Mother Nature Network

Here are 11 hiking-friendly national parks and the 10 essential items that any hiker will need.

America’s national parks are full of beauty and natural wonders, but they’re also home to many things that can strike fear in the hearts of hesitant hikers: dark caverns, wild animals and complete isolation. For the most part, there’s nothing to fear, but if you’re looking to add a little spooky spice to your next outdoor adventure, check out these eight parks.
8 creepiest places in national parks

Classic American hiking trails

America’s national parks are full of beauty and natural wonders, but they’re also home to many things that can strike fear in the hearts of hesitant hikers: dark caverns, wild animals and complete isolation. For the most part, there’s nothing to fear, but if you’re looking to add a little spooky spice to your next outdoor adventure, check out these 10 parks. Local legends, historic hauntings and creepy creatures make these national parks the perfect places for Halloween hikes.
8 creepiest places in U.S. national parks

For most urban dwellers, running involves a game of chicken involving driveways, street crossings and the occasional bike rider. So it’s no surprise that many runners head for nature to enjoy lush vegetation, fresh air or scenic mountain views. If you prefer wildlife over wild drivers, here are seven running trails across the United States that offer happier trails.
7 of the best running trails in America

There’s something so refreshing about cracking open a cold one at the end of a long hike or unwinding by the campfire with a glass of wine as the sun sets. But as every backpacker knows, bringing alcohol out on the trail has one obvious downside — and it’s not a potential hangover in the wilderness. It’s weight. Hardcore backpackers may scoff at the idea of weighing down their packs with alcohol, but if you have your heart set on campsite cocktails, check out our helpful guide to backpacking with booze.
Creative ways to backpack with booze

Every avid hiker has a list of favorite trails. Most people who walk in natural areas regularly have a personal connection with the paths they choose to tread regularly. This makes it difficult to create any sort of universal “top 10” or “best of” list of hiking destinations. That said, certain trails in the U.S. enjoy a high profile because of their overall length, remoteness, amazing scenery or historical significance.
Classic American hiking trails

Spring is here, summer is on its way, and many people are dusting off their tents and getting ready to head into the great outdoors. Eco-friendly camping may seem a bit redundant — after all, what’s greener than getting back to nature and spending a weekend in the woods? But not all campers are as green as they could be. Here are 10 environmental camping tips that will help you truly abide by the leave-no-trace principles.
10 ways to green your camping trip