Insta-relaxation move: Lace up your shoes and head out for a hike. It’s one of the best mini vacations you can take. “No matter how far you’re going, the pace, the weather, the trail— there is always ...

In his latest book, The Joy of Hiking: Hiking the Trailmaster Way, author and hiking enthusiast, John McKinney reveals how you can get the most out of your time on the trail. Larry talks with John ...

I’m pleased to return to the Independent, covering outdoor recreation and resuming the column I wrote for a number of years. Thanks to the new ownership and management for inviting me back. If you’re ...

Second only to gear, food is the most difficult thing for backpackers to get right. Follow these recommendations on amounts, types, and overnight storage to avoid learning the hard way. My experience ...

"It's going to be a hard route. It's vertical at times." I smiled, thinking these locals were exaggerating, trying to scare off a tourist as they described a trail that was less than 1.5 miles up ...