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Backpacking advice from explorer Andrew Skurka

Here’s what the world’s best-known long‑distance hiker, Andrew Skurka, can teach you about leading your Scouts on a day hike—or a 100-miler.

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Scouters’ advice on how to encourage slower hikers

What do you do when a Scout is struggling during a group hike? Scouters’ share their tried-and-true tips on encouraging a slower hiker.

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A Scouter’s guide to teaching Leave No Trace ethics

Old school or not, any Scouter can—and should—get up to speed by learning, practicing, and teaching Leave No Trace behaviors. Here’s how.

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Hiking North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Consisting of 70,447 acres of rugged topography, of which nearly half is designated wilderness, Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers some of the best national park solitude south of Alaska. More than 100 miles of hiking trails wind through the park’s three units.

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Go farther, faster with these ultralight essentials

Today, the “fast and light” fringe has morphed with the mainstream. Camping and backpacking products from most major companies now stress light weight. Stoves and sleeping bags can measure scant ounces on a scale. Two-person tents today weigh in at around two pounds—poles included—and pack down to bread-loaf size.

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Merit Badge Clinic: Take a Hike

Tips for teaching your Scouts about the real destination.

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Trail Tips: Walk on the Wild Side

ISLE ROYALE NATIONAL PARK is like no other park in the United States. Located in Lake Superior’s northwest corner, the park has no roads leading to it. Nor do any exist anywhere on the island. That’s because more than 98 percent of the land in Isle Royale is designated wilderness.

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Fitress: Prepare to Hike

You’ll have a better outing if your body’s not aching.

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Trail Tips: Better Than a 10

Where to find clear spring water, abundant wildlife, and fascinating side hikes year-round on Missouri’s Eleven Point River.

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Let’s Hit the Trail

An Illinois pack’s monthly hiking program helps younger boys become more confident and comfortable outdoors, making for an easier transition to Boy Scouting.

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