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If you are camping in bear country, or in any place where food storage is a concern, you should strongly consider using a bear canister–a storage system that is built to keep bears out of your food. And in some places, particularly parks in California, Montana, Colorado, and Washington,backcountry campers are required to have and use bear canisters.

While you may get lucky by hanging your food in a sack from a tree, this is not permitted in many areas and virtually impractical in many alpine anddesert backpacking zones. Bear canisters are the preferred method for storing food and other smelly items, but there are many kinds to be aware of. Let’s look at them in more detail.

When the days get longer and the snowpack stabilizes, many skiers turn their attention to climbing bigger peaks and skiing bigger lines. While weather, snowpack, and daylight often conspire to limit big mountain activities through the winter, spring’s longer and warmer days help give skiers a better chance at getting high in the mountains and ticking off some more impressive lines.

Don’t let winter’s cold keep you indoors, and don’t let the expense and crowds of downhill skiing keep you out of the mountains. Cross-country skiing lets you get outside to enjoy the mountains and winter but costs very little. Whether you're new to the sport or a veteran, one of the best ways to enjoy cross-country skiing without breaking the bank is by opting forused gear. Buying used gear makes the sport affordable and accessible to a huge audience. Read on to learn more.

We all know how fun skiing is, and we all hate how expensive it can be. Good skis, boots, poles, and bindings can literally cost as much as a used Civic, and that’s before we even start talking about ski jackets, pants, and helmets. Fortunately, buying used ski equipment is a fantastic way to save money while still getting quality gear. Just like buying new, purchasing secondhand ski gear requires a bit of knowledge to ensure you’re getting a good deal on equipment that’s safe and suitable for your needs. This guide will walk you through how to buy used ski gear and what to look for when evaluating different types of equipment.

Colorado's San Juan Mountains are top on many people’s list of backpacking destinations. With soaring jagged peaks, azure alpine lakes, hidden waterfalls, and verdant green valleys, even a single overnight can be a memorable experience.

Spending the night in the mountains can significantly elevate the experience–especially if you are well-prepared. While setting off from the parking lot and hiking into the mountains for a night or two or more can seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. A small amount of good gear will keep you safe, warm, and comfortable.