You might not guess it, but Little Rock, Arkansas, is a playground for hikers looking for quick access to great trails. Here are a few of our favorites.

America is in the midst of a protein craze, with manufacturers stuffing it into everything from snack foods to baked goods. A Backpacker and SKI editor taste-tested the strangest products to make it to shelves.

Thru-hikers are the harbingers of gear trends in the backpacking world. Here's what was hot this season.

The 300-mile Tiltrock Loop showcases Pennsylvania’s wild forests and rugged ridgelines

Of the 69 jackets we tested, only 8 kept our testers dry after a season of abuse.

The Mountain State is launching a statewide network of waterfall trails that access its most incredible cascades.

It’s not as wild as backpacking, and not quite as comfortable as staying in a cabin. But with easy trail access and built-in amenities, a teardrop trailer may be the best solution for hikers looking for a little luxury.

Don't wait until it's too late: These are the best spots to see some of the West and Midwest's most colorful trees while they're still popping.

Take a hike back in time on trails that explore ancient cultural, spiritual, and historic sites.

From DIY gear to smart substitutions to time-saving tips, these are the best tricks our writers and editors have to offer.

The AT's shelters are facing a sustainability problem. Here's what the future of camping on the long trail may look like.

The Xteink X3 Pocket E-Reader makes your library ultralight. Is it worth it?

Ultralight and packed with nutrients, this breakfast deserves a place in your bear canister.

After testing 34 bags, these nine rose to the top of the ranks.

Deadly flash floods destroyed trails and critical water infrastructure across the Grand Canyon. Officials say hikers can still visit, but they’ll need to adjust their plans.

The 300-mile Tiltrock Loop showcases Pennsylvania’s wild forests and rugged ridgelines

Gyrotonic and gyrokinesis are exercise methods that were initially developed to help dancers recover from injury. Here's how hikers can benefit.

Ryan George, 19, died after falling near Illilouette Falls, the second fatal incident involving a young Yosemite visitor and a waterfall this summer.

Feel like you've been seeing spiders everywhere on your fall hikes? It's not just your imagination. But don't hang up your boots for the season just yet.

Backpacker meets up with Colorado's Summit County Search and Rescue Group to check out a new technology that is making a big difference in the field

Struggle to fit a week's worth of food into a bear canister? This dietician-created menu packs in the calories while keeping volume low.

Backpack, a 1,000-pound male grizzly, is a bear who would rather chill in his regular spot on the Brooks River than brawl with his neighbors. In 2026, we could all learn something from him.

You just lost your last excuse to pay full price: Get the good stuff for cheap at these iconic used gear shops.

Estimates from the Colorado Fourteeners Initiative show that the state's highest peaks saw fewer hiker days in 2025 than in any other years since tracking began.

Deadly flash floods destroyed trails and critical water infrastructure across the Grand Canyon. Officials say hikers can still visit, but they’ll need to adjust their plans.

The 300-mile Tiltrock Loop showcases Pennsylvania’s wild forests and rugged ridgelines

Backpack, a 1,000-pound male grizzly, is a bear who would rather chill in his regular spot on the Brooks River than brawl with his neighbors. In 2026, we could all learn something from him.

This line of minimalist footwear gives hikers a barefoot-like experience with trail-ready traction, protection, and durability

Wyoming's Teton Crest Trail, Cirque of the Towers, and Titcomb Basin all have something unique to offer hikers—but if I had to choose one to do again, there's a clear winner.

Choose your fall campsite carefully for a more restful night and a better day on the trail.

Ready for jacket season? You will be with this versatile combo of puffy and rain shell.

Hikers who tackle the Larapinta Trail will contend with desert heat, rocky climbs, and wildlife galore. But from hidden oases to ancient stories, the payoffs are even bigger.

Ryan George, 19, died after falling near Illilouette Falls, the second fatal incident involving a young Yosemite visitor and a waterfall this summer.