how to thru-hike

We spoke with skiers in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and above to learn some of the secrets to staying in shape for skiing into old age.

We use our experience thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail to share tips on how to get to, and go home from, the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

Wondering how to stay warm when camping or backpacking in colder weather? Follow these tips from our expert staff to stay warm at camp, whether it's fall, winter, or at high elevation.

We use our experience thru-hiking the Continental Divide Trail to share logistics and tips on how to get to, and go home from the northern CDT terminus (also the Pacific Northwest Trail eastern terminus and Great Divide Trail southern terminus)

Learn how to fix a leaky backpacking sleeping pad or camping mattress with this video and our step-by-step instructions, including field repairs, home repairs, warranties, and what tools you’ll need.

Learn a physiotherapist’s injury-prevention strategies for early in a thru-hike

How to deal with pain on a hike with recovery strategies for hikers, backpackers, and thru-hikers. Prevent injury and get back on the trail faster. Recommendations from a physical therapist.

Ways to prevent and reduce hiking and backpacking injuries with simple changes to your gear kit. Foot, Achilles, arch, heel, hip, shoulder, and back pain fixes by swapping out shoes, backpacks, and sleeping pads.

Learn how to prepare for a safe and fun snowshoeing trip with this comprehensive guide – from choosing the right gear to essential snowshoeing tips

4 Thru-hikers share what they eat on a backpacking trail. Meal planning, resupply, dehydrated recipes, stoves and cold soaking for omni, vegetarian, and vegans

An Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail thru-hiker shares tips on how to support a thru-hiker. Find out how to be a good support system and take on this responsibility with confidence.

NEW: Video recording of the live event with panelists! Five thru-hikers age 60+ share advice on gear, training, nutrition, injury, recovery and motivation to get you inspired to backpack a long trail

You're likely in the best shape of your life after a thru hike. Heather Anderson, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and FKT record holder, tells us how she keeps that fitness.

What's the best way to train for a thru hike? We asked National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and FKT record holder, Heather Anderson, how she does it.

3 thru-hikers share tips for resupply, nutrition, meeting dietary restrictions, box and grocery store refueling on long distance trails

The top reasons to use hiking poles as backed by science and pro backpackers include hiking faster, balance, stability, and protecting joints and knees.

Now with Video recording! Financially savvy thru-hikers share tips on saving up for a hike, budgeting for the trail, and careers for hiking multiple trails

Safety tips for first-time thru hikers and long-distance hikers, backpackers new to distance hiking, and experienced thru-hikers tackling a new kind of trail

Learn how to hitchhike with tips from thru hikers, including how to prep for your hitchhike, how to increase your odds of getting picked up, and more.

Safety tips for crossing rivers and creeks while hiking and backpacking

Six LGBTQIA+ thru-hikers share advice on motivation, safety, and being queer outdoors to get you inspired to backpack a long trail.

Almost every hiker gets a blister and sore feet eventually. Here are our best tips on preventative foot care, which include wearing well-fitted shoes and socks, taking breaks, and more. Here’s how to take care of your feet while hiking.

Risk assessment and decision making tips and advice for backpackers in a high snow year on the PCT, JMT, or CDT in the Sierra and San Juan mountains for group travel

A panel of Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Trail and Continental Divide Trail thru-hikers who backpacked in big snow years share their tips on gear, safety, planning, and morale

Tips, gear, and safety for thru-hiking in a high snow year on the PCT, JMT, or CDT in the Sierra and San Juan mountains, as recommended by a wilderness pro