Your trusted guide to the mountains from experienced alpinists

Helpful guides and insightful stories from mountain guides, ski instructors, and more.

Mountaineering
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
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The AlpInsider team

Michael Graw
I live in Bellingham, Washington, at the base of the wild North Cascades. Over the last ten years, I've explored much of the region's steep terrain and endless layers of ridges and peaks, both on foot and on skis, often linking far-flung ridges together to push deeper into the range.
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Timo Holmquist
I’m happiest on long backpacking trips into little-known pockets of wilderness, skiing down backcountry mountains, and on all-fours, scrambling the rocky spines of alpine ridges. When I'm not adventuring in the outdoors, I'm most likely writing about them.
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Sylvia Karcz
Sylvia fell in love with snowboarding in her teens. She has since spent every season on the slopes and now works as a snowboard instructor.
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Poorva Shepal
Over the last decade and a half, I’ve been busy learning and honing the skills I need to survive in the mountains. I completed a mountaineering course from one of India’s best institutes and got certified as a WFR.
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Helpful guides

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Man hiking through mountains
Guides

What To Wear Hiking In Hot Weather (Expert Guide)

Shorts? Pants? Long sleeves? Tank top? Check out this guide to learn what to wear hiking in hot weather to stay cool and comfortable on the trail.
Guides

A Step-by-Step Guide To Planning A Perfect Hiking Trip

Hitting the trail isn't as simple as walking out your door. This guide to planning a hiking trip will help you feel fully prepared for an epic hike.
Man tying laces of walking boots
Guides

How Hiking Boots Should Fit To Avoid Pain

Hiking doesn't have to hurt your feet. This guide will let you know how your hiking boots are supposed to feel for a comfortable outdoor experience.
Guides

The Science of Hiking: How Trail Walking Can Help Build Muscle

Hiking is great for physical health. But you might be surprised to know it can also transform your physique. Discover how hiking builds muscle right here!

Recommended gear

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Woman hiking
Gear

8 Best Hiking Leggings For Comfort & Durability On The Trail

Prefer form-fitting pants and leggings for your outdoor adventures? Read on for the best hiking leggings and technical tights for performance on the trail.
Person stood in the rain on a mountain
Gear

7 Best Rain Pants For Hiking, Backpacking, & Mountaineering

Don’t let the rain stop you from enjoying outdoor adventures. I’ve compiled the best rain pants to keep you dry when severe weather threatens.
Sleeping bags on a rock outdoors
Gear

10 Best Ultralight Sleeping Bags For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Backpacking gear is heavy. Make things easier on yourself by investing in the best ultralight sleeping bag. We review the finest options out there.
Hiking boots and socks
Gear

9 Best Waterproof Hiking Socks For All Weather Conditions (2023)

Soggy feet are the ultimate hike killer. I’ve created a guide reviewing the nine best waterproof hiking socks for any obstacle Mother Nature throws at you.

About AlpInsider

Founded by a collective of dedicated mountaineers, skiers, and climbers with decades of experience, Alpinsider’s mission is to deliver trusted advice to fellow budding mountaingoers.

Part of the thrill of spending time in the mountains comes from sharing that experience with others. AlpInsider is our way of giving back to the mountain sports community.