Articles

Hikematic Blog

Get the most recent gear reviews, tips, and guides. Read our newest articles to stay up to date on all things related to camping and hiking.

hiking yoga sequence
Hiking Fitness & Preparation

Best Yoga Poses to Strengthen and Stretch for Hiking

Walking on uneven paths in places like Patagonia needs lots of muscle power and staying power. Your legs and glutes…

11 Jan 202511 min read
A green camping tent pitched near a backpack and campfire in a pine forest
Tents

Fireproof Tents: How to Check Claims and Camp Safely

No camping tent is fireproof. Learn how to verify flammability tests, read warning labels, and keep tents safely away from…

10 Jan 20257 min read
identifying poisonous plants while hiking
Safety & Health Tips

How to Identify and Avoid Poisonous Plants on the Trail

Hiking in Washington offers a beautiful view of nature. However, plants like stinging nettle, poison ivy, and poison oak can…

9 Jan 20258 min read
Collection of orienteering compasses with baseplate designs displayed on a topographic map
Hiking Gear Reviews

Best Backpacking Compass: Suunto MC-2 Wins

The Suunto MC-2 leads our picks for backpacking compasses, offering mirror sighting and adjustable declination for off-trail navigation and map…

9 Jan 20258 min read
Hiker organizing gloves, trowel, waste bags, and sanitizer beside a backpack outdoors
Guides

How to Handle Waste on Hiking and Camping Trips

Local rules come first in this practical trail guide to handling human waste, toilet paper, food scraps, gray water, and…

9 Jan 202513 min read
trekking poles review
Hiking Gear Reviews

Top Trekking Poles for Rugged Terrain: Hiker’s Review

Trekking poles are a key part of my hiking equipment, especially on tough trails. In this review, I’ll share my…

7 Jan 202511 min read
engaging trail activities for children
Hiking for Families & Beginners

Best Hiking Games to Play with Kids on the Trail

Going on hikes with kids turns into fun when you add some games. These activities make the journey exciting for…

6 Jan 20257 min read
altitude sickness prevention
Hiking Fitness & Preparation

How to Handle Altitude Acclimation for High-Elevation Hiking

Going on a high-elevation hike is exciting. Picture the beautiful scenes of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park or the amazing…

5 Jan 202511 min read