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The Editors

We are the word nerds of The Trek who want nothing more than to infuse some hiking and backpacking joy into your day.

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Hikers Share Their Trail Names and the Stories Behind Them

Hikers Share Their Trail Names and the Stories Behind Them

Who doesn't love a good trail name story? No one knows exactly how the tradition of taking a trail name first came about, but it is undoubtedly one

Apr 22, 2025 : The Editors
Best Backpacking Meals of 2025

Best Backpacking Meals of 2025

Before I started thru-hiking, I imagined spending my time on trail exploring the meaning of life. What I actually ended up contemplating most

Mar 25, 2025 : The Editors
The Best Fleece Midlayers for Backpacking in 2025

The Best Fleece Midlayers for Backpacking in 2025

A decent midlayer fleece jacket should be a staple in every hiker's backpack. The best hiking fleeces provide a much-needed boost in lightweight

Mar 4, 2025 : The Editors
The Best Backpacking Stoves for Thru-Hiking in 2025

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

Feb 27, 2025 : The Editors
The Best Backpacking Rain Jackets for Thru-Hiking in 2025

The Best Backpacking Rain Jackets for Thru-Hiking in 2025

Your rain jacket may not be the most thrilling piece of your backpacking kit, but it's pretty darn important. Sure, it might stay stuffed in your

Feb 20, 2025 : The Editors
The Best Backpacking Headlamps for Thru-Hiking in 2025

The Best Backpacking Headlamps for Thru-Hiking in 2025

Your headlamp might be tiny, but chances are it's one of the most crucial pieces of gear you own. Whether you're a consummate night hiker or you just

Feb 20, 2025 : The Editors
Best Synthetic Jackets for Backpacking of 2025

Best Synthetic Jackets for Backpacking of 2025

While down insulation still owns the field for thru-hiking jackets, synthetic-filled layers are making a dent in the category. As synthetic

Feb 13, 2025 : The Editors
Best Down Jackets for Backpacking of 2025

Best Down Jackets for Backpacking of 2025

Your insulating midlayer is a key component of your backpacking setup, and rarely should you hit the trail without an insulation layer wedged in your

Feb 13, 2025 : The Editors
The Best Hiking Shoes for Thru-Hiking in 2025

The Best Hiking Shoes for Thru-Hiking in 2025

Think of your hiking shoes as an investment in your future happiness. Choosing the right pair can mean the difference between success and failure on

Feb 6, 2025 : The Editors
The Best Trail Runners for Thru-Hiking in 2025

The Best Trail Runners for Thru-Hiking in 2025

Are you planning a long-distance backpacking trip? If so, it’s essential that you choose the best trail runners for thru-hiking (if trail runners are

Feb 6, 2025 : The Editors