Everything I Wish I Knew Before Hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park
Jamie Aranoff, digital editor of SKI, recounts her family’s 9‑mile hike through Zion’s Narrows, highlighting the cool, shaded canyon’s appeal during a heat wave. She notes that the trek is more demanding than it appears, with strong currents, no canyon toilets, and the need for specialized gear. The article outlines practical tips—checking water conditions, using neoprene booties, packing waste in WAG bags, and bringing trekking poles. Seasonal closures and flash‑flood risks further underscore the importance of preparation before heading into the iconic slot canyon.
The West Coast Snow Map Is Bleeding Red—And for PCT Hikers, That Means Trouble
The 2024 West Coast snowpack is at historic lows, with the Klamath Basin at just 4% of its 30‑year median. Rapid melt leaves the Pacific Crest Trail with reduced water sources, earlier river peaks, and heightened wildfire danger. Hikers are...
Are You Tough Enough to Handle These 42 Hard Hikes?
Backpacker compiled a roundup of 42 of the nation’s toughest hikes, ranging from steep day‑trips to multi‑day thru‑routes. The list aggregates four previous guides, resulting in 47 entries, with the Cactus to Clouds Trail in Southern California emerging as the...