in His footsteps. By Dennis Lewon

SKILLS
Travel Like a Pro
Daunted by the details? Here’s how to smooth the road less traveled. Guides and other experts share tips for packing, scouting routes, saving money, and staying healthy. By Abbey Smith

GEAR
Tested: World-Ready Equipment
Get outfitted for far-flung adventure with hard-duty luggage, versatile hiking shirts, and solar chargers. Plus: a light-and-large tent for solo travelers, a versatile stove, and go-anywhere apparel and footwear.