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Where Do You Need a Bear Canister on the PCT?

Where Do You Need a Bear Canister on the PCT?

Bear canisters are required to keep your food secure — and, more importantly, to prevent bears from becoming habituated to human food — on several sections of the Pacific Crest...

Apr 17, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Appalachian Trail Conservancy Head Sandi Marra Announces Retirement

Appalachian Trail Conservancy Head Sandi Marra Announces Retirement

Sandra (Sandi) Marra, who has served as President and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) since July 2019, has announced her retirement. Her departure will take effect in January...

Apr 16, 2025 : Katie Jackson
These Are the Worst Sections of the Appalachian Trail, According to Thru-Hikers

These Are the Worst Sections of the Appalachian Trail, According to Thru-Hikers

In our recent 2024 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey, respondents didn’t hold back when naming the sections that left them less than impressed. While many parts of the AT are loved...

Apr 15, 2025 : Katie Jackson
“I’m Falling!” Harrowing Video Shows PCT Hiker’s Rescue From Eroding Cliff Face Near Whitewater, CA

“I’m Falling!” Harrowing Video Shows PCT Hiker’s Rescue From Eroding Cliff Face Near Whitewater, CA

A Pacific Crest Trail hiker near Whitewater, CA found herself in a harrowing situation recently when she slipped and fell partway down a steep cliff. Footage released on Monday by...

Apr 15, 2025 : Kelly Floro
This Subscription Will Cover Your Rescue Expenses if You Hit SOS

This Subscription Will Cover Your Rescue Expenses if You Hit SOS

I spend a lot of time in the backcountry, which prompts the need for a reliable plan if things go wrong. While I've always carried a satellite emergency device on...

Apr 14, 2025 : Katie Jackson
“Signing That Letter Was a Mistake”: REI Retracts Endorsement of Controversial Trump Cabinet Pick

“Signing That Letter Was a Mistake”: REI Retracts Endorsement of Controversial Trump Cabinet Pick

Three months after controversially endorsing former North Dakota governor Doug Burgum for Secretary of the Interior, REI is backtracking. "We shouldn’t have signed a letter of support for the

Apr 14, 2025 : Katie Jackson
The Camino de Costa Rica with Maytal “Carrot Top” Agasi (BPR #301)

The Camino de Costa Rica with Maytal “Carrot Top” Agasi (BPR #301)

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we’re joined by Maytal Agasi, known on trail as Carrot Top. In this episode,...

Apr 14, 2025 : Backpacker Radio
10 Ways the Appalachian Trail Has Changed in the Last 10 Years

10 Ways the Appalachian Trail Has Changed in the Last 10 Years

Times change, but the Appalachian Trail always stays the same … or does it? For hikers, the white blazes can feel like the one constant in an unpredictable world, a...

Apr 14, 2025 : Kelly Floro
Public Health Scare Impacts Popular Town on PCT

Public Health Scare Impacts Popular Town on PCT

The Eastern Sierra Nevada region of California — an iconic segment of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) — is now at the center of a serious public health alert. Mono...

Apr 10, 2025 : Katie Jackson
Lawmakers Are Considering Selling Off America’s Public Lands: Here’s What You Can Do

Lawmakers Are Considering Selling Off America’s Public Lands: Here’s What You Can Do

A recently introduced budget amendment that would have blocked the sale of public lands has failed in the Senate, marking a setback for conservation and outdoor recreation advocates. The measure...

Apr 10, 2025 : Katie Jackson