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There’s nothing quite like a good hike to clear the brain, recharge, take in the views and get those muscles working.

But with endless options of great hiking trails all over the U.S., it can be difficult to decide which one to tackle next. Of course, we all have our bucket list hikes, but there are some unique ones out there that might just offer you a fresh perspective — fire lookouts. 

Are you a hiker?

Do you know what the 7 Leave No Trace Principles are?

If you're taking on the 52 Hike Challenge, you should know these important guidelines. Think of the Leave No Trace Principles as a way to help you and your hiking buddies minimize your impact on wild spaces and protect the great outdoors. That way, we can all continue to enjoy nature for many years to come.

We know some of the activities we are asking you to do in our Kids Series might be new to you, so we have compiled some information and links to he...

Thank you for joining us this year for #OptOutside! Since the new Opt to Act initiative was such a success, now we are encouraging you to continue the effort into the new year and all year long! Join us and REI as we continue to Opt to Act into the new year. In this blog, you will discover the first of 52 action steps to help you Opt to Act all year! Clean up the trails, go on stewardship hikes, and give back to nature when you pursue your 52 Hike Challenge 2020. Read the blog to get started right now.

This blog post is brought to you in sponsorship with REI Did you know there are over 50 billion pieces of litter lingering on United States roadwa...

Can you imagine your life without clean water?

Just for a moment, try to visualize what that would be like: your drinking water is infested with feces, showers are scarce if at all, and you’re probably really, really sick.

Not just sick with a cold. Sick with a fever. Vomiting. Chills. Headaches. Diarrhea. 

Can you imagine that life?

You probably can’t. Because it’s unimaginable. And because no one should ever have to live without access to clean water.

People shouldn’t have to risk their lives every time they take a drink. Children shouldn’t die from waterborne disease before their 5th birthday. 

And the United Nations agrees. In 2010, the organization deemed clean drinking water and sanitation to be essential human rights for all.

But illnesses due to poor water quality are still happening every day. And they're not going away. Not unless we do something… 

Do you want to feel less stressed, more focused, and even happier in your everyday life? Take a hike. Literally. Hiking is scientifically proven to positively impact your mental health. Discover the healing power of hiking. Learn the top 5 mental health benefits of hiking right now.

In this guest blog by Kevin Neft, you will learn why hiking is one of the best ways to explore a foreign country. Not only is hiking inexpensive, but it will also leave you with  memories you'll never forget. Hear from Kevin why he loves to hike while spending time over seas. Keep reading to discover the many benefits of hiking abroad right now.

In this 52 Hike Challenge guest blog by Ola Mikail, you will hear about a real life account of how to manage summit fever and reach the summit safely. Push yourself but know your limits. And always look out for other hikers in need. Read on to get inspired by Ola's climb to the top of San Gorgonio right now.

In this guest blog by Danielle Price, you will learn insider photography tips for hikers that you can use not only to remember each epic adventure, but also to plan for future trips or even to recommend a trail to a friend. Read on to discover what cameras to use, which perspectives to shoot, and how you can capture your experience on the trail right now.

In this guest blog by Tiffany Diehl, you will discover how the 52 Hike Challenge helped Tiffany hike to heal. Find out how getting outside made Tiffany's chronic illness more manageable. Plus, read for yourself how this movement impacted Tiffany's relationships with friends, family and herself. Prepare to be moved and inspired. Read more now.

Let’s Talk About Hiking Clothing Essentials for Both Men and Women.

From moisture-wicking undergarments to insulated outer layers, get ready to learn what you should wear (and what not to wear) to keep you safe and comfortable during all your hikes. All recommendations are thoughtfully provided by 52 Hike Challenge co-founder Karla Amador. Read on to find the best hiking clothing now.