Whether you're solo or with a group, the BACKPACKER editors show you how to safely cross a raging river–no bridge necessary.

Prevent the deep chill by learning how to spot and treat hypothermia in the backcountry.

Learn to make basics tools with what you can find in the backcountry.

Find your way using only a topo map and a GPS.

Learn how to deal with a black bear or grizzly encounter with Shannon Davis and Ted the Bear.

Have a puddle of putrid water--or nothing to drink besides your own pee? Drop Dead Ted shows you how to build a backcountry solar still that'll make pure water out of just about anything wet.

Editor-in-Chief Jon Dorn shows you how to get a fire going with nothing but your cellphone, a piece of steel wool, and some tinder.