8 Things East Coast Hikers Must Know Before Hiking Out West

Hiking in the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains is radically different from trekking through the rugged peaks of the American West. If you’ve never had the opportunity to hike out west before, we highly recommend it: the scenery is unparalleled and totally unlike anything you’ll see at home.

But if you’re based on the east coast and have done most of your hiking in that region, be aware that the west is a land of extremes.  Weather patterns, terrain, logistical considerations, and more will all be drastically different than what you’re used to. Here are eight key differences between hiking in the east and the west (and how to prepare).

Continue reading the complete list of things to know before hiking out west, written by Kelly Floro.