Hike smarter, enjoy it more
The gear gets you to the trailhead; know-how makes the trip. This is the practical side of hiking — how to plan and behave on the trail, stay safe when conditions turn, tread lightly, and fix your kit when something breaks miles from the car.
Dos, Don’ts & Safety
Hiking dos and don’ts 15 rules for a safer, better hike — planning, packing, etiquette and the beginner mistakes to skip. Read The Ten Essentialsin the checklist tool The ten categories of gear that keep a day hike from becoming an emergency. Read Leave No Trace, explained The seven principles, in plain language, for trails that stay good for everyone. Read Hiking in rain, heat & cold Reading the forecast and dressing for conditions that turn quickly. Read
Skills & DIY
Fix a backpack on the trail A five-item repair kit and field fixes for buckles, zippers, straps and frames. Read Adjust your pack for a perfect fitfit guide The order to tighten straps so the weight rides on your hips, not your shoulders. Read Waterproof your pack & gear Liners, covers and dry bags — keeping the important things dry. Read Knots every hiker should know A handful of knots for pitching, hanging food and jury-rigging repairs. Read
We’re growing this section over time — more safety, skills and DIY guides are on the way. In the meantime, the planning tools and fit & packing guides cover a lot of ground.