Travel by Trail

When starting a new hobby one of the most intimidating factors is the jargon. The new lingo can seem overwhelming, and honestly, nobody wants to sound like a noob. The same concept applies to hiking. There are countless terms that might get lost on the novice backpacker. Fortunately, the hiking community is open and friendly, so you won't be shunned for not knowing any proper phrases. Some are good to know, and others are just for fun. Either way, here's a list of hiking terms with explanations so you can begin to familiarize yourself with your new and exciting hobby.  10 Essentials. This simply refers to the ten most important items you would keep in your pack on any hike. It is good to keep this in mind when preparing for every trip. Check out this list of hiking essentials . Alpine Zone. In higher elevations, this refers to the tops of mountain peaks where trees no longer grow. The A.T. The Appalachian Trail is perhaps the most famous trail amongst hikers and non-...

What's better than a day on the trails? A day on the trails with your favorite furry friend. Dogs make excellent traveling companions when spending time in the great outdoors. While all dogs love a good walk, not all dogs might be up for a strenuous hike. Check out this list of some of the best dogs to take hiking. photo credit: rei.com Bernese Mountain Dog The Bernese Mountain Dog has tough terrain in its middle name. These large dogs are built for rough trails, and they can even help carry some of the load. These powerful dogs have an interesting history.  Siberian Husky Most people are familiar with the rich, athletic history of these dogs. They are known as choice sleigh dogs because of their strength and endurance in the face of treacherous trails. Vizsla This dog was originally bred in Hungary for the purpose of hunting. While it is still used for hunting today, it also makes an excellent partner on a peaceful hike. These dogs need plenty of exercise and love to...