The volcanic remains at the heart of Aniakchak National Monument—the least visited site in the national park system—are a trippy mishmash of postapocalyptic cinder cones, hardened lava, and flame-colored walls. The only catch? Doing it right involves days of trekking and rafting through some of the planet’s toughest, most bear-heavy terrain.

There are so many carbs to choose from. Here’s a breakdown.

It took hundreds of years and the heavy-heeled stomping of thousands of trekkers. Now some 30,000 miles of trails high in the Swiss Alps are finally packed down, buffed out, and ready for their true calling: downhill mountain biking. This August, the first North American outfitter to guide armor-clad cyclists…

Name: DANIELLE FISHERDanielle Fisher BASE CAMP: Fisher in her parents’ backyard in Bow, Washington Home: Bow, Washington Gig: Mountaineer Height: 5’7″ Weight: 130 Age: 20 IN JUNE, FISHER became the youngest American to stand atop Mount Everest—and the youngest person ever to complete the Seven Summits, knocking off the…

YOU 1. Hair cut, no hat 2. Backpack not extending above your head 3. Face clean-shaven 4. No cardboard sign WARNING SIGNS If three or more of these are present… 5. Gandalf bobblehead on dashboard 6. Soldier of Fortune magazine 7. Leather vest, no shirt 8. Baseball bat…

For this Tough Love, by popular request, we're doing something a little different: a semi-noncapitalist gift guide

Illegal rhino killings up 7,623% in six years

An amusing albeit brief look at the basics of adventuring outdoors.

Race

Watch for our tips on how to choose the right backpacking stove before you hit the trail.