Backpacking and Covid in 2021: Are Shorter Thru-Hikes the Way of the (Near) Future?
With Covid-19 still an unavoidable part of US life, a Triple Crown trail might not be the best option. Remember, there are more options
Striving for a <10-Pound Base Weight: It's Not For Everyone
Hugh adds up what it would take to go ultralight, and decides it’s probably not for him.
Pandemic Complicates Trail Work, but Trail Organizations Adjust
Trash—and even human waste—piled up along hiking trails last summer as a rush of people sought refuge in the outdoors during the early months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Here’s how the trail organizations are adjusting.
Maggie’s Winter Recreation Apparel, Plus How to Layer for Each Sport
Maggie’s overview on the clothing she’s been wearing for winter hiking, running, classic cross-country skiing, and skate skiing. Plus, tips on how to layer for each sport.
National Parks Require Hikers to Wear Masks When Social Distancing Isn’t Possible
Hikers on national park trails who cannot maintain a safe distance from others will be required to wear masks under new guidance from the National Park Service.
The ATC Actively Discouraging 2021 AT Thru-Hikes
With health officials still advising limited crowds and avoiding recreational travel, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is actively discouraging 2021 thru-hikes.
Managing Anxiety in the Backcountry
Rebecca has lived with panic and anxiety disorders for almost 30 years. Here are her tools and techniques for keeping herself calm in the backcountry.
The People and Idea Behind Backpacking Routes
Here are the people behind Backpacking Routes. When they aren’t working from their couches with their cats nearby, they’re out on the trails they write about.
Tips for Hiking During Covid Times
As long as you follow guidelines and stay within your abilities, hiking locally and finding trails where you can be self sufficient is a reasonable pandemic activity.
Potential Protections and Reversals of Size Cuts for Grand Staircase and Bears Ears National Monuments
Reductions in size to the Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears National Monuments in southern Utah will be reviewed by the Biden administration amid a flurry of orders addressing the environment. In his first day in office on Jan. 20, President Joe Biden also moved to rejoin the Paris Agreement on Read more…