Alex Txikon attempts an off-season climb of the world's highest peak

Good for All Mountain If powder days are a rare treat, then how your utility ski handles hardpack is your number-one consideration. With its 20-meter turn radius and aluminum-alloy damping layers around a core of ash and silver fir, the MX88 lives for ice. True, all that power and…

I am going to Morocco in late summer for a week, and want you to tell me what to see and what to skip. — Chris Chicago, IL

I am going to Morocco in late summer for a week, and want you to tell me what to see and what to skip.–ChrisChicago, IL

I'm a 40-year-old dad planning to be a mule for my young family of five (wife, two daughters, ten and 12 years old, and seven-year-old son). I'm looking for a large capacity (6,000-plus-cubic-inch) backpack. I'm currently looking at the Osprey Crescent 110, Dana Designs Terraplane, and Arc'Teryx Bora 95. I realize pack comfort will differ based on individual size and body shape. Of these three I mention, and possibly others I haven't, which carries the heaviest loads and provides the most comfort. Frank Hahn Chula Vista, California

We asked five top guides share their favorite—and least expensive—gear. Add these items to your must-have list.

Spirits of the plague

State not responsible for damaged property

There are endless twister videos out there. These are the man-eating, building-splintering best.

Over the last five years, a lot has changed in the fitness world. But these four trends will continue to define the way you train.