Category
Hiking
180 articles
Backcountry Skills
The Invisible Threat: Lyme Disease and How to Avoid it On the Trail
Lyme Disease is terrifying illness that can impact its victims long-term. Today, we know more about it than ever before, and still each year, more than 30,000 cases are reported to the CDC. Nowadays, doctors and scientists can diagnose the disease more confidently than in the past. However, before you go backpacking, know how to […]
1 min read · Sep 18, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
8 Hiking Hacks You Need to Try Now
Anyone who backpacks often knows that sometimes life along the trail can be a challenge. While the ups of being in the backcountry certainly outweigh the downs, anything that can make hiking just a little bit easier shouldn’t be overlooked. These hiking hacks will make your hike more enjoyable and more convenient by saving time, […]
1 min read · Sep 16, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
Hiking in Bear Country: Tips to Stay Safe
Hiking in bear country is something that most hikers will end up doing at some point in their travels. As exciting as it is to spot a bear, it can be a bit of a nerve-racking experience. The backcountry is filled with animals – some dangerous, some harmless – and one of the more common […]
1 min read · Sep 15, 2015 · Ian Campbell
Backcountry Destinations
Why British Columbia Should Be Your Next Backpacking Destination
British Columbia is a gold mine for backpackers. Surrounded by a rugged coastline on the Pacific and dozens of mountain ranges all around, it’s no wonder that this part of Canada holds so many surprises for the adventurous hiker; you just need to know where to look: The Glacial Lakes British Columbia has some of […]
1 min read · Sep 14, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
8 Lesser Known Health Benefits of the Backcountry
Besides being totally awesome, adventurous, and down-right fun, hiking in the backcountry is actually very healthy and has actually been proven to make you live longer. Hiking will not only make you into a more active person, but will actually contribute to positive changes in your health long-term. We all know that backpacking is good […]
1 min read · Sep 8, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
6 of the Prettiest Lakes in the US…and How to Get There
After a long hike in the great outdoors, it’s nice to be rewarded with a little something special. A reward for completing a hike means different things to each backpacker, but typically, seeing a gorgeous lake located in the middle of the wilderness does the trick. Most lakes in general are a pretty sight to […]
1 min read · Sep 3, 2015 · hanalarock
Backpacking
Hiking Boots for Every Type of Backpacker
Every backpacker needs a good pair of hiking boots just as much as a good backpack. However, finding boots that are comfortable, affordable, and appropriate for your feet as well as the terrain you’re going to be hiking, can be a challenge. Before you start looking, know your brands and stores. REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, […]
1 min read · Sep 1, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
How to Prepare for a Thru-Hike
Thru-hikes aren’t for beginners. These typically longer hikes need preparation both physically and mentally. Before jumping on the trail head, it’s important to start training yourself. Here’s how to start. Get in Shape Physical training is essential in order to get yourself fit. Develop a program with a good mix of cardio and weight lifting. […]
1 min read · Aug 29, 2015 · Ian Campbell
Backcountry Destinations
7 Romantic Backcountry Destinations
Backpacking and ‘romantic getaway’ don’t always go hand in hand. Usually, the exhausting hikes, dirty clothes, and the inability to take a shower or clean off can sometimes take away from the romance. Most couples might prefer to stay at a resort or lodge instead of pitching a tent. However, some of the most romantic […]
1 min read · Aug 27, 2015 · hanalarock
Backpacking
Hiking with Teens – The Pacific Northwest
While many people head to the backcountry regions of the US with a friend or a significant other, over the last few decades there have been more and more teenagers who try backpacking with hardly any experience. Some have never even left home before. Lauren Langer, a counselor for a summer program for teens looking […]
1 min read · Aug 25, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Destinations
Hike the Lewis and Clark Trail in These 5 ‘Expedition’ Stretches
The Lewis and Clark Expedition was the first of its kind to explore the Western Frontier of the United States after the Louisiana Purchase. Lewis and Clark began their journey 1804 near St. Louis from the Mississippi river, and continued until 1806 when they finally reached the Pacific Ocean. Their journey has sparked historical discussion, […]
1 min read · Aug 18, 2015 · hanalarock
Backcountry Skills
How to Improvise a Splint
Knowing how to improvise a splint can be an incredibly useful backcountry skill to know when hiking on your own or with a group. Accidents happen just as much, if not more, when you’re hiking with a group of your friends as they do when you’re walking around town so being prepared for one of […]
1 min read · Aug 17, 2015 · Ian Campbell