The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that are ideal for hiking. Some mountain ranges not only impress, but also leave an indelible impression. The Dolomites are one of those rare places. The Dolomites, a vast alpine landscape of jagged limestone spires, soaring cliffs, high mountain plateaus, and deep glacial valleys, rise dramatically from northern Italy as a UNESCO …

Overview The Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most evocative landscapes, a place where terraced hillsides descend toward a winding river and centuries of wine tradition shape both scenery and life. Seen from the trail, the valley feels layered and timeless. Stone villages line the ridges, vineyard terraces rumble down the slopes, and the river glistens far below as it …

The popularity of hiking among adults and children was declining prior to COVID-19. However, during the pandemic, its popularity has increased, with significantly more people using trails than usual. Not only is hiking a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, but it also has many positive effects on one’s physical and mental health. There are many ways that …

Bottom Line The Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2 All-Season Tent appears to be a natural progression from a tent we have relied on for a long time. Mountain Hardwear essentially took the classic Mineral King architecture, with its two doors, dual vestibules, pre-bent poles, generous pockets, and simple setup, and rebuilt it with cold-weather priorities in mind. The result is …

This marked my second effort to reach Mera Peak. The initial journey to Mera Peak did not meet my expectations. Back in 2022, I trekked the Machame route on Kilimanjaro for seven days. Despite enduring headaches from the third day onward and feeling nauseous on the night of the summit, I managed to complete the Kilimanjaro hike and return safely, though it was quite challenging. Reflecting on it now, I regret not opting for Ian’s eight-day Lemosho route plan. Often, we must learn from our own errors. Acclimatization is Essential for Achievement For both Kilimanjaro and Mera, I put considerable effort into my training. The differentiator was my focus on interval training, but I’ve come to realize that without …

Overview While the Counter Assault Bear Keg may not be the easiest to transport due to its bulk and weight, it excels in terms of protection, endurance, and reliability. After spending multiple nights testing bear canisters in heavily populated bear regions, we have consistently enjoyed restful nights knowing our food was secure with the Bearkeg. The striking yellow color allows for easy visibility from a distance, while bears are unable to see the tempting food inside. The three-way keylock mechanism, which requires a coin for access, is not something bears appreciate. Inside, there is ample space to store a week’s supply of food, making both packing and unpacking straightforward. It can also double as a camp stool, although the dome-shaped top may not provide the …

It’s no wonder the Grand Canyon is among the most visited national parks in the country. The scenery is breathtaking. But how do you choose the best day hike in the Grand Canyon when there are plenty of trails that descend deep into the canyon and some stunning rim trails with expansive vistas? This guide highlights some of our favorite …

From the Seven Rila Lakes to the mysterious Pirin Peaks, Bulgaria has some of the best hiking trails. Unique mountain adventures, scenic routes, and insider information are waiting! If you crave raw mountain beauty, enchanting forests, and adventure off the beaten path, Bulgaria is your next hiking paradise. This Balkan gem boasts some of Europe’s most diverse and thrilling trails …

The Everest Base Camp trek was one of the best experiences of my life. It was not an easy challenge; personally as an amateur trekker, trekking to Everest Base Camp was one of the toughest physical and mental challenges I have completed. However, nothing worthwhile is simple, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. Ian Taylor Trekking, their itinerary, and …

With responsibilities, relationships, expectations, and a version of myself that I had long outgrown, my life felt like a constant negotiation. I carried it all because I believed that perseverance meant strength, that staying meant loyalty, and that the price of passion was simply chaos. However, the weight of it all eventually dulled my days and crowded my thoughts. The …