Explore the majestic beauty of Alabama’s state parks with our guide to the best outdoor adventures in the state! From fishing, kayaking, and hiking, to camping and wildlife viewing, there’s something for everyone in these stunning parks. But with 21 parks spanning the entire state, it can be hard to narrow down your choices. That’s…
When it comes to hiking, orange markers are an important safety tool used to help hikers stay on the right path and avoid getting lost. These markers, also called blazes, can be found throughout the trail, usually at regular intervals, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes – and even colors (they…
Hiking boots are obviously essential for any regular hiker, and are designed to protect your feet and keep them comfortable on the trail. But why do so many hiking boots have red laces? Are they for protection? Comfort? The truth is, red laces serve both a practical and a symbolic (and traditional) purpose. From a…
Utah is home to some of the most stunning state parks (and national parks) in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a rugged hike or a relaxing lakeside stroll, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state. With so many amazing choices, it can be hard to decide which state parks are the best…
Tennessee is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse state parks in the country. From lush forests to cascading waterfalls, there are plenty of stunning sites to explore. So if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, here are some of the best state parks in Tennessee that you won’t want to miss. From…
Hiking is a great way to get out and explore nature, but it can also leave you feeling exhausted and with a few extra pounds. From the extra water weight to post-hike snacks, there are a few potential explanations for why you might weigh more after a day on the trails. In this article, we’ll…
Hiking backpacks come in bright colors for a variety of reasons. The most obvious is visibility. Hikers want to be seen in the wilderness, particularly in areas with wild animals or other potential hazards. Bright colors make it easier for other people to spot the hiker from a distance and for the hiker to spot…
Before I hiked the mist trail a few years ago, I was curious about how many steps would be involved in the hike. After all – the mist trail is well-known for its unforgiving granite staircase that seemingly lasts a lifetime. Well, according to the NPS, the infamous granite staircase has over 600 steps. But…
So, I wanted to kind of go against the grain a bit with this article (but I mean, this site is all about helping people make informed decisions about hiking). Sure, there are some amazing benefits to this activity, but there are also a few drawbacks (and some that can actually be downright dangerous) that…
If you’ve been hiking long enough, you may be familiar with various styles of hiking boots. Chances are you’ve seen hooks either on your own hiking boots, on the feet of your hiking buddies, or just on the shelves while looking for your perfect boot. These are called eyelets or speed hooks, and they’re one of…
