Southwest Hikes

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

paka sebastian ski socks being worn to get cozy on a cold day

Gear Review: Sebastian Ski Socks by PAKA

Because these socks are made from natural alpaca wool, they don't get stinky and they do a great job of wicking moisture away to keep your feet nice and dry. They're perfect for activities like skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking.

setting up a tent while backpacking the sky island traverse

Sky Island Traverse Thru-Hike: In My Pack

While I was on this thru-hike, backpacking in some of the most varied terrain you could possibly imagine, I was reliant on my gear to do a little bit of everything!

a mature biological soil crust with bumpy dark ridges A mature biological soil crust in Canyonlands National Park

Protecting Cryptobiotic Soil: A Hiker’s Guide to Preserving the Southwest’s Hidden Life

Cryptobiotic soil may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about desert landscapes, but it’s one of the most critical parts of keeping the Southwest wild and beautiful. Every step matters when it comes to protecting this delicate crust.

the squak grid fleece hoodie on a hiker in the Southwest

Gear Review: The Squak Grid Fleece Hoodie

So far I've been enjoying how The Squak performs in the high deserts of the Southwest. I imagine it will be a valuable part of my layering system during summer in the alpine, when days become hot but the breeze is cold.

six moon designs black friday sale banner

SALE: Six Moon Designs Black Friday Sale 2024

25% OFF EVERYTHING!

katabatic gear ultralight holiday sale

SALE: Katabatic Gear 2024 Holiday Sale

Diehard fans of Katabatic Gear ultralight quilts, bivys and jackets you know a sale is hard to come by, so you’ll want to jump on this big holiday sale starting next week!

How to Store Food Safely on Backpacking Trips in the Southwest

How to Store Food Safely on Backpacking Trips in the Southwest

ood storage might not be the most fun part of backpacking, but it’s one of the most important. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can keep your food safe, protect wildlife, and enjoy your Southwest adventures with peace of mind.