Early Morning vs. Evening Hikes: Beating the Heat Safely
1. The Allure of Hiking at Sunrise and SunsetThere’s something magical about hitting the trail when most folks are still in bed or winding down for the day. Early morning…
Posted inLeave No Trace Principles Hiking Basics
Leave No Trace Principle 6: How to Be Considerate of Other Visitors on U.S. Trails
1. Understanding Leave No Trace Principle 6When you lace up your hiking boots and hit a U.S. trail, youre joining a long tradition of outdoor adventure that spans wild mountain…
Smart Packing: How Much Water Should You Carry for Different Hikes?
1. Why Water Matters on the TrailWhen you’re setting out for a hike—whether it’s a quick loop through your local state park or a full-day trek into the backcountry—water is…
Breaking Boundaries: Women Who Redefined Hiking Culture in the U.S.
1. Setting the Scene: The Evolution of American HikingImagine the U.S. wilderness at sunrise, mist curling over endless ridgelines and ancient pines. Hiking has long been a way Americans connect…
Training and Conditioning to Minimize Altitude Sickness Before Big U.S. Hikes
1. Understanding Altitude SicknessWhat Is Altitude Sickness?Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), happens when your body struggles to adjust to lower oxygen levels at higher elevations. If…
Backpacking Food 101: Balancing Weight, Taste, and Nutrition on the Trail
1. The Basics of Backpacking NutritionWhen you hit the trail, your body’s needs shift into high gear. Backpacking isnt just a stroll—its a full-body workout, hour after hour, day after…
Future Directions: How the U.S. Hiking Community is Shaping Environmental Advocacy for Decades to Come
1. Building a Culture of Stewardship on the TrailsThe Roots of Respect: Leave No Trace Across AmericaAcross the United States, hikers are more than just visitors on a trail—they’re caretakers…
Balancing Access and Environmental Impact: The Role of Permits in Leave No Trace Principles
Introduction to Leave No Trace and Public LandsWhen we set out on a mountain trail, gaze across a high desert plateau, or relax beside a crystal-clear alpine lake, we are…