Its not the mileage, inclines, or creepy crawlies that can scare off new backpackers fastest — its the cost of gear. The hefty price tag associated with collecting backpacking equipment is a reasonable hesitation. Its also hard to know if you love overnight backpacking without the gear to try it first. 　　Thats why Near Zero launched its backpacking gear rental...

　　It was somewhere around the third or fourth storm on the tenth day of my first attempt at the Colorado Trail that I began to question my sanity. 　　I was drenched nearly to my internal organs, my pack probably five or 500 pounds heavier than before the sky began throwing its endless tantrum. So much hail had come down over...

　　Jack Jones was not a cheat-code kid. 　　When he played computer games like World of Warcraft or EverQuest, Jones always wanted to know about the next level, where the struggles and the stakes would both be a bit higher. This characteristic hasnt changed. Jones, now 38, is better known as Quadzilla, a hiking powerhouse famous not only for the gams...

　　Even in 2025, innovation continues to drive new advances in outdoor gear. The latest bike helmet from POC already has the top spot in a universitys helmet testing program, while highly technical brands like Mountain Equipment continue to make mummy bags lighter and warmer. 　　Not too long ago, it would be hard to find something as specific as the Astrals...

　　Montana Knife Company is at it again. Tonight’s tactical knife drop is definitely shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of the year. If youre the type who appreciates blades built with purpose, forged in the grit of Montana, and tested by those who live the lifestyle, then this little launch just might be for you. 　　At...

　　Guide services for Mount Everest and other Nepalese 8,000m peaks have confirmed that new measures that make a Sherpa guide compulsory will not kick in before September at the earliest. Unsupported (or solo) climbers can now proceed as planned for the 2025 season. This is a relief, as climbers plan far in advance for any expedition to this area and...

　　Arches National Park posted an alert on its website on March 23, announcing that the Fiery Furnace would be closed to visitors for the foreseeable future. 　　No ranger-led tours nor self-guided permits will be issued until further notice, read the park closure alert. We look forward to offering these services soon. 　　The closure is due to reduced staffing at the...

　　Last year, a friend of mine, who is a nutritionist, recommended that I try drinking bone broth to help optimize my performance. I didnt think too much of it at the time, as guzzling the stock made from animal bones didnt sound all that appetizing to me, especially before or after a big workout. 　　I tabled the advice and didn’t think...

　　REI Co-ops bestselling Half Dome tent line hits a midlife milestone this year. For 45 years, Half Dome tents have evolved with technological advances and design input from Co-op members. 　　In celebration, REI released an anniversary-specific design for its signature tent, the Half Dome 2. The entire Half Dome collection received technical upgrades that REI claims add more headspace volume,...

　　DJI Osmo Action 4: 30% Off 　　 　　(Photo/Nathan Mitka) In our GJ review, contributor Nate Mitka wrote that the DJI Osmo Action 4s large sensor size, stabilization, and ease of use make it an impressive contender for the best action camera. 　　Now you can snag one for 30% through Amazons Spring Sale, bringing the price down to a reasonable $210....

　　Backcountry skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling are inherently dangerous sports. As someone who spends a lot of time enjoying these activities, lowering my risk exposure is incredibly important. In my perspective, reducing risk can be done in a few ways, including conservative decision-making and investing in safety equipment. That includes avalanche airbag ski backpacks. 　　In the past decade, avalanche airbags have...

　　It’s a spring day at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort when I click into the Atomic Maven 94 CTI at the top of Bridger Gondola. The sun has barely kissed the slopes, and the corduroy is crisp and untouched. I drop over the edge of the flats onto the slope and carve my first snowy arc of the day. 　　I slice...