October 2025

Bring the Ten Essentials, trail clothing, sturdy footwear, water, food, navigation, and a small kit matched to the route and forecast.

For hiking and camping, carry the Ten Essentials, weather layers, shelter, water treatment, food, and trip details.

For a day on the trail, pack the Ten Essentials, layers, sturdy footwear, water, snacks, and simple safety gear.

For a hiking trip, bring the ten essentials—navigation, sun/insulation, light, first aid, fire, repair/tools, food, water, shelter—plus trip-specific extras.

Hiking is mainly aerobic cardio, with bursts of anaerobic effort on steep or fast sections.

Early morning is best for hiking, when temps are cooler, UV is lower, winds are calmer, and summer storms are less likely.

For hot-weather hiking, pick a light UPF-rated polyester or merino tee with airy panels and a relaxed cut to stay cooler and drier.

California has the most hiking trails in the United States, based on major trail databases.

For hiking trails, California leads the pack—its nine national parks, marquee long-distance routes, and huge trail network outpace every state.

For hiking, California ranks best thanks to nine national parks, 280 state park units, and year-round variety.