Southwest Hikes

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

Your Southwest Hiker Pal

Outdoor Vitals NovaPro Down Jacket worn by a hiker in desert mountains, showcasing lightweight insulation and fit for backpacking and outdoor adventures

Gear Review: NovaPro Jacket by Outdoor Vitals

The Outdoor Vitals NovaPro Down Jacket is a lightweight, packable layer built for hikers and backpackers who want warmth without bulk. This updated review revisits how it performs in the field and where it fits into a modern layering system.

Hiker standing in wide alpine landscape with rocky tundra and distant mountain peaks under a blue sky

All About HIMALI: Mountain Gear Rooted in Purpose

HIMALI creates technical mountain apparel shaped by real alpine experience and rooted in purpose. This article explores the brand’s design philosophy, mission, and commitment to supporting mountain communities, along with a Q&A offering insight straight from the HIMALI team.

Alpine mountain landscape at sunset in bear country where bear canisters like the Grubcan Wave are required for backpacking food storage

Gear Review: Wave Bear Canister by Grubcan

A modern take on bear-resistant food storage, the Wave Bear Canister by Grubcan is lighter, easier to open, and packs better than traditional bear cans; perfect for responsible backpacking in bear country.

Backpacker hiking on an exposed desert trail while testing the best sun hoodies for hiking and backpacking in 2026.

Best Sun Hoodies for Hiking and Backpacking in 2026

Looking for the best sun hoodie for hiking or backpacking in 2026? This guide covers the top-performing sun hoodies tested for desert heat, alpine exposure, and long days on the trail.

a family with many kids going for a hike on a nice wild hiking trail and all the children look very happy.

How to Get Kids Excited for Hiking: Fun Tips and Trail Games

Ready to turn your next hike into a family adventure? Discover how to get kids excited for hiking with fun tips, engaging trail games, and simple strategies. Make hiking with kids a delightful adventure for the whole family!

Outdoor Vitals 100 Mile Challenge 2026

Learn about the Outdoor Vitals 100 Mile Challenge 2026! This is an annual challenge that is built for every kind of hiker out there, and is a ton of fun. Set goals, meet cool people and get your miles in!

a hiker wears the 2.5L SwitchPack by Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear on trail in the high desert of the american southwest

Gear Review: 2.5L SwitchPack by Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear

Discover what we love and don't love about the 2.5L SwitchPack by Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear in 2026! After wearing it for 200 miles, we've got some thoughts. Check out our review!