A century ago, travelers from the East started showing up out West looking for something they couldn’t find at home. Fresh air. Open land. Horses. Maybe a little adventure. Ranchers, many of whom were already scraping out a living in tough country, realized they could offer visitors a place to stay and a taste of life under wide western skies. Before long, “dude ranching” became its own kind of American escape.

With summer temperatures climbing across much of the country, staying hydrated has become a top priority for hikers and backpackers hitting trails. Local hiker Daniel “Danny” Reyes, an experienced long-distance backpacker who has explored forests, mountains and backcountry trails nationwide, shared practical tips for keeping safe and hydrated during hot summer hikes.

Hikers heading into Southwest Virginia’s trails now have a safer and more convenient way to store their food, thanks to a new bear canister rental program at the Damascus Trail Center.