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, […]
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 […]
Backpacking is an adventure that blends hiking with backcountry camping. It lets you broaden your horizons beyond the car campground to enjoy a richer, more immersive outdoor experience. A key distinction from day hiking is the size of your pack—your backpack (and you) must carry all of life’s essentials on your back. And you must choose those essentials […]
Here are 9 tips to help you keep you safe while hiking in Southern Arizona In an emergency, call 911 In the event of an emergency, call 911 or send someone to get help. Bring the essentials Ten essential items to carry on a hike: Navigation: map, compass, GPS Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, long sleeves […]
Get yourself ready for some hot weather hiking. For most destinations, summer is possibly the best time to get outdoors and go hiking. Clear, sunny skies and long daylight hours can all mean and amazingly full day on the trail. Unfortunately here in Australia summer can also feel like the worst possible time to go […]
When thru or section hiking a long-distance trail, backpackers regularly hitch into and out of towns for purposes of resupply and R&R. While there is obviously no surefire formula to hitchhiking success, there are certain tips and techniques that can help improve your odds while making your way to and from the trailhead: 1. Location, […]
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 […]
Across the road from the park visitor center (and Canyon Rim Trail) is Alcove Nature Trail. This track is set back from the canyon rim, which limits views of the great landscape. What this trail offers instead is an informative hike with numbered markers that coincide with entries in a guide booklet. The entries describe plants […]
Running Shoes VS Hiking Boots “If you want to forget all your other troubles, wear too tight shoes.” ~The Houghton Line I get asked about backpacking footwear all the time and the question is almost always the same. Hikers want to know if it’s really okay to backpack in running shoes and how light their […]