Meet Force of Nature Dr. Rosaly Lopes Shelby Gonzalez|June 8, 2018 A senior NASA volcanologist who has studied geologic activity on every continent and whose research could one day help us detect extraterrestrial life in space, Dr. Rosaly Lopes is a true Force of Nature—an influential woman scientist whose work leads her beyond the walls of the laboratory and into the outdoors.
Rare Fireflies Mesmerize Thousands in North Carolina and Tennessee Graham Averill|June 7, 2018 Your standard firefly serves as a wonderful hallmark of summer in the South, but Western North Carolina has a corner on two species of fireflies that are downright miraculous.
19 National Recreation Trails Designated in 17 States Aer Parris|June 7, 2018 Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke designated 19 new national recreation trails. These newly designated trails are in 17 different states and add more than 370 miles to the national recreation trails system.
Starting Anew: Eagle Creek Fire Raises Questions About Future of Forests, Hikes and Tourism in the Columbia River Gorge Matt Wastradowski|June 5, 2018 We explain the fire’s long-term impact, what to expect in the coming months and how the fire could lead to a new era in Oregon tourism.
Gear Review: Osprey Eja 58 Pack Shelby Carpenter|May 29, 2018 Backpackers looking to enjoy their time in the wilderness face a perennial question: What’s more important, having comfortable gear or lightweight gear? Osprey has finally created a lightweight, women-specific pack that maintains comfort for a range of load weights: the Osprey Eja 58.
10 Best Hikes Near Chicago Kristen Arendt|May 24, 2018 Don't let the big city feel of Chicago discourage you from exploring the hiking that the greater Chicago metro area has to offer. Check out these ten top hikes in the Chicago area to get started on your next adventure.
The Joys of Section Hiking Shawnté Salabert|May 22, 2018 Many backpackers dream of spending weeks—or even months—on trail. But most folks can’t swing the time commitment required to thru-hike classics like the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail and Continental Divide Trail. The solution? Learn to embrace the joys of section hiking.
New Backcountry Trail Opens in Hickory Nut Gorge Graham Averill|May 18, 2018 Weed Patch Mountain Trail is a brand new 8.6-mile (one way) romp through some of Hickory Nut Gorge’s wildest terrain, connecting Buffalo Creek Park, which already has a 3.5-mile mountain bike loop, with Eagle Rock, a climbing crag on the north side of Rumbling Bald Mountain inside Chimney Rock State Park.
Ibiza: Come for the Party, Stay for the Hiking Allison Yates|May 18, 2018 Known as the Party Capital of the World, Ibiza is home to hiking trails that run along beaches and meander through sleepy villages. Read our coverage to discover five beautiful hikes that will let you experience the natural beauty of this historic island that brims with biodiversity.
The History of the Backpack Aer Parris|May 17, 2018 This year marks our 80th anniversary. We’re celebrating by going back in time, to trace the history of the modern-day backpack, a history slightly older than we are.
How Much Does It Cost to Hike the Pacific Crest Trail? Ken Knapp|May 1, 2018 Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a major financial commitment. Get tips on how to create a budget that’s realistic for your thru-hike.
What Does It Take to Set a Fastest Known Time? Liz Thomas|April 27, 2018 Record-setting distance runner Jennifer Pharr Davis reveals the science and psychology of endurance running in her new book.
