Hiking downhill is often taken for granted. In the minds of some, it represents the equivalent of “backcountry gravy”; the reward that follows the exertion of a challenging ascent. Yet hiking downhill takes its toll. Twists, slips and tumbles are most likely to happen while descending and no other type of hiking causes more wear and […]
Hiking is one of the few things in this world that can be enjoyed by almost everyone and will work wonders for your mind, body and soul, be it through fresh air, exercise or the breath-taking views that you come across on your travels. Unlike many hobbies, there’s a reassuring lack of rules and regulations, […]
“The civilized man has built a coach, but has lost the use of his feet.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Self-Reliance,” 1841 One of the things I love most about hiking is the simplicity. One foot in front of the other. Everything you need in the world on your back. Wake up with the sun. Go […]
Learn if you’re a Hiker or a Trekker: A Beginner’s Guide By Kristina Kristina is a Lithuania-based, London-educated writer who loves going on adrenaline-filled adventures as much as writing about them. Hiking and trekking, two activities that most adventurers deeply enjoy. The two terms are used online interchangeably, as though it’s the same thing. But is […]
While it may seem obvious that a good hike through a forest or up a mountain can cleanse your mind, body, and soul, science is now discovering that hiking can actually change your brain… for the better! Hiking in Nature Can Stop Negative, Obsessive Thoughts Aside from the almost instant feeling of calm and contentment that accompanies […]
When we talk about going hiking, there’s a lot of chatter about “being prepared”. But what exactly does that mean? What should we do to prepare before we hike? Over the years I’ve developed a bit of a routine of things I do before a hike. Keeping this simple checklist in mind makes sure that […]
Women make awesome backpackers because we’re well-equipped biologically and physically: We’re built for endurance, have high pain tolerance, store fat better than men, are stronger in the hips (which is great for carrying packs), and are more in tune with our bodies so we know when to rest. And, women excel at creating community on […]
Backpack Capacity Backpack Features Backpack Fit Planning to buy a new pack for the backcountry? There are three main areas where you’ll need to make choices: Backpack capacity: The size pack you’ll need is tied to the length of your trip and how much weight and bulk you want to carry. Backpack features: These are the refinements […]
There is no universal blueprint as to how you should backpack. We all have our own motivations, needs and levels of experience. That being said, one thing upon which everyone can agree is that hiking is substantially easier and more enjoyable, if your pack doesn’t weigh the proverbial tonne. Here are 14 telltale signs that […]
“Never walk alone” is a refrain most commonly heard from Park Rangers, Liverpool football (soccer) fans and Rodgers and Hammerstein aficionados the world over. In so much as it relates to hiking, it can be considered sound advice for beginners and/or experienced hikers venturing into unfamiliar conditions. However, it should not be taken as a universal blueprint. Whether […]