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Did you know poison ivy is still active even when no leaves are present?

As we step into fall, please keep in mind that poisonous plants are still a threat to you, your kids — and even your pets!

Poison ivy contains a potent and resilient oil called urushiol, which is present not only on leaves but also on the vine of the plant.

When this oil comes into contact with your skin, it can result in a rash that welts and blisters.

We know first-hand how uncomfortable a poison ivy reaction can be, so we talked to our friends and poisonous plant experts at Tecnu to understand how to avoid contact with poison ivy and what to do if you happen to encounter it.

Stay safe while hiking this fall. Read on to find out what to look for and how to treat poison ivy now.

New to camping and not sure where to begin?

If you’ve never camped before, you’re in for a real treat: starry nights enjoying s’mores around the campfire and beautiful days spent hiking in the wilderness.

Are you ready to camp but not ready to give up all the comforts of home?

Car camping is a great way to spend the night in nature while staying close to modern day conveniences. Drive right up, park your car, and pitch your tent. 

All of us on the 52 Hike Challenge team have had at least one botched camping trip, and we’re here to help you avoid common mistakes that can make or break your experience.

In this Ultimate Camping Guide for Beginners, you’ll find tips from the 52 team on how to go camping safely and comfortably — and have lots of fun while you’re at it.

During summer it may be smart to avoid hiking in the heat-of-the-day, but with proper planning you can still enjoy your weekly hikes! Here are some tips on staying safe when hiking in the heat.

As you've been hiking away, you will naturally evolve and want to try backpacking, which opens up a treasure trove of opportunities.

We've compiled a backpacking gear checklist to help you get started on your backpacking journey safely!

Celebrate Pride Outside! Together let’s make the outdoors more inclusive. In this blog, you will find LGBTQIA+ hikers and outdoor organizations we encourage you to connect with during and after Pride Month. Plus, peek at the new 52 Hike Challenge Limited Edition Pride T-shirt, only available during Pride Month.

Celebrate National Trails Day with us by taking the #NationalTrailsDay Pledge!

Join 52 Hike Challenge and the American Hiking Society on Saturday, June 5 (National Trails Day 2021) to leave the trail better than you found it. Get tips for your clean-up hike and find out how you can give back to the trails that give so much to you. 

Are you packing everything you need in order to keep your pet safe and healthy while on the trail?

Two 52 Hike Challenge community members helped us create this blog on First Aid Kits for Hiking with Your Pet. Thank you Elyssa and Katharine (Katie) LaVacca, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, for sharing this information. 

April is Earth Month, and Earth Day is coming up on April 22nd.

Now is the perfect time to think about how you can give back to our planet and celebrate Mother Earth.

We know the world still looks a little different this year, but that doesn't mean you can’t take part! You can practice Earth appreciation from home or while recreating responsibly.

This year, the theme for Earth Day 2021 is “Restore the Earth.”

In this blog, you will find ways to educate yourself and take action toward protecting our planet. Plus, you’ll also learn how to practice “Earthing” and get an opportunity to win some eco-minded products!

Keep reading to discover lots of unique ways to connect with Earth this year.

"Leaves of three, let them be." Find out how to identify poison ivy, oak, and sumac. Learn what to do if you come into contact with a poisonous plant. Find the best products for an allergic reaction to poison ivy, oak, sumac and other outdoor itches.

Do you want to spend more time outside, but you’re not sure how to get started? Step outside with confidence and learn everything you need to know about hiking. Read our Quick Start Hiking Guide for beginners now!

Looking for the perfect gift for the hiker in your life? The team at 52 Hike Challenge curated a list of our top 10 gifts for hikers of all ages and skill levels -- we even included a special treat for your pup! You can find all of these awesome items at your local REI.

Guess what?! We will be giving away each of these items in partnership with REI! Simply enter your info at the bottom of this page, then follow us on social to find out how you can gain extra entries!

Check out our Top 10 Hiking Gifts handpicked by your friends at 52 Hike Challenge now.

Want to find a reliable workout that will bring you the same results as the gym? What about results that go beyond what you can achieve at the gym?

Enter the outdoors: your personal playground. This nature-made fitness center is devoid of doors and walls and full of wonder and adventure. 

The outdoors is your new, next-level exercise outlet, and it’s even better than the gym.

Read on to find out why you should cancel your gym membership and subscribe to the great outdoors.