Backpack hanging up outside a log cabin
Backpack hanging up outside a log cabin

Hiking 101: Everything You Need to Head for the Hills

Forget camping out on the sofa all winter. Discover the great outdoors with these daypacks, hiking shoes, and more.

ROARING FIREPLACES AND loads of television just waiting to be binged can be powerful motivators to hibernate indoors all winter, but don't do that. Don't miss out on the wondrous winter wilderness just because it's a little nippy outside. The rewards for venturing outdoors during this season are immeasurable. Trails take on a unique character this time of year, and they're much less crowded, too. America has never had more public wilderness set aside for your enjoyment than it does right now, and no matter where you live, there are most likely trails near you.

Yet getting started can be daunting. Fear not. It's easier than you might think to stay dry, warm, hydrated, and safe. In this guide, we have recommendations for everything you need to take to the outdoors, whether it's just a peaceful afternoon hike or a roving weekend-long backpacking trip.

Be sure to check out the complete hiking gear list, written by Matt Jancer here.

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Media Mentions from Wired
Wired

WIRED is where tomorrow is realized. It is the essential source of information and ideas that make sense of a world in constant transformation. The WIRED conversation illuminates how technology is changing every aspect of our lives—from culture to business, science to design. The breakthroughs and innovations that we uncover lead to new ways of thinking, new connections, and new industries.

Media Mentions

Why use a plastic bag when you can simply screw on this end cap, specifically designed for Sawyer water filters?

Zoe Gates
Editor at Backpacker

Media Mentions

In future, I’ll use gravity when I can, and squeeze when I have to.

Richard, aka "LowRange
Hiker

Media Mentions

For longer hikes, it’s convenient to carry a small backcountry water filter, such as a Sawyer Mini or Micro, which allows you to replenish your water from natural sources like streams or ponds.

Philip Werner
Author and Backpacker