Even the most dedicated adventurers sometimes need a little push to get outside. These are the quotes we come back to when we're stuck at work wishing we were hiking. So get inspired, pull on your favorite pair of hiking socks and hit the trail!

In this post

• Quotes about adventure
• Quotes about mountains
• Quotes about nature and wilderness
• Quotes about getting outside
• Popular quotes that aren't what they seem
• FAQ

Quotes about adventure

1. Alfred North Whitehead

What good are all the comforts of modern life if you aren't having any fun? We have the most fun when we're outside.

"Without adventure civilization is in full decay."

Alfred North Whitehead

Source: Adventures of Ideas (1933)

2. Muriel Strode

We aren't recommending cutting switchbacks. The trail doesn't need to be new, just new to you. Practice Leave No Trace and go explore somewhere you've never been.

"I will not follow where the path may lead, but I will go where there is no path, and I will leave a trail."

Muriel Strode

Source: Her poem "Wind-Wafted Wild Flowers" in The Open Court (1903). This one is often credited to Ralph Waldo Emerson, but Strode wrote it.

3. Jean-Paul Sartre

We love adventure for its own sake, but we also love sharing our stories, because they get the people we love out on the trail too.

"For an occurrence to become an adventure, it is necessary and sufficient for one to recount it."

Jean-Paul Sartre

Source: Nausea (1938)

4. Jack Kerouac

If you're a fan of road trips and van life, there really is nowhere to go but everywhere.

"There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars."

Jack Kerouac

Source: On the Road (1957)

5. Jim Whittaker

Don't get too comfortable. Get out there on the edge and live an adventurous life.

"If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space."

Jim Whittaker

Source: Attributed to Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Everest (1963) and a fellow Seattleite

6. Roberto Assagioli

There's no certainty in life, but you can turn almost any situation into an adventure with the right approach.

"There is no certainty, there is only adventure."

Roberto Assagioli

Source: Attributed to the Italian psychiatrist Roberto Assagioli

Quotes about mountains

7. Anatoli Boukreev

You don't need to be religious to feel something spiritual in the mountains. For us, wild places bring peace and perspective.

"Mountains are not stadiums where I satisfy my ambition to achieve, they are the cathedrals where I practice my religion."

Anatoli Boukreev

Source: Attributed to the Kazakh mountaineer and Everest guide Anatoli Boukreev

8. William Blake

Every adventure brings home a sense of accomplishment we don't get anywhere else.

"Great things are done when men and mountains meet."

William Blake

Source: From William Blake's notebook verses

9. Vince Lombardi

Spring and early summer are the time to build toward your big goals. Shorter hikes now make the long ones possible later.

"The man on top of the mountain didn't fall there."

Vince Lombardi

Source: Commonly attributed to the football coach Vince Lombardi

10. Andy Rooney

We're only at the summit for a fraction of a hike. The miles getting there are where we make our best memories.

"Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it."

Andy Rooney

Source: Commonly attributed to the journalist Andy Rooney

11. Barry Finlay

Does a thru-hike or long backpacking trip feel out of reach? Start hiking. Every trip makes you stronger for the next one.

"Every mountaintop is within reach if you just keep climbing."

Barry Finlay

Source: Attributed to the Canadian author and Kilimanjaro climber Barry Finlay

12. Rusty Baillie

The mountains grade adventurers honestly, and for a true adventurer that's part of the appeal.

"In the mountains there are only two grades: you can either do it, or you can't."

Rusty Baillie

Source: Attributed to the climber Rusty Baillie

Quotes about nature and wilderness

13. Nancy Newhall

A few miles on the trail always seem to bring new perspective, especially when we're working through big decisions.

"The wilderness holds answers to questions man has not yet learned to ask."

Nancy Newhall

Source: This Is the American Earth (1960), with photographs by Ansel Adams

14. Gary Snyder

When we go backpacking, everything we need is in our pack, and wherever we pitch the tent feels like home.

"Nature is not a place to visit. It is home."

Gary Snyder

Source: Attributed to the poet and environmental writer Gary Snyder

15. Edward Abbey

We're lucky to have our national parks and wilderness areas. We can all help protect them.

"The idea of wilderness needs no defense, it only needs defenders."

Edward Abbey

Source: Attributed to Edward Abbey, author of Desert Solitaire

16. John Burroughs

Stress builds up over time. We always come home from a long, tiring hike feeling better.

"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order."

John Burroughs

Source: Attributed to the naturalist and essayist John Burroughs

17. William Wordsworth

Writers and poets find inspiration outside for the same reason hikers do. Nature teaches in quiet but powerful ways.

"Come forth into the light of things, let Nature be your teacher."

William Wordsworth

Source: His poem "The Tables Turned" (1798)

18. Henry David Thoreau

Some of our favorite hikes end at a lake. There's a good reason most trails lead to either a summit or the water.

"A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature."

Henry David Thoreau

Source: Walden (1854), "The Ponds"

19. Charles Kingsley

After a long week it's tempting to spend the weekend on the couch. We've never once regretted getting outside instead.

"Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful. Beauty is God's handwriting."

Charles Kingsley

Source: His 1848 essay "The National Gallery". It's often credited to Ralph Waldo Emerson, but Kingsley wrote it first.

Quotes about getting outside

20. Kurt Vonnegut

Some of the best adventures start with simply getting up and going.

"How beautiful it is to get up and go do something."

Kurt Vonnegut

Source: A 1996 interview with Inc. magazine

21. Buffalo Bill Cody

Buffalo Bill rode for the Pony Express as a teenager and spent his life on the trail. Today he'd probably be a thru-hiker.

"I could never resist the call of the trail."

Buffalo Bill Cody

Source: Attributed to William "Buffalo Bill" Cody

22. Robin Williams

When the wildflowers bloom, the backcountry looks decorated for a party, and a hike with friends is our idea of a good one.

"Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party!'"

Robin Williams

Source: Commonly attributed to the comedian Robin Williams

Which popular outdoor quotes are misattributed?

Some of the most shared outdoor quotes were never said by the person they're credited to.

• "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." Usually credited to Ralph Waldo Emerson. It's a reworded version of Muriel Strode's 1903 poem (#2 above).
• "Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful." Often credited to Emerson, but Charles Kingsley wrote it in 1848 (#19 above).
• "Climb that goddamn mountain." Credited to Jack Kerouac, but we couldn't find it in any of his books.
• "I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees." Credited to Henry David Thoreau, but we couldn't find it anywhere in his writing.
• "And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul." Credited to John Muir, but it was written on Tumblr in 2014. See more in our John Muir quotes post.

More outdoor quotes

• 15 inspiring John Muir quotes for hikers and backpackers
• Henry David Thoreau quotes that will inspire you to get outside
• 10 presidential quotes about nature in America
• Inspiring quotes from adventurous women

Frequently asked questions

What is a good short quote about adventure?

"Without adventure civilization is in full decay" by Alfred North Whitehead and "There is no certainty, there is only adventure," attributed to Roberto Assagioli, are two of our favorite short adventure quotes.

What is the most famous quote about hiking?

John Muir's "The mountains are calling and I must go," from an 1873 letter to his sister, is probably the most famous hiking quote of all time. You'll find it, and 14 more of his best, in our John Muir quotes post.

Did Ralph Waldo Emerson say "Go where there is no path and leave a trail"?

No. According to Quote Investigator, the line comes from Muriel Strode's 1903 poem "Wind-Wafted Wild Flowers": "I will not follow where the path may lead, but I will go where there is no path, and I will leave a trail." It wasn't linked to Emerson until the 1990s.

Did Jack Kerouac say "Climb that goddamn mountain"?

We couldn't find "Because in the end, you won't remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain" in any of Kerouac's books, and it's widely considered a misattribution. His real line from On the Road is "There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars."

Did Thoreau say "I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees"?

It's widely shared as a Thoreau quote, but we couldn't find it in Walden, his journals or his other writing. For real Thoreau, read our Henry David Thoreau quotes post.

Here's what actually makes a sock warm, plus seven simple ways to keep cold toes warm on winter hikes, at work and around town.

In this article

• What makes a sock warm?
• What is the warmest sock material?
• 7 ways to keep your toes warm in winter
• Which warm socks are best for hiking, work and everyday?
• When are cold toes a warning sign?
• FAQ

What makes a sock warm?

Socks don't create heat. They hold on to the heat your feet already make. Five things decide how well they do it:

• Fiber. Wool traps warm air and keeps insulating when damp. Cotton soaks up sweat and gets cold fast.
• Cushion. The looped terry padding knit into a sock holds pockets of warm air. More cushion means more warmth.
• Height. A taller sock covers more skin and seals the gap between your boot and your pants.
• Fit. A sock that's too thick for your boot gets crushed flat and squeezes your foot, which slows blood flow to your toes.
• Dryness. Feet sweat even in winter. Damp socks pull heat away from your skin much faster than dry ones.

What is the warmest sock material?

For active use, merino wool is the warmest practical choice. It stays warm when damp, breathes so your feet sweat less, and resists odor on multi-day trips. Here's how the common options compare:

A little nylon and spandex in a merino blend adds durability and keeps the sock snug, so it doesn't bunch or wear through at the heel. Want the full breakdown? Read why merino works in summer and winter.

7 ways to keep your toes warm in winter

1. Choose merino wool, not cotton

This is the single biggest upgrade. Cotton socks hold sweat against your skin, and wet cotton is cold cotton. Merino wool hiking socks move moisture away from your skin and keep insulating even when they're damp, so your feet stay warmer for longer.

2. Pick a cushioned sock

Medium or full cushion socks have terry loops all the way around the foot, which trap more warm air than thin socks. For cold-weather hiking, snowshoeing and long days in winter boots, medium cushion is the sweet spot between warmth and fit. Not sure which level you need? Our guide to ultralight vs light vs medium cushion socks explains each one.

Our warmest hiking sock

Merino Wool Hiking Sock, Medium Cushion

Cushioned throughout, crew height, knit in the USA. Rated 4.94/5 by 255 hikers. Also in women's sizing.

$24.99 Shop medium cushion →

3. Go taller: crew or over the calf

Ankle socks leave a cold gap where snow and wind get in. For winter, wear at least crew height. Over the calf socks are warmest of all because they cover your whole lower leg, and they're the right choice for ski boots, tall winter boots and deep snow. For skiing and snowboarding, see our guide to how to choose ski socks.

Over the calf · Snow days

Merino Wool Ski & Snowboard Sock, Medium Cushion

Full-length coverage and cushion for ski boots and tall winter boots. Also in women's sizing.

$20.99 Shop ski socks →

4. Don't overstuff your boots

It sounds backward, but the thickest sock isn't always the warmest. If your boots feel tight, a thick sock (or two pairs at once) gets crushed flat, loses its insulating air and squeezes your foot. That slows blood flow, and your toes get colder. You should be able to wiggle all five toes. If you can't, go one cushion level thinner or size up your winter boots.

5. Keep your feet dry

Wet feet are cold feet. Wear waterproof boots in snow and slush, add gaiters to keep snow out of your boot tops, and swap into a dry pair of socks at lunch on long days. On overnight trips, keep one pair just for camp and sleeping. Our guide to dealing with wet feet on the trail has more tips.

Best value · $20 a pair

Merino Wool Hiking Sock 3-Pack, Medium Cushion

One pair to wear, one drying and one dry pair for camp. Rated 4.92/5 by 108 hikers. Also in women's sizing.

$59.99 Shop the 3-pack →

6. Warm your core first

When your body gets cold, it protects your organs by sending less warm blood to your hands and feet. That's why your toes are often the first thing to go numb. A warm hat, an extra layer and regular snacks keep your core warm, so more warmth reaches your feet. Here are 11 more ways to stay warm on winter adventures.

7. Bring backup warmth

Pack a spare pair of socks in a zip bag, and keep chemical toe warmers handy for long breaks or sitting still in the cold. Stick toe warmers on the outside of your sock, not against bare skin. At camp, change into dry socks before you get cold, and keep tomorrow's pair in your sleeping bag so they're warm in the morning. If your toes start to go numb, stop, wiggle them and warm them up before you keep going.

Which warm socks are best for hiking, work and everyday?

When are cold toes a warning sign?

Cold toes are normal in winter, but some signs mean it's time to stop and warm up right away. Numbness, skin that turns white or grayish-yellow, or skin that feels hard or waxy can be early signs of frostbite, according to the Mayo Clinic. Get somewhere warm, remove wet socks and rewarm your feet gently. Don't rub them.

If your toes get painfully cold, numb or change color often, even indoors, talk to a doctor. Conditions like Raynaud's and poor circulation can cause it, and warm socks help but aren't a fix on their own.

Frequently asked questions

What are the warmest socks?

For active use, the warmest socks are cushioned merino wool socks at crew or over the calf height that fit your footwear without squeezing. Battery-heated socks give the most heat for sitting still in extreme cold, but they're bulky and need charging.

Is merino wool or alpaca warmer?

Both are very warm. Alpaca is often blended with other fibers because pure alpaca socks are less stretchy and less durable. Merino blends are the more practical choice for hiking and active wear because they stay snug, wick sweat and hold up to long days.

Are thicker socks always warmer?

Only if your boots have room for them. A thick sock in a tight boot gets crushed flat and squeezes your foot, which cuts circulation and makes your toes colder. Choose the warmest sock that still lets you wiggle your toes.

Should I wear two pairs of socks in winter?

Usually not. Two pairs often make boots too tight and trap sweat between layers. One well-fitting, cushioned merino sock is warmer for most people. A thin liner under a merino sock can help if your boots have extra room.

Do wool socks keep your feet warm when wet?

Yes. Wool keeps insulating when damp, which is why merino socks are the go-to for winter hiking. They aren't magic, though. Change into a dry pair as soon as you can.

Why are my feet always cold in winter boots?

The most common causes are sweaty or wet socks, cotton socks, boots that are too tight, and a cold core. Try a merino sock, make sure you can wiggle your toes, and add an extra layer up top.

Cutting your own tree is one of the best winter traditions there is. Here's everything you need to know, from permits and rules to picking, cutting and caring for your tree.

In this guide

• Can you cut your own Christmas tree in a national forest?
• How do you get a Christmas tree permit?
• What are the rules for cutting a Christmas tree?
• What do you need to cut down a Christmas tree?
• How do you choose the right tree?
• How do you cut down a Christmas tree?
• How do you get your tree home safely?
• How do you cut the trunk and care for the tree at home?
• Is a real Christmas tree right for you?
• FAQ

Can you cut your own Christmas tree in a national forest?

Yes. Many national forests sell Christmas tree permits each holiday season, usually starting in mid to late November and running until Christmas. A few things to know before you go:

• You need a permit for each tree, and most forests limit how many trees a household can cut.
• Each forest sets its own dates, prices and rules. Some forests or districts don't offer permits at all.
• National parks are different. Cutting trees in national parks isn't allowed, so make sure you're in a national forest area that's open for cutting.
• Fourth graders can often get a free tree. Through the Every Kid Outdoors program, many forests offer a free tree permit to fourth graders with a valid pass or voucher.

How do you get a Christmas tree permit?

1. Pick a national forest near you and check its website for this season's Christmas tree program.
2. Buy your permit online on Recreation.gov (a small service fee usually applies), or in person at a ranger district office or local vendor.
3. Download or pick up the map and guidelines. They show which areas are open and the rules for that forest.
4. Print your permit if required and bring it with you. Many forests require you to attach it to the tree before you move it.

Prices vary by forest. For example, Mt. Hood National Forest has charged $5 per tree, while Mendocino National Forest's 2026 permit is $10 per tree. Popular forests can sell out, so buy early.

What are the rules for cutting a Christmas tree?

Rules vary by forest, so always read your permit guidelines. Common rules include:

• Height limit: often 10 to 15 feet.
• Short stump: cut low and leave a stump no taller than the limit, often 3 to 6 inches.
• Distance from roads: don't cut within a set distance of roads, often 50 to 200 feet depending on the forest.
• Off-limits areas: no cutting in wilderness areas, campgrounds, recreation sites, on trails, in active timber sales or near streams and lakes.
• Choose from crowded stands: many forests ask you to take a tree growing close to others, not a lone tree in the open.
• Take the whole tree: don't cut the top out of a larger tree.
• Tag it: attach your permit before you move the tree and keep it on until you get home.

Just like packing out trash and staying out of closed areas, following these rules keeps the forest healthy for the next family.

What do you need to cut down a Christmas tree?

Searching for a tree means standing around, kneeling in snow and digging out trunks, which can make you colder than a normal winter hike. Pack:

• Your Christmas tree permit, map and guidelines
• A sharp handsaw or bow saw
• Work gloves
• A tape measure
• Warm, waterproof layers, a hat and wool socks
• Waterproof boots, plus snowshoes if there's deep snow
• Rope or straps to tie the tree to your car, and an old blanket or tarp to protect the roof
• A sled or rope for dragging the tree
• The 10 Essentials, including food, water, a headlamp and first aid. See our beginner's guide to the 10 Essentials.
• A thermos of something hot and your favorite holiday music for the drive

Also check road conditions with the ranger district before you go. Forest roads can be snowy or closed, and you may need four-wheel drive, snow tires or chains. For more on staying comfortable in the cold, read our tips for staying warm on winter adventures.

How do you choose the right tree?

• Measure first. Know your ceiling height and subtract the height of your stand and tree topper. Trees always look smaller in the forest than they do in your living room.
• Walk all the way around it. Check for fullness, bare spots, dead branches and a straight trunk that will fit your stand.
• Test the branches. Stiffer branches hold heavier ornaments better.
• Pick from a crowded stand. Taking a tree that's competing with its neighbors helps thin the forest.
• Enjoy the search. Part of the fun is seeing all the shapes and sizes. Take your time and mark a few favorites before you decide.

How do you cut down a Christmas tree?

1. Clear around the base. Brush away snow and lower branches so you can reach the trunk.
2. Plan where it will fall. Make sure the area is clear of people and that you have a safe place to stand.
3. Cut low and straight. Saw close to the ground so the stump is within your forest's height limit.
4. Use a helper. Have someone gently push the tree away from the cut so the saw doesn't bind in sappy wood.
5. Attach your permit to the tree right away, usually on a branch near the base where it's easy to see.

How do you get your tree home safely?

• Drag it trunk first. Tie a rope near the base and pull it with the sparsest side down to protect the side you'll show off.
• Protect your roof. Lay down a blanket or tarp before you load the tree.
• Point the trunk forward. With the base at the front of the car, wind pushes the branches closed instead of breaking them.
• Tie it down tightly. Strap it to roof rails or through the doors (not the windows), then give it a good shake to test it.

How do you cut the trunk and care for the tree at home?

Make a fresh, straight cut and get the tree into water quickly. The National Christmas Tree Association recommends removing about a half-inch disk from the base of the trunk, cut straight across. Most trees can still take up water if they go into the stand within six to eight hours of that cut.

• Use a big enough stand. A good rule is about one quart of water capacity per inch of trunk diameter.
• Keep the water above the cut. Check it daily, especially in the first week, when trees drink the most.
• Keep it away from heat. Fireplaces, heaters, vents and direct sun dry trees out quickly.
• Recycle it after the holidays. Many towns collect trees for mulch, compost or fish habitat.

Is a real Christmas tree right for you?

A real tree fills your home with the smell of the forest, but it's worth thinking through first:

• Allergies: if anyone has strong allergies, remember the tree will be indoors for a week or more.
• Needles: real trees shed, especially if they dry out. Regular watering helps a lot.
• Disposal: plan how you'll recycle or compost it when the season's over.

Our family tradition

My family has a collection of tree trunk rounds, each with a year written on it. Some are small and symmetrical, others awkward and lopsided. The ones roughly dated in pencil must have been busy years, and the neatly wood-burned ones look like peaceful years.

Driving into the mountains to cut our own tree has always been my favorite Christmas tradition. We grew to perfect the process, judging trees for our own living room and for the growing number of relatives who asked for real trees too. Grandma likes hers not too full, while Nana likes droopy branches, like the trees on vintage postcards. Each year we cut a little round off the trunk and add it to the collection.

Not long ago, for the first time, I went to the mountains with just my husband to find our first tree together, as my parents did years ago. Whether you do it once or make it a tradition of your own, I hope you get to escape into the forest and bring a real Christmas tree home this year.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a national forest Christmas tree permit cost?

It depends on the forest, but permits are usually inexpensive, often $5 to $10 per tree. Buying online through Recreation.gov typically adds a small service fee.

When can you cut a Christmas tree in a national forest?

Most forests sell permits from mid or late November through December. Exact dates vary by forest and can change with weather and road conditions, so check your forest's website.

Can you cut a Christmas tree in a national park?

No. Cutting trees isn't allowed in national parks. Christmas tree permits are offered by national forests and some other public lands, and each sets its own rules.

How tall can a national forest Christmas tree be?

Height limits vary by forest, commonly between 10 and 15 feet. Your permit guidelines list the maximum height, stump height and trunk diameter for that forest.

Can fourth graders get a free Christmas tree permit?

Often, yes. Through the Every Kid Outdoors program, many national forests offer fourth graders a free Christmas tree permit with a valid pass or voucher. Check your forest's page for how to redeem it.

What is the best way to cut a Christmas tree trunk?

In the forest, cut low and straight with a sharp handsaw. At home, remove about a half-inch disk from the base with a straight cut and put the tree in water within six to eight hours.

We sorted this list by how the hiker in your life spends their time outside: cold-weather days, camp and hammock time, day hikes and backpacking trips. If you are still not sure, skip to the end for the easiest gift of all.

In this article

• Quick picks: 15 gifts at a glance
• Gifts for hikers who go out in the cold
• Gifts for hikers who love camp and hammock time
• Gifts for day hikers and trail runners
• Gifts for backpackers
• What if you don't know what they need?
• Stocking stuffers for hikers under $25
• FAQ

What are the best gifts for hikers under $50?

Here are all 15 picks, with what each one is best for.

What should I get a hiker who goes out in the cold?

Cold-weather hikers lose comfort first at their feet, head and neck, so that is where a small gift makes the biggest difference.

1. Merino wool hiking socks ($24.99)

Ask any long-distance hiker what gear they would never skimp on, and socks come up fast. Merino wool keeps feet warm even when damp, wicks sweat so feet stay drier, and resists odor over multiple days. Our medium cushion crew sock is padded throughout, so it is the warmest pick for winter hikes, boots and heavy packs.

Knit in the USA

Merino Wool Hiking Sock - Medium Cushion

Warm, cushioned and backed by a lifetime guarantee. Also in women's sizes.

$24.99 Shop the sock →

Not sure of their size? Socks follow US shoe size, and our size guide covers men's, women's and youth. Every pair is covered by our lifetime guarantee, so if they ever wear a hole in them, we replace them.

2. Merino Wool Lotus Beanie ($34)

A soft merino cuff beanie that is warm, breathable and naturally odor resistant. It works on a frosty trailhead, around the campfire and on the walk to the coffee shop. Shop the Lotus Beanie or browse all of our beanies.

3. Space Wars neck gaiter ($22)

A lightweight stretch gaiter pulls up over the face on windy ridges and down around the neck on the climb. It is one of the most useful things a hiker can carry for the price. Shop the gaiter.

What are good gifts for hikers who love camp and hammock time?

For the hiker who would rather linger at the lake than race to the summit, give them something that makes downtime better.

4. Grand Trunk Ultralight Starter Hammock ($29.99)

At 12 ounces, this ripstop hammock packs small and holds up to 300 pounds. It comes with two carabiners but no straps, so pair it with the Tree Slings below for a complete setup at $49.98.

5. Kammok Wallaby Hammock with Straps ($49.95)

The easy, all-in-one choice. Wallaby is made from diamond ripstop fabric and comes with tree-friendly straps tucked into the attached stuff sack, so it is ready to hang straight out of the box.

Straps included

Kammok Wallaby Hammock with Straps

Unpack, hang, relax. Prefer the budget pick? Try the Ultralight Starter Hammock.

$49.95 Shop the hammock →

6. Grand Trunk Tree Slings ($19.99)

Pre-knotted, tree-friendly hammock straps that meet the width requirements for state and national parks. They work with most hammocks, so they are a safe gift even if you are not sure what hammock someone owns. Shop Tree Slings.

7. Kammok Puffin Pillow ($37.46)

A 2-ounce inflatable pillow that packs smaller than a phone and has a curved edge that supports the neck. It is a small luxury most hikers won't buy for themselves. Shop the Puffin Pillow.

8. Garden Buzz Enamel Mug, 16 oz ($24)

A classic enamel-coated steel mug that is stovetop and campfire friendly, with a hand-rolled lip for easy sipping. At 16 ounces, it holds a real cup of camp coffee. Shop the mug, and pair it with our guide to the best camp coffee methods.

What are good gifts for day hikers and trail runners?

Day hikers want light, simple gear that makes every outing a little easier.

9. Fenix HL12R V2 headlamp ($44.95)

Winter means short days, and a headlamp is the gift that keeps a sunset hike safe. The HL12R V2 weighs 2.56 ounces, puts out 500 lumens, recharges by USB-C and runs up to 112 hours on its lowest mode. It also has a red light that keeps night vision intact.

500 lumens, 2.56 oz

Fenix HL12R V2 Rechargeable Headlamp

Ultralight, USB-C rechargeable and rated IP66 for rain and dust.

$44.95 Shop the headlamp →

10. Kula Cloth ($20)

A reusable, antimicrobial pee cloth that snaps shut and clips to a pack, so there is no toilet paper to carry or pack out. It is one of those gifts people didn't know they needed and then use on every hike. Shop Kula Cloth.

11. United By Blue 3L Utility Fanny Pack ($48)

Two zip compartments hold a phone, keys and snacks, and the extra-long strap works around the waist or crossbody. It is made from recycled plastic bottles and is water and tear resistant. Shop the fanny pack.

12. United By Blue 18 oz insulated bottle ($28)

A vacuum-insulated steel bottle keeps tea hot on a snowy hike and water cold in July. The 18-ounce size fits in most pack side pockets. Shop the bottle.

13. Rainier 5 Panel Runner Cap ($32)

A low-profile nylon cap with vented sides for airflow on hot climbs and trail runs. Shop the cap or see all of our hats and headwear.

What do you get a backpacker who has everything?

Serious backpackers usually own the big gear already, so look for a clever problem-solver.

14. FlipFuel fuel transfer device ($35)

Every backpacker has a pile of half-empty isobutane canisters. FlipFuel transfers fuel between canisters so they can top off before a trip and stop guessing how much is left. It weighs just 1.4 ounces. Shop FlipFuel.

What if you don't know what they need?

15. Cloudline gift card (from $25)

If you don't know their shoe size or which cushion they like, a Cloudline gift card lets them pick. It is delivered by email, so it also works as a last-minute gift. For more ideas built around socks, see our merino wool sock gift guide.

What are good stocking stuffers for hikers under $25?

• Grand Trunk Tree Slings, $19.99
• Kula Cloth, $20
• Space Wars neck gaiter, $22
• Garden Buzz Enamel Mug, $24
• Cloudline merino wool hiking socks, $24.99

Frequently asked questions

What is a good gift for a hiker under $50?

Merino wool hiking socks, a rechargeable headlamp, a packable hammock, a warm beanie and a camp mug are all useful gifts under $50. The best choice depends on how they hike: cold-weather hikers love warm layers, campers love hammocks and pillows, and backpackers love clever gear like a fuel transfer device.

Are wool socks a good gift for hikers?

Yes. Merino wool hiking socks are one of the most practical hiking gifts because hikers wear out socks quickly and good pairs make a real difference in comfort. Merino stays warm when damp, wicks moisture and resists odor. Cloudline socks are knit in the USA and backed by a lifetime guarantee.

What size socks should I buy as a gift?

Buy by their US shoe size. Men's Medium fits 6 to 8.5, Large fits 9 to 11.5 and X-Large fits 12 to 14.5. Women's Small fits 4 to 6.5, Medium fits 7 to 9.5, Large fits 10 to 12.5 and X-Large fits 13 to 15. If you're not sure, a gift card lets them choose.

What do you get a hiker who has everything?

Look for small problem-solvers they are unlikely to buy for themselves, like a FlipFuel fuel transfer device, a Kula Cloth, an ultralight camp pillow or a fresh pair of merino socks. Consumable and wear-out items are always welcome, even for experienced hikers.

Do partner products ship with my Cloudline order?

No. Cloudline socks and gift cards come from us, while partner gear like Fenix headlamps, Kammok and Grand Trunk hammocks, Kula Cloths and United By Blue bags ships directly from each brand and arrives separately. Order early in December to leave time for delivery.

Hiking can be about so much more than pretty vistas and a solid workout. If you slow down and pay attention to the wildlife around you, every hike gets more exciting. There's nothing quite like seeing a moose foraging along a creek or a herd of bison moving through a meadow. But you don't need to go anywhere special to find awe. Sometimes a red-winged blackbird on a familiar trail is all it takes.

In this guide

• What should you pack for wildlife watching on a hike?
• When is the best time to see wildlife on a hike?
• Where are you most likely to see wildlife?
• What animals might you see on a hike?
• How do you spot wildlife on the trail?
• How close is too close to wildlife?
• How do you stay safe around wildlife while hiking?
• FAQ

What should you pack for wildlife watching on a hike?

You never know what you'll see, or when, so it pays to be a little over-prepared. Along with your hiking essentials, bring:

• Binoculars. The single most useful item. They let you scan a distant ridge for bighorn sheep or a treetop for a hawk without getting close. Choose a light pair and practice with them at home first.
• A field guide or ID app. Guides exist for almost everything: birds, mammals, snakes, insects and animal tracks. They also tell you what an animal eats and where it lives, which helps you know where to look.
• A camera. A lightweight option is best for longer hikes. A zoom lens lets you get the shot from a safe distance.
• A journal or sketchbook. Recording what you see is a fun way to track the seasons on a trail. Here's why and how to journal your hikes.
• Extra layers. Wildlife hikes involve a lot of standing still, so you'll cool down faster than usual. Pack a warm jacket, hat, gloves and warm merino wool socks.
• Bear spray, where needed. More on that in the safety section below.

When is the best time to see wildlife on a hike?

Early morning and evening are best. Many animals are crepuscular, meaning they're most active around dawn and dusk, when it's cooler and quieter. Midday in summer is usually the slowest time on the trail.

• Match the season to the animal. Spring brings migrating birds and newborn animals, fall brings the elk rut and active bears feeding before winter, and winter makes tracks easy to read in the snow. In Yellowstone, for example, you won't see bears in winter, but it's a good time to spot wolves.
• Give yourself extra time. Plan for more time than you think you'll need. Part of the joy of wildlife watching is observing animals at their own pace.
• Be careful after dark. If your dawn or dusk hike runs into darkness, follow our night hiking safety tips.

Where are you most likely to see wildlife?

Look for “edges” and water. Animals gather where two habitats meet, like a forest opening onto a meadow, and near lakes, rivers and wetlands. A good wildlife trail gives you long views into these areas from a safe distance.

• Pick trails with sightlines. A dense forest is great for birding, but you'll struggle to spot a moose without getting dangerously close. Our guide to choosing the best hiking trails can help.
• Plan a trip around wildlife. Places like Yellowstone, the Everglades and Great Smoky Mountains National Park are famous for their animals. For more ideas, see our picks of the best national parks for fall hiking and national parks to visit in winter.
• Ask locally. Rangers and visitor centers often know where animals have been seen recently.

What animals might you see on a hike?

What you see depends mostly on the habitat around the trail. Here's a quick guide to common North American wildlife by where you're hiking:

How do you spot wildlife on the trail?

Most animals see and hear you long before you see them. A few habits make a big difference:

• Slow down and stop often. Pause every few minutes, stay still and let the area settle. Animals often reappear once you stop moving.
• Scan, then look closer. Sweep the landscape for shapes and movement, then use binoculars on anything that looks out of place.
• Read the signs. Tracks, droppings, chewed branches and rubbed tree bark tell you what's been nearby.
• Listen. Bird alarm calls, a squirrel's chatter or a snapping branch can point you toward an animal.
• Keep the noise down. Talk quietly and silence your phone, except in bear country, where you should make some noise so you don't surprise a bear.

How close is too close to wildlife?

If an animal changes its behavior because of you, you're too close. National parks set minimum distances, and they vary by park, so check the rules wherever you hike. Two examples:

Binoculars and a zoom lens are the best way to get a close look without getting close.

How do you stay safe around wildlife while hiking?

Hiking already carries risks, and focusing on wildlife adds a few more. Preparing well protects you and the animals:

• Never feed wildlife. Feeding is prohibited in national parks and teaches animals to approach people. Store food securely and pack out every crumb.
• Carry bear spray in bear country, know how to use it, and keep it within reach, not buried in your pack. If you're not sure it's needed, ask at a ranger station or gear shop. Read more on staying safe in bear country.
• Hike with friends where larger animals live. There really is safety in numbers.
• Leave your dog at home on wildlife hikes. Dogs stress wildlife and can be put at risk themselves. Save them for dog-friendly hikes.
• Follow Leave No Trace. “Respect Wildlife” is one of the 7 Leave No Trace principles. Stay on open trails and avoid closed or sensitive areas.

If an animal approaches you, back away and give it room. The National Park Service also advises:

• Bear: don't run. Stay in a close group, stand tall and make loud noises if it approaches. Never go back for anything it takes.
• Mountain lion: don't run or crouch. Face it, make yourself look bigger by raising your arms, speak firmly and loudly, and pick up small children without bending over.
• Report any close encounter to a ranger.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time of day to see wildlife while hiking?

Early morning and early evening. Many animals are most active around dawn and dusk, when temperatures are cooler and trails are quieter.

How far should you stay from a bear?

Yellowstone requires at least 100 yards from bears, and Rocky Mountain National Park asks for at least 120 feet. Rules vary by park, so check local guidance, and back away if a bear changes its behavior because of you.

Should I bring my dog on a wildlife-watching hike?

It's best not to. Dogs can stress or provoke wild animals and can be put at risk themselves. Many national park trails don't allow dogs at all.

Do I need bear spray for hiking?

Carry it in bear country, keep it within reach and know how to use it before you go. If you're unsure whether an area has bears, ask at a local ranger station or outfitter.

Where are the best places in the US to see wildlife on a hike?

Yellowstone, the Everglades and Great Smoky Mountains National Park are standouts, but local parks, wetlands and wildlife refuges can be just as rewarding, especially at dawn and dusk.

Seeing wildlife on a hike is a magical experience, and one special sighting can spark a lifelong love of the outdoors. Do your research, keep your distance, and enjoy whatever the trail shows you.

The wrong socks can make even professionally fitted ski boots feel miserable. Too much fabric crowds your toes and creates pressure points, while too little leaves your shins rubbing against the boot. The best ski socks aren't the thickest pair on the shelf. They're the pair that fits your boots, the conditions and the way you ride. Here's how to choose them.

Which ski socks should you get?

What makes ski socks different from regular socks?

Ski socks are built for the way a ski boot fits. A good pair has:

• Over-the-calf height. Ski and snowboard boots come high up the shin, so the sock needs to reach above the boot cuff. Otherwise the boot rubs bare skin or the sock's top edge, which causes "boot bite" and sore shins.
• A snug, smooth fit. Any wrinkle or loose fabric becomes a pressure point once you buckle a stiff boot.
• Cushioning where you need it. Padding goes in high-wear zones like the heel and toe, without bulking up the whole sock.
• Moisture-wicking fibers. Your feet sweat inside an insulated boot, even on a freezing day. Wet socks get cold fast.

Everyday cotton socks and thick lounge socks don't do any of this, which is why they so often lead to cold, sore feet on the mountain.

Should ski socks be thick or thin?

For most skiers, thin to medium is warmer and more comfortable than thick. Modern ski boots are designed to fit closely, so a thick sock takes up room your foot needs. That squeezes your toes, restricts blood flow and pushes your foot around inside the boot, all of which make your feet colder and more prone to pressure points and blisters.

Your boot liner does most of the insulating. The sock's job is to manage sweat, prevent rubbing and add a little warmth. If your feet still get cold in a thin sock, the fix is usually a better boot fit, looser buckles over the forefoot or boot heaters, not a thicker sock.

The exception is a roomier boot. If your boots have extra volume or are a bit worn in, a medium cushion sock fills the space and keeps your foot from sliding. For more on cushion levels across all sock types, see our guide to ultralight vs light vs medium cushion socks.

How to choose ski socks

1. Start with fit, not thickness

Your sock should sit smoothly against your foot and leg with no wrinkles, bunching or loose heel. Pick the size that matches your shoe size. Only size down if you're right between sizes, since merino socks stretch a little. If you have wide or high-volume feet and fall between sizes, go up a size instead.

A good test: wear the socks you plan to ski in when you try on boots, get them fitted or adjust them. Testing boots in everyday socks gives you a false feel for the fit.

2. Choose cushioning for your boots and conditions

Match the cushion to how much room you have in your boot, then to the weather and how hard you ski. Ultralight suits snug boots and warm or high-output days. Medium cushion suits roomier boots, cold days and anyone who wants extra padding under the heel and toe. Neither is automatically warmer for everyone. A comfortable boot fit matters as much as the amount of cushioning.

3. Get the height right

Choose over-the-calf socks that reach well above the top of your boot. Pull them all the way up and smooth out every fold before you buckle or lace up. Keep your base layer pants and long underwear out of the boot. Tucking them in adds bulk around the shin, so let them sit above the cuff.

4. Pick the right material

A merino wool blend is the best material for most ski socks. Merino wicks sweat, stays warm even when damp, resists odor over a multi-day trip and feels soft rather than itchy. A little nylon adds durability and spandex keeps the sock snug so it stays up all day. Our ski socks, for example, are 57% merino wool, 36% nylon and 7% spandex. Synthetic-only socks wick well and dry fast, but they hold odor and feel less warm when damp. Avoid cotton, which soaks up sweat and stays wet and cold.

5. Think about moisture, not just cold

Even on a frigid day, your feet sweat on hard runs, while hiking to a lift or on the long walk from the parking lot. Start every day in a dry pair, and bring a spare pair for long days, wet boots or après.

Ultralight vs medium cushion ski socks

Every Cloudline ski and snowboard sock is over-the-calf, made in the USA from a soft blend of 57% merino wool, 36% nylon and 7% spandex, and backed by our lifetime guarantee. Men's and women's versions are the same sock in different sizes.

Ultralight: for snug boots and warm days

The ultralight ski sock is our lightest snow sock. It puts the least material between your foot and the boot, so it's the go-to for performance-fit boots, bluebird spring days, backcountry touring and anyone whose feet run hot. It's still merino, so it keeps you warmer than its thickness suggests on chilly shoulder season and midwinter days.

Medium cushion: for cold days and extra padding

The medium cushion ski sock adds targeted cushioning in the heel and toe for long days in ski boots, plus more merino for warmth on teeth-chattering days. It's a great match for snowboard boots and for ski boots with a little extra room. If your boots are already tight, make sure the extra padding doesn't create pressure. If it does, go ultralight.

Are ski socks and snowboard socks the same?

Mostly, yes. Both need over-the-calf height, a snug fit and moisture-wicking merino, which is why ours are made for both. The main difference is the boot. Snowboard boots are softer and usually roomier than ski boots, so many riders prefer medium cushion for comfort and a more locked-in fit. Skiers in stiff, close-fitting boots often prefer ultralight.

Why do my feet get cold when skiing?

Cold feet on the mountain usually come from one of these:

• Boots buckled too tight. Over-tightening the forefoot buckles cuts off circulation. Snug the ankle buckle for control and leave the toe buckles a little looser.
• Socks that are too thick, or two pairs. Extra fabric compresses and restricts blood flow.
• Damp socks. Sweaty socks from the drive or a cotton blend lose warmth fast. Put on a fresh, dry pair at the car.
• Cold boots. Keep boots inside overnight and in the car on the way, not in the trunk or a cold garage.
• A cold core. When your body is cold it pulls blood away from your feet. Add a layer, eat and drink.

For more ideas, read our guide to the warmest socks and 7 ways to keep your toes warm.

How to put on ski socks and boots

1. Start with dry feet and a dry pair of socks.
2. Pull the socks all the way up and smooth out any wrinkles, especially at the heel, ankle and shin.
3. Keep your base layer above the boot cuff, not tucked in.
4. Step in, tap your heel back into the heel pocket and check that the sock is still smooth.
5. Buckle from the ankle up, snug enough to hold your heel, then do the forefoot buckles last and lightly.
6. After a run or two, readjust if you feel any pressure points.

How many ski socks do you need, and how do you wash them?

Bring one pair per ski day, plus a spare for wet days. Merino resists odor, so on a short trip you can air out a pair overnight and wear it again. To make your socks last, wash them inside out in cool or warm water with regular detergent, skip the fabric softener and tumble dry on low to warm heat. Our guide to washing merino wool socks has more tips.

Ski sock checklist

• One smooth-fitting pair, not two layers
• Over-the-calf height that reaches above the boot cuff
• Merino wool blend, never cotton
• Ultralight for snug boots or warm days, medium cushion for roomier boots or cold days
• Heel stays in place and toes aren't cramped
• Base layer kept out of the boot
• A dry spare pair in your bag

Frequently asked questions

Should you wear two pairs of socks skiing?

No. Two pairs add bulk, create pressure points and restrict circulation, which makes your feet colder. One well-fitting merino ski sock is warmer and more comfortable.

Are thick or thin ski socks warmer?

For most skiers, thin to medium socks end up warmer, because thick socks crowd your foot in a close-fitting boot and cut off circulation. Your boot liner does most of the insulating. Choose thicker socks only if your boots have extra room.

Can you wear hiking socks for skiing?

In a pinch, yes, but most hiking socks are crew height, which is too short for ski boots. The boot cuff ends up rubbing against bare skin or the top edge of the sock. Over-the-calf ski socks are more comfortable and prevent boot bite.

Do ski socks need to be over the calf?

Yes. Ski and snowboard boots come high up the shin, so the sock should reach above the boot cuff. That prevents rubbing, keeps the sock from slipping down and adds a layer of warmth around your lower leg.

What is the best material for ski socks?

A merino wool blend with some nylon and spandex. Merino wicks sweat, stays warm when damp and resists odor, nylon adds durability and spandex keeps the sock snug. Cloudline ski socks are 57% merino wool, 36% nylon and 7% spandex. Avoid cotton, which stays wet and cold.

How should ski socks fit?

Snug and smooth, with no wrinkles, bunching or loose heel. Choose the size that matches your shoe size, and size down only if you're right between sizes. If you have wide or high-volume feet and fall between sizes, size up.

Are ski socks and snowboard socks the same?

Largely, yes. Both should be over-the-calf, snug and moisture-wicking. Snowboarders often prefer medium cushion because snowboard boots are softer and roomier, while skiers in tight boots often prefer ultralight.

More winter reading

• What Are the Warmest Socks? 7 Ways to Keep Your Toes Warm All Winter
• Ultralight vs Light vs Medium Cushion Socks: How to Choose the Right Pair
• 6 Easy Steps for Waxing Your Skis and Snowboard
• Why Cross-Country Skiing Is the Perfect Winter Activity for Hikers

October is the perfect time to head outside and hit the trail. Crisp fall days and vibrant warm colors make favorite trails feel even more inviting.

But with Halloween around the corner, it's hard to ignore the spooky feelings in the air. Ghosts, spirits, and haunting stories are everywhere.

For some people, haunted tales are a definite no-go. Spooky stories might have them spending the rest of the day hidden under their covers. For others, spooky tales make the season come alive.

If you dare, spend some time on a haunted hike this season. At the very least, you'll get a healthy dose of gorgeous fall scenery. And if you're lucky (or unlucky, depending on your perspective), you might even catch a glimpse of something truly spooky.

Grab your headlamp, because here are seven haunted trails for Halloween and the spooky season that are sure to scare your socks off.

The 7 haunted hikes at a glance

1. Chilnualna Falls Trail, Yosemite National Park, California

While plenty of national parks boast spooky tales and haunted legends, Yosemite National Park takes the cake in that department. In the park's best-known legend, the Indigenous people of Yosemite Valley named Bridalveil Fall Pohono, for a spirit wind said to lure people to the edge of the falls and push them over.

There are a lot of waterfalls in Yosemite, but hikers tell ghost stories about one more remote fall in particular.

The Chilnualna Falls Trail in the Wawona area of Yosemite leads hikers up a steep, relatively deserted path, climbing more than 2,000 feet to these impressive falls. Legend has it that a boy once fell and drowned in the pool at the bottom of Chilnualna Falls. Hikers have claimed to hear the calls of the drowning child. But visitors should beware: those who try to help the drowned spirit are said to succumb to the same fate.

This is a big day hike with plenty of rocky stair steps, so wear well-cushioned socks and plan to be off the trail before dark.

2. Transept Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park's North Rim sees very few visitors compared to the bustling South Rim, so it's already a quieter, more isolated place. But those who do visit have the chance to experience one of the park's most haunted trails and the apparition who apparently haunts it.

The Transept Trail hugs the edge of The Transept, a side canyon along Grand Canyon's North Rim. The story goes that shortly after the Grand Canyon Lodge was built here in 1928, a woman's husband and son set off on a hike down the Transept Trail, never to return.

After a frenzied and unsuccessful search, the "Wailing Woman" ended her life. In 1932, the lodge burned down. People reported seeing the Wailing Woman's face in the flames. Today, hikers report sightings of the ghost, dressed in a white dress dotted with flowers, and sounds of her cries along the fateful Transept Trail.

In an eerie echo of that story, the rebuilt Grand Canyon Lodge burned again in July 2025, when the Dragon Bravo Fire swept across the North Rim. The North Rim is reopening in phases, and its visitor season normally winds down in mid-October, so check the North Rim status page before you plan a trip.

3. Iron Goat Trail, Washington

This easy hike in Washington's beautiful Central Cascades has a surprisingly dark history. It's a beautiful and fun hike, if you can forget about its haunted past.

The Iron Goat Trail follows the old Great Northern Railway route over Stevens Pass, built in the 1890s. Disaster struck in 1910, when relentless blizzards trapped two westbound trains at the tiny town of Wellington, just below the pass.

Unable to clear the tracks, the workers and passengers were stranded on the mountainside for nearly a week. On March 1, 1910, an avalanche crashed down the mountain and swept both trains into the canyon below. Ninety-six people died, making the Wellington avalanche the deadliest avalanche in U.S. history. The town was later renamed Tye, and it's now a ghost town in every sense.

Today, you can hike the Iron Goat Trail, named for the Great Northern Railway's mountain goat symbol. You'll pass crumbling old rail tunnels, concrete snowsheds and the site of the disaster on this spooky, 6-mile round-trip hike. A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park.

4. Manoa Falls, Oahu, Hawaii

A popular hike on the island of Oahu, Manoa Falls Trail leads hikers to an impressive waterfall on the outskirts of Honolulu. This gentle trail winds through lush and gorgeous Hawaiian scenery, but that's not all there is to see on this haunted trail.

According to local lore, the trail to Manoa Falls is often visited by Night Marchers, ghosts of spirit warriors often seen marching to the rhythm of drums. As the name suggests, most encounters with the Night Marchers take place after dark. While they supposedly appear in different locations across Oahu, they're known to frequent Manoa Falls.

If you happen to witness the Night Marchers on a hike to Manoa Falls, you might hear the sound of a conch and the steady beat of a drum. Locals say to avert your eyes and lie face down on the ground, or you might get in trouble with these ancient spirits.

The trail itself closes at sunset, so plan a late-afternoon hike and save the Night Marcher stories for the drive home. The trail is often muddy after rain, too, so bring a dry pair of socks for afterward.

5. Appalachian Trail and Bluff Mountain, Virginia

The nearly 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail has more stories, legends, and spooky tales than perhaps any other trail in the country. With the millions of people who hike a portion of it each year, there's no shortage of haunted tales from the trail.

But one story, from Bluff Mountain, Virginia, stands out as particularly spine-tingling.

In the late 1800s, a four-year-old boy named Ottie Powell went missing near Bluff Mountain. His teacher had sent all of the students out to recess with directions to collect firewood so they could heat the schoolhouse. Ottie didn't return with the other kids, and the search for the little boy began.

His body was found no less than five months later on top of Bluff Mountain, several miles from where he went missing. No one knows for sure how he got there. A small memorial still stands beside the AT on the summit, and more than one hundred years later, hikers report eerie feelings, cries, and even the silhouette of the little boy on top of Bluff Mountain.

6. Greenleaf Hut, New Hampshire

The Greenleaf Hut is an idyllic mountain hut along the Old Bridle Path below Mount Lafayette in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Trails leading through the wooded wilderness and up the granite peaks of Franconia Ridge make this hut an unbeatable basecamp for exploring the area, but only if you're willing to bunk with a ghost.

Hut lore has it that the ghost of a former hutmaster resides in the hut.

As the story goes, the haunting began when Ben Campbell, an enthusiastic hiker and the Greenleaf hutmaster, didn't return from a trip to Scotland. While his body never made it back to the White Mountains to fulfill his hutmaster duties, his spirit, apparently, did.

Campbell's family placed a pair of his boots outside the hut, which, as many hikers have been quick to report, have a tendency to move on their own. Hikers also report hearing sounds of footsteps during the night.

AT hikers and others wanting to see the White Mountains can stay at the hut, but they'll have to share it with a restless spirit. Fall nights at 4,200 feet get cold, so pack a warm pair of socks for camp.

7. Hippie Tree and Old State Hospital, Traverse City, Michigan

In lower Michigan's northwest corner, the Village at Grand Traverse Commons welcomes locals looking for a bite to eat, unique shopping, or a peaceful stroll in nature. But it hasn't always been this way, and there's more happening here than initially meets the eye.

Grand Traverse Commons is home to the Old State Hospital, a stately old building opened in 1885 and also known as the Northern Michigan Asylum. The hospital closed in 1989, but the buildings, and the spirits within, remain.

The truly spooky activity takes place on the trails behind the hospital, in the woods of the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area. A trail to the Hippie Tree leads hikers to a gnarled old willow that's said to sit over a portal to the underworld. The tree is covered in paint. According to local legend, spirits from the old hospital haunt the Hippie Tree. The layers of paint are said to be the work of local mystics, who would meditate under the tree and paint their visions onto its limbs.

Visitors over the decades have reported feeling a spiritual presence and hearing voices as they approached the tree. Though the hospital no longer houses patients, it seems its spirits still roam the woods around the Hippie Tree.

How to stay safe (and comfortable) on a haunted hike

The scariest thing on most haunted hikes isn't a ghost. It's getting caught out in the cold and dark. A few simple habits keep the spooky stuff fun:

• Start early and know when the sun sets. Fall days are short. If you want to hike after dark on purpose, read our night hiking safety tips first.
• Pack the 10 Essentials. A headlamp with spare batteries, an extra layer and a map matter more in October than in July. Here's our 10 Essentials checklist.
• Bring a friend. Ghost stories are better shared, and so is the trail. Going alone? Follow our solo hiking safety tips.
• Keep your feet warm and dry. Cold, damp feet end fall hikes early. Merino wool hiking socks stay warm even when they get wet, and a medium cushion pair adds extra warmth on chilly evenings. Not sure which thickness to pick? See our guide to ultralight vs light vs medium cushion socks.

For more on hiking this time of year, check out our ultimate fall hiking guide, our shoulder season hiking tips and the best national parks for fall hiking.

Pack your courage and head out on a haunted hike

Which haunted hike is calling your name this Halloween season? Grab your gear (and a friend or two) and experience these thrilling trails for yourself.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most haunted hiking trails in the US?

There's no official ranking, but trails with famous ghost stories include the Transept Trail at the Grand Canyon, the Iron Goat Trail in Washington, Manoa Falls on Oahu, Bluff Mountain on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia, and Chilnualna Falls in Yosemite.

Is it safe to go on a haunted hike at night?

It can be, with the right preparation. Hike a trail you already know, bring a headlamp and spare batteries, pack an extra warm layer, tell someone your plan and go with a friend. Some trails, like Manoa Falls, close at sunset, so check the rules before you go.

What should I wear on a fall or Halloween hike?

Dress in layers you can add as the temperature drops, with a warm hat and a waterproof shell. Merino wool socks are a smart choice because they stay warm when damp and resist odor. A medium cushion pair adds warmth on cold evenings.

What are the Night Marchers in Hawaii?

In Hawaiian legend, the Night Marchers are the spirits of ancient warriors who march at night to the sound of drums and conch shells. Tradition says that if you encounter them, you should lie face down and not look at them.

Who is the ghost of Bluff Mountain?

Local legend says Bluff Mountain in Virginia is haunted by Ottie Powell, a four-year-old boy who disappeared while gathering firewood in the late 1800s. His body was found five months later on the summit, where a memorial now stands beside the Appalachian Trail.

If you want to make your own backpacking meals, this pad thai is a great place to start. It doesn't take much prep at home, it's easy to cook on the trail, and it tastes far better than most freeze-dried pouches. Because it skips traditional fish sauce, it's also easy to make vegetarian by leaving out the chicken.

In this recipe

• Ingredients
• How to prep backpacking pad thai at home
• How to cook pad thai on the trail
• How to make dehydrated pad thai
• Can you cold soak pad thai?
• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and peanut-free swaps
• How long does it keep?
• FAQ

Ingredients

This recipe makes one large serving. Double it for two people.

• 4 oz flat rice noodles
• 2 Tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp dried garlic flakes
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce (about 4 to-go packets)
• 2 Tbsp peanut butter powder
• 2 packets crystallized lime, such as True Lime
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried chicken
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried scrambled eggs
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced and dehydrated
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots, dehydrated
• 1 Tbsp dried cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted unsalted peanuts

Where to find the harder ingredients: peanut butter powder and crystallized lime packets are sold in most grocery stores near the peanut butter and the drink mixes. Freeze-dried chicken and eggs are sold at outdoor stores and online. You can also use the scrambled eggs from a freeze-dried breakfast pouch.

How do you prep backpacking pad thai at home?

Dry the vegetables, then pack the meal into three small bags inside one larger bag.

1. Dry the vegetables. Spread the diced red pepper and shredded carrots on dehydrator trays and dry at about 125°F until crisp, usually 6 to 10 hours. Store-bought dried vegetables work too.
2. Pack the noodle bag. Put the freeze-dried chicken, freeze-dried eggs, dried carrots and dried red pepper in a zip-top sandwich bag.
3. Pack the sauce bag. Measure the garlic, red pepper flakes, ginger, brown sugar, peanut butter powder, lime and cilantro into a second sandwich bag. Keep the soy sauce packets with it.
4. Pack the oil and peanuts. Put the coconut oil in a small snack bag or leakproof container, and the chopped peanuts in another.
5. Bag it all together. Place the small bags and the rice noodles in a quart-size freezer bag, and label it.

How do you cook pad thai on the trail?

Boil the noodles and dried ingredients, drain, then stir in the sauce, oil and peanuts.

1. Boil. Put the noodles, chicken, eggs and dried vegetables in your pot, add just enough water to cover (about 2 cups), and bring to a boil.
2. Simmer until tender. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring so the noodles don't stick. To save fuel, turn off the stove after 1 minute, cover the pot and let it sit in a meal cozy for 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Make the sauce. While the noodles cook, add the soy sauce and 2 Tbsp of water to the sauce bag and squish until smooth. You can also mix it in a cup.
4. Drain. Pour off any remaining water. Strain out food scraps and scatter the water at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
5. Combine. Add the coconut oil and sauce to the pot and stir until the oil melts and everything is coated.
6. Top and eat. Sprinkle with the chopped peanuts and enjoy.

Like a little extra heat? A pinch of our homemade dehydrated sriracha powder goes great on top.

How do you make dehydrated pad thai?

Cook the noodles and sauce at home, dry the whole dish in a dehydrator, then rehydrate it with boiling water on the trail. This version needs less fuel and less work in camp.

1. Cook the rice noodles at home until just tender, then drain and cut them into shorter pieces.
2. Toss the noodles with the sauce ingredients, the soy sauce and the fresh or dried vegetables. Leave out the coconut oil and peanuts, since fats don't dehydrate well.
3. Spread the mixture thinly on lined dehydrator trays and dry at about 135°F until completely dry and brittle, usually 6 to 10 hours.
4. Break it into pieces and pack it with the freeze-dried chicken and eggs. Pack the coconut oil and peanuts separately.
5. On the trail, add just enough boiling water to cover, seal the pot or bag, and let it sit in a meal cozy for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in the oil and top with peanuts.

New to dehydrating meals? Start with our 5 easy steps for homemade dehydrated backpacking meals.

Can you cold soak pad thai?

Yes. Rice noodles soften in cold water, so this recipe works without a stove. Put the noodles and dried ingredients in a cold-soak jar with water to cover and let them sit for about 1 to 2 hours, until soft. Drain, then stir in the sauce. Coconut oil turns solid below about 76°F, so in cool weather swap it for olive oil or leave it out. The dehydrated version above also cold soaks well.

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and peanut-free swaps

• Vegetarian: leave out the chicken. The eggs and peanuts still add protein.
• Vegan: leave out the chicken and eggs, and add freeze-dried tofu, TVP or dried edamame instead.
• Gluten-free: use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, but check the labels on everything.
• Peanut-free: swap the peanut butter powder for a packet of tahini or sunflower seed butter, and top with sunflower seeds instead of peanuts.

How long does backpacking pad thai keep?

Packed in airtight bags and kept cool and dry, the meal keeps well for a month or two. Store it in the freezer if you're prepping further ahead. Home-dried vegetables and nuts keep best when they're fully dry and kept out of the heat, so pack them as close to your trip as you can.

More backpacking recipes

• Tangy Vietnamese noodles
• Dehydrated red curry lentil soup
• Tortilla trail pizza
• Backpacking stove popcorn
• Backpacking meal hacks
• See all our backpacking recipes

Frequently asked questions

How many calories are in backpacking pad thai?

About 1,250 calories per serving, based on the ingredients in this recipe. Most of the calories come from the rice noodles, coconut oil and peanuts.

Can you make pad thai without a stove?

Yes. Rice noodles soften in cold water, so you can cold soak this recipe for about 1 to 2 hours, then drain and stir in the sauce. Use olive oil instead of coconut oil in cool weather.

Is backpacking pad thai vegetarian?

It is if you leave out the freeze-dried chicken. The recipe doesn't use fish sauce. For a vegan version, also leave out the eggs and add freeze-dried tofu, TVP or dried edamame.

Is this backpacking pad thai gluten-free?

It can be. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, so swap the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and check the labels on your other ingredients.

What can I use instead of fish sauce in backpacking pad thai?

This recipe uses soy sauce, brown sugar and crystallized lime instead of fish sauce. Together they give the salty, sweet and sour flavor of pad thai, and they're easier to carry.

How do you make dehydrated pad thai?

Cook the noodles with the sauce and vegetables at home, spread them thinly on dehydrator trays and dry at about 135°F until brittle. On the trail, cover with boiling water, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then stir in coconut oil and peanuts.

Every year, fall slips in without a warning. I realize that the days are shorter, the mornings are crisp, and suddenly I find changing colors all around. In the fall, midday temperatures are perfect for hiking and backpacking. A wonderland of new shades and patterns reveals itself, even in places you have visited all year long. The bugs regress to wherever bugs regress to, and colorful birds come out. Here in Colorado, the sound of bugling elk adds to the fall wilderness experience.

I have always felt more remote when hiking in the fall, as tourists have returned home and fair-weathered adventurers have pulled out cute leather boots to take the place of hiking shoes.

While there are undeniable reasons to hike in the fall, the shoulder season does call for extra thought and preparation. Here’s how to pick the prettiest leaf hikes, pack for a wide range of temperatures, and be armed for whatever the season throws your way.

PACKING FOR SHOULDER SEASON

With shorter days and temperamental weather, the key to shoulder season preparation is versatility. Bring lightweight layers that can stack for the ideal level of insulation, and make sure to throw a beanie, gloves, and extra wool socks in your bag.

During this time of year, it is especially important to be ready for wet conditions. Pack a fully waterproof rain shell in case you find yourself in a shower, and wear wool socks with waterproof shoes to handle muddy or snowy trails.

Many sites and apps can be checked for recent trail reports, like AllTrails or REI’s Hiking Project. Find your trail before striking out, and peruse the comments for recent reports on the trail conditions. In the fall, one recent report is reason enough to bring along gaiters and microspikes, and likely you will be relieved that you did! If the hike you have chosen wanders into higher elevations, also try calling the presiding ranger station or park office for current conditions and predictions.

FALL HIKE HABITS

A few simple habits can make the difference between turning around in soggy discontent and enjoying a unique, colorful experience.

First, take a moment to get an accurate weather report for the area where you will be hiking. Keep in mind that the nearest town likely is at a much lower elevation, so contact the area’s information center (visitor’s center, ranger station, etc.) for an accurate report. Another aspect that becomes important in the shoulder season is road conditions. The US Forest Service provides road condition reports for each individual National Forest. Find which National Forest area you will be in, and search the website for a current road condition report. A general page of considerations and tips for driving on these roads in harsher seasons can be found at the US Forest Service page here.

If you are headed out on a day hike, make a thermos of hot tea to warm you up through the day, or bring extra water, a stove, a lighter and fuel to make a cup on the trail.

Cooler temperatures also call for higher calorie intakes, so pack plenty of hearty snacks to munch on through the hike. To help you enjoy the best of everything fall, here is my recipe for Maple Spice Granola! Bake some up and hit the gorgeous trails with warming snacks.

Fall is a great time to car camp, with fewer crowds and as many heavy, cozy items as you want just yards away. However, whether car camping or backpacking, dramatic changes in temperature are common in the season and make the perfect recipe for condensation. Be sure to open windows or vestibules to keep air flowing in your sleeping set up, and dry out your tent as soon as you are back from your adventure.

Shorter days in the fall call for earlier starts and extra care with light sources. Take precautions to not just have a headlamp, but bring along back-up batteries as well. If you use your phone for navigation or time, have a backup charger with you in case cold temperatures steal your battery.

For some outdoor lovers, fall is synonymous with “hunting season.” As hikers and backpackers, awareness of the season and proper preparation are necessities. If the area you will be hiking in allows hunting, wear brightly colored clothing. Orange accessories will immediately identify you as a person, not a potential target. Though some areas prohibit hunting, do not embark on a fall hike unless you are familiar with the hunting laws and have prepared well.

Chasing Fall Colors

Are you ready for some seasonal solitude? Selecting fall hikes is more complicated than it might seem, but the rewards are always breathtaking. Consider these when choosing a leaf-viewing outing:

Time of fall: Typically, leaves here in Colorado will be changing from mid-September until mid-October. Earlier trips will give you bright yellow tones, and later trips could give you views of leaves already fallen. Once the leaves begin to change, there is a 7-10 day window of the brightest, boldest hues of the season. By region, the peak time frames are:

• The Northeast: where best colors are usually spotted from late September to mid-October
• The Southeast: where lower elevations see the best colors as late as early November, and higher regions change from mid to late October
• The Midwest: where mid-October is the best time almost without exception
• The West: where October is all around the best month to see the leaves. Take into account the other considerations listed below to find the time of month best for a specific region

Elevation: Because of colder temperatures, leaves on higher ground will change and fall sooner than most. Start higher, and work your way to lower elevations as the season progresses.

Sunlight, temperatures, and moisture: Just like aspens in higher altitudes change sooner, trees in other cold areas will also. Ideally, a good mountain environment for consistent and vibrant leaf changes will have abundant sunshine, consistent late summer/fall moisture, and slowly cooling temperatures. This environment will provide a bright range of colors for the longest possible window.

Fall is an incredible time to be adventuring in the outdoors. Often, adventurers are so eager for balmy summer days to turn into snowy slopes that the shoulder season is left underappreciated.

Make yourself informed, prepared, and enjoy the best of the shoulder season!

Fall is upon us once again, with its crisp air, warm drinks, and cozy atmosphere. But fall isn’t just about drinking spiced tea in your favorite sweater - though we love that too. Fall is, without a doubt, one of the best times to visit and explore your favorite national parks.

While it’s definitely the summertime that draws the crowds to these bucket list destinations, fall brings unparalleled scenery and perfect hiking weather. Plus, with fewer people on the trail, fall is the perfect time to find some solitude in some of the most iconic national parks.

Not sure where to go? Read on for our list of 9 amazing national parks for fall hiking, and our trail recommendation for each.

1. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Here at Cloudline, Mount Rainier is in our backyard. Towering over the city of Seattle, Mount Rainier’s snowcapped peak is a constant inspiration to get outside. In the fall, the valleys and meadows explode with color against the brilliant white summit of this 14,000-foot volcano. Thinning crowds and our favorite local hikes make this park a given our list of fall favorites.

When to visit: Late September

Recommended fall hike: Visit Reflection Lakes before the Stevens Canyon Road closes at the end of September, and get a chance to see Mount Rainier - and the gorgeous fall colors - reflected in the lakes. The Lakes Trail takes you on a 3-mile round trip loop through the Reflection Lakes area.

2. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier consistently tops hikers’ lists of favorite national parks. The jagged mountains, alpine lakes, and impressive wildlife make it a scenic choice in every season - and fall is no exception. When the leaves start to change in late September, you can marvel as the mountainsides turn gold and reflect in the still mountain lakes.

When to visit: Late September

Recommended fall hike: The Sun Point Nature Trail is a great short hike to catch stunning views of Saint Mary Lake and its surrounding peaks, with golden aspens lining the lower flanks of the mountains. The walk is quick and easy, but give yourself time to linger along the shore of the lake and bask in the autumn beauty.

3. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park isn’t known for huge swaths of color, but it’s still one of the best parks to visit during the fall. Temperatures remain balmy in Yosemite Valley well into the season, and you’ll find more fall color here than in the surrounding high country. From the valley floor, look for the bright oranges and reds of the maples and oaks reflecting in the glassy Merced River.

When to visit: Mid-October

Recommended fall hike: The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail gives you a taste of rare solitude in Yosemite’s most popular area. The 11-mile loop (or 7-mile “half” loop) takes you along the banks of the Merced River and to viewpoints of Yosemite’s most iconic features.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion is a colorful park any time of year. Pink, red, and dusty brown sandstone cliffs contrast with the verdant river bottoms and turquoise blue water. Fall only adds to the magic, with brightly colored aspens and cottonwoods shimmering in yellow and gold. Add the gorgeous foliage to the cooling desert air, and fall is the perfect time for a hike in this Southwestern park.

When to visit: Late October

Recommended fall hike: The Canyon Overlook Trail is a quick, 1-mile round trip hike to a stunning overlook of Zion Canyon. Get one of the best views in the park without the sweat-inducing thrill (and possible dangerous, slippery conditions) of Angel’s Landing. Choose this trail to get a huge bang for your buck!

5. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Fall in Grand Teton is a sweet but fleeting season. It’s not long after the summer crowds wind down that the cottonwoods burst with color along the banks of the Snake River. Aspen groves turn from green to gold before dropping their leaves. The park’s wildlife, like moose, bears, and elk, are especially active, and a late-evening stroll might even give you a chance to hear a bull elk’s bugle.

When to visit: Late September

Recommended fall hike: The Taggart-Beaver Creek Loop trail brings you through sagebrush, aspen, conifer, and riparian plant communities on your way from the valley floor to the glacial Taggart Lake. Golden aspens take center stage, and incomparable views of snowy Teton peaks add to the fall glory of this trail.

6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

With ridge upon ridge of forested mountains, Shenandoah National Park is a leaf-peeper’s dream. Vast stretches of deciduous forest blanket this landscape by mid-October. A hike up to the top of a ridge provides jaw-dropping views of these wild eastern forests. One thing to note: Unlike lots of other national parks that see most visitors in the summer, fall is typically the busiest time of year in Shenandoah. Visit during the week or hit the trail bright and early for the best chance of avoiding the crowds.

When to visit: Mid-October

Recommended fall hike: Old Rag is Shenandoah’s most difficult hike, but not without amazing rewards. This 9-mile round trip hike winds through colorful forest before continuing up the rocky summit of Old Rag Mountain. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of the vibrant, foliage-cloaked mountainsides.

7. Acadia National Park, Maine

This coastal national park breathes a sigh of relief when the summer crowds begin to lift in mid-September. The park’s season isn’t over, though, and visitation picks back up for the remarkable fall colors in mid-October. A colorful mix of deciduous and evergreen trees against the moody backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean is hard to beat.

When to visit: Mid-October

Recommended fall hike: To reach the highest point in Acadia, hike the Cadillac North Ridge Trail to the top of Cadillac Mountain. The trail takes hikers through a combination of woods and exposed granite slopes, culminating in breathtaking views of red, orange, and yellow leaves contrasting with the water below.

8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina / Tennessee 

The Smokies are the most popular park in the country, welcoming over 12 million visitors each year. This rugged stretch of the Appalachian Mountains is rich with wildlife, waterfalls, and diverse forests. More than 800 miles of trail crisscross the ridges, peaks, and valleys, and fall is the perfect time to enjoy both comfortable temperatures and thinner crowds.

When to visit: Late October

Recommended fall hike: Beginning from Fontana Dam outside of Bryson City, North Carolina, the Appalachian Trail quickly enters the National Park and ascends to the Shuckstack Fire Tower after 3.5 miles of climbing. The summit brings panoramic views of the Smokies, and in the fall, an explosion of reds, oranges, and yellows.

9. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 

Rocky Mountain National Park is a high-elevation mountain playground any time of year, but fall adds dramatic color and bugling elk to this stunning alpine landscape. The altitude of the park means the leaves change early, so visit in mid-September for the best chance at catching the aspens in their golden glory.

When to visit: Mid-September

Recommended fall hike: Sprague Lake Loop is a short, easy, less-than-a-mile trail that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll want to take your time marveling at the surrounding peaks and blazing aspen leaves. Come early in the morning to catch the mountains and fall colors reflected in the peaceful Sprague Lake.

Wherever you end up hiking this fall, enjoy the magic of the wilderness settling down after a busy summer season. We’d love to see your national park adventures this fall, so find us, follow us, and tag us on Instagram with #cloudlinesocks. See you on the trail!

Whether you are currently prepping for a future thru-hike or just dreaming about someday checking the PCT off your bucket list, we've collected 11 books about the Pacific Crest Trail to add to your reading list. The PCT runs 2650 miles from Mexico to Canada and draws thousands of hikers for day hikes and thru-hikes each year. If you read Wild by Cheryl Strayed and loved it then these lesser-known books about the Pacific Crest Trail will be right up your alley. Pick a couple or read all 11, and then at least go for a day hike on the PCT this summer or start planning your future thru-hike!

1. Girl in the Woods: A Memoir

Girl in the Woods is the true story of Aspen Matis. In 2008 Aspen was beginning her freshman year of college when she was raped by another student. Unfortunately, as is all too common her family and the school weren't providing the support she needed. That's when she decided to embark on a thru-hike of the PCT. Not to run from her problems, but to find the freedom and strength within herself. On the trail, Aspen found confidence, healing and even love as she hiked 30 miles a day for 5 months.

2. Dances With Marmots - A Pacific Crest Trail Adventure

Dances with Marmots depicts a PCT thru-hike through the eyes of New Zealander George Spearing. Although he had never done any hiking or backpacking George decided to take 5 months off from his job as a firefighter to hike from Mexico to Canada. An easy read filled with humor and insights from the trail, as one review said, "you will not regret reading this book."

3. A Blistered Kind of Love: One Couple's Trial by Trail

One Couple's Trial by Trail is two perspectives on the Pacific Crest Trail in one book. Angela and Duffy take turns writing chapters as they tell their story giving the reader insight into the unique experience of a PCT thru-hike as viewed by husband and wife. The Ballard's provide helpful information on their pre-hike planning with recommendations for gear, food, and a reading list of books to help plan a thru-hike. If you are a couple dreaming of a journey on the Pacific Crest Trail than this book is a must-read.

4. The Pacific Crest Trail

The Pacific Crest Trail is the classic volume on thru-hiking the PCT. Sure it was probably published before you were born and since 1984 the trail has changed and gear is lighter, but it is still regarded by many as a must read for prospective thru-hikers. And best of all, used copies go for as little as $2.

5. The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail

Unlike the other titles on this list The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail isn't a memoir or personal account but a coffee table book published with the Pacific Crest Trail Association. A perfect gift for anyone who loves the outdoors this book is full of beautiful pictures, history, trail tips, and even a foldout map of the trail. And you don't have to be a thru-hiker, there is also plenty of info for day hikers.

6. Halfway Home: The Story of a Father and Son Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

Halfway Home follows a father and son duo on their PCT hike. If you are a father who has always wanted to thru-hike with a son or daughter or a child who's dreaming of sharing an epic adventure with parents this book is one to grab. It also covers plenty of trail tips and strategies for a successful Pacific Crest thru-hike.

7. Skywalker: Highs and Lows on the Pacific Crest Trail

The author of Skywalker has written several books about his adventures thru-hiking not only the PCT but also the Appalachian Trail and the Camino De Santiago. One of the best parts of his book is meeting the characters he hikes with along the way. It is full of hilarious back stories about individual's trail names and his own blunders on the trail.

8. Journey On the Crest: Walking 2600 Miles from Mexico to Canada

Journey on the Crest is another classic from the 80s. The author begins her Pacific Crest Trail hike with the experience of previously hiking the Appalachian Trail. She soon discovers the PCT has many unique challenges to throw at her. Reviewed well by both thru-hikers and would be thru-hikers, Cindy's account of her time on the PCT is an entertaining read.

9. Mile 445: Hitched in Her Hiking Boots

Mile 455 is a true story that sounds like a Hollywood rom-com. Claire starts her thru-hike alone at the Mexico border but soon meets a handsome hiker with the trail name Big Spoon. It's love at first sight and by mile 445 and just 30 days into the hike they tie the knot.

10. Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart: An Adventure on the Pacific Crest Trail

Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart is written by Carrot Quinn who is an experienced and successful thru-hiker. Her writing is unique and entertaining and after you finish the book you can head over to her blog for additional tips and info that can help you plan your thru-hike.

11. Hikertrash: Life on the Pacific Crest Trail

The last pick on our list Hiker Trash is another book about a couple hiking the PCT. Erin and her husband Carl sold their home and began a life of adventure, first traveling abroad and then deciding to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail. The book includes helpful info on leaving no trace, their gear list, trail recipes, and 6 detailed maps.

Click here to check out all products from Cloudline Apparel.

Full disclosure: Cloudline wrote this comparison, so we have tried to keep it fair. Every spec and price below comes from each brand's own website or a major retailer, checked in October 2026, and we link to the sources so you can check them yourself.

In this article

• How do Darn Tough, Smartwool and Cloudline compare side by side?
• Which merino hiking sock lasts the longest?
• How do the guarantees actually work?
• How do the cushion, fit and height compare?
• Which is the best value over time?
• Which sock should you choose?
• FAQ

How do Darn Tough, Smartwool and Cloudline compare side by side?

To keep this fair, we compared each brand's best-known cushioned hiking sock: the Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight with Cushion, the Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew, and the Cloudline Merino Wool Hiking Sock in Medium Cushion.

Prices and specs checked October 2026 on darntough.com, a Smartwool retailer listing and cloudlineapparel.com. Prices change, so check before you buy.

Which merino hiking sock lasts the longest?

Darn Tough has the strongest reputation for durability, and it has earned it over decades of thru-hikers wearing its socks for thousands of miles. Part of the reason is construction: Darn Tough uses the most nylon of the three (36%), and nylon is what reinforces merino against abrasion.

Cloudline (33% nylon) and Smartwool (32% nylon) sit close behind on paper. Cloudline socks have been thru-hiker tested on the Pacific Crest and Appalachian Trails, and the Medium Cushion is rated 4.94 out of 5 across more than 250 reviews of the men's version alone.

In practice, how long any merino sock lasts depends on three things more than the brand:

• Fit. A sock that slips or bunches wears through at the heel much faster.
• Rotation. Wearing two or three pairs in turn gives the wool time to recover.
• Care. Washing inside out on cold to warm and tumble drying low prevents most pilling. Our guide to washing merino socks covers home and trail care.

The honest takeaway: with a lifetime guarantee, the question of which sock lasts longest matters less than whether the brand will replace it when it does wear out.

How do the guarantees actually work?

This is the biggest real difference between the three brands.

• Darn Tough: unconditional lifetime guarantee. If a pair rips, tears or loses its fit, you send that pair back and Darn Tough replaces it. No receipt is needed. Darn Tough explains it here.
• Smartwool: 2-year guarantee. You fill in a claim form with photos of the product and the problem area within two years of purchase. Approved US claims are reimbursed with a digital gift card. It doesn't cover products bought from unauthorized sellers. Smartwool's guarantee page has the details.
• Cloudline: lifetime guarantee. If your socks ever get a hole (or your dog eats your favorite pair), fill in the short warranty form with your order number or the name and email you ordered with, and our Seattle-based team replaces them.

Men's · Lifetime guarantee

Men's Merino Wool Hiking Sock, Medium Cushion

Cushioned throughout, crew height, knit in Alabama. Rated 4.94/5 by 255 hikers.

$24.99 Shop men's →

Women's · Lifetime guarantee

Women's Merino Wool Hiking Sock, Medium Cushion

The same trail-tested sock in women's sizing. Rated 4.94/5 by 104 hikers.

$24.99 Shop women's →

Want a different cushion or height? Browse all of our merino wool hiking socks for men and women, from ultralight 1/4 tops to medium cushion crews.

How do the cushion, fit and height compare?

The three socks feel more different on your foot than the spec sheet suggests.

• Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion puts its terry cushion underfoot, with extra protection at the ankle and Achilles. The micro crew height sits a little lower than a standard crew. Darn Tough is known for a snug, close fit that many hikers love and some find tight.
• Smartwool Hike Classic Full Cushion Crew is cushioned all the way around, which makes it the plushest and usually the warmest of the three. It has the highest merino share (66%), so it tends to feel the softest.
• Cloudline Medium Cushion is cushioned throughout the whole sock at a medium level, a middle ground between Darn Tough's targeted padding and Smartwool's full cushion. The crew height rises to mid-calf, which helps on brushy trails and with taller boots.

If you are between styles, think about your boots and your season. Lighter, cooler hikes suit targeted or medium cushion. Cold weather and stiff boots suit full cushion.

Which is the best value over time?

On sticker price, the three are within a few dollars of each other. Over several years, the guarantee changes the math.

A sock with a lifetime guarantee is effectively a one-time purchase, as long as the company keeps honoring it. That puts Darn Tough and Cloudline ahead of Smartwool for heavy use, since a pair worn hard for three years could need replacing at your own cost.

Between the two lifetime-guaranteed options, Cloudline costs slightly less per pair ($24.99 versus $26.00), and the 3-pack brings it down to $20 a pair. Orders over $75 ship free within the USA, and US returns and exchanges are free within 30 days.

Best value · $20 a pair

Men's Merino Wool Hiking Sock 3-Pack, Medium Cushion

Three pairs to rotate on long trips. Rated 4.92/5 by 108 hikers.

$59.99 Shop the men's 3-pack →

Best value · $20 a pair

Women's Merino Wool Hiking Sock 3-Pack, Medium Cushion

Three pairs to rotate on long trips. Rated 4.96/5 by 28 hikers.

$59.99 Shop the women's 3-pack →

Which sock should you choose?

• Choose Darn Tough if you want the longest track record, the simplest no-receipt guarantee, and you like a snug fit. You'll also find it in most outdoor stores, so you can try it on first.
• Choose Smartwool if softness and warmth matter most, you hike mostly in cold weather, and you're comfortable with a two-year guarantee.
• Choose Cloudline if you want an American-made sock with a lifetime guarantee at a slightly lower price, a true crew height, and the best per-pair value in a 3-pack. It's sold direct, so you'll order online and use free 30-day exchanges if the size isn't right.

Want to know more about why merino is worth it in the first place? Read 6 reasons merino wool makes the best socks.

Frequently asked questions

Is Darn Tough better than Smartwool?

For durability and guarantee, yes: Darn Tough uses more nylon (36% versus 32%) and offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee, while Smartwool's guarantee lasts two years. Smartwool is often softer and warmer thanks to its higher merino content and full cushion, so it can be the better choice for cold-weather comfort.

Do Darn Tough socks really last a lifetime?

No sock lasts forever, but Darn Tough will replace a pair that rips, tears or loses its fit, with no receipt needed. Cloudline also offers a lifetime guarantee. In both cases you get a replacement rather than buying a new pair.

Are Cloudline socks made in the USA?

Yes. Cloudline is based in Seattle, where the socks are designed and trail tested, and every pair is knit in Fort Payne, Alabama, long known as the sock capital of the world.

Which merino hiking sock is the warmest?

Of these three, the Smartwool Full Cushion Crew is usually the warmest, because it is cushioned all the way around and has the highest merino content. Cloudline's Medium Cushion is also cushioned throughout. Darn Tough's Hiker Cushion pads mainly underfoot, which runs a little cooler.

How many pairs of hiking socks do I need?

For day hikes, two pairs is enough to rotate. For multi-day trips, most hikers carry two or three pairs: one to wear, one drying, and a dry pair for camp. A 3-pack covers a typical backpacking trip.

How should I wash merino wool hiking socks?

Turn them inside out, machine wash on cold to warm, and tumble dry low. On the trail you can hand wash and air dry them, since merino dries quickly.

Until that is, you forget to prepare for the sun, you get eaten alive by bugs, or you neglect to bring enough water for your hike. That’s when an idyllic summer day quickly turns into an unpleasant, or even dangerous, adventure.

While you can’t control everything you encounter on the trail, you can prepare for these summer nuisances with a little bit of planning. Don’t let the bugs, the heat, or the sun get you down this summer. Instead, enjoy the trail all season long with the following tips.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

One of the biggest threats on a summer hike is getting that dreaded, painful sunburn. Depending on the length of your hike, you may be in the sun for the majority of the day.

Take sun protection seriously wherever you hike, but take extra caution if hiking at high altitude. The higher in elevation you are, the more direct and powerful the sunlight is. Keep this in mind if you’re hiking in the mountains.

Start with a good sunscreen that offers “broad spectrum” sun protection. The label “broad spectrum” refers to the sunscreen’s ability to block UVA and UVB rays, which are both dangerous. No matter what type of sunscreen you’re using or what the SPF is, you should reapply every two hours. It’s also a good idea to choose a water-resistant sunscreen since you’ll likely be sweating throughout your hike.

You should also protect your skin with your clothes and accessories. Sunglasses, a hat, a buff, and a sun hoody are all great things to wear or keep in your pack.

Manage Your Sweat

While sweat can simply be a stinky nuisance, sometimes it can have more detrimental effects. If you’ve ever suffered from blisters after a long, sweaty hike, you know exactly what we mean.

Whether you want to address the funk of a sweat-soaked T-shirt or you’re keen on avoiding painful blisters, managing sweat will make your summer hikes more pleasant. Here’s how:

First, wear the right clothes. Low-quality polyester and nylon begin to smell bad quickly when you sweat. On the other hand, wool, bamboo, and linen have antibacterial properties and naturally resist odors. These materials also wick away your sweat so it doesn’t linger, stink, and feel wet against your skin. Lightweight merino wool layers help you stay cool and keep odors under control.

Make sure you wear the right socks, too. Wearing moisture-wicking socks is important to keeping your feet dry and blister-free. Merino wool socks are a great choice. They’re breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant.

As backpackers know, there’s a point when even wool socks begin to smell. Typically, this is because of buildup on your socks, which you can mitigate with a few simple actions:

• When you find yourself with downtime, let your gear air out. While at camp, switch out your socks and let the sweaty ones dry in the sun. (You can even wash them in a nearby water source first).
• Look for special detergents to protect from odors, like NikWax’s Basewash. Or try all organic detergents to prevent buildup.
• Use plain vinegar in your load of laundry to deep-clean your socks and remove odors.

Beat the Bugs

Bugs can be a pesky annoyance or a total buzzkill (pun intended). Mosquitos, biting flies, and ticks are just some of the insects you hope not to encounter on the trail. And while you can’t avoid them entirely, you can take action to keep the bugs at bay and protect yourself from uncomfortable bites.

In order to best avoid bugs on the trail, try to avoid wearing anything heavily scented. Use unscented soaps, shampoos, and deodorants hiking or camping.

Wear light-colored clothing and opt for as much coverage as possible. A long-sleeved shirt, a sun hoody, pants, and tall socks provide a lot of coverage and protection from bugs. Plus, they tend to be attracted to darker-colored clothing, so avoid it when possible.

If you’re hiking during peak bug season (check local guides or ask rangers to find out when this is), avoid trails through wet, swampy areas or near standing water.

And finally, use bug repellent. Some hikers favor DEET while others use natural repellents. DEET is the strongest option and can break down waterproof materials, so use it sparingly. You can also buy clothing that’s treated with bug repellent. This might be helpful if you’re spending an extended period of time in really buggy areas.

Check for ticks

Unfortunately, ticks are becoming more and more prevalent across the country. It’s more important than ever to check for ticks after you finish a hike.

Showering is the best way to check for ticks and wash them away. Be sure to pay extra attention to places where ticks could find a dark hiding spot: think near your ears, armpits, groin, and in your hair. Washing your clothes is a great way to get rid of any ticks that may have hitched a ride.

Stay Hydrated and Fed on the Trail

Between the heat, sun, and physical activity, summer hiking can quickly lead to dehydration. Use the following tips to make sure you’re staying hydrated and fed throughout your summer hikes:

First, make sure you bring enough water (or have a way to filter or treat water if you know you can’t carry enough). Bring at least half a liter per hour on the trail, but in hot, sunny conditions, you should bring more. The more you hike, the more you’ll get a sense of how much water you need in different conditions.

Second, make hydration convenient. If you don’t like to stop for breaks along the trail, use a hydration reservoir and straw so you can hydrate on the go.

As much as dehydration is a concern, so is overhydration. It’s important to replace the electrolytes that you lose when you sweat. A good way to do this is to bring a sports drink mix to add to your water. Eat salty snacks throughout your hike to help replenish your body’s sodium levels. And make sure you bring plenty of food to keep up your energy throughout the duration of your hike.

Hike Happy This Summer

Armed with the right gear and knowledge, you can beat the sluggishness, sweat, and sunburns of underprepared summer hiking. Enjoy your adventures, and happy summer!

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One of my favorite parts of car camping has always been Dutch oven cooking. Growing up, my dad was always in charge of the Dutch oven, and we would beg to help rotate it or place hot coals with the tongs. We made dinner and even dessert in the Dutch oven, but one of our favorite things to make was Cornish game hens. As a kid, eating a whole mini chicken for dinner felt magical, and to be honest, I still feel like a kid eating a Cornish game hen.

Since Dutch oven cooking takes a couple of hours, I like to tuck an artichoke in if there is room. It makes a great appetizer while you wait for the hens.

In this recipe

• Ingredients
• How many coals you need
• How to prep the hens
• How to cook Cornish game hens in a Dutch oven
• Can you use a campfire instead of charcoal?
• Tips for Dutch oven cooking at camp
• FAQ

Ingredients

This recipe serves 2 to 4. Plan one hen for a big appetite, or half a hen per person with plenty of vegetables.

• 2 Cornish game hens (about 1.25 to 1.5 pounds each), thawed
• 1 bag (16 oz) baby carrots
• 1 bag (24 oz) small potatoes
• 1 yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 package fresh poultry herbs: rosemary, sage and thyme
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms
• 1 large artichoke
• 2 tbsp poultry seasoning (I had Rub with Love Chicken Rub on hand, but any similar seasoning works)
• 16 oz chicken stock
• 2 tbsp butter, softened, plus extra melted butter for the artichoke
• Salt and pepper to taste

How many coals do you need for a Dutch oven?

For this recipe in a 12-inch Dutch oven at 325°F, you need 16 coals on the lid and 7 underneath. Light a chimney starter full of briquettes about 20 minutes before you want to start cooking, and use the chart below for other sizes and temperatures. Briquettes burn for about an hour, so once the first batch starts to burn down, light a second batch so you have fresh coals ready to swap in.

Wind, cold air and direct sun all change how hot your coals run, so treat the chart as a starting point. On a cold or windy day, add a couple of extra briquettes or use a windscreen.

How do you prep Cornish game hens for the Dutch oven?

Make a bed of vegetables and stock, set the seasoned hens on top, then add the artichoke and herbs.

1. Prep the vegetables. Halve any potatoes larger than a golf ball, cut the onion into wedges and lightly crush the garlic cloves. Spread the potatoes, carrots, onion, mushrooms and garlic across the bottom of the Dutch oven and pour in the chicken stock. The vegetables make a rack for the hens and soak up all the juices.
2. Season the hens. Remove any giblets and pat the hens dry with a paper towel. Rub the skin with softened butter, then season generously with poultry rub, salt and pepper. Set the hens breast side up on top of the vegetables.
3. Add the artichoke and herbs. Cut about an inch off the top of the artichoke, trim the stem so it sits flat and nestle it into the pot next to the hens. Lay the rosemary, sage and thyme sprigs over everything.

How do you cook Cornish game hens in a Dutch oven?

Bake covered at about 325°F for 1.5 to 2 hours, rotating every 15 minutes, until the thighs reach 165°F.

1. Set up the coals. Put on the lid. Set 7 hot coals in a ring on a fire pan or in a fire ring and place the Dutch oven on top, then spread 16 coals evenly across the lid.
2. Rotate every 15 minutes. Lift the whole oven and turn it a quarter turn in one direction, then turn the lid a quarter turn in the other direction. This keeps hot spots from burning one side.
3. Refresh the coals. When the coals burn down to about half their size, usually after 45 minutes to an hour, swap in fresh coals from your second batch.
4. Pull the artichoke. After about an hour, check the artichoke. It's ready when an outer leaf pulls off easily. Lift it out with tongs, put the lid back on and let the hens keep cooking. Serve the artichoke with melted butter for dipping while you wait.
5. Check the hens. Start checking at about 1.5 hours. They are done when a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F and the juices run clear. For crispier, more golden skin, add 4 to 6 extra coals to the lid for the last 15 minutes.
6. Rest and serve. Let the hens rest for 10 minutes, then serve each person a hen (or half a hen) with the vegetables and a spoonful of pan juices.

Can you cook Cornish game hens over a campfire instead of charcoal?

Yes, but embers are harder to control than briquettes. Let the fire burn down to a bed of hot embers, then use a small shovel to place embers under and on top of the Dutch oven. Rotate more often, check the hens sooner and use a meat thermometer to know when they're done.

Tips for Dutch oven cooking at camp

• Keep it food safe. Pack the hens frozen or very cold in a cooler with plenty of ice, and cook them on your first or second night.
• Prep at home. Wash and cut the vegetables and mix your seasoning before you leave, then pack them in zip bags.
• Protect the ground. Cook in a fire ring, fire pan or on a flat rock, never on grass or near dry brush, and check local fire restrictions before you go.
• Keep the lid on. Every peek lets heat escape and adds cooking time.
• Douse your coals. When you're done, drown used coals with water, stir and drown again until they are cold to the touch.

More camp cooking ideas

• Backpacking pad thai
• Tortilla trail pizza
• Best camp coffee methods
• 3 ways to build the perfect campfire
• See all our trail recipes

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to cook Cornish game hens in a Dutch oven?

About 1.5 to 2 hours at 325°F with the lid on. Cooking time depends on the size of the hens, the weather and your coals, so always check that the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.

How many coals do you need for a 12-inch Dutch oven at 325°F?

About 23 briquettes: 16 on the lid and 7 underneath. For 350°F, use 17 on top and 8 underneath. Add a few more on cold or windy days.

What temperature should Cornish game hens be cooked to?

Cook Cornish game hens to an internal temperature of 165°F, measured in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.

What size Dutch oven do you need for two Cornish game hens?

A 12-inch (6 quart) Dutch oven fits two hens, a bed of vegetables and an artichoke. A 10-inch oven fits two hens with fewer vegetables.

Should you stuff Cornish game hens?

You don't need to. Tucking a few herb sprigs, a garlic clove or an onion wedge inside adds flavor without slowing down cooking. If you do use a bread stuffing, it also needs to reach 165°F.

How do you cook an artichoke in a Dutch oven?

Trim the top inch and the stem, then nestle the whole artichoke in the pot next to the hens. It steams in the juices and is usually tender in about an hour, when an outer leaf pulls off easily.

The PCT runs about 2,650 miles from the Mexican border to Canada, and most thru-hikers spend four to six months on it. That's a long time to live in one or two pairs of socks. Here's what to wear, how many pairs to carry, how your needs change by section, and how to keep your feet healthy all the way to the northern terminus.

In this guide

• What socks do PCT thru-hikers wear?
• Why is merino wool good for thru-hiking?
• Which socks work best for each section of the PCT?
• How many pairs of socks do you need for the PCT?
• How do you prevent blisters on a thru-hike?
• How do you wash socks on the trail?
• How long do socks last on the PCT?
• FAQ

What socks do PCT thru-hikers wear?

Most PCT hikers wear merino wool blend socks in an ultralight or light cushion, usually in a crew or quarter height. The typical thru-hiker setup has a few things in common:

• Merino blend, not 100% wool. A blend with nylon for durability and a little spandex for fit holds up better over hundreds of miles than pure wool.
• Thinner cushioning than you might expect. Most PCT hikers wear breathable trail runners rather than boots, and thin to light cushion socks keep feet cooler and leave room in the shoe as feet swell over the first few weeks.
• A snug fit with no bunching. Over 20-plus mile days, a sock that slides or wrinkles is the fastest route to a blister.
• Crew or quarter height. A little extra height keeps sand, grit and trail dust off your ankles, especially if you also wear gaiters.

Not sure which cushion level suits you? Our ultralight vs light vs medium cushion guide breaks it down.

Why is merino wool good for thru-hiking?

Merino wool handles the long, changeable days of a thru-hike better than any other sock fiber. On the PCT, the same pair of socks may see a cold desert dawn, a hot afternoon climb and a creek crossing before dinner. Merino helps because it:

• Stays warm when damp, so wet feet after a ford or a rainy day in Washington stay comfortable.
• Moves sweat away from your skin, which reduces the soft, damp skin that blisters easily.
• Resists odor, so socks stay wearable for days between town stops.
• Feels comfortable across a wide temperature range, from desert heat to frosty mornings in the High Sierra.
• Feels soft, not itchy, thanks to merino's very fine fibers.

Merino isn't perfect. Thin synthetic socks dry a little faster, and wool on its own wears faster than nylon, which is why good hiking socks blend the two. For most thru-hikers, the comfort and odor resistance are worth it.

Which socks work best for each section of the PCT?

Light cushion merino socks work for the whole trail, but many hikers fine-tune by section. Here's how conditions change for a typical northbound hike:

Because you resupply every few days to a week, you can mail fresh or warmer socks ahead in a resupply box before the Sierra or Washington. For wet sections, our guide to dealing with wet feet on the trail and our tips for hiking in the rain are worth reading before you go.

How many pairs of socks do you need for the PCT?

Three pairs is the most common choice: two pairs for hiking and one dry pair reserved for sleeping. Here's how the rotation works:

• Pair one is on your feet.
• Pair two dries on the outside of your pack after a rinse or a sweaty morning. Swap pairs at lunch.
• Pair three stays dry in a zip-top bag and only comes out in camp or your sleeping bag. Warm, dry sleep socks are worth their small weight, especially in the Sierra and Washington.

Some ultralight hikers carry only two pairs, but a dedicated sleep pair makes cold, wet stretches much more comfortable. You don't need to start with every pair you'll use: replace worn socks at town stops or send new pairs ahead in resupply boxes. A 3-pack like our light cushion hiking sock 3-pack covers the full rotation.

How do you prevent blisters on a thru-hike?

Keep your feet dry, keep your socks snug, and treat hot spots the moment you feel them. Blisters come from heat, moisture and friction, and small problems grow fast over 20-mile days. These habits help:

• Take your shoes and socks off at long breaks to let your feet dry and cool.
• Swap to your second pair midday if your socks are soaked with sweat or water.
• Tape hot spots right away. Carry a small roll of tape in your first aid kit.
• Size your shoes for swelling. Feet often swell on long hikes, and a shoe that's too tight with your normal socks will rub.
• Shake out sand and grit, especially in the desert, where it works into socks and acts like sandpaper.
• Keep toenails trimmed to avoid pressure on long descents.

Our full guide to preventing blisters when hiking and backpacking goes deeper, and our guide to the 10 essentials covers what to keep in your first aid kit.

How do you wash socks on the trail?

Rinse socks in a pot or bag of water at least 200 feet from lakes and streams, wring them gently, and dry them on the outside of your pack. On trail, a plain-water rinse every few days removes most of the salt and grit that stiffens socks and wears them out. Follow Leave No Trace guidelines:

• Carry water away from the source instead of washing directly in a stream or lake.
• Skip soap on trail, or use only a tiny amount of biodegradable soap well away from water.
• Scatter the rinse water widely, at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) from water, camp and the trail.

In town, wash socks inside out on a gentle cycle with cool or warm water, and air dry or tumble dry on low. Avoid high heat and bleach, which shorten the life of merino. For more, see our merino sock care tips for backpackers.

How long do socks last on the PCT?

Even quality merino socks wear out on a thru-hike, so expect to replace your hiking pairs at least once along the way. How long a pair lasts depends on your shoes, your stride, the terrain, how often you rotate and how well you clean them. Replace socks when you see:

• Thin, see-through patches at the heel or ball of the foot
• Holes, especially at the toes
• Cushioning that has packed flat
• Cuffs that sag and no longer stay up

Rotating pairs, rinsing out grit and keeping toenails short all help socks last longer. Every pair of Cloudline socks is also backed by our lifetime guarantee. Comparing brands before your hike? Read our Darn Tough vs Smartwool vs Cloudline comparison and our complete guide to hiking socks.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best socks for the Pacific Crest Trail?

Merino wool blend hiking socks with ultralight or light cushioning are the most popular choice for the PCT. They breathe in the desert, stay warm when wet in the Sierra and Washington, and resist odor between town stops.

How many pairs of socks do you need for the PCT?

Most thru-hikers carry three pairs: two for hiking in rotation and one dry pair kept for sleeping. Replace worn pairs in town or mail new ones ahead in resupply boxes.

Are merino wool socks good for thru-hiking?

Yes. Merino wool socks wick sweat, stay warm when damp, resist odor over multiple days and stay comfortable across a wide range of temperatures, which makes them well suited to long-distance hiking.

Should I wear different socks in the desert and the Sierra?

Many hikers do. Ultralight or light cushion socks keep feet cooler in the desert, while light or medium cushion socks add warmth for snow, cold mornings and creek crossings in the Sierra. You can mail different socks ahead in a resupply box.

Do PCT hikers wear liner socks?

Most don't. A well-fitting merino hiking sock is enough for most thru-hikers, and liners add bulk inside trail runners. They can help hikers who are very prone to blisters.

How often should you replace socks on a thru-hike?

Expect to replace your hiking socks at least once during a full PCT thru-hike. Swap them out when you see thin spots at the heel or ball of the foot, holes, flattened cushioning or sagging cuffs.

You understand backpacking. Even if you have never spent an evening beneath the stars or strapped on a full backpack, I promise it is exactly what you think it is. You put everything you need in a backpack, walk with it, and then use it all. It is dirty, uncomfortable, incredible and worth every moment.

A walk through your local gear shop or a quick scroll through online guides might make the process feel overwhelming, but planning a multi-day backpacking trip can be simple as well as safe. In four steps, you can plan out your dream backpacking trip. Are you ready? Let's make your trip a reality.

How do you plan a multi-day backpacking trip?

Step 1: Pick a route

When choosing a route, you will need to think about time, fitness, conditions, permits, transport and navigation.

Time: how long should your first trip be?

Think through how long you want your trip to be. If this is your first backpacking trip, aim for a single overnight or a two-night trip. Consider the time of year as well, and choose a location and route you can handle for the season and length.

Fitness: how far can you hike each day?

Hiking with a full pack is slower than day hiking. Many beginners plan 5 to 10 miles a day, with less on days with big climbs. You can always train for a trip if you have the time: pick a route you are sure you can finish while wearing a backpack, or set the route as a realistic training goal and build up to it with at-home workouts and shorter hikes with weight.

Conditions: what is the trail like right now?

Location, elevation and season all matter. Be sure you know the conditions of the trail at the time you plan to go. Are there seasonal water crossings? Could the trail be muddy, icy or snow covered? You can find this in recent trail reports, or by calling the agency that manages the area, such as a ranger district, national forest, national park or state park.

Permits and campsites: do you need a reservation?

Many national parks and wilderness areas require an overnight permit, and popular routes may use a lottery or fill up months in advance. Ask the managing agency or check Recreation.gov. While you are at it, find out where you are allowed to camp, whether campfires are allowed and whether you need a bear canister. If you are camping away from established sites, read up on how to pick a good backcountry campsite.

Transport: who is dropping you off and picking you up?

Part of choosing a route is planning how you get to the trailhead and back from your end point, especially on a one-way trip. Arrange drop-off and pick-up, and leave your trip plan with the person picking you up and a trusted friend. Include your route, campsites, the day and time you plan to finish, and a time (with room for small delays) when they should call for help.

Navigation: what maps do you need?

Well-traveled trails are the easiest to navigate, while less-traveled trails and wilderness areas take more research and skill. You need a detailed topographic map of the area marked with your campsites and places to refill water. CalTopo and Gaia GPS are both great for planning and printing maps. Even if you plan to bring your phone and a charger, download offline maps and print a paper copy of your route just in case. Our guide to staying found on the trail covers what to do if you get turned around.

Step 2: Dial in your gear

Fortunately, if you are already a hiker, most of your gear is ready. Start with the 10 essentials, then add what you need to sleep, cook and carry it all:

• A larger backpack. Most multi-day trips call for a pack in the 45 to 65 liter range. Learn how to pack and fit it before you go.
• A sleep system. A tent or other shelter, a sleeping bag or quilt and a sleeping pad. Our guides to building a sleep system and choosing a sleeping pad walk you through it.
• A kitchen. A small stove, fuel, a pot, a lighter and a spoon.
• Water treatment. If you usually don't carry a filter on day hikes, you'll need one now. Here are 6 ways to purify water on the trail.
• Extra socks. Pack two or three pairs of merino wool hiking socks: one to wear, one drying on the outside of your pack and one dry pair saved for camp and sleeping. Dry feet are your best defense against blisters.

If you need any new gear, give yourself time to use it before the trip and break it in. Borrowing or renting is a great way to try backpacking without buying everything at once, and our guide to investing in essential hiking gear can help you decide what is worth buying. Every ounce adds up over several days, so it is also worth a look at how to trim your pack weight.

Step 3: Plan food and water

The simplest backpacking foods are dehydrated meals, but camp chefs might prefer something more creative, like homemade dehydrated meals or a few backpacking meal hacks.

• Plan every meal for every person. Write out breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for each day of the trip, for everyone going.
• Pack enough calories. A common guideline is about 1.5 to 2.5 pounds of food per person per day, depending on your size, the weather and how hard the hiking is.
• Bring extra. Always pack one extra meal or a day's worth of snacks that you only eat in an emergency.
• Count your water. Plan about half a liter per hour of hiking in moderate weather, and more in heat or at altitude. Add the water you need to cook and clean up, and mark every reliable refill point on your map.
• Shop in two rounds. Buy non-perishables early, and wait until right before your trip to buy anything perishable.

Step 4: Do a test run

At least 10 days before your trip:

1. Pack your bag. Everything.
2. Put on your hiking clothes and socks.
3. Walk around the block or any short distance.
4. Go home or to a park and set up your tent and sleep system.
5. Cook a meal using your kitchen set.
6. Lie in your tent and sleeping bag for 30 minutes to an hour.

It might be strange, and you might get some funny looks from your neighbors, but this step lets you adjust for comfort and practicality. Once you finish the trial, make your final adjustments. If anything doesn't work well or needs to change, you'll find out at home instead of on the trail.

Multi-day backpacking checklist

• Permit, campsite reservation and trip plan left with someone at home
• Paper map, compass and offline maps on your phone
• Backpack and rain cover or pack liner
• Tent or shelter, sleeping bag or quilt and sleeping pad
• Stove, fuel, pot, lighter and spoon
• Water bottles or reservoir and water treatment
• Food for every meal, plus emergency food
• Bear canister or food bag, if required
• Headlamp, power bank and charging cable
• First aid kit with blister care
• Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
• Rain jacket, warm layer, beanie and gloves
• Two or three pairs of merino wool hiking socks
• Toiletries, trowel and trash bag (pack it all out)
• Knife or multi-tool and a small repair kit

What my first backpacking trip taught me

You did it! You are ready to hit the trail and enjoy the incredible experience of being surrounded by nature. My last note to you is to be prepared for the completely unexpected. Why? Here is the story of my very first backpacking trip. Well... my attempted backpacking trip.

It was the middle of summer, and I was so excited to go backpacking for the first time. I had everything set. I was fit from summer hiking, geared up and packed for an overnight trip to a gorgeous alpine lake. I knew the trail. I had a backpacking buddy with lots of experience. We had been watching the forecast for weeks, and it predicted nothing but sunny days and clear skies.

The backpack was heavier than I expected, and I felt its weight more than I anticipated. I learned how to filter water, which was exciting. Overall, the trip was going great! My expectations were not always right, but I was loving every second of going deeper into the wild and learning how backpacking works. We started our hike in a canyon, looking up toward the peaks where our lake sat just below. With all the trees and surrounding mountains, our view of the sky was limited.

We kept hiking, chatting away, with me almost bouncing with the thrill of it. In what felt like the blink of an eye, clouds appeared overhead and it began to drizzle.

We hardly had time to pull out our rain jackets before the rain was pounding, and then turning to hail. The temperature dropped fast. We set up our emergency shelter to hide from the golf-ball-sized ice flying down on us, emptying it from the tarp about every 30 seconds so the shelter wouldn't buckle under the weight. We pulled on our cold weather gear and made hot tea to warm up. The unforecasted hail would not stop. Eventually, we realized we needed to get down from the high elevation and back to the trailhead. We packed everything up and started down, still getting pelted.

As we retraced our steps, the hail began to lighten up. Almost as quickly as it came, it was gone. Aside from broken branches and a very muddy trail, it was a sunny summer day again.

We did not go back up. A buckle on my new backpack was broken, and we were both exhausted and shaken. We went home, watched TV and ate hamburgers. That was the end of my first day backpacking.

I'm not telling this story to scare you out of going. Years later, I love backpacking and would go every week if I could. We still laugh about that trip. The reality is that nature is not controlled, and all of your planning could fail. But if you are prepared for the worst and keep an attitude that embraces the unknown, you will be successful. Read up on backcountry storm safety before you go, then be careful, invite your friends and get out there!

Frequently asked questions

How long should your first backpacking trip be?

One or two nights is ideal for a first trip. It is long enough to learn how your gear, food and body work on the trail, and short enough that a mistake is easy to recover from.

How many miles a day should you backpack?

Many beginners plan 5 to 10 miles a day with a full pack. Plan fewer miles on days with big elevation gain, rough trail or high altitude, and leave time to set up camp before dark.

Do you need a permit to go backpacking?

Often, yes. Many national parks and wilderness areas require an overnight permit, and popular routes can fill up months ahead. Check with the agency that manages the area or on Recreation.gov before you finalize your plans.

How much food should you bring backpacking?

A common guideline is 1.5 to 2.5 pounds of food per person per day. Plan every meal and snack for each day, then add one extra meal or a day's worth of snacks for emergencies.

How much water should you carry backpacking?

Plan about half a liter per hour of hiking in moderate weather, more in heat or at altitude, plus water for cooking. Rather than carrying it all, mark reliable water sources on your map and bring a way to treat water.

What should you leave with someone at home?

Leave your route, campsites, trailhead, car details, who you are with, when you expect to finish and a time when they should contact the authorities if they haven't heard from you.

How many pairs of socks should you bring backpacking?

Two to three pairs work for most trips: one to wear, one drying and one dry pair kept for camp and sleeping. Merino wool socks are a good choice because they resist odor and stay warm when damp.

More backpacking resources

• How to Get Started Backpacking: Tips for Your First Trip
• The 10 Essentials for Hiking: A Beginner's Guide and Checklist
• How to Build a Camping Sleep System
• Do Hiking Socks Make a Difference? How to Choose the Right Pair
• Leave No Trace: The 7 Principles

John Muir is arguably one of the greatest adventurers in history. He was an author, philosopher, naturalist, inventor and of course a hiker. His efforts helped preserve Yosemite National Park and start the Sierra Club, and his writings continue to inspire new generations to get outside and experience nature through hiking and backpacking. Today we've gathered 15 of our favorite John Muir quotes, and we hope they inspire you to plan your next adventure!

In this post

• 15 John Muir quotes for hikers
• Who was John Muir?
• Quotes John Muir never said
• FAQ

15 inspiring John Muir quotes for hikers and backpackers

1. On catching a mountain sunrise

Waking up early on a weekend to hit the trail is a sacrifice made well worth it when you reach a mountaintop in time to catch the sunrise.

"How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains!"

John Muir

Source: The Mountains of California (1894), "A Near View of the High Sierra"

2. On the world hidden in the forest

When you're hiking through a forest, you have the chance to see the natural world up close. This one is often shortened to "Between every two pines is a doorway to a new world," but Muir's actual words are even better.

"Between every two pine trees there is a door leading to a new way of life."

John Muir

Source: A note Muir wrote in his copy of Ralph Waldo Emerson's Prose Works, quoted in Son of the Wilderness (1945)

3. On the dangers of staying home

Modern life has made the draw of home stronger than ever, but taking the time to unplug and hit the trail is the perfect way to reset and reassess your priorities.

"Few places in this world are more dangerous than home. Fear not, therefore, to try the mountain passes. They will kill care, save you from deadly apathy, set you free, and call forth every faculty into vigorous, enthusiastic action."

John Muir

Source: The Mountains of California (1894), "The Passes"

4. On climbing mountains

The good tidings of the mountains are a real thing. Just ask any thru-hiker, backpacker or climber. Most people only know the first line, but the full passage is one of Muir's best.

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves."

John Muir

Source: Our National Parks (1901)

5. On what every hike gives back

We agree with Muir. We get a lot more than a great workout out of every hike we take.

"In every walk with Nature one receives far more than he seeks."

John Muir

Source: Steep Trails (1918), "Mormon Lilies"

6. On work and the mountains

This is our favorite John Muir quote for those times we feel like we're working too much and not making time to get out into the mountains.

"I am losing precious days. I am degenerating into a machine for making money. I am learning nothing in this trivial world of men. I must break away and get out into the mountains to learn the news!"

John Muir

Source: Widely attributed to Muir, though we couldn't trace this full wording to his own writing. His friend S. Hall Young recalled him saying "I'm losing the precious days" in Alaska Days with John Muir (1915).

7. On what mountains can teach us

Muir knew books. He wrote several, and he even built a clockwork study desk that lit his lamp and swapped the book in front of him every half hour. Still, he knew where the real lessons were.

"One day's exposure to mountains is better than cartloads of books."

John Muir

Source: John of the Mountains: The Unpublished Journals of John Muir (1938)

8. On finding happiness in the mountains

Whether we climb the peaks or simply hike below them, the mountains are our happy place. Muir wrote this one after climbing Mount Rainier.

"Doubly happy, however, is the man to whom lofty mountain-tops are within reach."

John Muir

Source: Muir's essay on climbing Mount Rainier, reprinted in Steep Trails (1918)

9. On rest and repose

If the first thing you think of when you hear rest and repose is a day on the couch binge-watching TV, John Muir would challenge you to go to the woods and find a better kind of rest.

"Come to the woods, for here is rest. There is no repose like that of the green deep woods."

John Muir

Source: John of the Mountains: The Unpublished Journals of John Muir (1938)

10. On seeing the world while you can

Our world is beautiful, and many lifetimes wouldn't be enough to see everything worth seeing. Spend your time wisely and get a good look at as much as you can.

"The world's big and I want to have a good look at it before it gets dark."

John Muir

Source: As quoted in Linnie Marsh Wolfe's biography Son of the Wilderness (1945)

11. On the universe

Nothing will make you appreciate your place in the universe more than spending time in the microcosm that is a forest.

"The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness."

John Muir

Source: John of the Mountains: The Unpublished Journals of John Muir (1938)

12. On mountains as home

If you've ever felt more at home on a trail than in town, Muir felt the same way.

"Therefore we are all, in some sense, mountaineers, and going to the mountains is going home."

John Muir

Source: Steep Trails (1918)

13. On why we need wild places

Muir spent much of his life fighting to protect places like Yosemite. This quote sums up why.

"Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where Nature may heal and cheer and give strength to body and soul alike."

John Muir

Source: The Yosemite (1912)

14. On going out to go in

Anyone who has set out for a short hike and come home at dark knows exactly what Muir meant.

"I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in."

John Muir

Source: John of the Mountains: The Unpublished Journals of John Muir (1938)

15. On the call of the mountains

This is John Muir's most famous quote. You can find it on t-shirts, mugs and posters. Muir wrote it in a letter to his sister, and the full sentence shows he meant studying the mountains as much as escaping to them.

"The mountains are calling and I must go, and I will work on while I can, studying incessantly."

John Muir

Source: Letter to his sister Sarah Muir Galloway, September 3, 1873, in Life and Letters of John Muir (1923)

Who was John Muir?

John Muir (1838 to 1914) was a naturalist, writer and conservationist often called the "Father of the National Parks."

• Early life: born in Dunbar, Scotland, in 1838, he moved with his family to a Wisconsin farm in 1849.
• The long walk: in 1867 he walked about 1,000 miles from Kentucky to the Gulf of Mexico, a trip he later wrote about in A Thousand-Mile Walk to the Gulf.
• The Sierra Nevada: he arrived in California in 1868 and spent years exploring, studying and writing about Yosemite and the High Sierra.
• Conservation: his writing helped build support for Yosemite National Park in 1890, and in 1892 he co-founded the Sierra Club and became its first president.
• Camping with a president: in 1903 he camped in Yosemite with President Theodore Roosevelt, a trip that helped shape Roosevelt's conservation work.

Which popular quotes did John Muir never say?

A few of the most shared "John Muir quotes" don't appear anywhere in his writing. The Sierra Club's John Muir Exhibit, which tracks his published works, journals and letters, flags these:

• "And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul." Not Muir. It was written on Tumblr in 2014.
• "Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt." No source has ever been found in Muir's writing.
• "When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world." A paraphrase. Muir actually wrote, "When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe," in My First Summer in the Sierra (1911).
• "Between every two pines is a doorway to a new world." A shortened version of the real quote, #2 above.

More outdoor quotes

• 22 outdoor adventure quotes to inspire your next hike
• Henry David Thoreau quotes that will inspire you to get outside
• 10 presidential quotes about nature in America
• Inspiring quotes from adventurous women
• More stories and inspiration

Frequently asked questions

What is John Muir's most famous quote?

"The mountains are calling and I must go" is John Muir's most famous quote. He wrote it in a letter to his sister Sarah Muir Galloway on September 3, 1873, and the full sentence continues, "and I will work on while I can, studying incessantly."

Where does "The mountains are calling and I must go" come from?

It comes from a letter John Muir wrote to his sister Sarah Muir Galloway on September 3, 1873, while he was living and studying in the Sierra Nevada. The letter was published in Life and Letters of John Muir.

Did John Muir say "And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul"?

No. According to the Sierra Club's John Muir Exhibit, that line appears nowhere in Muir's writings. It was written by a Tumblr user in 2014 and has been wrongly credited to Muir ever since.

Did John Muir say "Between every two pines is a doorway to a new world"?

Not in those words. Muir wrote "Between every two pine trees there is a door leading to a new way of life" in his copy of Ralph Waldo Emerson's Prose Works. The shorter "doorway to a new world" version is a later paraphrase.

Who was John Muir?

John Muir (1838 to 1914) was a Scottish-born American naturalist, writer and conservationist. He helped protect Yosemite, co-founded the Sierra Club in 1892 and served as its first president, and his writing inspired generations of hikers and the national park movement.

Where can you hike in John Muir's footsteps?

The John Muir Trail runs about 211 miles through the Sierra Nevada from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mount Whitney. You can also visit Yosemite National Park, Muir Woods National Monument and the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, California.

Whether you’ve been staying active throughout the winter or spending your time cozied up on the couch, it never hurts to do some pre-season prep. With a little conditioning, gear inventorying, and trip planning, you’ll be poised to make the most of hiking season as soon as the trails melt out.

Read on for some of our favorite ways to get ready for an unforgettable hiking season.

1. Get Physically Prepared

Let’s be honest: maybe you love hiking because it doesn’t require special training, equipment, or skills. And the idea of conditioning for hiking season? You’re afraid it will take the joy out of your favorite activity.

If you agree with that sentiment, we hear you. There’s no strength training program, mileage requirement, or special gear that makes you a hiker. And that’s a wonderful fact.

But that doesn’t mean a little strength and cardio training aren’t helpful. For those who have big hiking goals, whether that’s a week-long backpacking trip or summiting a high peak, conditioning can make the difference between a grueling slog and a satisfying hike.

Conditioning is also important for people who are recovering from injuries. Jumping into a long or steep hike before your body is ready is not going to do you any favors.

Whatever your reason for preparing physically for hiking season, you’ll want to focus on strength and cardio training. The goal is to strengthen your core and leg muscles, which you’ll rely on while hiking. Exercises that help you improve balance are also helpful, especially if you’ll be hiking with a heavy backpack.

Follow these guidelines when you begin conditioning:

• Start training about two months before a challenging hike.
• Take rest days twice a week, and more often when your body needs it.
• Once you’re feeling ready for it, swap out some cardio exercises for shorter day hikes.

Focusing on leg, hip, and core strength, here are some common exercises to build into your routine:

• Squats
• Step-ups
• Planks
• Lunges

Find how-tos and more exercises in this training guide.

And don’t spend all your time doing reps. Some of your favorite activities are likely great cross-training. Focus on activities that get your heart rate up, build leg or core strength, or improve your balance. Some great options include running, mountain biking, paddleboarding, and yoga.

2. Take Inventory of Your Gear

In addition to getting your body ready for hiking season, you also want to prepare your gear. Dig it out from the back of your closet and take inventory of everything. While it’ not the most fun task, preparing your gear now means you’ll be ready to head out as soon as that perfect weather arrives.

Here are some items you’ll want to check on and some tasks you’ll want to complete:

• Inventory your first aid kit: Use this checklist to figure out what’s missing and what needs restocking. Check medications and replace anything that’s expired.
• Check your headlamp: Do the batteries still work? Make sure you have extra batteries on hand to replace dead ones throughout the season.
• Re-waterproof your rain layers: When was the last time you treated your waterproof gear? If it’s been a while, wash your rain jacket and rain pants with a wash-in waterproofing detergent.
• Inspect your tent: If camping will be part of your upcoming hiking season, don’t neglect this key piece of gear. Check for working (and present) zippers, poles, and stakes. Check the tent itself for any tears or holes. If it needs waterproofing, you can reseal the seams and spray the fly with a waterproof spray.
• Unroll or unpack sleeping bags and pads: Check for any holes, tears, or, in the case of inflatable sleeping pads, leaks. Patch anything that needs it and air out your sleeping bag.
• Inspect your hiking shoes or boots: Check to make sure they’re in good shape, including the tread. If you have waterproof boots that aren’t doing their job, you might want to add a waterproofing treatment.
• Take stock of your socks: Make sure your hiking socks haven’t disappeared during the winter, and inspect them for holes. If you notice holes in your Cloudline socks, contact us for a replacement. It’s what our Lifetime Guarantee is for. And if you simply need to add to your sock drawer, choose a merino wool style for blister-free hiking.
• Deep-clean your hydration system: Start by filling it with warm water and dropping in a cleaning tablet. Run water through the straw, then let the whole thing soak according to the cleaning tablet’s directions. Empty and rinse the reservoir, then refill it with warm water and soap. Scrub all the surfaces (use a specialty brush for the straw, if possible) before rinsing again and letting it air-dry completely.
• Refill your snack stash: Refill your hiking snack supply with healthy, energy-dense, and shelf-stable foods you can throw in your pack at a moment’s notice. Energy bars, jerky, nuts, nut butter, and dried fruit are all great options.

3. Do Some Trail and Trip Planning

Hiking season flies by. As it approaches, take some time to think through what trails you’re excited to hike this year.

Sure, spur-of-the-moment hikes are some of the best, but some trips require more planning. Taking a little time ahead of the season to do some planning makes it easier to just go when the time comes.

Planning ahead also helps you take advantage of the weather. Rather than planning a trip in response to weather, you can pick one of your pre-planned trips when you see the perfect weather window.

Here are some ways you can loosely plan your hiking season so you can prioritize your top hikes and save time for spontaneous adventures.

• Make a list of hikes and backpacking trips you want to prioritize this season. Use sites like Hiking Project or All Trails to get ideas and do some basic research.
• Research the trails (mileage, elevation, terrain) and any seasonal or special closures that might limit accessibility.
• (Roughly) plan when you’ll do these hikes. No one needs to follow a strict schedule when it comes to outdoor adventures, but longer trips might require time away from work. Figure out when you’ll go on your adventures based on weather, your personal schedule, and, if it’s a concern to you, crowds.
• Locate, borrow, or print maps for your hikes. GPS is great, but having a paper map is both practical and fun. Not only are maps helpful to study while planning your trip, but they’re an important safety and navigation tool.
• Plan routes for any overnight trips. Figure out where you’ll camp and how many miles you’ll hike each day. If your route isn’t a loop, figure out a shuttle or a plan for returning to your car.
• Get any necessary permits or reservations. Some permits and campsites are available on a walk-up basis, and some require advanced reservations. Some activities, like dispersed camping in a national forest, don’t require any permits. Others, like backpacking in a national park, do. Research ahead of time to make sure you know what you need and how to get it.

Plan Now So You Can Play Later

With some physical, mental, and practical prep, you’ll be ready when hiking season rolls around. Whether you’re planning casual hikes around town or serious backpacking adventures, preparation makes getting out there so much easier.

Do you have any special ways you prepare for hiking season? What makes you excited to get back on the trail? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Click here to view all the products available at Cloudline Apparel!

While there’s always work to be done when it comes to helping our planet, there’s room to enjoy it, too. Take some time this Earth Day to have fun, celebrate with friends, and make a positive difference in whatever way you can.

Feeling stuck? No problem. We’ve come up with 8 ways to have fun, and make a difference, this upcoming Earth Day.

1. Have an Earth-Friendly Picnic

Nothing says “celebration” like good food and company. If the weather allows, prepare and enjoy a picnic outdoors with friends or family. Make the prep fun and earth-friendly, too. Head to the farmers market, food co-op, or local market to grab fresh produce, cheese, bread, and other goodies. Support local farmers and make your meal more sustainable by buying locally grown food.

Make your picnic as low-waste as possible. Pack your meal in reusable containers, bring camping dishes or lightweight plates to eat off of, and use washable cloth napkins. Go the extra mile by picking up a growler of your favorite locally-brewed beverage and have everyone bring their own camp mug.

And of course, make sure to leave no trace! Pack out all food scraps and garbage from your picnic location.

2. Take a Hike

While there is a lot of hard work to be done to reverse some of the damage we’ve been inflicting on the planet, you can take a step back to simply enjoy nature and remember why it’s worth protecting.

What better way to reconnect with the planet than by taking a hike? Pick one of your favorite trails or find something new on AllTrails or Hiking Project. It doesn’t have to be an hours-long expedition, either. A 30-minute jaunt on a local trail after work is sometimes all you need.

3. Volunteer in Your Community

If you’re interested in taking action and can donate some of your time, find a volunteer opportunity in your community. If you don’t know where to look, start by checking out local conservancies and nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits are often looking for volunteers and may even have special Earth Day projects they’re hosting.

You can also search online through Earthday.org or Patagonia Action Works to see what’s going on in your area and how you can get involved.

Bring a couple friends along, and you’ll have a great time, not to mention all the good you’ll be doing for the planet and your community.

4. Refresh Your Space

Does spring cleaning sound more like a chore than a way to celebrate? Before you skip ahead, hear us out.

Take a couple hours to declutter your house. Or, if you have limited time, pick a single room. Gather things you no longer want or use (like old board games, books, home goods, and clothes) and set them aside to donate.

Make a trip to the thrift store and bring your donations along. It’ll feel great to put your things to good use again. Plus, you can do some sustainable shopping while you’re there! Look around for some second-hand gems that will bring fresh energy to your space. Give new books, household decor, and anything that catches your eye a new home. You’ll refresh your space, give your unused items a new home, and avoid purchasing brand-new things. It’s a win-win-win!

5. Try a Low-Waste Challenge

You could set aside a day, a week, or, if you’re really dedicated, even a whole month for this activity. This challenge is a simple yet profound way to change your habits by first taking stock of your current trash output.

Here’s how it works: Keep track, via spreadsheet or old fashioned pen and paper, of each individual item of garbage you throw out for the length of your challenge. You could narrow it down to a specific type of garbage (plastic is a great place to start) to make it a little easier.

Analyze your spreadsheet at the end of the challenge. What single-use items did you keep throwing away? What reusable items can you replace it with?

Make this a community challenge by getting friends, family, or colleagues in on it. Have everyone contribute a small amount of money for a prize. Use it to buy a gift card to a local, sustainable restaurant or make a donation to a local conservancy in the winner’s name.

6. Plant Something

A classic Earth Day activity, planting a tree is wonderful, but not always possible.You can find a way to plant something this Earth Day that you can continue to care for in the future.

Depending on where you live, you can start a little garden at home. If you have limited space or poor soil, you can garden in raised beds on the patio. No patio? You might be able to grow potted herbs indoors.

If you don’t have the space or sunlight necessary to grow anything at home, you might be able to tend to a community garden. Community gardens are as unique as the communities they’re part of, so do some research and look into how you can get involved with one in your area.

7. Watch a Documentary

April showers in full swing? We hope that doesn’t keep you from enjoying a rainy-day hike. But if you’d rather stay indoors, you can inspire and educate yourself with a fantastic, Earth-celebrating documentary. Here are a few to check out:

David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet. The famous David Attenborough reflects on his career exploring many corners of the world and the alarming changes he’s noticed, as well as his ideas for the future. Available on Netflix.

Public Trust: The Fight for America’s Public Lands. This film by Patagonia explores the significance of public lands in America and the ongoing challenges that continue to threaten their protection. Available on Patagonia.com.

Jane Goodall: The Hope. Like the name suggests, this special, featuring Jane Goodall and her continuing legacy, is an inspiring film that follows her life as environmental activist.

Available on Disney+.

8. Read a Book

Anyone else’s idea of a celebration curling up with a good book?

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, actionable advice, or a good old adventure tale, there’s a book to make your Earth Day celebration just what you want. Grab your beverage of choice, get comfy (Head outside, if it’s nice!) and dig into a nature-inspired book.

Need some ideas? Check out our blog post about our favorite adventure books or browse the nature section at your local library.

How Will You Celebrate Earth Day?

Which of these activities will you be doing on Earth Day? Whether you’re cozying up with a good nature read or volunteering with your neighbors, we hope you find moments of inspiration, fun, and gratitude.

Let us know how you celebrate! Take a photo of your Earth Day activities and tag us on Instagram with #cloudlinesocks. Happy Earth Day!

In this article

• What do ultralight, light and medium cushion actually mean?
• Which sock cushion is best for hiking?
• Which sock cushion is best for running?
• What cushion should you wear for skiing, work and everyday?
• Quick chooser: cushion by activity, season and footwear
• Do thicker socks prevent blisters?
• FAQ

What do ultralight, light and medium cushion actually mean?

Cushion is the looped padding knit into a sock. More cushion means more impact absorption and warmth, but also more bulk inside your shoe and less airflow. Brands use slightly different names, so here is exactly how the three Cloudline levels are built:

All three are knit from the same merino wool blend, so each one still wicks sweat and resists odor. Cushion changes comfort and warmth, not how well the wool performs.

Which sock cushion is best for hiking?

For most hikers, light cushion is the best all-round choice, and medium cushion is the better choice for long or heavy days. Three things decide it:

• Your footwear. Trail runners and light hiking shoes have less room inside, so light cushion or ultralight fits best. Stiffer leather boots have more volume and pair naturally with medium cushion.
• Your load and distance. A heavier backpacking pack or a big-mileage day means more impact on every step. Full medium cushion spreads that pressure and is why it is our most reviewed hiking sock.
• The temperature. On hot, exposed trails, ultralight keeps feet cooler and drier. On cold or shoulder-season hikes, medium cushion adds real warmth.

A simple rule: if you would wear a sun hat, think ultralight or light. If you would pack a puffy jacket, think medium.

Ultralight · Hot-weather hikes

Merino Wool Hiking Sock, Ultralight

No cushion, maximum airflow, crew height. Rated 4.87/5 by 98 hikers. Also in women's sizing.

$22.99 Shop ultralight →

Light cushion · The everyday pick

Merino Wool Hiking Sock, Light Cushion

Padded underfoot, breathable on top, crew height. Rated 4.90/5 by 133 hikers. Also in women's sizing.

$23.99 Shop light cushion →

Medium cushion · Long days and boots

Merino Wool Hiking Sock, Medium Cushion

Cushioned throughout, warm and protective. Rated 4.94/5 by 255 hikers. Also in women's sizing.

$24.99 Shop medium cushion →

Which sock cushion is best for running?

Runners usually want less cushion than hikers, because running shoes already carry most of the padding and fit more closely.

• Ultralight suits racing, hot-weather runs and snug, fast shoes. Our no-show ultralight is the lightest sock we make.
• Light cushion is the best everyday running sock: a little protection underfoot without making your shoes feel tight. The 1/4 top light cushion (and the women's version) also keeps trail grit out.
• Medium cushion helps on long trail runs, rocky ground and cold mornings, as long as your shoes have room for it.

What cushion should you wear for skiing, work and everyday?

• Skiing and snowboarding: ski boots fit tightly, so thinner is often better. Ultralight ski socks give the most precise feel and suit spring days. Choose medium cushion ski socks for cold days or roomier boots. Our guide to how to choose ski socks covers fit, height and why thicker isn't warmer.
• Work and duty boots: long shifts on hard floors call for medium cushion work socks. For lighter tactical boots, light cushion tactical socks keep things cooler.
• Everyday and office: ultralight or a thin dress sock fits normal shoes best.

Quick chooser: which cushion for your activity, season and footwear?

Do thicker socks prevent blisters?

Not on their own. Fit matters more than thickness. Blisters come from friction and moisture, and a sock that slips, bunches or crowds your shoe causes more of both. Cushion helps by reducing pressure on hot spots like the heel and ball of the foot, but a sock that is too thick for your footwear makes the fit tight and can make blisters worse.

To get it right:

• Try shoes on with the socks you will wear. Moving from ultralight to medium cushion can change how a shoe fits.
• Pick the sock size that matches your shoe size. Only size down if you're right between sizes, since merino stretches a little. Our sock size guide shows each range.
• Keep feet dry. Merino wicks sweat, and a fresh pair at lunch helps on long days.

For more on this, read our guide to preventing blisters when hiking and backpacking. REI's guide to hiking socks covers fit and height in more detail.

Frequently asked questions

Is ultralight the same as no cushion?

Yes. Ultralight socks have no cushioning, just a single thin knit layer. They are the most breathable option and work best in hot weather and close-fitting shoes.

Are thicker socks always warmer?

Generally, yes. More cushion traps more warm air, so medium cushion socks are the warmest of the three. Merino also regulates temperature, so it stays comfortable across a wider range than cotton or synthetic socks.

Can I wear medium cushion socks in summer?

You can, especially on long hikes in boots or with a heavy pack. On hot days, though, light cushion or ultralight will keep your feet cooler and drier.

Do I need a bigger shoe size for cushioned socks?

Not usually, but medium cushion takes up more room than ultralight. Always try new shoes or boots on with the socks you plan to wear, and choose the sock size that matches your shoe size.

What is the best all-round sock cushion?

Light cushion. It pads the bottom of your foot where impact happens and keeps the top thin and breathable, so it works for most hiking, running and everyday wear from spring through fall.

Which cushion level is best for preventing blisters?

The one that fits your footwear snugly without bunching. Cushion reduces pressure, but a sock that is too thick for your shoe can cause blisters. Fit and dry feet matter most.

Comparing brands too? See how we stack up in Darn Tough vs Smartwool vs Cloudline.

Fair-weather campers or those who like to “wing it,” listen up: Camping in the spring requires a bit of prep work.

If you’re itching for a spring adventure, camping is worth the planning it takes. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we’ve got you covered with six essential tips for camping during the spring.

1. Pick a Good Location

Location, location, location. It means everything when it comes to spring camping. Unpredictable weather will likely be your biggest challenge, so choose your destination wisely. And make sure you have the right gear for the location you choose: For example, spring camping in the desert is very different from spring camping in the mountains, and you’ll need specific gear for each.

Fewer people camp during the spring than in the summer, so you’ll likely have more options when it comes to choosing a site. Don’t hesitate to see if you can snag one of those coveted spots that are impossible to book during the summer.

If you want to camp on public land, check out state and national parks. If you want something different, and likely more secluded, you can find a campsite on private land using a site like Hipcamp.

2. Prepare for the Weather

Even though you can get hypothermia any time of year, it’s common in the spring. Rain, wind, and unpredictable weather can put you at risk if you aren’t prepared. Hypothermia aside, no one likes to be wet or cold while camping. Preparing for the weather means packing and dressing well, but it all starts with getting an idea of what weather conditions to expect. (And then, of course, preparing for the unexpected).

Check the weather before packing for your trip, and check it again before leaving. Make sure you understand what kind of spring weather is possible where you’re headed. Different parts of the country often have different weather risks, like snowstorms in the mountains or flash floods in the desert. If you’re heading somewhere unfamiliar, do some research so you know what the risks are.

3. Bring the Proper Clothes

As we’ve mentioned before, spring, in many places, is a time of unpredictable weather. That means you might have to pack for a wider variety of conditions than you would on a summer camping trip.

Unless you’re camping in the desert, conditions will likely be wet and chilly. To prepare, a few things are important:

• Waterproof shoes: Whether you’re hiking on trails or hanging around camp, you’ll want to keep your feet as dry as possible.
• A good rain jacket: For even more waterproof protection, wash your jacket in a waterproofing solution before your trip.
• Rain pants: When it’s super rainy, you’ll want to waterproof your bottom half, too.
• Merino wool socks: If merino wool gets wet, it’ll still keep you warm. Plus, wool socks dry fast. Bring extras just in case.
• Warm weather accessories: Temperatures may drop enough to make hats and gloves a necessity. Everything (pitching your tent, cooking dinner, tying your shoes) is much harder with cold hands.

If you’re camping somewhere warm and dry, you’ll still need to pack carefully. For sunny spring camping destinations, pack or wear these essentials:

• Sun hat
• Lightweight merino wool socks
• Sun shirt or lightweight long-sleeve shirt
• Breathable camp shoes

Of course, you’ll need all the basics, too. And don’t forget to follow these classic rules for dressing for the outdoors: Dress in layers, don’t let your clothes get wet, and avoid cotton.

4. Choose the Right Shelter

Depending on your location, camping in the spring can subject you to rain, freezing temperatures, and unrelenting wind. Which is why you should take the time to consider the right type of shelter for your spring camping trip. There are plenty of options, including staying in a tent, RV, cabin, or even a yurt.

Obviously, not all of these options will be available everywhere you go. But if you’re worried about having nothing but a nylon shell between you and the elements, you can likely rent something sturdier than your tent. Just remember that walls don’t necessarily make things warmer, so you’ll still need to pack for the weather. Plenty of state parks and national forests have cabins and yurts you can rent. Or you can search for rentals using Hipcamp or Airbnb.

If you do end up tent camping, make sure you bring what you need to stay comfortable. Here are a few supplies that can make spring camping more pleasant:

• Tarps for cooking and placing under your tent
• Warm sleeping bag plus a bag liner or blankets for extra warmth
• Camp chairs to keep you off the wet ground
• Extra towels for drying anything and everything
• Lanterns, flashlights, headlamps, twinkle lights. Daylight won’t last as long as it does in the summer
• Waterproof matches to start a much-needed fire

Whether you camp in a tent or choose something a little sturdier, pack accordingly to stay warm and dry.

5. Clean and Dry Your Gear After Your Trip

After a spring camping trip, it’s extra important to thoroughly clean and dry your equipment. Not only is your gear likely wet, it’s probably caked in mud, too.

If you went tent camping, pitch your tent as soon as you’re back home. This way, it can thoroughly dry, and you can check it for any dirt or caked mud. Spot-clean any small areas that need attention. If your tent is filthy or is giving off any funky odors, you can give the whole thing a thorough wash.

Make sure all your camping gear gets some attention when you unpack. Air out your sleeping bag, shake out your tarps, and give your kitchen accessories a thorough wash. Once everything is clean, make sure it’s all completely dry before storing it away. Cleaning up after camping isn’t the most fun part of the process, but you’ll be glad you did when your next trip rolls around.

6. Keep It Simple

If bad weather threatens your trip or travel isn’t an option, feel free to keep things simple. There’s no reason you can’t get your camping fix by pitching a tent in the backyard.

If kids are involved, this is an especially attractive option. But you don’t need any excuses to take the simple approach to spring camping. Enjoy the fact that you won’t need to pack up the car and remember all the essentials because anything you could possibly need will only be a few steps away. Plus, if it really does get too cold, wet, or otherwise unpleasant, it’s never too late to bail.

Don’t let the fact that you’re camping in the backyard take away from your “outing.” Here are some ways to make it special:

• Light a fire in the firepit
• Hang up string lights near your tent
• Invite your friends. Your backyard can be your very own group camping site
• Cook dinner outside
• Set up lawn games like Spike Ball or cornhole

And above all, enjoy being outside. You don’t have to go far… or, well, anywhere, to have a memorable camping experience.

Where Will Spring Camping Take You?

You don’t need to wait for summer to arrive before you pack up the tent and spend a weekend under the stars. Spring camping, with a little extra preparation, can be a rewarding and crowd-less way to get outside.

Whether rain or shine, one thing is certain: You’ll have a blast getting outside during the beautiful spring season.

We’d love to hear about your spring camping adventure. Comment below with your plans and best spring camping tips, and stay dry out there!

But don’t make the mistake of putting your hiking boots away just yet. With crisp days, spectacular foliage, and quieter trails, fall is arguably the best time for a hike. And while fall beckons with all its charms, it takes a little extra preparation to enjoy a hike during the shoulder season. Read on to learn how to pick the best fall hike, pack for unpredictable weather, and arm yourself for whatever the season throws your way.

What to Wear When Hiking in the Fall

Dressing for fall hiking isn’t too different from dressing for other seasons. The basic rules still apply - you’ve just got to be prepared for a wider range of conditions.

As always, dress in layers. Fall temperatures can change dramatically throughout the day, and you need to be prepared for it all. A short-sleeved, moisture-wicking baselayer is a great place to start. Short sleeves are convenient when the sun comes out, and a quick-drying, wicking layer keeps you dry even if you sweat.

An insulative, long-sleeve midlayer is a must for fall hiking. You never know when the wind will pick up or the temperature will drop. Depending on where you’re hiking, a down or synthetic puffy jacket can be a lifesaver when “crisp” weather becomes downright cold.

Don’t skimp on waterproof layers! Rain or snow can fall unexpectedly this time of year, and with chilly temperatures, you don’t want to be caught soaked in the cold. Make sure your layers are fully water proof, not just water resistant.

Some hikers swear by lightweight trail shoes, but consider the conditions before deciding against your boots. Rain and snow can quickly lead to wet feet, meaning cold toes, blisters, and the end of a fun hike. Waterproof hiking boots keep your feet dry when the rain starts to fall or the snow piles up.

And speaking of feet, socks matter. Pick a pair of merino wool hiking socks so you can be sure they’ll dry quickly if they do get wet. If you’re worried about chilly toes, medium cushion socks are a cozy-yet-breathable option.

And finally, if you’re hiking at high elevations, in colder climates, or late in the season, be sure to throw a warm hat, gloves, and extra socks in your bag.

What to Pack for Fall Hiking

Now that you’re dressed, it’s time to pack your bag with fall hiking essentials. While the basics are the same for a hike any time of the year, the fall season requires a few extra items to keep you warm, fed, and safe:

• Hot tea - When your layers aren’t doing the trick, sipping a hot drink might be just what you need to help you warm up from the inside out.
• Extra snacks - Eating warms you up, and you’ll be burning more calories when the mercury starts to drop. Bring convenient, filling trail snacks that you can eat on the go.
• Headlamp - You know fall’s here when the nights get longer. You won’t have as many daylight hours on the trail, so plan ahead and make sure you’ve got a headlamp in case you’re out after dark.
• Extra batteries and charger - With darker evenings and earlier nights, having a working flashlight is important. Bring backup batteries for your headlamp, and a portable charger for when the cold drains your phone.
• Blaze orange clothing - If you hike anywhere in or near a hunting zone, wear blaze orange or brightly colored clothing to make yourself seen.

Depending on your location and how late into the season you’re hiking, you might want to consider this extra equipment:

• Gaiters - Gaiters come in handy when you’re hiking through snow or mud, keeping your shoes, socks, and feet dry.
• Micro-spikes - If you’re hiking in icy, snowy conditions (or it’s possible you will be), a pair of micro-spikes can give you some much-needed traction.
• Trekking poles - They’re never a bad idea when you’re hiking over uneven, snowy, or wet terrain.

Helpful Tips for Fall Hiking

Part of preparing for a fall hike is knowing what to expect (and knowing what you can’t expect) before heading out on the trail. Weather, hunting, and wildlife are all seasonal hazards, so here are our tips for dealing with each:

Weather: Hiking in the fall is a fantastic way to enjoy this beautiful season. But if you spend enough time outside, you know that you can’t count on the weather to adhere to your plans. This is especially true in the fall, when a warm, sunny day can follow a cold and snowy one. Check the forecast before heading out, but be prepared for everything to change.

If you’re hiking in the mountains, where weather is hard to predict, check out Mountain Weather. Here, you can find specialized forecasts for mountain states across the U.S.

Hunting: While fall is a favorite time for hiking, it’s also a favorite time for hunting. Whether or not you’re a hunter, it’s important to know about hunting rules and regulations if you’re hiking through or near hunting zones. Educating yourself about hunting seasons in your area is the best thing you can do to safely share the outdoors. Check out your state’s Game and Fish, Department of Natural Resources, or similar agency’s website to learn about specific regulations in your area.

And as we mentioned above, if you know you’ll be hiking in or near a hunting zone, wear a blaze orange vest, hat, or jacket. It’s never a bad idea to make yourself seen when you’re hiking - especially during hunting season.

Wildlife: Depending on where you live, wildlife activity is another important consideration for fall hiking. Bears, for example, are more active during this time of the year as they put on extra weight for the winter. During the fall, elk and moose are in the middle of the rut, or mating season, and are more aggressive than normal.

Know what to do if you encounter wildlife on the trail, especially if you know they’re more active this time of year.

How to Choose the Best Fall Hikes

Fall can transform familiar trails into magical, colorful adventures. But prepping for a fall hike involves balancing amazing autumn foliage with the potential for inclement trail conditions. As an outdoor enthusiast, you know the importance of doing your research, and choosing a trail to hike in the fall is no exception to this advice.

Trail conditions: As fall transitions to winter, trail conditions become even more important. A recent snowfall can make an otherwise easy section of trail totally impassable. Ask local guides or rangers, or check trail forums before choosing a hike on a potentially treacherous trail. All Trails and Hiking Project are helpful sites to find recent trail reports from fellow hikers.

Keep in mind the extra considerations this time of year when picking a trail - like road conditions and closures. Many national parks and forests have seasonal roads that close even before the snow starts to fall.

Foliage: Witnessing the gold shimmer of an aspen or the striking red of a maple is one of the best things about fall hiking. Seeing an entire mountainside exploding in autumn color can transform a hike, so plan some outings around these beautiful, changing leaves.

Check trail guides and blogs in your local area to find the best hikes for leaf-peeping. In general, plan to get out on the trail when your area hits peak color - depending on where you are, that could be anywhere from late September to mid-November. Use a fall foliage prediction map to help you pinpoint the best time to see fall colors wherever you’re hiking.

Hit the Trail!

With the right preparation, you might find you enjoy hiking in fall more than any other season. The crisp air, gorgeous leaves, and deserted trails make this a truly special time to enjoy the outdoors. So pack well, plan thoroughly, and get outside this season!

While you may be one to throw your gear in the car or in your pack, and toss the dice when it comes to finding a campsite, there’s no guarantee you’ll find one. You’ve probably noticed camping has been getting more and more popular in recent years, even prior to the lockdown-spurred boom. There’s nothing worse than that feeling of desperation when the sun’s about to set and you can’t find a place to pitch your tent.

Finding a campsite (and a good one, at that) takes a little more advanced planning. That’s not to say you can’t find one on the fly, but it helps to know what you’re looking for (and where you should look).

Here’s our guide to finding the perfect campsite and, because it’s more important than ever, how to be a responsible camper.

What Makes a Good Campsite?

What makes the best campsite is a subjective matter, but there are some things that undoubtedly contribute to a better camping experience.

While it’s often impossible to check all these boxes, here’s what we look for when choosing the perfect campsite:

• It’s quiet. Because you (probably) didn’t go camping to have a noisy experience.
• There’s a nice view, whether it’s of the forest, a mountain peak, or a lake.
• It’s close to a water source. In the backcountry, that means a stream or lake, and in the frontcountry, that means the water spigot.
• It’s close, but not too close, to the bathroom. You want the accessibility, not the smell.
• It’s dry. You aren’t fully exposed to the elements when it rains and you’re high enough to avoid major flooding.
• It’s not swarming with bugs. Even if you love your tent, you don’t want to be banished to it.
• It’s level. You can sleep without sliding into the downhill corner of your tent.
• It’s clean and free of garbage, food scraps, and waste.

Okay, so you know what makes a good campsite. But how, and where, do you find it?

How to Pick a Backcountry Campsite

Backcountry camping means you’re away from developed areas and roads. You generally hike, bike, boat, or ride in, hauling your gear with you. You can find backcountry campsites in national parks, national forests, BLM land, and state land. Some backcountry areas require permits, while others have dispersed camping. Make sure you know the permitting process if you’re camping somewhere that has one.

When choosing a site, whether beforehand or during your trip, use these tips to find a great spot:

1. Camp near a water source.

You’ll need water to cook with, wash dishes, and drink. By the end of a long day, you won’t be thrilled about hauling water half a mile between your campsite and a water source.

2. Camp away from other people.

No one likes it when a stranger sets up camp a stone’s throw away if there are other available sites nearby. Use your common sense: be neighborly, but know that most people camp for the peace and quiet.

3. Avoid setting up camp in low areas.

Cold air sinks, and water flows into low areas.

4. Pick sun or shade strategically.

Depending on the time of year and location, you may want to opt for as much sun as you can get, or the shade might be necessary. Consider where the sun will rise when you pitch your tent.

5. Look for environmental hazards.

Are you too close to a riverbank? Camped under a tall, dead tree? Did you pitch your tent near the biggest berry bush while bears are in a state of hyperphagia? Don’t sacrifice your safety to get the best view. Make sure you’re aware of your surroundings.

How to Pick a Frontcountry Campsite

When it comes to picking a frontcountry campsite, you may have less of a choice in terms of availability. In many cases, you can reserve a frontcountry campsite months in advance. Sometimes certain sites are available first-come, first-served, but these often disappear quickly. If you do have choice though, especially if you’re booking your site well in advance, here are some tips to choose a great site:

1. Decide what makes a good location for you.

Do you want to be as far away from potentially smelly bathrooms as possible, or do you want the convenience of being close by?

2. Consider potentially noisy areas.

Is there a busy trail head in the campground? A campground office? Even those convenient bathrooms might keep you up at night if people are constantly walking by to use them.

3. Pick a private site.

Many campgrounds are arranged in loops, and a site on an outer loop will be much more private than one on an inner loop. By looking at a campground map, you should be able to get an idea of which campsites offer a little more privacy.

4. Choose a scenic view.

One site might offer a gorgeous view of the surrounding mountains, while another’s view might be blocked by trees. Some sites may have direct water access and views while others don’t. See what you can learn about different sites by searching for pictures, maps and even reviews from other campers. Sites like The Dyrt and campsitephotos.com can help.

Camping Etiquette and Leave No Trace

The perfect campsite can lose its charm in no time if you’re camped next to rowdy neighbors, find your firepit full of garbage, or arrive to see someone else’s tent pitched on your reserved site.

Camping etiquette, like any etiquette, is important, especially because camping is becoming more popular. You want to arrive at a well-kept, clean campsite, and that’s the way it should be when you leave.

Of course, most of this is common sense, but it’s worth mentioning some basic Leave No Trace principles in the context of camping.

• Plan ahead and prepare.

Make sure you know the rules around reserving a campsite. Don’t confuse first-come, first-served sites with those that require reservations. And don’t wait until the sun is setting to try to find somewhere to camp. You’ll be more tempted to camp illegally or in an area with fragile vegetation (that’s best left undisturbed).

• Camp on durable surfaces.

This applies to dispersed camping in the backcountry, when you have the freedom to pitch your tent more or less where you want. Try to pick a spot where someone has already camped, preferably on a hard durable surface instead of on fragile vegetation.

• Dispose of waste properly.

Not only do garbage or food waste take away from the beauty of the campsite, but they attract animals and can cause them harm. Leaving food scraps or garbage in a fire pit, regardless of if they’re compostable, is not enough.

• Leave what you find.

Just like when you’re out on the trail, you should leave flowers, rocks, and any other natural objects where they are. Don’t build or construct items with natural objects, like shelters or chairs. Leave No Trace urges campers to “consider the idea that good campsites are found and not made.”

• Minimize campfire impacts.

Depending on where you’re camping, having a campfire may or may not be an option. Know the fire restrictions and policies where you’re camping. If you do have a fire, build it within an existing fire ring.

• Respect wildlife.

Camping brings you into wild animals’ habitats, so it’s likely you may see some wildlife at your campsite. Don’t approach, scare, or startle them. Store your food properly and don’t leave it unattended.

• Be considerate of other visitors.

Respect quiet hours in developed campgrounds, keep pets under control, don’t blast music from your speakers… generally, respect other people’s wishes for enjoying their time in nature.

Find the Perfect Campsite and Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Even if the campgrounds are a little busier than before, we hope you can find the perfect campsite this summer. Whether you’re looking to sleep in the remote wilderness or you’re spending the weekend at the nearby state park, you can find a site that suits your taste.

Leave No Trace principles are as important as ever, and we encourage you to kindly spread the word during your camping adventures.

How do you find the perfect campsite? Let us know in the comments!

Sweaty feet lead to blisters, cold toes and socks that smell after one wear. Here's why feet sweat and smell, which socks work best, our picks for hiking, running, work boots and everyday wear, and the habits that keep feet dry all day.

In this guide

• Why do my feet sweat so much?
• Why do sweaty feet smell?
• What are moisture-wicking socks?
• What is the best sock material for sweaty feet?
• What to look for in socks for sweaty feet
• Best socks for sweaty feet by activity
• What are the best socks for sweaty feet in work boots?
• How do you stop sweaty and smelly feet?
• How do you get the smell out of shoes and boots?
• What socks are best for rainy weather?
• Which socks dry the fastest?
• How do you wash socks for sweaty feet?
• When should you see a doctor about sweaty feet?
• FAQ

Why do my feet sweat so much?

Your feet are packed with sweat glands, and shoes trap the moisture they produce. The soles of your feet have more sweat glands per square inch than almost anywhere else on your body. Their job is to keep skin supple and cool, but inside a shoe that sweat has nowhere to go.

Common reasons feet sweat more than usual:

• Heat and exercise: hiking, running and warm weather all crank up sweat production.
• Standing all day: long shifts in work boots or on hard floors keep feet warm and enclosed for hours.
• Non-breathable shoes and socks: rubber boots, synthetic uppers and cotton socks trap moisture.
• Hormone changes: puberty, pregnancy and menopause can all increase sweating.
• Some medications: certain medicines, such as some antidepressants, list sweating as a side effect.
• Hyperhidrosis: some people simply sweat much more than their body needs to cool down. It's common and treatable (more on that below).

Why do sweaty feet smell?

Sweat itself doesn't smell. The odor comes from bacteria on your skin breaking down sweat and dead skin cells. A warm, damp shoe is the perfect home for them, and as they feed they release strong-smelling compounds. One of them, isovaleric acid, is the reason sweaty feet can smell a lot like strong cheese.

That means the fix for smelly feet is the same as the fix for sweaty feet: keep your skin drier, give bacteria less to eat, and choose socks that don't hold on to odor. Merino wool is especially good at that last part, which is why a merino sock can usually be worn for a full day (or several on the trail) without smelling the way synthetic socks do.

What are moisture-wicking socks?

Moisture-wicking socks move sweat away from your skin to the outside of the sock, where it can evaporate. Cotton socks absorb sweat but hold it against your feet, which softens skin and increases friction. Wicking socks use fibers and knit structures that pull moisture outward, keeping your feet drier, reducing blisters and giving odor-causing bacteria less to work with.

Drier feet matter for more than comfort. In cold weather, damp feet lose heat quickly, and in warm weather, soggy skin is more prone to blisters and fungal infections like athlete's foot.

What is the best sock material for sweaty feet?

For most people, a merino wool blend is the best all-around choice for sweaty feet. Here's how the main materials compare:

• Merino wool: fine merino fibers (typically under about 24 microns) feel soft rather than itchy. Merino absorbs sweat vapor and releases it outward, keeps insulating when damp, and resists odor, so you can wear it longer between washes.
• Synthetics: polyester, nylon and polypropylene don't absorb much water, so they move moisture and dry very fast. They're durable and affordable, but they tend to hold odor after a sweaty day.
• Cotton: soft and cheap, but it soaks up sweat and stays wet. It's the worst choice for sweaty or smelly feet.
• Blends: most performance socks combine merino for comfort and odor control with nylon for durability and a little spandex for fit. This gives you the best balance.

For a deeper comparison, read 6 reasons merino wool socks are best for hiking and running and the science behind merino wool socks.

What to look for in socks for sweaty feet

• A snug fit: socks that slide or bunch create friction and blisters, especially when damp. Pick the size that matches your shoe size using our sock size guide.
• The right cushion: thinner socks breathe and dry faster, while thicker socks add warmth and padding. If your feet run hot, go thinner. See ultralight vs light vs medium cushion.
• Targeted cushioning: padding at the heel and ball of the foot, with thinner, more breathable zones on top.
• A smooth toe seam: a flat toe closure prevents rubbing when feet are damp.
• Arch support: a snug arch band helps the sock stay in place.
• The right height: no-show for running shoes, quarter for trail runners, crew or taller for boots so the boot collar never rubs bare skin.

Best socks for sweaty feet by activity

Here are the Cloudline merino wool socks we recommend for each activity. Every Cloudline sock is made in the USA and backed by our lifetime guarantee.

Comparing brands? See our Darn Tough vs Smartwool vs Cloudline breakdown. For more on compression, read our merino compression socks guide.

Our picks for sweaty feet

Socks that breathe and wick

Thinnest and fastest drying Hiking Sock, Ultralight ★★★★★ 4.87 out of 5 (98 reviews) $22.99

Men's Women's

Best for running No-Show Running Sock, Ultralight ★★★★★ 4.88 out of 5 (84 reviews) $16.99

Men's Women's

Best for work boots Work Sock, Medium Cushion ★★★★★ 4.85 out of 5 (153 reviews) $24.99

Men's Women's

What are the best socks for sweaty feet in work boots?

A merino wool work sock with medium cushion and a crew or taller height is the best choice for sweaty feet in work boots. Work boots are thick, often waterproof and worn for 8 to 12 hours, so moisture builds up fast. Merino keeps that sweat moving away from your skin and fights the odor that builds up inside boots, while the cushion helps on concrete and hard floors.

• Go taller than the boot: a sock that rises above the collar prevents rubbing and keeps sweat from soaking into the boot lining.
• Bring a second pair: on hot days, swapping into dry socks at lunch makes the afternoon far more comfortable.
• Rotate boots: two pairs of work boots, alternated daily, last longer and smell much better than one pair worn every day.

Shop our men's work socks and women's work socks. For duty and tactical boots, try the lighter Tactical Sock.

How do you stop sweaty and smelly feet?

Good socks do most of the work, but a few daily habits make the biggest difference.

1. Wash your feet every day. Use soap, scrub between your toes, and dry your feet completely before putting on socks.
2. Try antiperspirant on your feet. A regular antiperspirant applied to clean, dry feet at night gives it time to work while you sleep. Dermatologists can prescribe stronger versions if needed.
3. Use foot powder. A light dusting in your socks or shoes absorbs extra moisture during the day.
4. Change socks midday. If you sweat heavily, a fresh pair at lunch keeps your feet drier and less smelly by evening.
5. Never wear the same socks twice without washing. At home, start every day with a clean pair. On the trail, rotate pairs and air them out (see our backpacking sock care tips).
6. Rotate your shoes. Give each pair a full day to dry out before wearing them again.
7. Pull out your insoles. Taking insoles out overnight helps shoes dry much faster.
8. Choose breathable shoes. Mesh trail runners and leather shoes breathe better than rubber or plastic uppers. Save waterproof boots for when you really need them.
9. Go barefoot when you can. Letting your feet air out at home or in camp gives your skin a chance to dry completely.
10. Keep nails short and skin smooth. Trimmed toenails and filed-down hard skin give bacteria fewer places to hide.

How do you get the smell out of shoes and boots?

Dry them out completely, then deal with the insoles. Odor lives in the damp lining and insoles, so drying is the most important step.

1. Dry shoes after every wear. Remove the insoles, loosen the laces and stuff the shoes with newspaper, or use a boot dryer on a low setting. Avoid high heat, which can damage glue and leather.
2. Use baking soda overnight. Sprinkle a little inside dry shoes, let it sit overnight, then shake it out.
3. Wash or replace the insoles. Many insoles can be hand washed with mild soap and air-dried. If they still smell, replacement insoles are inexpensive and make old shoes feel new.
4. Wash shoes that allow it. Many trail runners can be hand washed. Check the manufacturer's care instructions first. Our guide to washing your hiking gear covers boots and shoes.
5. Switch to merino socks. Socks that hold less odor mean less odor soaking into your shoes in the first place.

What socks are best for rainy weather?

Merino wool blend socks are the best choice for rain and damp conditions because they keep insulating when wet, so your feet stay warmer than in cotton or thin synthetics. Bring a spare dry pair, pair your socks with waterproof boots or gaiters in cold rain, and choose breathable trail runners if you'll be crossing streams in warm weather. Our guide to dealing with wet feet on the trail has more tips.

Which socks dry the fastest?

Thin socks dry fastest, and pure synthetics dry slightly faster than merino. Fabric weight matters even more than material: an ultralight merino sock usually dries much faster than a thick cushioned sock of any fiber. For trips with frequent stream crossings, choose ultralight socks, wring them out and clip them to your pack to dry.

How do you wash socks for sweaty feet?

• Turn socks inside out before washing, so the sweatiest side gets the most cleaning.
• Wash in cold to warm water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
• Skip fabric softener and bleach, which coat fibers and reduce wicking.
• Tumble dry on low to warm heat, or air-dry.
• Rotate two or three pairs so each one fully dries between wears.

Our full guide covers how to wash merino wool socks at home and on the trail.

When should you see a doctor about sweaty feet?

See a doctor or dermatologist if sweating soaks through your socks most days, gets in the way of daily life, or doesn't improve with the tips above. Excessive sweating is called hyperhidrosis, and when it affects the feet it's known as plantar hyperhidrosis. It's common and there are effective treatments, including prescription-strength antiperspirants and other options a dermatologist can recommend.

Also check in with a doctor or pharmacist if you notice itching, peeling, cracking or redness between your toes. Those can be signs of athlete's foot, a fungal infection that thrives in sweaty shoes and can make foot odor worse. This guide is general information, not medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best socks for sweaty feet?

Merino wool blend socks are the best choice for most people with sweaty feet. They pull sweat away from your skin, stay warm when damp and resist odor far better than cotton or pure synthetics. Pick a thin ultralight or light cushion sock for warm weather and running, and medium cushion for boots and cold days.

What socks are best for smelly feet?

Merino wool socks are the best socks for smelly feet. Foot odor comes from bacteria feeding on sweat, and merino keeps your skin drier and holds far less odor than synthetic or cotton socks. Change into a fresh pair every day, or midday if your feet sweat heavily.

Are cotton socks bad for sweaty feet?

Yes. Cotton soaks up sweat and holds it against your skin, so your feet stay damp, soften and rub. That leads to blisters, cold toes and odor. Merino wool or a good synthetic blend is a better choice.

Are synthetic or merino socks better for sweaty feet?

Both wick moisture well. Merino resists odor much better, which makes it the better choice for sweaty feet over long days. Synthetics dry slightly faster and cost less, but they tend to smell after one sweaty wear.

How often should I change my socks if my feet sweat a lot?

Wear a clean pair every day. If your feet sweat heavily, bring a spare pair and change midday. Never wear the same socks two days in a row without washing them.

Do merino wool socks make your feet sweat more?

No. Merino breathes well and moves sweat vapor away from your skin, so your feet usually feel drier than in cotton. Choose a thinner cushion for warm weather so your feet don't overheat.

What are the best socks for sweaty feet in work boots?

Choose a merino wool work sock with medium cushion and a crew or taller height that rises above the boot collar. Rotate two pairs of boots so each pair dries for a full day, and change socks at lunch on hot days.

When should I see a doctor about sweaty feet?

See a doctor or dermatologist if sweating soaks your socks most days, keeps you from normal activities, or comes with itching, peeling or cracked skin between your toes. Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) and athlete's foot are common and very treatable.

When you think about self-care, a solo hike doesn’t always come to mind. But hiking by yourself can be extremely rewarding, not to mention peaceful. It’s a great way to spend some quality time with yourself.

As with most outdoor activities, hiking alone can be nerve-racking at first. But if you take the proper precautions, there’s not much to worry about.

Hiking alone has lots of perks:

• No more waiting at the trailhead for your friend who’s always late.
• No more feeling guilty for leaving your slower hiking partner in the dust.
• No more straining to catch up to the group when you’d rather savor the view.

You get the point. When hiking alone, you get to be in charge of the adventure.

Ready to hit the trail with just yourself for company? Continue reading to learn how to have a safe, epic, and memorable solo hike.

Plan Your Hike

You should take time to plan every hike. But planning a solo hike is extra important.

Start by choosing the right trail. Beginners should start with a well-maintained, designated trail. In fact, all but the most experienced hikers would benefit from choosing a well-traveled trail when hiking alone. That way, you can spend most of your hike within earshot or sight of other hikers. If you’re a little nervous about hiking alone, a well-traveled trail can ease your fears. Sites like AllTrails and Outdoor Project are great resources to help you find the perfect hike.

Research the trail you’re planning to hike. Looking at recent trail reports can help you know what to expect in terms of:

• Finding the trailhead
• Navigating the trail
• Learning about current trail conditions
• Learning about recent wildlife activity

And don’t forget to check the weather forecast where you plan to hike so you can pack and dress accordingly.

Tip: Look up the ranger station’s phone number and hours of operation. Feel free to contact them directly with any unanswered questions. That’s what they’re there for.

Bring the 10 Essentials

Don’t leave the trailhead without the 10 essentials. Of course, you should have the 10 essentials with you on every hike, but on a solo hike, they’re even more important. If something goes wrong, you should be as prepared as possible to keep warm, treat injuries, and keep yourself fed and hydrated.

The 10 essentials include:

1. Navigation
2. Sun Protection
3. Insulation
4. Illumination
5. First-Aid
6. Fire
7. Repair Kit and Tools
8. Nutrition
9. Hydration
10. Emergency Shelter

Tip: If you’ve never packed the 10 essentials, check out this guide for more detail.

Dress for Success

The key to dressing well on a hike is being able to adapt to changing weather. The best way to do this is to dress in layers.

Conditions change, as does your body temperature. Sure, during the summer, depending on where you live, you can probably get away without too many layers. A short sleeve shirt, a light jacket, and shorts or pants will do. But in many cases, you should pack for a variety of conditions.

Start with a wicking base layer, and bring a fleece or other warm layer to throw on top. For colder hikes, add a down jacket to your pack, along with a hat and gloves. Rain layers are important, too.

And of course, don’t forget about your socks! If there’s any clothing item that’s going to make or break your hike, it’s your socks. Merino wool hiking socks let your feet breathe, preventing debilitating blisters from ruining your hike.

Tell Someone Where You’re Going

Don’t make the mistake of going on a solo hike without letting someone know where you’re going. Not to be dramatic, but have you heard of Aron Ralston? His harrowing story can be a lesson to us all. We’re confident your solo hike will be enjoyable (not dangerous, like Ralston’s) but there’s no reason not to let someone know where you’re going.

Contact a reliable friend and share your planned route and expected return time. You can even give them the ranger station’s phone number. To be extra cautious, leave a note on your dashboard or sign the trail register.

Beware of Wildlife

When you head into the backcountry, it’s important to know what kind of wildlife you may encounter. Most of the time, wildlife won’t bother you. But depending on what lives in your area, it may not be wise to hike alone.

The National Park Service recommends hiking with a group in bear country, especially grizzly bear habitat. As rewarding as a solo hike can be, we don’t recommend hiking alone when there are bears in the area.

At the very least, choose a busy, well-traveled trail and bring bear spray. You can find bear spray at your local outfitter, just make sure you know how to use it before leaving on your hike.

For any potentially dangerous animal, make sure you know how to prevent a negative encounter. Usually, this means giving an animal space, backing away, and letting them know you’re human. Most state and national parks can provide more detailed information on the wildlife that live there.

Tip: For more safety tips about hiking in bear country, check out this blog post.

Know Your Limits… But Don’t Limit Your Fun

It's okay to challenge yourself on a solo hike, but know your limits and be conservative, particularly when choosing a trail.

Mind your instincts and trust your gut. If you're feeling exhausted, there’s no shame in turning around mid-hike. Or if the weather takes an unexpected turn, no matter how close you are to the summit, it’s okay to be cautious and return to the trailhead. It's always better to be safe than sorry, especially when hiking alone.

One of the best things about solo hiking is enjoying the hike your way, while taking care to Leave No Trace, of course. Take breaks when you want, push yourself (within reason) when you feel like it, and stop to enjoy the view at your leisure. How you hike when you’re on your own is entirely up to you.

Let us know about your first solo hike: we’re all ears. Share your pictures and tag us on Instagram with #cloudlinesocks. Happy trails!

As a Seattle based company, everyone at CloudLine has a favorite option for their camp coffee. Whether you insist on grinding fresh beans every time or you're looking for the lightest and quickest way to brew a cup of joe, here we've gathered the team's favorite backcountry java options for taste, convenience, and pack weight.

Instant and Pre-Packaged Coffee Options

These instant and pre-packaged coffees are great for camping and backpacking. They are lightweight, convenient, require little cleanup, and best of all you can find options at any grocery store on the way to camp.

Instant Coffee Sleeves

Instant coffee is the easiest option for camp coffee and is a favorite among backpackers for the convenience and lightweight. As a bonus, many instant coffees dissolve in cold water for those UL backpackers that go stoveless.

Staff Pick: Alpine Start Instant Coffee

Pocket Pourover Coffee

If you want real drip coffee with the convenience of instant than pour-over packets are the perfect option. Simply open the packet and attach the filter basket full of coffee to your camp mug and pour in hot water.

Staff Pick: Kuju Coffee Basecamp Blend

Coffee Pouches

Coffee pouches are used similarly to tea bags. Simply steep in hot water for 4-5 minutes, then remove being sure to squeeze the liquid out the pouch for a stronger brew. You can even make your own at home with a coffee filter filled with grounds and tied closed with string.

Staff Pick: Lyons Coffee Bags

Cold Brew Pouches

For overnight trips, you can make cold brew coffee in a water bottle while you sleep. Simply add a single serve cold brew pouch (or several) and filtered water and in the morning you'll have a delicious cold brew.

Staff Pick: Chameleon Cold Brew Coffee Pods

Tools for BYOB - Bring Your Own Beans

If you are a true coffee connoisseur you may want to take your java game to the next level and bring your favorite whole bean or ground coffee. These tools and methods will let you make a perfect cup with your preferred blend.

Backpacking Coffee Grinder

Every backcountry barista knows grinding fresh beans makes better coffee. Of course, unless you plan on grinding your beans between two rocks you'll need a lightweight and packable coffee grinder.

Staff Pick: GSI Outdoors Java Mill

Ground Coffee

If you are backpacking and weight is a consideration you can leave the grinder at home and bring preground coffee.

Staff Pick: Hikers Brew Venture Pouches

Cowboy Coffee

Cowboy coffee is simple to make and requires just a pot, water, and coffee. Simply boil water and add loose grounds. There are many tips and methods for avoiding too many loose grounds ranging from scooping grounds out with a spoon, adding an egg or even using a sock (hopefully clean) full of grounds with the end tied closed to keep the grounds contained. Or there are specially designed cowboy coffee percolator pots that keep the grounds contained.

Staff Pick: Stanley Adventure Percolator

Pourover

A pour-over attachment is a great lightweight option for camp coffee. For ease of use look for one with an integrated mesh filter and you won't need to worry about coffee filters.

Staff Pick: GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip

French Press

A french press makes great coffee and if you're car camping you can easily bring your home press. For backpacking, our favorite option is a french press attachment that integrates with our cooking system and weighs almost nothing.

Staff Pick: Jetboil Coffee Press

UL Espresso Makers

If you prefer espresso there are a few portable options that can make an amazing espresso shot. There are options that let you use any espresso grounds or versions that can brew with a Nespresso pod.

Staff Pick: Wacaco MiniPresso GR Espresso Maker

AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

For many coffee aficionados, the AeroPress is the gold standard for portable coffee and espresso. Its compact size and lightweight (6.4 ounces) make it perfect for basecamp or backpacking.

Staff Pick: Aeropress Coffee and Espresso Maker with a reusable mesh filter

Bring a Thermos

For short overnight camping trips, a good thermos will let you premake coffee at home and enjoy it hot in the morning. Or on multiday trips brew with your favorite camp method before retiring to your tent and use the thermos to keep it piping hot overnight. This is especially nice when the mornings are cold.

Staff Pick: Stanley Classic Vacuum Bottle

Planning a car camping trip? Pair your morning brew with a hearty camp dinner the night before, like our Dutch oven Cornish game hens.

This month, we want to feature some of the hardworking organizations that are working to make the outdoors more inclusive of and accessible to the LGBTQ+ community. Check out these seven groups and the work they’re doing to increase the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community in the outdoors. And if you’re able to get more involved, these organizations could use your support, too.

The Venture Out Project

The Venture Out Project, started by Perry Cohen in 2014, is a nonprofit organization known for leading wilderness trips for the queer and transgender community. But they do a whole lot more. The Venture Out Project also offers other events and resources, including:

• Education workshops for educators, outdoor professionals, and summer camps
• Volunteer-led Queer Day Hikes and Outdoor Events
• A resource library for LGBTQ and Queer organizations, books, scholarships, etc.
• The All of the Above Trail Fest

The Venture Out Project seeks to be an inclusive organization with its events and trips. But they also offer identity-specific programs, like for BIPOC or transgender and nonconforming individuals, that are extremely popular. Similarly, a lot of their programming is designed for those who identify as queer, but there are specific events and trips that welcome family members and allies.

If you want to get involved with The Venture Out Project, you can learn about volunteering, attending an event, donating, or supporting in other ways by checking out their website and subscribing to their newsletter.

LGBT Outdoors

LGBT Outdoors is an organization that seeks to build community within the LGBTQ+ community while fostering an appreciation of the outdoors. They do this online through their blog and podcast as well as in person through local chapter events, the annual LGBT Outdoorfest, and adventure trips.

LGBT Outdoors is also currently conducting a survey with the aim of increasing the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community in the outdoors.

To get involved with LGBT Outdoors, you can take the Visibility Survey, attend a trip or local event, apply to become an ambassador, or donate.

Unlikely Hikers

Unlikely Hikers is a group for anyone who identifies as such, and it seeks to be a community for the “underrepresented outdoorsperson.” Unlikely Hikers recognizes that their community of queer, trans, disabled, plus-sized, Black, Indigenous, and other folks isn’t typically represented in the outdoor industry. And this organization wants to talk about it.

Unlikely Hikers hosts welcoming events across the country. These hikes are slow and intentional, and sometimes designed with a specific ability or identity in mind. While Unlikely Hikers is welcoming of anyone, they reserve a certain number of spots on their hikes for BI&POC, trans, fat/plus-size, and disabled-identified individuals.

You can get involved with Unlikely Hikers in a few different ways: by registering for a hike, shopping their merch, and following Unlikely Hikers on Instagram.

The Outdoorist Oath

The Outdoorist Oath is an organization committed to supporting a healthier outdoors, in regards to the planet, inclusion, and adventure. The Oath itself is a workshop in which participants commit to these three pillars as they learn “a model to approach allyship for planet, inclusion, [and] adventure.”

The Oath Workshop is offered live by an experienced facilitator, so you’ll have to mark your calendar for an upcoming event. In addition to these virtual workshops, The Outdoorist Oath also hosts both live and virtual “stretch sessions,” where participants can build on the lessons they’ve taken away from the Oath Workshop. Some sessions focus on specific themes, like Native Land.

Other ways to get involved with The Outdoorist Oath include donating money or gear, volunteering, or booking a private workshop.

OutVentures

OutVentures is a regional, volunteer-driven nonprofit organization in the Seattle area. The organization’s goal is to bring LGBTQ folks together to experience the outdoors and build community.

OutVentures has been around for nearly thirty years and is still going strong. The nonprofit primarily offers member-led outdoor activities, like hiking, camping, kayaking, and biking. But they also host potlucks and other social events. While most events are for members, potlucks are open to anyone looking to get a sense of what the group is all about.

In addition to outdoor activities and potlucks, you can get involved with OutVentures by leading a trip or taking a class.

Pride Outside

Pride Outside started as a way to get the LGBTQ community outdoors in the urban center of Washington, D.C. Founder Hannah Malvin wanted to create an alternative to the typical LGBTQ community social scene, “bars and drinking.” The organization hosts hikes, classes, discussions, and even LGBTQ+ history walking tours.

In addition to these regular offerings, Pride Outside has hosted the LGBTQ Outdoor Summit, which connects leaders in the LGBTQ community to each other and the outdoors in the hopes of making the outdoors more accessible for LGBTQ individuals. Subscribe to Pride Outside emails and check out the LGBTQ Outdoor Summit website to stay up-to-date on future summits, other events, and ways to get involved.

Wild Diversity

Based in the Pacific Northwest, Wild Diversity is a nonprofit organization that works to connect Black, Indigenous, all People of Color, and the LGBTQ2S+ communities with the outdoors. They do this in a number of ways, including:

• Hosting day and weekend trips
• Facilitating workshops and outdoor skills classes
• Lending outdoor gear through their gear library
• Forming community partnerships
• Leading diverse leadership development training
• Running youth summer day and overnight camps for BIPOC and LGBTQ youth

To get involved, you can participate in an upcoming event, donate used gear, explore volunteer opportunities, submit a job posting to the community job board, or make a financial donation. And to stay up to date on the latest Wild Diversity news, be sure to subscribe to their newsletter.

Celebrate Pride Month By Getting Outside

Whether you attend a summit, join a day hike, or donate gear, we hope you can find a way to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community this Pride Month, and all year long.

Oh, and do us a favor? Comment below to let us and other readers know about organizations, either in your area or nationwide, working to make the outdoors more inclusive. The more awareness there is around this important work, the better!

Blisters can quickly ruin a perfect day in the backcountry. Blisters can happen to even the most experienced hikers and most prepared backpackers, but there are a few simple tricks to prevent blisters before they ruin a hike and minimize discomfort when they occur. Here we will share what works for us, and we'd love to hear what works for you in the comments below!

Preventing blisters before a hike or backpacking trip

Prevention is often said to be the best medicine and it holds true for blisters. Properly train for any big hikes or extended backpacking trips, to allow your body and feet to build up the toughness required to handle long days on the trail. By completing several prep hikes, of increasing distance and difficulty, you will be less likely to experience problems with blisters.

Choose and break-in the right hiking footwear

photo: @elias_visuals

Footwear is the most important piece of equipment you will purchase for hiking and backpacking. Carefully choose a pair of hiking footwear that is right for you. Some hikers swear by heavy duty hiking boots, while others prefer a minimal hiking shoe or trail runner. Whichever style you prefer, wear a new pair around town, to the office, and on a few short hikes to break them in. A big hike is the wrong time to try new hiking footwear. Give your footwear a proper break-in and you will be far less likely to experience discomfort, hotspots, and blisters on the trail.

Wear a high-quality hiking sock

Socks are nearly as important as your hiking footwear. Make sure your socks fit well, without being too tight. A hiking sock that wicks moisture, dries quickly, has no irritating seams, and made with soft material is one of the keys to avoiding blisters. Cotton socks are a big mistake and should be traded in for wool, or synthetic socks designed for hiking and backpacking. We recommend a merino wool sock when hiking because it naturally keeps feet dry, blister free, and is softer than synthetic fibers.

CloudLine merino wool hiking socks are a great option for keeping feet dry and blister free while hiking and backpacking.

Dealing with blisters on the trail

Sometimes blisters happen. You have a painful blister forming, what do you do now? Let's look at some tricks and tips to help treat blisters mid-hike.

Change your hiking footwear or socks

When you start to feel a hotspot or blister forming the first thing you should do is change your socks for a fresh dry pair. Even the best hiking socks can become too wet if your footwear isn't breathing well, or you accidentally step in a stream. A dry pair of socks will keep your skin dry and reduce friction as you hike.

If you are backpacking and packed a pair of camp shoes or hiking sandals, try wearing them to give your feet a break from your hiking footwear. However; this should be done with caution as they will not provide the same support as your hiking footwear.

Blister first aid

Be sure to pack first aid items specifically for treating blisters. Moleskin is one of the best known remedies, but we prefer some of the more modern blister products like 2nd Skin blister pads because they come pre-sized and ready to apply. If these aren't available to you, a bandaid from your first aid kit is better than nothing and can often protect a hotspot enough to prevent a full blister from forming. A great way to make the dressing you've applied stay put is to cover it with a layer of duct tape (just be sure the duct tape isn't sticking to any problem areas).

Skin lubricants can also help prevent hot spots and blisters from developing. Rubbing Bodyglide or similar products on high friction areas like your toes and heels before a long hike will add a layer of protection to your skin and make blisters less likely. We've even seen people use sticks of deodorant for this purpose. Just be sure to let any lubricant dry for a few minutes before putting on socks.

Trail Tested Blister Treatment Options

Hopefully, you'll won't often get blisters, but when you do having one or all of these options in your pack will feel like a lifesaver.

Wool-It Blister Aid

Wool-It is an innovative all-natural blister treatment made from wool. It has the same properties and benefits your merino wool hiking socks have. Feel a hot spot forming, simply fluff a bit of wool and stuff it around the spot and it will provide a protective cushion that wicks moisture to keep things dry and friction-free to prevent a full-blown blister from forming.

Spenco 2nd Skin Blister Pads

Spenco 2nd Skin Blister Pads are a great option for preventing a hotspot from turning into a blister or to protect a fully formed blister. We've put one on the first day of a 5-day hike and it stayed in place through 4 more days of hiking and even withstood daily swims.

Body Glide Foot Anti Blister Balm

Body Glide Foot Anti Blister Balm can be applied directly to trouble areas pre-hike to prevent friction or mid-hike when you feel a hot spot coming on. It has long been a secret weapon for triathletes and ultra runners but works great for hikers too.

Should You Pop a Blister?

There is a long-standing debate about whether to pop a blister or leave it alone. As a general rule if the pain is preventing you from hiking it is best to drain the blister.

If you do decide to pop or drain a blister follow these steps for the best results:

• Thoroughly disinfect and clean the area around the blister with soap and water, an antiseptic wipe, or an alcohol wipe.
• Sterilize a needle or sharp knife by boiling for a few minutes or holding to a flame until red hot.
• After letting the needle or sharp knife cool make the smallest incision possible to drain the fluid. If the blister is on the heel or top of the foot, make the incision at the bottom of the blister so that gravity can help it stay drained.
• Apply antibiotic ointment and bandage as you prefer.

Now that you know how to avoid blisters, find more backpacking tips on the Cloudline blog.

Here's what makes merino work so well for athletes, how it compares with synthetic running socks, and how to choose the right pair for your sport.

In this guide

• Are wool socks good for running?
• The science: why merino works for athletes
• Merino vs synthetic athletic socks
• How to choose merino running socks
• Merino socks for other sports
• How to care for merino athletic socks
• FAQ

Are wool socks good for running?

Merino wool socks are great for running. Thick, old-fashioned wool socks are not. The difference is the fiber and the thickness. Modern merino running socks are thin, snug and blended with nylon and spandex, so they fit in running shoes, stay in place and breathe well. Runners choose them because they:

• Help prevent blisters by keeping skin drier and reducing friction
• Resist odor, so you can wear them for a long run without the gym-sock smell
• Stay comfortable in heat and cold, from winter morning runs to summer trail races
• Stay warm when wet, which helps on rainy runs and creek crossings

The science: why merino works for athletes

Merino's performance comes from the structure of the fiber itself.

• Fine fibers: merino fibers are typically under about 24 microns, much finer than traditional wool, so they bend against your skin instead of itching.
• Absorbs vapor before it becomes sweat: the fiber's core absorbs moisture vapor from your skin, often cited as up to about a third of its weight, before it feels wet. The fiber surface repels liquid water.
• Releases a little heat as it absorbs moisture: wool gives off a small amount of heat when it absorbs water vapor (called heat of sorption), which helps take the chill off when you stop moving.
• Natural crimp: the wavy fiber traps air for insulation and gives merino socks their springy, resilient feel.
• Resists odor: by keeping your feet drier and holding odor compounds within the fiber, merino stays fresher than synthetics over long efforts.

For more on merino's benefits, see 6 reasons merino wool socks are best for hiking and running.

Merino vs synthetic athletic socks

Bottom line: for most runners, merino blends are the better everyday choice, especially for long runs, trail running and cold or changing weather. Synthetics are a fine budget option for short, hot runs.

How to choose merino running socks

• Thickness: ultralight for hot weather, racing and snug shoes. Light cushion for longer runs and more padding. See our cushion guide.
• Height: no-show for road running and summer, quarter height for trail running to keep out debris and protect your ankles.
• Fit: snug with no bunching at the toe or heel, and a supportive arch band. Use our sock size guide.
• Seams: a smooth, flat toe seam prevents rubbing over long miles.

Our picks for runners:

• Road running and hot days: No-Show Running Sock, Ultralight (men's, women's)
• Longer runs: No-Show Running Sock, Light Cushion (men's, women's)
• Trail running: 1/4 Top Running Sock, Ultralight (men's, women's)

Merino socks for other sports

• Hiking and backpacking: light or medium cushion crew socks for boots and long days. Read our hiking socks guide.
• Skiing and snowboarding: over-the-calf ski socks that stay warm without bulk in ski boots.
• Cycling and gym training: ultralight, low-profile socks that breathe and resist odor.
• Recovery and travel: merino compression socks for tired legs. See our compression socks guide.

How to care for merino athletic socks

• Turn socks inside out and wash in cold to warm water on a gentle cycle.
• Use a mild detergent and skip fabric softener and bleach.
• Air-dry or tumble dry on low.
• Rotate a few pairs so each one fully dries between runs.

More tips in our guide to washing merino wool socks.

Frequently asked questions

Are merino wool socks good for running?

Yes. Thin merino running socks wick sweat, help prevent blisters, resist odor and stay comfortable in hot and cold weather. Choose ultralight or light cushion with a snug fit.

Is running in wool socks too hot?

Not with the right sock. Ultralight merino running socks are thin and breathable, and merino manages sweat well, so they're comfortable even in warm weather. Thick wool socks, on the other hand, are too warm for most runs.

Are merino socks better than synthetic socks for athletes?

For most athletes, yes, especially for long efforts and changing conditions. Merino resists odor and regulates temperature better, while synthetics dry slightly faster and cost less.

Do merino athletic socks help with foot odor?

Yes. Merino keeps feet drier and resists odor far better than synthetic socks, so they stay fresher after long runs and workouts.

How long do merino wool socks last?

Quality merino blend socks are durable and, with good care and rotation, last a long time. Cloudline socks are backed by a lifetime guarantee.

Are merino wool socks worth it for casual athletes?

Yes. Even weekend runners and gym-goers sweat enough to benefit from merino's comfort, odor resistance and blister prevention, and a quality pair lasts long enough to justify the price.

If you’ve yet to dive into the world of outdoorsy podcasts, we encourage you to give it a go. Whether you’re planning your next big expedition, reliving a glorious weekend hike, or simply stuck indoors on a stormy day, these podcasts will give you the perfect dose of the outdoors until you’re back outside.

Our favorite shows touch on everything from near-miss outdoor accidents to the spookiest trail stories, and everything in between. No matter what kind of outdoor enthusiast you are, these 10 outdoorsy podcasts have something for you.

1. The Dirtbag Diaries

Since 2007, The Dirtbag Diaries has been bringing listeners stories of epic adventures, dangerous climbs, and lessons learned in the mountains. Listen with caution: Many episodes may inspire feelings of wanderlust… and a strong desire to quit your job, sell your belongings, buy a van, and head outside. The Dirtbag Diaries is well-written, beautifully produced, and, as an added bonus, it features awesome music.

2. National Park After Dark

True crime podcasts are popular for a reason, and while National Park After Dark doesn’t quite fall within the genre, it does feature spine-tingling, thrilling, and puzzling true stories about mysterious happenings outside. Better yet, the stories take place in national parks across the world. Settle in for lighthearted ghost stories, or buckle up for a cautionary tale. And be sure to tune into Trail Tales episodes, which highlight listeners’ own spooky experiences in nature.

3. Backpacker Radio

If you’re an avid hiker, especially a thru-hiker, you’ll love Backpacker Radio. Each episode features a unique guest who shares their own outdoor stories, tips, and experiences. These stories cover a lot of ground, from a family who backpacks with young kids to a horseback rider who takes on the country’s longest trails by hoof. But they all have one thing in common: the love of the trail.

4. Mountain & Prairie

If you’ve ever been awed by the staggering peaks and endless vistas of the American West, Mountain & Prairie is for you. Each episode highlights a passionate guest with a connection to this region, but it’s not just hikers who take the stage. Conservations, artists, ranchers, and mountain athletes all join host Ed Roberson at the mic. Every story shines a little light on the complex, stark, and beautiful landscape that is the West.

5. The Fine Line

No one wants to think about getting lost or hurt in the backcountry. But there’s a lot to learn from stories of close calls, from both the injured and their rescuers’ perspectives. The Fine Line’s goal is to educate outdoor enthusiasts on the risks of recreating in the backcountry. This podcast shares firsthand accounts of harrowing experiences that take place in and around Jackson, Wyoming, from climbing accidents to mountain bike crashes to avalanche disasters. You’ll be on the edge of your seat from the moment you press play.

6. The Sharp End

Like The Fine Line, The Sharp End details nail-biting stories of outdoor accidents on the trail and in the backcountry. But the stories on The Sharp End take place all over the world. Listen in to hear about a BASE jumping accident in Colorado, a climbing disaster in North Carolina, and a winter camping scare in Canada, and how these storytellers made it through these distressing situations. The hope is that by sharing stories of accidents in the mountains, listeners can learn from others’ mistakes, and prevent their own.

7. Wild Ideas Worth Living

Produced by REI Co-op, Wild Ideas Worth Living shares stories from all kinds of outdoor adventures, like athletes, entrepreneurs, scientists, and those who simply dedicate their lives to exploring outside. If you’re looking for inspiration to put your own wild idea into action, no matter who you are or what your biggest dreams are, these stories are for you.

Bonus: Retired Shows Worth Listening To

Even though these final three podcasts aren’t currently airing new episodes, don’t write them off. They’re definitely worth a listen. Trust us, once you dig back into the archives, you’ll want to binge these shows from start to finish.

8. The First 40 Miles

If you’re new(ish) to backpacking, give this show a listen. The First 40 Miles teaches newbie backpackers everything they need to know to have a safe and fun trip. Hosts Heather and Josh cover everything from choosing the best hiking socks to packing your backpack correctly. Even if you’re a seasoned backpacker, listening in will likely uncover a new tip or two. Episodes are brief but informative, coming in at under half an hour. This is also a great show to share with friends you want to introduce to backpacking, so tune in, and share it widely!

9. Sounds of the Trail

With a catchy little theme song to kick off each episode, Sounds of the Trail heavily features the stories, adventures, and characters that make the thru-hiking community special. Hosted by Gizmo, a thru-hiker herself, Sounds of the Trail features regular contributors like Kimchi, Homework, and Par 3 (trail names, of course). These hikers call in and guest on the show as they navigate their own thru-hikes on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and beyond. If you’re at all interested in thru-hiking and trail life, this one’s for you.

10. She Explores

If you want a podcast that’s relatable, makes you think, and digs a little deeper than the average outdoor show, listen to She Explores. With each episode, host Gale Straub and her guests explore the intersection of the outdoors with other relevant daily-life topics: equity, aging, illness, raising children, entrepreneurship, and climate change, to name a few. Reviewers report feeling heard, empowered, and inspired after listening.

Listen In, Then Get Outside

We hope these podcasts fuel both your imagination and your next adventure. Next time you’re driving to the trailhead, taking a cross-country road trip, or doing chores around the house, turn on one of these 10 outdoorsy podcasts and let your mind wander outside. But before grabbing your headphones and tuning in to a show, let us know: What’s your favorite outdoor podcast? Add your recommendations in the comments below!