Summer vacations are a fantastic time to relax, reconnect with family, and create memories. Summer is also a popular time to travel; however, planning a family vacation may be difficult, especially if your family members are of all ages and interests.

Spending time in nature is an innately human experience and, for many, provides the therapeutic experience of feeling free. Free of restraints, free of anxieties, free of expectations - simply a breath of fresh air and the chance to connect with ourselves more deeply. While we believe nature to be a unifier in its purest form, we also understand that the outdoor industry does not feel like a safe haven for everyone.

Summer has officially begun, and if you haven't already, it's time to make adventure plans! As summer continues and temperatures remain high, alpine lakes often provide amazing views, dazzling displays of wildflowers, and towering rock formations.

When summer rolls around, many outdoor enthusiasts jump at the opportunity to spend their time outside in the sun. When it comes to hiking, hot weather can be the perfect opportunity to hit the trails, but also can pose a threat to staying cool, or even safe. To help you make the most of the summer sun, we've come up with a list of how to stay cool on the trails.

Summer is a great time to visit Iceland! You'll not only be able to take advantage of the longest days of the year and the warmest weather, but you'll also experience Iceland's rich bird life, trek on glaciers, and see the vivid colorful environment without being weighed down by heavy, warm layers of clothing. There are a few things that may be unavailable during the summer, usually ice-related such as ice cave excursions, but there are plenty of activities that you may enjoy like powerful cascading waterfalls, horse riding, self-driving tours, and puffin watching trips. However, some activities are exclusive to Icelandic summers, like summer festivals.

Glamping is a combination of luxury and camping; it is camping with a twist. While a simple tent and sleeping bag may suffice in most camping cases, glamping usually entails additional comfort, such as a real mattress, running water, and a toilet (oftentimes a compost toilet). Plus, the canvas material that glamping tents are usually made from is much heavier duty than a typical camping tent, giving you better protection from outdoor weather.

When hiking at a high altitude, the air contains less oxygen, making it more difficult to breathe. This is why some hikers will say the air is “thin.” Because of this added strain on the body when exercising at altitude, there is specific training needed in order to achieve optimal performance and safety on the trail.

There are seven main Kilimanjaro routes available for climbing Africa's highest mountain. To pick the ideal Kilimanjaro route for you, consider the landscape, difficulty, foot traffic, and altitude acclimatization qualities of the route. We've compiled this guide to the top Kili routes so you can make the most of your time on the mountain.

Whether you're just getting started with your summer adventure list or are already summiting peaks, thoughtful packing is crucial for a successful climb. Packing for a mountain climbing trip is a fine balance between ensuring you have everything you need, and avoiding unnecessary weight. To help find the perfect balance, we've put together a list of common items required for most mountaineering trips.

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, which means a thoughtful gift is in store! This year we are celebrating adventurous moms to encourage and support their contagious spirit of exploration. We’ve rounded up 13 thoughtful gift ideas for adventurous moms, AND we’re even offering an opportunity to win them all! Just enter your email here for a chance to win our Mother’s Day bundle, a $1,500 value.

Today's GPS watches can do a lot more than just tell the time; they can measure your location, height, route, and even your heart rate and calories burned. Though there are many bells and whistles that can be fun additions, GPS watches can also serve as a safety tool for navigating remote terrain.

Hikers come in a variety of shapes and sizes; yet, the industry does not proportionately address this diverse community. From the slim models used in marketing campaigns to the limited sizing options available, the plus-size exclusion is widespread in the outdoor adventure scene. In the U.S., the average female wears a size 16, and the average male wears a size 16-18 However, most outdoor apparel companies only produce clothing up to these sizes, not beyond, leaving large numbers of the outdoor community without adequate access to outdoor apparel.

Choosing the right food to bring on a hike can help you feel amazing and ready to conquer any terrain, whether you're taking a brief afternoon trek or planning a week-long hiking trip. But what makes a good day hiking snack? We’re going to quickly go over what makes a balanced hiking snack, and then we’ll give you a few of our favorites that both satisfy cravings and give you the nutrition you need.

Costa Rica is well known for its incredible biodiversity, wide protected areas, and tropical weather. It is home to lush jungles, active volcanoes, raging rivers, breathtaking waterfalls, and thriving cities.

Yoga is widely known for its wonderful benefits for both the body and mind. Yoga provides well-rounded movements that build strength, increase flexibility, and train the cardiovascular system. . The practice of yoga, like hiking, teaches presence and is an integral element of a holistic health routine for many.

Hiking solo provides numerous benefits to your physical and emotional wellbeing. It's a fantastic opportunity to explore new places, reconnect with your inner world, and feel empowered in your own capabilities. With few spaces in modern life that truly feel free, the solace of the trail can be incredibly healing.

Nothing is more frustrating than reaching the summit of a long, steep climb under the sun only to realize your water bottle is empty. Staying well hydrated while on the trail is essential for maintaining optimal athletic performance, as well as safety! Dehydration can lead to serious complications, including urinary and kidney problems, heat stroke, and seizures.

Utah is renowned as one of the most beautiful states in the US. It is home to 5 spectacular national parks known as the Mighty Five: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion.

Patagonia can feel like a difficult place to visit due to the required planning and logistics. We've put together this guide to help you know what to keep in mind when planning your trip!

Mountaineering expeditions are more physically demanding than typical hiking trips and involve added risk due to altitude, exposure, terrain, and weather. That’s why every climber must make all necessary preparations, including purchasing needed mountaineering equipment and gear ahead of time. The appropriate equipment is crucial to getting you to the summit and back safely. Faulty or insufficient mountaineering clothing and equipment can lead to unfortunate incidents and can be the difference between life and death in some circumstances.

A first-aid kit is one of the most important items among the 10 Essentials you should always bring when headed out on the trail. It is not intended to carry everything you could possibly need; rather, it should carry items that address common hiker maladies until you can make it back to your vehicle. While you can buy ready-made first-aid kits in stores, we recommend customizing them or even making your own. This ensures that you are familiar with its contents and have a basic understanding of how to use what is in it.

March is Women’s History Month and we want to shine the spotlight on passionate women who have overcome challenges and obstacles to pave the way for all to follow. This is the time of year to promote, support, and discover all the awesome women-led businesses around us.

If you haven't yet experienced any of these breathtaking Sedona hikes, it's time to change that! Spring is an excellent time to visit Sedona, Arizona, which is about 2 hours north of Phoenix and only 45 minutes south of Flagstaff. In fact, spring is one of the best times to visit the area, and enjoy some of the best Sedona hikes. The ideal warm-weather season begins in March and lasts until at least May.

It’s important to prepare for the worst but hope for the best which is why hikers and adventurers should have what’s known as the Ten Hiking Gear Essentials in their packs. Having these can make the difference between going home or not.

Knowing important wildlife safety tips about what to do if you come into contact with wild animals will help keep you and the animals safe.

This Laugavegur trail guide is a must-have for anyone planning a trip to Iceland. We've compiled everything you need to know to have a fantastic trip in one place, so you can be confident that you've covered all the basics.

In Alaska, the fun doesn’t stop when the temps drop! Alaska in February can be a surreal, full-on winter experience. The beauty of winter in Alaska is unrivaled. Imagine: gorgeous white snow blanketing the countryside, quiet dark nights with the northern lights dancing overhead, and cozy nights in front of the fireplace with a warm drink.

Adventuring with kids looks different for every family, but the benefit of fresh air, active movement, and time spent together is universal! To make the most of your weekend adventure, we rounded up some tips for adventuring with kids!

Spring is the perfect time to travel and avoid the summer rush... and the hefty prices that come with it. A fantastic spring break getaway can help you cure the winter blues, without breaking the bank. We rounded up eight destinations that won’t empty your wallet.

Due to the Pandemic, most Inca Trail reservations for 2020 have been rescheduled for 2022 and beyond. This means that obtaining Inca Trail permits until 2023 is not going to be as easy as it used to be. If you're planning your own trip, you’ll need to know which hike you want to do before arriving, since there are multiple ways to experience this splendor and all will need reservations made in advance. Not sure what to choose? We got you covered! Here are 5 ways to hike Machu Picchu.

Spending time in outdoors makes us more conscious of everything around us and how important it is for us to cherish and protect it. It is critical to be mindful of our environmental impact as we start on new adventures. Here are some ways how to be more sustainable while exploring outdoors

Washington State has some of the best hikes in the country, and that’s no exception when it comes to winter! To help you adventure this winter, we’ve put together a list of our favorite winter hikes in Washington.

Utah has thousands of trails to explore, but the endless list makes it difficult to narrow down how to spend your time here. So to help you out, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best hikes in Utah!

With the right clothing and gear, you can enjoy your favorite hiking trails all year round! In this post, we’ll go over the basics of layering, important tips, and discuss the winter hiking gear you’ll need. 

There are so many fun things to do in Costa Rica, from zip lining across dense jungle to surfing along the beach breaks. In this blog, we're sharing the 10 best things to do in Costa Rica!

Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of the Incas or wandering through the Amazon, there’s endless activities for a traveler in Peru. In this blog, we’re sharing the 10 best things to do in Peru.

Just because snow starts to fall, it doesn’t mean the adventure needs to stop! One of the best hiking gear purchases we’ve ever made over the years has been microspikes.

Yellowstone in Winter is magical! In this blog, we’re sharing everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone in winter, including how to access the park, where to stay, and what to do. 

Maui offers great hiking, from leisurely coastal paths to more challenging volcanic, rainforest, and mountain terrain. Keep reading to learn about some of the best hikes in Maui.

If you’re a hiker and a dog owner, then you and your furry companion are likely going to be great trail buddies. Hiking with a dog is lots of fun, but is also work, and requires the right preparation! In this blog, we’re sharing everything you need to know about hiking with dogs.

Zion National Park is considered one of the most scenic canyons in the United States, featuring high plateaus, a maze of sandstone canyons and waterfalls with colorful hanging gardens. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Zion National Park.

With over half a million acres to explore, Joshua Tree is a desert treasure with plenty of hiking trails. Here are some of the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park.

Acadia National Park is an east coast gem, and with nearly 47,000 acres to explore, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Acadia National Park in the fall is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s packed with scenic drives, thrilling hiking trails, and is famous for its colorful foliage.

It is never a bad time to plan a trip to Colorado, but Fall might be the best. Once Autumn hits, hikers from around the world flock to the state to witness its famously colorful foliage. There are so many places to go it can be hard to choose just one.

Camping is an excellent stepping stone into nature that can be as challenging or relaxing as you want. The key to having a good time is having the right gear, and the best place to start is with an awesome tent! In this article, we’re going to cover everything you need to know when picking the best tent for your family, including capacity, seasonality, material, and weight. Read to the end to see our list of the best family camping tents.

Moab, Utah is a destination built for adventure! There’s no shortage of things to do in Moab, and this blog covers 10 activities you’ll absolutely love.

If you’re looking for something new and challenging, look no further than Death Valley National Park. This national park offers amazing views, rich history, and a unique trail system!

Adventuring in bear country can be intimidating, especially if it’s new to you. It’s essential you know how to use your bear spray.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous treks in South America and is considered by many to be a top-five trek in the world. This 26-mile trail takes you over the peaks of the Andes, through lush forests, and along ancient Inca paved pathways.

Artist Point at Mt. Baker is one of the best viewpoints in all of Washington State. It offers gorgeous views of mountains, lakes, foliage, and wildlife. Tucked away, just outside the Mt. Baker ski area, this scenic stopping point has been a hotspot for hikers and snowshoers for years.

Have you been thinking about trying hiking? Day hikes can be a great way to get into the sport without over-exerting yourself the first time.

Mountain biking is a great way to combine exercise and the outdoors. While relatively young, the mountain biking scene has exploded in recent years and is now more accessible than ever.

There are plenty of things to do in Redwood National Park such as relax by a waterfall, see beautiful rhododendrons, and of course, hike to giant 300 foot, old-growth redwoods. Grab your hiking boots, backpack and keep reading to discover the ten best hikes in Redwood National Park!

Car camping is easy as pulling off the side of a road for a little shut eye, but the right supplies will mean the difference between back pain and that sun-is-shining free feeling. Here are our are favorite car camping essentials.

Whether you’re into panoramic views, raging waterfalls, or rarely seen wildlife, you’re sure to find something you'll love on our list of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.

With two marinas, over one million acres, and breathtaking scenery there is much to get lost in at Lake Powell. Keep reading to learn of seven fun things to do in Lake Powell!

As the weather heats up and we start heading for the water, it's the perfect time to pick up kayaking. Here's everything you need to know about kayaking for beginners.

Utah has some amazing scenery to explore, hoodoos included! Here are the best hikes in Bryce Canyon.

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago in Washington known for world-class whale watching, kayaking, biking, hiking, farm-to-table dining, and more. Here are some of the best things to do on the islands.

If you want to go camping, but hate the crowds, or can’t ever manage to get a campground reservation, dispersed camping might be for you! We're breaking down everything you need to know about it.

This magical town nestled right in the foothills is the perfect spot to visit for a weekend away. There’s loads to do all year round, so keep on reading for fun things to do in Leavenworth! 

Thinking about getting into backpacking? We're sharing everything you need to know to hit the trails this summer.

At Olympic National Park you can hike peaks with views of Canada, through a real rainforest, on beautiful beaches, and more! Here are some of the best hikes in Olympic National Park.

With blue lakes, 26 glaciers, alpine meadows, 700 miles of trails, and abundant wildlife, there’s lots to do at Glacier National Park. Here are some of the best hikes!

Grand Teton National Park has 235 miles of hiking trails. So, no matter your skill level, there’s a way to experience these jagged mountain peaks! Here are the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park.

With mountain peaks, alpine lakes, hiking trails, rivers, resorts, and hot springs, there’s no shortage of fun outdoor activities in the Sawtooth Mountains.

Colorado has an endless supply of great hiking trails, but here are some of the best.

Here's everything you need to now about stand up paddle boards, from what to look for to some of our favorite spots to paddle.

From marshy yellow skunk cabbage to rarer glacier lilies, you can find spring and summer wildflowers all over the state of Washington. Here are some of the best trails for viewing the blooms!

New to hiking or looking to get started? We’re sharing our seven essential hiking tips for beginners!

Camping this summer? Here are the best national park campsites in the Unites States to reserve!

What less out-of-town visitors know about is the vast, open landscape that is the Las Vegas Valley. Here are the 8 best Las Vegas hiking trails. 

Not too far east of Portland, Oregon lies Mt. Hood, Oregon’s highest point, and the fourth highest point in the Cascade Mountain Range. Here are some of the best hikes in the area.

Our founder, Preeti, is a mom to her own little adventurer and she shares what her favorite kids hiking gear is.

From accessible trails to a stunning backcountry to crystal caves, there's something for everyone at Sequoia National Park.

North Cascades National Park is a gorgeous place filled with mountain peaks, stunning landscapes, and picturesque lakes. Here is the North Cascade hiking you need to do.

With so many hiking boots on the market, it can be hard to know which pair is right for you. That’s why we’ve broken down everything you need to consider before making a purchase, plus sharing some of the best hiking boots for women and men. 

Lake Tahoe is known for its clear, blue waters and array of recreational activities. From skiing to hiking to paddle boarding, keep on reading for the best things to do in Lake Tahoe.

There's a lot of information about gear out there, but we’ve got you covered! In this blog we share the basic hiking gear for women, plus some of the specialty gear that you may need for inclement weather.

There are all sorts of different options for camping in Death Valley National Park, from bringing your RV to a tent in the backcountry. Here's what you need to know.

In one of the nation’s most famous National Parks, you’ll find towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, scenic vistas, and amazing landscapes. Here are some of the top Yosemite hikes.

RyAnn, a mountaineer and mama from the PNW, recently joined us to discuss her tricks of the trade when it comes to taking her littles on adventures.

Mt. Shasta is a majestic mountain in California that dominates the Siskiyou skyline. Here are of the best hikes in the area!

There are seven leave no trace principles that provide an easily understood framework on how to minimize your impact on nature.

We’re breaking down some of the best hikes in Washington State that are great from March to May.

Ever look at the mountains and think how great it would be to hike around them or even climb them? With a bit of motivation, dedication, and persistence, you can get up there too! We talked recently with Carl Swedberg of Pro Sports Club on how you can train for hiking, do harder hikes, or even climb mountains.

Every mountaineer has started out as a beginner mountaineer. That's why we're sharing the basics for how to get into mountaineering.

Camping and backpacking are the perfect way to make summer feel like summer. In this camping and backpacking guide, we'll be covering everything from how to pick a location to safety on the trail.

We’re delighted that so many of you enjoyed our recent Feature Friday event covering Nepal! Our local guides Dipak and Chet did a fantastic job discussing our trips and common questions. But if you missed the event, don’t fret! We’ve put all the information right here to answer all your Nepal gear, trekking, and destination questions.

Wish you could adventure in the mountains all year, but are deterred by winter and snow? Even if you’re not a skier or snowboarder, you can still hit the trails by snowshoeing! Any hiker can easily snowshoe. These floatation devices, used for centuries, spread your weight over a larger area and let you walk over the snow without sinking. Strap on a pair and don’t let the cold keep you indoors this winter!

Sometimes, mountains save lives. It's no secret climbing is inherently dangerous. But it can also be a lifeline, a way to stay grounded and focused, to remember what's important in life, to challenge us to be our best selves. Before McKenzie Johnson could conquer high peaks, she had to conquer an addiction to alcohol.

If you are one of those hikers who has waited forever for it to stop raining or for a clear weather day to get outside, read on.

Finding the right climbing partner is critical. It has to be someone you trust with your life, someone with whom you can communite, someone you want to share the highs and lows. Ellie Briggs, 38, found her perfect partner 7 1/2 years ago -- a Siberian husky she named Loki Eddison. Since then, the adorably bad ass dog has become the first to climb all 58 of Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks and the first service dog to summit 14,411-foot Mount Rainier in Washington state.

Ask any seasoned hiker what the most worthwhile treks in the world are and you'll get a different answer. But ask enough times and you'll start to see some of the same trails popping up again and again. Our top picks require lots of preparation, sturdy legs, strong lungs and a decent dose of determination. Who is ready to get their walk on?

There's something about golden larch trees dotted across high mountain slopes and encircling frigid alpine lakes that lures hikers in.  For just a few weeks each fall, hundreds in Washington state go hunting for the deciduous conifers in an experience affectionately dubbed the "Larch March."  The window shifts every year but your best bet is usually late September to mid-October. That's when larch needles turn a fiery yellow before dropping and going out in a blaze of gold.