They’re a little quirky, a little unconventional, but hiking umbrellas have become a popular backpacking accessory in recent years. They’re especially handy on arid western trails, where hikers can walk miles in the burning sun with zero natural shade. An umbrella means you can make your own shade.

Hurricane Isaias is now expected to impact the Appalachian Trail in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is advising hikers to get off trail and postpone hiking plans until after the storm.  "Heavy rain, flash floods, and high winds are