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Don’t Let an Injury Derail Your Thru-Hike: These 18 Simple Exercises Can Make You a Better Hiker
I've been asked countless times how I've trained in preparation for my thru-hikes. The answer is a little complicated — I've never created a routine with the intent of training...
Best Backpacking Gear Deals of the Week (2.28.25)
Happy Friday! I'm back with another round of killer deals for backpackers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're gearing up for a thru-hike, training for your next race, or getting...
The Best Backpacking Stoves for Thru-Hiking in 2025
There's nothing quite like the simple luxury of a hot meal after a grueling day on trail. It's one of those things that make us love thru-hiking despite the aches...
I Thru-Hiked the PCT in the Snowiest Year on Record: Here’s What You Need to Know About Navigating PCT Snow
There's always a good amount of fear mongering when it comes to navigating early-season snow on the PCT, but a continuous thru-hike is possible even in the snowiest conditions if...
An Inside Look at One of the First PCT Thru-Hikes in History: Stolen Packs, Near-Death Experiences, and Life-changing Adventure
Today’s PCT thru-hikers have a wealth of resources at their disposal — trail towns that cater to long-distance hikers, dedicated trail angels, GPS navigation, up-to-date water reports, and an entire
Best Trekking Poles for Backpacking in 2025
Have you ever been hunched over while climbing up a steep trail, with your hands looking for somewhere to rest? Inevitably, when I don't have trekking poles, my hands end...
7 Safer Smartwater Bottle Alternatives That Are Actually Practical for Thru-Hikers
Over the past few years, we've all been forced to slowly confront the fact that our Smartwater bottles — while the perfect size, weight, and rigidity for thru-hiking— are actively...
Dog Mushing, 20+ Years in the Navy, and the Triple Crown with Ben “Ginger Ballz” Vaughan (BPR #294)
In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek and brought to you by Topo Athletic, we’re joined by Ben Vaughan, known on trail as Ginger Ballz. Ben is...
Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 Trail Shoe Review
I began my thru-hiking career (Colorado Trail, 2015) in Hoka’s Mafate Speed, which was extra cushy, incredibly tough and astonishingly lightweight. Alas, some 861 miles into my 2016 Appalachian
Trump Administration Partially Reverses National Park Layoff Decision
Days after enacting mass layoffs that alarmed conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts, the Trump administration has reversed course, reinstating thousands of seasonal positions within the National