Hiking and Backpacking Tips and Articles
Check out MountainZone's hiking section to improve your outdoor skills and knowledge. Whether you're looking to learn new backpacking skills, get the low down on hiking gear, or brush up on safety, you've come to the right spot. Our collection of how-to articles will help keep your hiking skills sharp, and keep you on the trail for miles to come. Our articles are written by hiking experts and knowledgable enthusiasts who share your passion for backpacking, day hiking, or just gettingout for a stroll in the park. So the next time you're looking for info on how to break in new hiking boots, plan a hike, or take a trip to the Sierra Nevada mountains, look to MountainZone.
Handheld GPS units, as a rule, are tough devices designed for outdoor use. Most units are water resistant and can stand a quick dunk in a creek or the occasional jolt when you lose your g...
As a general rule, your food should be hung at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the tree trunk, but check local requirements.
In high-use areas, you are likely to find a nice little bridge to help you cross a stream, but the farther you advance into the backcountry, the more likely it is you’re going to have to ...
The best time to go shopping for boots is in the afternoon or evening. Why? As we walk around during the day, our feet tend to swell, ending up larger than they were in the morning.
A good pair of hiking boots can make or break a hike. When buying your hiking boots you need to make sure that they fit right by trying them on and making sure that they feel comfortable ...
Blisters can ruin a great hike. Blisters can be very painful and if you aren't properly equipped, you might have a very painful hike back to your starting point. Read the simple steps bel...
Whether you're heading to the White Mountain National Forest for a day hike or you're on the final leg of an Appalachian Trail thru-hike, chances are you'll encounter a park ranger along ...
Access to Mount Whitney by hikers is limited and permits are required from May 1 through November 1 of every year. Permits are issued first through a lottery, and then on a first-come, fi...
There is much enjoyment in leading a hike if you're experienced. Besides doing what you enjoy on a regular basis you also get to share it with those that have a common interest. The parti...
When you take to the wilderness for an afternoon, day or month-long hike, it's important to be prepared. You may never use your first aid kit, but the first time someone requires medical ...
John Muir, pictured on the 2005 California quarter, explored the Sierra Nevada Mountains and wrote essays, letters and books telling of his adventures in the wild and expanding his visi...
Preparation is crucial in hiking. Whether you're out for a weekend hike or a week-long trip, you never know what you might encounter. Assemble a hiking survival kit to place in your pac...
Most vacationers visit the Grand Canyon in warm weather months, but here's a chance to see one of the most spectacular sites on Earth-and not be bothered by big crowds. Bear in mind the...
Besides being a pest, these bloodsuckers can transmit serious and sometimes fatal diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Take the following precautions before h...
You've run out of water on your hike or backpacking trip. What to do? Here's how to find some liquid while you're getting your bearings to hike out or waiting to be rescued. You should ...
Insect bites are a drawback to hiking. You may not be able to eliminate them completely, but here are some steps you can take to prevent them. Difficulty: Moderately Easy Steps ...
