Authorities in British Columbia, Canada, say they have now found the bodies of all three hikers who fell from the Meachen Creek Falls in the East Kootenays.

After a week of intensive searching, rescuers from Kimberley RCMP uncovered the third body, of a 35-year-old man, who had already been presumed dead.

Authorities were originally alerted to the incident on September 1, when they received an SOS signal from a GPS device. A swift search and rescue mission promptly followed, and rescuers soon discovered the body of a 68-year-old woman halfway down the falls.

Days later, with the help of drones, police dogs, and two Big Horn helicopters, they found the body of a 35-year-old female hiker and then confirmed that all three had likely perished.

Local police confirmed the final discovery and thanked rescuers for their efforts in a statement.

It reads: “Their efforts and skill have been appreciated by visiting members of the deceased family."

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.”

Hiking around waterfalls can be treacherous. Check out our expert guide for some thorough safety tips.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

A damage report has revealed the devastating impact of a violent wildfire, which decimated large sections of the Grand Canyon National Park over the past couple of months.

The Dragon Bravo wildfire began on July 4 after a lightning strike, and spread rapidly thanks to high winds and scorching temperatures inside the canyon. As of today, it has burned over 140,000 acres of Arizona wilderness and is 80% contained, with hundreds of firefighters still battling the blaze.

The latest assessment from the Department of the Interior’s Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team states that nearly half of the structures in the park's North Rim section have been severely damaged or destroyed by the blaze.

A total of 106 affected structures include the historic Grand Canyon lodge, the visitor centre, and a vital wastewater treatment plant. Roughly 1,000ft (305m) of the area's 3,300ft (1,006m) water pipeline also sustained serious damage.

Ed Keable, superintendent of Grand Canyon National Park, described the assessment as the "first step towards recovery on the North Rim of Grand Canyon."

"By evaluating risks and identifying treatments now, we are laying the foundation for long-term landscape resilience. This careful, science-based work is essential to ensuring that areas can reopen safely.”

The North Rim, which is usually popular with hikers, will remain closed for the rest of the season, along with multiple inner canyon corridors and campgrounds. Trails affected include the North Kaibab Trail, South Kaibab Trail, Phantom Ranch, and Bright Angel Trail (below Havasupai Gardens).

A social media post from the National Park Service expands: "With assessments complete, the park and interagency partners are now shifting to stabilization, mitigation, and long-term recovery efforts. Protecting human health and safety remains the top priority."

• The best hiking shirts: choose one of these great-fitting active tops with bags of technical clout
• The best base layers: the foundation of your hiking garb

One hiker has died, and two others remain missing after they fell from the Meachen Creek Falls in Canada's East Kootenays over the weekend.

Authorities from the nearby Kimberley Search and Rescue were notified of the incident by an SOS signal from a GPS device, and quickly began a search operation.

The organization dispatched a drone, police dogs, and two Big Horn helicopters to find the hikers. Only one has been confirmed dead thus far.

Waterfall safety

A scenic waterfall is almost guaranteed to be the highlight of any hike, but falls can also be dangerous and cause multiple deaths every year.

Check out some of our top safety tips if you're planning a hiking trip to or via a waterfall.

• Wear the right shoes - Wet surfaces near waterfalls can become slippery and dangerous, especially if you're wearing the wrong footwear. Wear a proper pair of hiking shoes or boots to get the most grip possible. Wear water shoes to help avoid nasty slips if you're planning to swim.
• Check the weather - Poor weather conditions can increase danger. Check the forecast before your hike and look out for heavy rain or ice. Shaded areas can be particularly precarious as they maintain ice for longer.
• Research the falls - Jumping into a waterfall that you don't know much about can be very dangerous. Research the falls you're visiting to understand their depth, what lies beneath the surface, and whether you're ok to swim. Avoid swimming above waterfalls where you could get swept over the edge.
• Stick to established routes - Off-trail and restricted areas are off-limits for good reason. Stick to established trails and use viewing platforms to get a good look at the falls.
• Take a friend - Hiking is always safer with a friend or in a group, who can provide assistance in an emergency and call for specialist help if needed.

For more waterfall safety advice, check out our expert guide.

• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

An 85-year-old hiker has died after being trampled by cows in the Austrian Alps.

The unnamed man and his wife were charged at by an aggressive herd on Sunday, August 31, while they walked their dog in the Ramsau am Dachstein area of Austria's Styria province.

Local police spokesman Markus Lamb told AFP: "A retired couple from Vienna and their dog were walking just below the so-called Austria hut when a herd of nine cows, including three calves, charged and severely injured them."

Nearby hikers and refuge workers witnessed the attack, alerted emergency services, and administered first aid to the couple, who were taken to a hospital in Salzburg. The man died of his injuries before he could undergo surgery.

Cow safety

Depending on where you're trekking, cows might not be high on your list of worries, but they might be a little more dangerous than you expect.

Believe it or not, cows are the deadliest animals in the UK, killing upwards of 70 people in the past 15 years. They're equally dangerous across the Atlantic, accounting for roughly 22 deaths each year in the US.

Cows are generally peaceful animals, but there are a few things to keep in mind when passing by them, so prepare in advance with some of our top safety tips

• Reroute when necessary - Look around before you enter a cow field and take a different route if you see calves or a bull. Like most animals, cows are extremely protective of their young, and bulls, identified by their humped shoulders and muscular necks, are notoriously ill-tempered. Cows are also known to take a keen interest in pregnant women, so they're best avoided altogether if you're expecting.
• Alert the cows to your presence - Cows can become aggressive if surprised, so make plenty of noise when they're in your way.
• Walk quickly and avoid eye contact - Avoid antagonizing cows by passing them at speed and allowing them plenty of room.
• Keep dogs on a short lead - Excitable furry friends can wind up cattle, so keep yours on a short lead and keep it from barking if possible.
• Don't panic - Keep calm if cows move towards you. Continue walking at a steady pace towards your exit and give them a gentle shove if they come within touching distance.
• Don't run - If cows become aggressive, running will only spur them on. Instead, make yourself as big as possible, wave your arms, and yell the expletive of your choice to avoid getting trampled.

For a detailed safety breakdown, check out our expert guide to cattle safety.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best hiking hats: cozy beanies for mountains and sun hats for warmer days

Open water swimmers in Germany can head into wild waters with a little more confidence, following the introduction of 'Dolphin' lifeguarding drones at multiple popular spots.

These small, remote-controlled devices are designed to help wild swimmers in emergencies, providing something for them to hold on to and safely tugging them back to shore.

They're a little over a yard long and can reach speeds of up to 16 miles per hour (25kmph) on their way to a person, and 3.1mph (5kmph) with two adults holding on. On board, there's a video camera that sends feedback to the drone operator. The devices can be controlled from up to roughly half a mile away (800m).

These potentially life-saving machines have popped up at 14 open water swimming spots around Germany as part of a testing programme run by the German Life-Saving Association (DLRG).

The DLRG began the programme after a deadly 2024 for German swimmers. There were 411 drowning deaths in the nation last year, the highest number since the pandemic and a significant jump compared to the 380 in 2023.

The devices, known officially as Dolphin 3s, are made by Hong Kong company, OceanAlpha, and are already in consistent use by Chinese lifeguarding organizations.

The OceanAlpha website reads: "Dolphin 3 can propel itself to rescue a casualty faster than any skilled swimmer, while the rescuer can operate it with a remote controller to stay safe and dry."

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best water shoes: gear up for wild aqua adventures

A hiker has been hospitalized after an alligator attacked and bit her on a Florida hiking trail, authorities say.

The woman, who has not been identified, was hiking on the Bird Rookery Swamp Trail in Collier County, between Naples and Fort Myers, when the incident took place on Sunday, August 17.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) says the alligator came out of the water and bit the woman on her arm and leg. Details of her condition have not been released.

ABC Gulf Coast reports that a contracted nuisance alligator trapper was called in to relocate the alligator.

The Bird Rookery Swamp Trail is a maple-cypress swamp on the outskirts of Naples that is home to alligators, otters, Florida panthers, bobcats, and white-tailed deer with 12 miles of hiking trails.

Alligator safety

Alligator attacks in Florida are rare, but they do happen, and as recently as May of this year, a fatal incident occurred when a 61-year-old woman was attacked while canoeing near Orlando.

The majority of attacks are on people engaged in water sports, but as this story reveals, hiking in Florida does require some vigilance. As is typically the case with wildlife, the key to avoiding an interaction with an alligator lies in preventing it in the first place, which you can typically do by following these straightforward, common sense rules:

• Hike during daylight hours.
• Enjoy them from afar – give alligators a wide berth.
• Don’t feed alligators – it is illegal, bad for them and can cause them to lose their fear of humans.
• Keep your dog away from the shores – your beloved pet is just another snack to a gator.
• Yell and make noise if an alligator seems interested in you.
• Only swim in designated areas, during daylight hours.

You can learn more in our article on alligator safety.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best hiking shorts: cool, comfy legs mean more miles on the trails

Hundreds of visitors may have been exposed to rabies after a suspected bat colony was found living in the attic space of a lodge in Grand Teton National Park.

According to a news bulletin provided by the Wyoming park's officials dated August 8, the colony was discovered at the historic Jackson Lake Lodge.

"Wyoming Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are leading the effort to coordinate with the affected guests' local public health officials, who will conduct rabies risk assessments," states the report.

The colony was located above guest rooms 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, 528, and 530, and while officials state that there is no immediate threat to the public, Grand Teton Lodge Company says it has received eight reports of overnight guests who may have been exposed to bats in the lodge since June 2.

The affected rooms have been closed, and efforts are now underway to contact all guests who stayed in those rooms between May 5 and July 27.

If you stayed at Jackson Lake Lodge this summer and think you might have been exposed to a bat, which officials explain means any physical contact, including a bite or scratch, contact Grand Teton Lodge Company at RoomsGTLC@vailresorts.com or (307) 543-3044.

Officials explain that a bat bite might not bleed or be visible or painful. If you were staying in an affected room, you will be put in touch with a public health official.

"Individuals who meet the risk criteria for a rabies exposure will be connected with the appropriate provider in their home state for preventive treatment," state officials advise.

Bats are a healthy part of the ecosystem at Grand Teton National Park and little brown bats are the most common there. In September 2022, a rabid bat was found near Jenny Lake boat dock in the park.

What to do if you come into contact with a bat

Whether a bat flies into your home through an open window or you accidentally grab onto one when you’re crack climbing, you should assume that you’ve been exposed to rabies and act straight away. Bat bites are small and you won’t always know you’ve been bitten, according to the CDC, which offers the following advice:

• The best protection is to stay away from bats – if you see a bat outdoors, just enjoy it from a distance,
• Don’t touch bats – most bites occur when people try to pick bats up.
• If you realize you’ve been sharing a room with a bat, speak to your doctor immediately about your exposure risk and whether or not you need to be vaccinated.
• If you suspect you may have been bitten or scratched by a bat, immediately wash the area with soap and water, then seek medical attention.

Learn more in our article on protecting yourself against bats in the wild.

• Best binoculars and monoculars: admire wildlife from a safe distance
• Best hiking boots: hit the trail

A man has died after being bitten by a rattlesnake while hiking in a Tennessee state park.

Authorities say the hiker was about a half mile along a trail in Savage Gulf State Park in Grundy County on Friday, August 8, when he picked the rattlesnake up. The snake bit him in the hand.

Rescue crews were called to the scene at around 12:30pm where they administered CPR to the man, who has not been identified. He was transported to the hospital, where he later died.

Savage Gulf State Park is approximately 65 miles northwest of Chattanooga and offers more than 60 miles of wilderness hiking trails.

Rattlesnake safety

Rattlesnake bites are rare, but it's important to be alert if you're hiking in areas where rattlesnakes are found. Rattlesnake activity rises with the temperatures, and they are most active between April and October.

The US Forest Service advises you to protect yourself from such accidental encounters by keeping your distance from rattlesnakes and wearing long hiking pants if you're off the beaten path.

It's safest to stick to well-used trails and avoid wading through tall grass or bushes where snakes may be hiding.

Make sure you are aware of where you're walking, and don't put your feet or hands anywhere you can't see. Learn more in our article on what to do if you see a snake on the trail.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices

As someone who attended every rally and protest about the recent attempt by a wealthy landlord to remove the right to legally wild camp on Dartmoor, and a regular wild camper myself, I dread waking up to news reports such as this one, claiming there has been a surge in fly camping since the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the general public retaining the right to spend the night on the moor.

The first thing that raises my hackles (after the fact that some people will stoop to such conduct) is the instant and seemingly gleeful conflation of wild camping with nuisance camping and general bad behaviour in the outdoors. Although the article does admittedly make an attempt to explain the ethics of wild camping as opposed to fly camping, the dots are neatly set out for the casual reader to join the two activities, as if one is an inevitable consequence of the other.

In reality, the fly camping described in the BBC piece has absolutely nothing to do with wild camping, and there are already laws in place proscribing such destructive behaviour. Wild camping involves hiking or biking some distance into a remote place with things you can carry in a backpack (ie not a generator, large speakers and a coolbox full of beer), and then leaving the area at least as pristine as you found it (many wild campers will remove litter left by others).

Going wild

Had the recent court case gone the other way, this problematic activity would very likely still be happening (especially in a summer that has seen four freakish heatwaves so far), but all the responsible wild campers would have been criminalised or deterred from spending time on Dartmoor as well, leaving fewer people to help clear up the resulting mess and/or alert authorities to serious wrongdoing taking place in the National Park.

To draw an analogy: it’s currently perfectly acceptable all over Britain to enjoy a picnic in a park with friends, but that doesn’t make it OK to drive across the grass, chuck empty soda cans and McDonald’s wrappers all over the place, bust out a sound system, hold an impromptu rave and leave your old sofa and busted fridge in the hedge.

These two sets of behaviors are pretty clearly distinct from one another, right? Well, it’s the same with wild camping and fly camping. Except no one is suggesting that a countrywide ban on picnicking is a good idea, or that responsible sandwich munchers should all be criminalized.

Under Pressure

Did the court case and media coverage of it draw attention to the fact that Dartmoor is the only place in the whole of England and Wales that you can legally camp in a natural setting without paying for the privilege? Yes, of course it did. And that has inevitably increased the numbers of people visiting the moor to do just that, which only goes to highlight how ludicrous that situation is.

Some people literally drive down the country to Devon from the North and the Midlands, passing all kinds of wonderful wild places, just so they can enjoy a night under the stars on Dartmoor without the threat of getting moved on. And the vast majority of these people proceed to wild camp completely responsibly, but they should be free to do this in myriad remote spots around the country.

To draw another analogy – currently anyone and everyone is free to fish from any publicly accessible beach or headland in Britain, without a permit (and, sadly, some of the people who interpret that right in entirely the wrong way leave broken beer bottles and fishing line laced with hooks behind on the sand for kids and dogs to find with their feet the next day). Can you imagine if ‘wild fishing’ was legal in just a couple of coves in one county – picture the pressure that would put that small piece of coastline under.

Optics and evidence

Part of the problem with fly camping is that it only takes a few groups of people doing it to create a massive and very visible mess. An increase in real wild campers is much harder to monitor, because they leave no trace (and therefore cause no problems).

“We have seen lots more wild campers coming to spend time in popular areas such as Postbridge recently,” says Gillian Heally – who is a Dartmoor Guide, running walking excursions across the moor, and a co-ordinator for The Stars are for Everyone, a group that has been at the forefront of the fight for the continued right to wild camp on Dartmoor. “But the next day you wouldn’t know anyone had been there.”

Sadly, the same is not true when you get an increase in vehicle visitation, whether people stay overnight in vans or tents (and, once again for those at the back, camping by your car is not wild camping), or just come for the day.

“I’m on a forum for outdoor leaders, and there has been a lot of talk this summer about the rise in problem behaviour like littering in popular outdoor areas across the country,” Gillian tells me. “And just look at the state festival sites are left in. We live in a throw-away culture. I think the best solution is through education – not through putting up barriers stop people going outdoors.”

Access and education

And this is the crux of the problem. If you make it hard, or impossible, for groups and families to take children out and legally spend quality time in the wilderness, how can you expect the next generation to know how to behave in, or to properly value, green spaces? And corralling campers into paid-for sites (as good as many of them are) just teaches people there’s a litter bin on every corner, which isn’t the case in the wild, where you need to pack everything back out with you.

The fact there’s still only one tiny corner of one county in the whole of England and Wales where you are allowed to do something as simple as sleep outside is staggering. And the attention that has been brought to this ridiculous situation has obviously increased pressure on parts of Dartmoor – especially in a post-lockdown era of outdoor online influencers (many of whom, to be fair, do stress the importance of leave no trace ethics) with enormous followings.

And this is why organisations such as the BMC are pushing for an expansion of the right to wild camp across the country, in a campaign I passionately support. But wherever you stand on the issue, make sure you leave the spot at least as green, clean, pretty and pristine as it was when you found it in the first place.

Hikers and climbers in the Italian Dolomites have been told to stay off Cima Falkner after a series of rockfalls on its western and eastern sides. Popular trails on and surrounding the mountain have been closed as investigators work to assess their safety.

“All hikers in the area have been evacuated. We urge everyone to pay maximum attention and strictly follow the ordinances to ensure their own safety," warned officials from the local Trentino-Alto Adige council.

The mountain is currently going through permafrost degradation, meaning that ground that usually stays frozen all year round is thawing, allowing rocks to become loose and tumble down the mountain. This phenomenon has caused the summit to open "like a flower," according to the council.

“The fractures, previously filled with ice, are now partially empty, indicating a change in the morphology of Cima Falkner,” it explained.

Although it's difficult to link single events to climate change, scientists have previously warned that increasingly extreme heat can melt the vital ice that holds otherwise unstable mountain rocks in place.

The Scientific Committee of the Italian Alpine Club told La Repubblica: "Landslides are on the rise, and the main cause is the climate crisis. There’s no doubt about it.

"Mountains, by definition, are destined to collapse, they won’t remain as we know them forever. What’s different now is that we’re seeing a clear acceleration of these processes, driven by heat and extreme weather events intensified by the climate crisis," it continued.

The local council says that Cima Falkner has already shed over 12,360,13 cubic ft (35,000m³) of rock and could lose upwards of 24,72027 cubic ft (70,000ft³) before the rockfalls stop.

Rockfall safety

Despite their dangers, rockfalls are relatively uncommon on hiking trails. Even so, it's important to be prepared, so check out some of our top tips to keep yourself safe from falling rocks in the mountains.

• Stick to proper paths - Established trails are more likely to be well-maintained, and offer better stability than untamed wilderness sections.
• Check the weather - Heavy rain and strong winds increase the likelihood of rockfalls, especially in steep or wild sections, so make sure to check the weather ahead of time and prepare accordingly.
• Heed warnings - Local mountain authorities will publish rockfall warnings if incidents are likely or have been reported. You should check ahead of time and take any warnings seriously before embarking on a trek.
• Don't go alone - Hiking with a friend or in a group is a great way to stay safe in the mountains, as they can call for help in an emergency situations, including rockfalls.

For more top tips, check out our expert rockslides safety guide.

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

Need some new kit to wear as you wade into open waters this summer? Iconic swimming brand Speedo has come out with three new editions to their open water swimming range to help you navigate wild waters in comfort.

The new mask-style goggles and swimsuit were designed for swimmers who love an adventure and can't wait to get moving in the water.

Read on for our run-down of the latest kit.

Biofuse 2.0 Mask goggles

The Biofuse 2.0 Mask goggles are a water-sports-friendly pair, designed for unimpeded vision. They're made from flexible silicone and feature a unique curved lens, so you can benefit from an expanded field of vision as you make your way through the water.

They're kept in place by an updated split strap design, which aims to provide plenty of stability without sacrificing comfort.

At $52 (£32), the Biofuse 2.0 Mask goggles aren't outrageously priced, but certainly fall towards the expensive end of the goggles price range.

Hydrosity Mask Goggles

Speedo says that its new Hydrosity Mask goggles are a great all-rounder for maximum visibility during both indoor and outdoor swimming.

They feature a split strap lens like the Biofuse 2.0 Mask goggles, but have a different one-piece lens. The view on offer is a little slimmer, but still provides unobstructed visuals according to Speedos.

At $38 (£23), the Hydrosity Mask Goggles are a slightly more budget-friendly alternative to Speedos' other new goggles.

Women's Long Sleeve Zip Back One Piece

The new women's Long Sleeve Zip Back One Piece is designed to be a versatile option for swimming, surfing, or whatever else you're doing in open water.

It's made from Speedo's 'Ocean Flex Fabric', which combines nylon, elastane, and spandex to create a durable suit that's meant to be resistant to chlorine and pilling.

The Long Sleeve Zip Back One Piece, which costs $144 (£120), features a back zip pocket, and a full mesh lining designed to promote water flow.

For more wild water swimming advice, check out our expert guide to the best open water swimming gear.

• The best changing robes: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

Rescuers at Sequoia National Park have found a body in the search for a missing Californian woman who was swept away from the shore while trying to help her sister.

Jomarie Calasanz, 26, was pulled into fast-moving waters in the Kaweah River and carried away on May 25. After two months of searching, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park shared a statement on Wednesday, July 30, saying that rescuers had located a body and confirmed it to be hers.

The search, which took place throughout June and July, included the use of drones, ground teams, dive teams, and dogs, but was brought to a halt by dangerous weather conditions in July.

Calasanz's body was finally discovered on July 24, less than a mile from where she had disappeared.

"Water flow calculations were continually monitored, and it was determined July 24 would be the first and best opportunity to safely locate Jomarie," reads the statement.

"The National Park Service, Sheriff Boudreaux, and the men and women of the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office offer our deepest condolences to Jomarie's family."

The La Puente resident had been swimming with her sister, Joanne, who was pulled away from the shore by a strong current. Calasanz swam out to save her sister before both women were dragged further. Joanne told the Los Angeles Times that she was able to find her footing, but Jomarie was swept into the river.

After the discovery, Francis Calasanz thanked the rescue crews, and everyone involved in the search in a Facebook post on behalf of the Calasanz family.

It reads: "Praise God for an amazing outcome to such a terrible tragedy. We thank Him and His Goodness and though our hearts remain heavy with sorrow, we are deeply grateful to share that Jomarie has been found, and after 65 days, we can now bring her home to rest."

Open water safety

Following the announcement, officials at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park took the opportunity to warn visitors about the water's dangers.

"We would like to remind the public that rivers remain dangerous even with lower flow rates later in the season," they said in a statement.

"Please stay away from swift water, be sure to wear a life jacket, and keep children close along the river’s edge."

Swimming in open water can be a safe and enjoyable activity if done right, but it's important to remember the essentials.

• Be wary of currents - Strong currents can be extremely dangerous. Make sure you know how to spot one, and if you're caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore until it peters out
• Check the water quality - Rivers, ponds, and open water environments can fall victim to dangerous water pollution. Check pollution levels before you take a dip with the How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.
• Don't jump in - You never know what lies beneath the surface, so wade, don't jump into open water. A belly flop could endanger you and nearby wildlife.
• Swim with others - Mitigate the risks of open water swimming by taking a friend or going with a group that can offer assistance in the case of an emergency.
• Wear the right gear - Good swimming kit is essential in open water environments. Rivers, lakes, seas, and ponds are almost always colder than open-air and indoor pools, so don't be afraid to wear a wetsuit. If you start to feel chilly, leave the water and wrap yourself in something insulating like a reliable changing robe.

For more open water safety guidance, check out our expert guide.

• The best changing robes: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

A hiker was attacked by a grizzly bear in the second mauling in the Anchorage area in just four days.

The man was walking with his dog on an unmaintained trail to Barbara Falls, along the South Fork of Eagle River at around 9am on Saturday, July 26, when he was mauled by a brown bear. The Anchorage Daily News reports that he had time to deploy bear spray and sustained non-life-threatening injuries to his arm. He was able to hike out of the area and call for help.

Timothy Gurnett, a ranger with Chugach State Park, tells Alaska Public Media that the man likely startled the bear sow, which was feeding on salmon with at least one cub. Because this was a defensive attack, officials from Alaska Department of Fish and Game say there are no plans to euthanize the bear.

Four days earlier on July 22, a 67-year-old hiker was attacked by a grizzly bear in the Chugach Mountains on the outskirts of Anchorage. She suffered head and neck injuries after being dragged off the Dome Trail, but was able to call for help after the bear ran off.

Bear safety

Officials say bear attacks in Anchorage are relatively rare, but any time you're running, hiking or camping in bear country, you should always carry bear spray and know how to use it.

It's also important to know exactly what to do if you meet a bear to stay safe. If you are charged or approached by a grizzly bear, it’s best to leave your backpack on and play dead.

As scary as that might sound, it’s a defensive maneuver to help keep you as safe as possible. Lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck. Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain as motionless as possible until the bear leaves the area.

Fighting back usually increases the intensity of such attacks. However, if the attack persists, fight back vigorously with whatever you have at hand – a branch, rocks, one of your boots – to hit the bear in the face. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a bear.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trail

A woman was mauled by a grizzly bear while hiking on a popular trail near Anchorage, officials say.

The hiker, who has not been identified, was on the Basher Trail in the Chugach Mountains in Anchorage at around 2:30pm on July 22 when the bear attacked, according to The Anchorage Fire Department.

The bear reportedly ran off after the attack, which left the woman unable to walk as she called 911 for assistance.

"The hiker reported they could not get out on their own due to injuries sustained in the mauling," states the AFD in its report.

Multiple agencies, including Anchorage PD, Alaska Department of Fish and Game and Alaska State Troopers responded and used drone technology to locate the woman, which took around one hour. She was then airlifted from the scene to the hospital. Anchorage Police spokesperson Christopher Barraza tells Anchorage News Daily that the woman's injuries are "non-life threatening."

Now, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game has closed the area while it conducts searches for the bear, and officials are advising everyone in the vicinity to brush up on their bear safety and carry bear spray, despite the rarity of bear attacks in the Chugach mountains.

Bear safety

If you're running, hiking or camping in grizzly country, always carry bear spray and know how to use it.

It's also important to know exactly what to do if you meet a bear to stay safe. If you are charged or approached by a grizzly bear, it’s best to leave your backpack on and play dead.

As scary as that might sound, it’s a defensive maneuver to help keep you as safe as possible. Lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck. Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain as motionless as possible until the bear leaves the area.

Fighting back usually increases the intensity of such attacks. However, if the attack persists, fight back vigorously with whatever you have at hand – a branch, rocks, one of your boots – to hit the bear in the face. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a bear.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trail

A four-year-old child was attacked by a mountain lion in Olympic National Park during a family hike in a popular area.

Park rangers issued a news bulletin appealing for witnesses after the rare incident took place on Sunday, July 20. The family was hiking near the Victoria Overlook area on Hurricane Ridge at around 3pm when a collared mountain lion bit the child.

Though the extent of the child's injuries hasn't been revealed, the victim was airlifted by a LifeFlight helicopter to a Level 1 Trauma Center and is said to be undergoing treatment for their injuries in a Seattle hospital.

Rangers began the search for the mountain lion immediately, and with the help of a canine team, they located it at around 5pm. The animal was euthanized the following morning. Rangers say there are no current threats to the public but are asking witnesses to contact them at 888-653-0009 or email nps_isb@nps.gov.

Hurricane Ridge can be accessed by car or bus, making it one of the busier mountain areas in the park with multiple short, family-friendly trails.

Mountain lion safety

Mountain lion attacks on humans are extremely rare, but they do happen. In March 2024, two brothers were hunting in a remote area of California when a mountain lion pounced, killing one.

It's important to remain vigilant any time you are hiking or recreating in mountain lion country, even in busy National Parks.

In the unlikely event that you do encounter one, back up slowly and make yourself appear big. You can make noise and wave your trekking poles, throw stones, or do whatever it takes to get the animal to retreat. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a mountain lion on the trail.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

Search and rescue teams in Spain are scouring the Pyrenees mountains in the hopes of finding a missing American hiker.

Cole Henderson, 27, was last heard from at around 2pm local time on July 9, when he messaged friends to say he was beginning a hike and would be switching his phone to airplane mode. Although he didn't mention a route, Cole sent the message from the village of Torla, near the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in the Huesca region of northeastern Spain.

Authorities were alerted to his absence on July 14, when Henderson failed to check in for his flight back to the Netherlands, where he lives and works. Spanish police began a search that day, deploying rescuers and helicopters to the park and other areas in the Pyrenees.

Cole remains missing, but his car was discovered at a parking lot in Torla, with a receipt for camping fuel.

The Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park covers 60 square miles (156km²⁾ of rugged Spanish wilderness and is home to the towering Mount Perdido. The 11,007ft (3,355m) peak is the third-highest mountain in the Pyrenees, and takes around a day of hard hiking to summit.

Trekking in the region can be precarious all year round, especially in the mid-summer season when temperatures regularly exceed 83°F (28.5°C).

Hot weather hiking

When done properly, hot-weather hiking can be an enjoyable, if challenging experience. If you're eying up a toasty trek, check out some of our summer hiking safety tips.

• Don the right clothing - Make sure you're equipped for the hot summer sun with the right gear. This includes a dependable waterproof jacket, breathable layers, and protection from the sun.
• Bring an SOS device - It's good to prepare for the worst. With a trusty GPS device like the Garmin InReach, you can call for help from anywhere in the wilderness.
• Bring lots of snacks and water - Hiking under the sun can be a sweaty business, so bring more water than you think you need and stock up on salty snacks to replace lost electrolytes. See our expert guide to how much water you'll need.

• Wear proper footwear - Ensure that you're ready for treacherous underfoot conditions with a grippy pair of hiking boots or shoes. The best models will have large, dynamic lugs that dig into tricky terrain to keep you from falling.
• Plan your route ahead of time - Having a detailed route plan will stop you from taking unnecessary turns and hiking for longer than you'd first thought. Make sure to share your planned journey with friends and family so they know where you are and can help in an emergency situation.

For more summer hiking safety advice, check out our top six tips.

• The best hiking shorts: cool, comfy legs mean more miles on the trails
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

Visitors to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming have been urged to keep their wits about them after a slew of shoe heists in recent weeks.

National Park Service rangers say that at least 32 pairs have been stolen from campers in the area, and are pointing the blame at a furry bandit in 'Wanted' posters that have been hung around the park.

'Wanted for grand theft footwear,' reads one poster, which describes a shoe-stealing fox who goes by the aliases: 'Sneaker Snatcher', 'Midnight Mismatcher', and 'Swiper the Fox'.

The posters appeared three weeks ago after the fox stole 19 pairs of shoes in a matter of weeks. They were designed to stop visitors leaving their footwear outside, but don't seem to have done the trick, as a further 32 pairs have been stolen since.

It might sound like a joke, but officials insist that the warnings are genuine and that visitors' shoes are in real danger of ending up in a fox's den if they're not stored safely.

NPS spokesperson Emily Davis told Backpacker: “We were trying to educate our visitors in a fun way about this fox and not to habituate it."

Officials aren't sure why the fox, or possible group of foxes, has taken a liking to visitors' footwear. Some think it could be attracted to sweat left inside, while others say it could see shoes as something to play with.

"Maybe it’s a toy. Maybe it’s a nesting material collection. Maybe it’s fashion," posits an NPS Instagram post.

Advice for visitors

Park officials are keen to stress the problems with shoe-stealing foxes, who could be getting too comfortable around humans.

"It’s a problem for the fox to get acclimated to humans because it may need to be relocated or, in the worst-case scenario, euthanized," reads the same Instagram post.

The NPS has issued the following advice for campers staying in Grand Teton.

• Store your shoes and other scented items in a secure location like a bear box. Keep them inside your tent at the very least.
• Don't bait wildlife with your belongings.
• If a fox shows up at your camp, scare it away with lots of noise.

For more wildlife safety tips, check out our top tips for surprise animal encounters.

• The best 2-person tents: for backpacking and car camping
• The best camping stoves: backpacking and double-burner stoves

Following victory for Dartmoor wild campers in May, it's not just humans pitching tents on the high moors that's a welcome sight in the British national park. For the first time in over a century, pine marten kits have been spotted in the region following efforts to reintroduce this native species.

The footage, caught on camera in June, confirms that the reintroduced mammals have successfully bred after eight females and seven males were released across the national park in 2024. Watch the footage, posted by the Devon Wildlife Trust, below:

These small mammals were once commonplace across the English Southwest before woodland habitat loss and human persecution led to their eradication in the region.

Their recent success is down to the hard work of the Two Moors Pine Marten Project, a partnership between a further seven organizations: Dartmoor National Park Authority, Devon Wildlife Trust, Exmoor National Park Authority, Forestry England, National Trust, Somerset Wildlife Trust and Woodland Trust. The project benefited from support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Vincent Wildlife Trust.

"The birth of the first pine marten kits in Devon in over a century marks a truly historic moment for wildlife recovery," said Stuart McLeod, Director – London & South, The National Lottery Heritage Fund. He went on to say that the pioneering project had "brought together many organisations with one goal in mind, to help nature’s recovery".

He added: "This milestone is a testament to the power of long-term conservation, and the resilience of nature when given the chance to thrive".

The Two Moors Pine Marten Project and its dedicated volunteers have spent hundreds of hours tracking the released pine martens, learning about their behavior by installing den boxes and checking camera traps.

"To now see the next generation of pine martens in the South West is simply fantastic," said Lucie Bennett, Somerset Wildlife Trust's Pine Martens Engagement Officer (Exmoor). "What a beautiful sight to see healthy kits moving through the woodlands of Dartmoor that they once again call home. These kits will grow up to do wonderful things as a part of our woodland ecosystem and mark a special moment in history for nature recovery."

A brighter future for the pine marten

It's hoped that the South West's pine marten population will gradually go from strength to strength over the coming years. These shy creatures avoid human contact and are nocturnal, so even keen wildlife watchers may struggle to encounter them on the moors. However, those that do catch a glimpse are being encouraged to get in touch with the Two Moors Pine Project to report the sighting.

Further releases are now planned at secret locations in the neighboring Exmoor National Park for the fall. It's likely that, after robust health checks, about 20 more pine martens will be relocated there from thriving wild populations in Scotland.

"Exmoor’s woodlands are well-suited to the animals," says Tracey Hamston, Two Moors Pine Marten Project Lead. "Their arrival in early autumn will coincide with the local natural harvest of wild berries – food which pine martens love. In a year’s time we would hope to see the first kits appearing on Exmoor.”

Watch this space...

• The best binoculars: for birdwatching and astronomy
• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers

A hiker in Alaska has died after falling to his death from a popular hiking trail. William Milks, 64, was hiking in a group along the challenging Salmon Creek route in Juneau when witnesses say he tripped and fell over 100ft (30m).

Emergency responders rappelled down to Milks' position but were unable to save him. Local fire chief Rich Etheridge told the Juneau Empire: "They started patient care, and then he went into cardiac arrest while we were on the scene."

Juneau Mountain Rescue and Temsco Helicopters worked together to retrieve Milks' body, which is now with Alaska's medical examiner's office.

The incident occurred at around 3.30pm on Saturday, June 21.

The Salmon Creek trail is a challenging out-and-back route in the Alaskan wilderness. It gains 1,420ft (433m) of elevation in 6.4 miles (10.3km) as hikers and trail runners take on varied underfoot terrain and exposed, elevated sections.

The first section of the trail leads hikers over abandoned railroads, formerly used by trams.

Exposed hiking safety

Hiking along exposed cliffside routes with large drops can be dangerous without the right precautions. If you're eying up an exposed trek, check out a few of our expert tips:

• Research your route - Exposed and cliffside routes often feature tricky scrambling or steep sections. Make sure you know what you're up against and have the right equipment and fitness levels to hike safely before you reach the trailhead.
• Check the weather - Harsh weather conditions can be particularly brutal in exposed areas, as there's little to protect you from the elements. Heavy rain and high winds can worsen underfoot conditions, especially on slick rocky surfaces. If you're adamant about heading out in the rain, make sure to bring a reliable waterproof jacket.
• Wear the right footwear - The right footwear can be the difference between life and death on unpredictable terrain. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes will have ample grip and suitable lugs to help you dig into uneven surfaces and minimize slipping.

For more expert advice, check out our exposed hiking routes safety guide.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

The bodies of two women have been pulled from the water in Wales’ Eryri National Park, formerly Snowdonia.

They were discovered in the waters of the Nant Gwynant valley, near the challenging Watkin Path up Yr Wyddfa, otherwise known as Mount Snowdon.

North Wales Police and workers from the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team arrived at the scene on Wednesday night (June 11), following reports of a woman in the water. A second woman was also discovered, and both were pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, Detective Chief Inspector Andy Gibson has confirmed that an investigation is underway and asked for information from anyone "who may have been walking in or around the Watkin Path area between 6pm and 9pm" on Wednesday.

Social media spots

The pools and waterfalls near the Watkin Path have become a popular destination in recent years, due in part to the influence of social media.

Videos on platforms like Instagram and TikTok show trekkers stripping off for a dip in the clear mountain pools.

But recent heavy rainfall across North Wales has turned the formerly gentle waters violent and created a dangerous undercurrent. The water is also extremely chilly and can cause cold-water shock. It's not yet clear how the two women died.

Local councilor June Jones told the BBC: "Social media encourages people to go to these wonderful places and, of course, the water can be extremely cold."

Open water swimming safety

With the right equipment and proper preparation, open water swimming can be a safe, enjoyable way to cool off and exercise.

If you're eager to take a dip in mountain waters, like the ones in Eryri, check out some of our expert safety advice.

• Don't swim solo - You can mitigate the risks of open water swimming by taking an experienced friend or going with a group, who can help out in an emergency situation.
• Look out for pollution - Rivers, lakes, and even fresh water pools can be susceptible to pollution. You can check the water quailty using the the How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.

• Watch out for dangerous currents - Currents and undercurrents can be life-threatening in open water. Learn how to spot one, and if you're caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore until it peters out.
• Don't jump in - Open water is often home to debris and plenty of wildlife, so keep yourself safe by wading in slowly. Don't jump in.
• Wear the right kit - Reliable gear is essential for swimming in open water, which is almost always colder than open-air and indoor pools. If you're feeling chilly, get out and wrap yourself in something insulating like a warm robe.

For more open water swimming safety guidance, check out our full guide.

• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea
• The best wild swimming gear: what to wear and what to take

A lawmaker in India is demanding an end to climbing on the world's third-tallest mountain.

The Chief Minister of India's Sikkim region wants climbers to steer clear of the 28,169ft (8,586m) Kangchenjunga mountain out of respect for local deities.

The towering mountain lies partly in Sikkim and partly in Nepal, and is climbed by around 30 to 50 expert mountaineers each year. It hasn't been scaled from Sikkim since the only Indian route permanently closed in 2000. Now, Minister Prem Singh Tamang wants to ban climbing from all routes, including those in Nepal.

In a letter addressed to India's Home Minister, Tamang said: "Scaling this sacred peak is not only a matter of serious concern but also a violation of both the prevailing legal provisions and the deeply held religious beliefs of the people of Sikkim."

His demand is based on India's 1991 Places of Worship Act, which forbids climbing on sacred sites.

Kangchenjunga is of great religious significance to people in both Sikkim and Nepal. In legend, the mountain is home to the Dzo-nga, a yeti-like deity who lives atop the peak. Other beliefs point to the existence of a valley of immortality hidden among its slopes.

Tamang's calls for a ban follow an ascent by Indian climbers from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports of Arunachal Pradesh in May. The five climbers scaled the mountain via the legal Nepalese route and were assisted by several Nepali guides.

Multiple other Indian climbers also summited the mountain last month, including members of a joint Indian-Nepali army expedition.

Conditions on the mountain have been unforgiving this year, prompting multiple rescues and the death of a French climber in mid-May. Margareta Morin, 63, fell ill as she pushed for the summit and died at 25,591ft (7,800m).

One of the icons of the Himalayas

Despite not receiving the sort of public interest that Everest gets, nor even the world's second highest mountain, K2 – Kanchenjunga has long been an icon of the Himalayas. Thought to be the highest of them all until the mid 19th century, it has long been a draw for mountaineering's elite. The prize of the first ascent was claimed in 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band, two of Britain's greatest ever climbers and mountaineers.

This remarkable ascent is considered by some to be an even greater achievement than the first ascent of Everest two years earlier by Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary. Notably, Brown and Band purposefully stopped around five feet short of the true summit in a show of respect to the Sikkim authorities and the wishes of the local people.

It would be 18 years before the next attempt on the summit and 22 years before the second ascent of the main peak. The first ascent without supplementary oxygen was made by British trio Doug Scott, Peter Boardman and Joe Tasker in 1979. The latter two died on Everest's North East Ridge in 1982, while Doug Scott would go on to be awarded the Walter Bonatti lifetime achievement award at the Piolets d'Or ceremony in 2011, putting his name alongside the likes of Reinhold Messner and Chris Bonington, as well as American greats John Roskelley, Jeff Lowe and George Lowe.

Sacred summits

Many peaks in the Himalayas are held sacred and many of the world's greatest unclimbed mountains are also untrodden for this very reason. This includes the iconic fishtail summit of Machapuchare in Nepal, which holds special spiritual significance to the local believe who believe it is the abode of the god Shiva.

Even Everest, whose much-sought-after summit sees many mountaineering boots every year, is sacred. Its Tibetan name is Chomolungma, which means Goddess Mother of the World. It's Nepalese name is Sagarmatha, which has various meanings.

The name Everest was given to it in the 19th century, inspired by Sir George Everest (properly pronounced Eev-rest), a former Surveyor General of India, who was actually opposed to the naming himself.

• The best ice axes: for tackling frozen terrain
• The best snowshoes: for cold-play adventures all winter long

A popular hiking influencer has been found dead a few hundred yards away from a well-worn Arizona trail.

The body of 31-year-old Hannah Moody was discovered at the 30,000-acre McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 25 hours after she went missing during a warm-weather hike.

Hannah began hiking in the area at around 11.30am on May 21, sharing a video on her Instagram stories captioned "Conquering this trail as a last hurrah before summer hits".

Friends raised the alarm that evening when they failed to hear from her as expected.

Authorities headed to the reserve where they launched an unsuccessful aerial search using helicopters and drones. They returned the next morning and discovered her body around midday, roughly 1,800ft (549m) from a popular, but unspecified, trail.

Scottsdale Police have confirmed that they will open an investigation into Moody's death but suggested that they don't suspect any foul play or trauma.

Without official confirmation, friends told local news channel KPNX that they believe she died from heat exhaustion. Temperatures in the area reached 106°F (41.1°C) on the day of Moody's disappearance.

Moody had amassed around 45,000 followers on Instagram, where she shared hiking content and vlogged her treks. Her videos encouraged others to get outdoors and often included hot-weather hiking safety tips.

Warm weather hiking

Hiking in extreme temperatures can be dangerous, especially in desert areas that lack shade and protection from the heat.

Although the hottest months are between June and August, shoulder seasons like May and September can also be deadly, as hikers often underestimate temperatures. Earlier this month, one trail runner died, and four others needed rescuing following a heat-related incident in Arizona.

If you're considering a hot weather hike, make sure to check the weather conditions ahead of time, dress accordingly, and stock plenty of water and salty snacks.

For more hot-weather hiking advice, check out our expert summer hiking safety guide.

• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear
• The best hiking hats: cozy beanies for mountains and sun hats for warmer days

Climbers hoping to scale Mount Everest could soon face even more rules and regulations after Nepal's government vowed to keep the Himalayas clean and safe from the dangers of overcrowding and climate change.

Speaking to more than 100 climbers at the Everest Summiteers Summit, Tourism Minister Badri Prasad Pandey said Nepal had a duty to protect the Himalayas.

“The government is strongly committed to support mountaineering in every possible way by keeping climbers safe, by protecting the natural beauty of our peaks and by helping local communities grow alongside the spirit of adventure,” said Pandey.

Summit attendees had complained about a growing number of climbers on the world's tallest mountain and the mess they leave behind.

Overcrowding has become a major issue on Everest, as most climbs are attempted in a short window from March to May. Queues to the summit, abundant litter, and abandoned human waste have all mired the Himalayan peak in recent years.

One sherpa told the BBC: "Our mountains have begun to stink. We are getting complaints that human stools are visible on rocks and some climbers are falling sick."

Everest's highest camp is estimated to house around 88,000lb (39,916kg) to 110,000lb (49,895kg) of garbage. Due to the extreme conditions and weight limitations, climbers often abandon tents, gas cannisters, and other items just under 3,000ft (915m), beneath the summit at the South Sol camp.

Nepal's government has already taken several steps to combat these issues.

In January, it announced a 36% increase in climbing fees for foreign climbers on the mountain, raising the overseas royalty fee to $15,000 (£11,204) rather than the previous total of $11,000 (£8,217).

In a bid to discourage inexperienced climbers, legislation announced in April, which is currently making its way through Nepal's parliament, would also restrict permits to climbers who have already scaled at least one of Nepal's 7,000m (22,965ft) peaks. Medical check-ups from a government-approved hospital or medical facility would also be mandatory.

“These mountains are sacred, and it is our duty to protect them for the generations yet to come," continued Pandey.

The minister also promised to tackle the devastating effects of climate change in the Himalayas.

Earlier at the summit, he said: "Today, climate change and global warming are putting this future at risk. That is why we must act with care, with wisdom and with a deep sense of respect."

The Himalayan region has experienced a dramatic drop in snowfall in recent years. This year alone, snow persistence (the time snow stays on the ground) in the Himalayas has reached a 23-year low.

The dangers were apparent to lawmakers and experts in a recent fly-by, where they witnessed a drastic reduction in snow coverage on Everest and other Himalayan peaks.

"In the past, wherever you looked, you would see snow-covered mountains. But now, black rocky hills have started to appear. The mountains that once looked completely white now appear as black peaks," Nepal's Minister for Forests and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, told the Asia News Network.

Our senior staff writer Julia Clarke has been trekking to Everest base camp over the last week and arrived there today. You can follow her exploits here, along with all our summit season coverage, or on the Advnture Instagram account.

• The best crampons: tested for sure-footed traction on frozen terrain
• The best ice axes: for tackling frozen terrain

It could have been a very different vibe on Dartmoor, when hundreds of outdoor access campaigners and outdoor enthusiasts gathered around the granite rocks of Haytor to rally, rejoice and celebrate the fact that wild camping was still legal – at least in one tiny sliver of the country.

If the right to wild camp on Dartmoor had been removed by the courts last week, then the atmosphere would have been one of anger, upset and dark despair. There would have been a healthy dose of defiance, too – and it’s likely more people would have felt the need to be there, in a display of resistance like the one back in January 2023, when thousands of protesters marched across the moor, united in grief and utter disbelief that one wealthy landowner seemed able to remove the right of hikers, bikers, bird-watchers, star gazers, families, and youth groups to do something as simple and inoffensive as spend the night out in the open.

But a defeat would have been a very heavy blow, seemingly shutting the door permanently on that right, and leaving the already cash-strapped Dartmoor National Park Authority (which had courageously championed the right of people to sleep out on the land it manages) facing massive court costs.

As it was, last Thursday the Supreme Court ruled very much in favour of wild campers’ continued legal right to sleep out under the stars on Dartmoor, emphatically rejecting wealthy landowner Alexander Darwall’s claim that camping was not a recreational activity, and therefore not covered by the Dartmoor Commons Act 1985.

And so, instead of a requiem for a right lost, the rally turned out to be a joyous occasion. But more than that, Haytor became a launch pad for a much more ambitious campaign calling for the extension and improvement of access rights to wild places across the rest of England and Wales, and for an outdoor code on a par with the one in Scotland, which allows responsible wild camping in most locations.

To an enormous cheer from the assembled crowd, Lewis Winks from Right to Roam and The Stars are for Everyone campaign group extended a big thanks to Darwall for raising the profile of the issue, highlighting the fact that access rights are so limited in England and Wales, and turbo-charging the campaign to do something about it. And then one speaker after another spelled out a roadmap for positive change.

“Where Dartmoor leads, the rest of England and Wales will follow,” declared access campaigner, award-winning author and co-creator of the website Who Owns England, Guy Shrubsole. “Before the announcement on Thursday, Dartmoor was the last place in the country where wild camping was legal,” he continued. “Now it’s the first place in the country where wild camping is legal.”

Campaigners like Shrubsole and Winks, both of whom admitted they were extremely nervous about the outcome of the case, are determined to harness the energy that has built up around it to push for a Right to Roam Act and a massive expansion to access rights.

Prior to the general election last year, the Labour Party joined the Liberal Democrats and Greens in lending their support to calls for better access rights, but in government (and after an intensive lobbying campaign by land owners) their enthusiasm appears to have waned.

However, several MPs from all of those parties joined pro-access campaigners outside the Supreme Court last week, and were pictured holding a Right to Roam banner. And at Haytor, Shrubsole went on to read out a long and passionate letter of support the campaign had received from Labour MP Phil Brickle, supporting exactly the freedoms Right to Roam are calling for.

Brickle, being based in Bolton, couldn’t attend, but South Devon Liberal Democrat MP Caroline Voaden was there in support, and she gave an enthusiastically received speech, agreeing with Winks that: ‘We owe a debt of thanks to Alexander Darwall, for spending half a million pounds on energising the campaign to improve access to the countryside.”

Voaden went on to point out that Darwall could have invested that money in repairing parts of the moor that have been damaged by over-grazing, or by paying the wages of some additional wardens to help stop illegal activity like fly tipping. Amid laughter, she concluded: “He could have given it to youth groups to pay outdoor instructors to teach kids how to behave in the countryside, he could have bought some boots and tents… but instead he spaffed it up a courtroom wall.”

But some of the loudest cheers went to Tom Usher, CEO of the Dartmoor Preservation Association, which has been protecting the moor since 1883, and for the duration of this case has been assisting Dartmoor National Park Authority by raising funds to help pay the spiralling court costs, had the judges’ decision gone the other way.

Now, with Darwall likely to be ordered to foot the legal bills, Usher explained that the fund, which stands at about £200,000 ($270,000) will be directed back into making Dartmoor “the most accessible wild place in the country”. Funds will be channelled into the DPA’s existing work, supporting the Youth Ranger Program and running projects including Nights Under the Stars (taking young people from all kinds of backgrounds camping on the moor) and Girls do Dartmoor, supporting young women to access outdoor areas. But Usher also announced plans for a new Dartmoor Public Access Fund, though which anyone can apply for assistance to advance an initiative that will help people’s enjoyment of the moor.

Visitors to Banff National Park are being warned to take care as officials issue a bear warning for the Lake Minnewanka area. The warning comes following a report that a female black bear with cubs tore open a tent in the Lake Minnewanka Trail campsite.

The tent was empty at the time while the owner was nearby in the designated cooking area, reported Rocky Mountain Outlook.

“The individual was behaving appropriately and the bears did not interact with them,” a communications officer for Banff National Park said. “No negative human-bear interaction was reported and the bears did not obtain any unnatural food rewards.”

Meanwhile, viral footage has been released by a hiker that shows a large grizzly bear following him along a trail in the park.

Caught on camera by Isaac Shah, TikTok user @izzybob209, the bear begins to follow him at a reasonably close distance. Shah holds up his bear spray and continues to walk slowly away as he says:

"Still following me, just got to remain calm and don't run, pepper spray at the ready."

Shah has published a follow-up video from the safety of his car revealing that soon after the video ended the bear left the trail to get water from a nearby stream and he was left safe and well.

He acknowledges criticisms that he should have left the trail, but admits he was scared.

CBC News reported that Parks Canada said Isaac's response was textbook perfect – he stayed calm, backed away slowly and didn't run.

Bear safety

Banff National Park has published bear safety information on its social media channels. The main message is to try and avoid encounters in the first place. You can do this by:

• Making noise and traveling in groups
• Keeping your pets on a leash and under physical control
• Staying on official paths and trails
• Respecting closures and area restrictions
• If you encounter a dead animal, leaving the area immediately and reporting it to park staff

We have useful information on what to do if you meet a bear in our expert safety guide, and there's key info on storing, carrying and using bear spray in this hiking safety article.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
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Want to see Mount Everest in all its glory? You might need to go sooner rather than later due to the devastating effects of climate change on the world's tallest mountain.

In a recent fly-by, Nepali lawmakers and experts from across the globe witnessed a drastic reduction in snow coverage on Everest and other Himalayan peaks.

The aerial survey was organized by Nepal's Minister for Forests and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, to highlight the grave effects of climate change in the region.

Alongside a reduction in snow coverage, passengers witnessed rapidly retreating glaciers as they passed multiple major Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Shishapangma, Makalu, and Lhotse.

"In the past, wherever you looked, you would see snow-covered mountains. But now, black rocky hills have started to appear. The mountains that once looked completely white now appear as black peaks," Thakuri told the Asia News Network.

"This mountain flight has shown the direct impact of climate change on the Himalayas. Foreign experts and guests, too, observed it first hand."

The Himalayan region has experienced a dramatic drop in snowfall in recent years. This year alone, snow persistence (the time snow stays on the ground) in the Himalayas has reached a 23-year low.

A report published in April by the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) found "a significant decline in seasonal snow across the Hindu Kush Himalaya region, with snow persistence 23.6% below normal - the lowest in 23 years".

The reduction is seriously bad news for the two billion people who rely on Himalayan snowmelt to feed their water sources. The melting cycle fills 12 major river basins that provide water for multiple heavily populated countries like China, Pakistan, and Thailand.

"This trend, now in its third consecutive year, threatens water security for nearly two billion people," explains author Sher Muhammad.

"All twelve major river basins, including the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra, experienced below-average snow cover, with the Mekong and Salween basins losing over 50%."

Climate change in the Himalayan region poses multiple other significant risks, including the destruction of invaluable habitats and dangerous climbing conditions for Everest hopefuls.

• The best crampons: tested for sure-footed traction on frozen terrain
• The best ice axes: for tackling frozen terrain

Authorities at Grand Canyon National Park have warned hikers that rescue teams may not be able to come to their aid due to staff shortages.

They are urging hikers to take responsibility for their own safety following the death of a 74-year-old man in extreme heat.

Dennis Smith of Olympia, Washington, was discovered unresponsive while attempting to hike from the canyon's north rim to its south rim.

The daunting 24-mile (38.6km) trek leads hikers 6,000ft (1,829m) down to the canyon floor before gaining a further 4,500ft (1,372m) of unforgiving canyon trails

National Park Service staff shortages

While there is no implication that Smith died due to a slow rescue response, the National Park Service says hikers should bring their own emergency medical equipment and not rely on understaffed search and rescue services.

"Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, and employee safety requirements," reads an NPS statement.

Earlier in the statement, the NPS warned against the dangers of hiking extreme heat.

"The NPS urges all visitors to Grand Canyon National Park, particularly those planning to hike or backpack in the inner canyon, to prepare for extreme heat in the coming days.

“Temperatures in the inner canyon are expected to reach 100°F (38°C) by the end of this week, making it critical for hikers to take proper precautions.”

National Parks across the country have been forced to reckon with drastic job cuts since the inauguration of President Trump.

Thousands of temporary and full-time park employees have lost work, while some permanent employees have been offered a buyout of up to $25,000 to leave their jobs.

Medical professionals, administrators, and search and rescue workers are among those to lose their jobs, leaving the parks short of vital staff right before the peak summer period.

Multiple protests have been organized in response, and park lovers have taken to the streets to voice their frustration at the drastic cuts.

In spite of the shortage, all 63 US parks have been ordered to remain open, a move which campaign groups have strongly criticised.

"This is yet another attempt by the administration to sideline the expertise of dedicated park staff," reads a statement from Kristen Brengel of the National Parks Conservation Association, which advocates for America's national parks and NPS workers.

"It’s micromanagement at its worst, creating more red tape when park staff are already stretched dangerously thin and dealing with peak visitation season."

Hot weather hiking

If you take the right precautions, hiking can still be both fun and safe in the summer months. Keen to hit the trails? Check out some of our essential tips for safe summer hiking.

• Stock up on water. When temperatures are touching the 90s, you should aim to bring more than what you’ll need. 1.6 to 2.1Ga (6 to 8L) are recommended for an average eight-hour hike.
• Replace lost electrolytes. In scorching temperatures, you’ll lose a lot of salt through your sweat, so make sure to stock up on salty snacks like potato chips and peanuts to avoid becoming hyponatremic.
• Dress appropriately. You can protect yourself from the sun by wearing the right clothes. Loose, lightweight nylon and polyester clothes can encourage airflow and increase breathability as you hike. A good pair of sunglasses and a protective sunhat are also crucial.

• Wear sunscreen. Sunscreen is an essential tool for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, which can lead to painful burning, skin cancer, and premature aging.
• Hike within your limits. Scorching days aren't the time to push your boundaries. Hike within your limits and don't be afraid to take a break if you feel tired or light-headed.
• Go with a friend. If you're trekking through remote wilderness areas, it's best not to go alone. A companion can provide essential care and find help in an emergency situation.

For more summer hiking advice, check out our expert guide.

• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails
• The best hiking shorts: tested and rated for summer adventures

Conservation groups have reacted with alarm after reports that the Trump administration has temporarily suspended all air quality monitoring programs at America's national parks.

According to a leaked email reported by the Washington Post, the Department of the Interior has ordered contractors to stop pollution monitoring, although it hasn't permanently cancelled their contracts.

The programs, which operated at all 63 national parks, monitored air quality and collected data regarding the pollution levels to limit health risks in the parks and protect the wildlife.

The suspensions came after Interior Secretary Doug Burgum gave broad administrative powers over his department to former oil executive Tyler Hassen. Hassen was formerly CEO of Basin Energy, an oil field supply firm, and is now a member of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

It's currently unclear whether or not the cancellation order came directly from Hassan; however, his role at the Department of the Interior does include oversight of the National Park Service.

The Post has since reported Park Service spokeswoman Rachel Pawlitz as saying in an email that the orders to stop air quality monitoring would be reversed and that "contractors will be notified immediately"

The data collected during air quality monitoring is used when federal officials need to decide whether to grant permits to nearby industrial facilities, such as power plants or oil refineries.

It also helps to inform policy around curbing 'regional haze' - a phenomenon that causes reduced visibility due to the amount of pollution in the air. It's a problem that has impacted key viewing points in multiple national parks in recent years.

The move has been met with frustration and anger by park workers and advocates. Former division chief for natural and cultural resources at Shenandoah National Park, Jim Schaberl, described it as "a kick in the gut".

He told the Washington Post that the program is: "really important because most states don’t have big programs to fund that.

"To just wipe out all of the scientific data that indicates how air quality is doing in the parks - and in the country in general - is just incredible to hear. This is just a kick in the gut.”

It's yet another blow to the National Park Service, which has dealt with months of chaos and drastic job cuts since President Trump's inauguration in January.

In the past few months, thousands of temporary and full-time park employees have lost work, while some permanent employees have been offered a buyout to leave their jobs in return for up to $25,000.

Without adequate staff, some parks have been forced to close campgrounds and trailheads ahead of the popular summer season. Shortages have become so dire at Yosemite National Park that even scientists have been forced to clean bathrooms to help out.

The job losses have also been heavily protested. Thousands have taken to the streets in recent months to demand an end to the cuts and the restoration of a full and functioning National Park Service.

About 300 million people visit America's national parks every year to run, camp, and hike in the pristine wilderness.

Advnture has reached out to the NPS for comment.

• The best hiking shorts: tested and rated for summer adventures
• The best hiking pants: don't let winter slow you down with our top trail trousers

Authorities in Wales are urging people to stay out of the nation's largest lake after sightings of toxic blue-green algae blooms.

The dangerous bacteria have been spotted near the shoreline of Llyn Tegid, otherwise known as Bala Lake in Wales's Eryri National Park (formerly Snowdonia).

"Please be careful around the lake and avoid contact with the algae," warns a statement from park chiefs.

"If you're planning to visit Llyn Tegid, please familiarise yourself with the safety information on the public notice boards around the lake."

Home to 1.9 square miles (4.8km²) of serene open water, Llyn Tegid is a popular spot for open water swimmers. It hosts plenty of casual swims and several organized races each year, where swimmers compete in the shadow of Arenig Mountain.

What is blue-green algae?

Blue-green algae is a natural phenomenon that often appears in lakes during the summer months. It's caused by a combination of warm temperatures and nutrients, which discolor and increase toxicity in open waters.

But the blooms are "toxic to humans and animals, and skin contact with, or ingestion of the algae can cause mild to severe illness," continued the statement.

Coming into contact with blue-green algae can cause the following:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rashes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Fever

How to check for water pollution

If you're keen to take a dip in open waters this summer, make sure to familiarise yourself with the potential dangers.

Check online for warnings and be vi yourself before getting in the water. Blooms are easily identified by brightly colored scum, which is often found near the shoreline.

Seek immediate medical assistance if you, somebody nearby, or a pet has come into contact with blue-green algae and starts feeling unwell.

You can look for blue-green algae and other pollutants like E. coli online at How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.

For more on lake safety, check out our expert guide to safe open water swimming.

• The best changing robes: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

Authorities in the UK are urging open water swimmers to act with caution after a teenager drowned in a popular lake.

The 16-year-old died after getting into difficulty while swimming in Colwick Country Park lake on Wednesday afternoon (April 30).

The emergency services were called and a police underwater search team discovered his body a few hours later. The boy’s family have been informed and are now being supported by specially-trained officers.

"This is a tragic discovery and our thoughts are with this boy's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time," said Police Chief Inspector David Mather, before urging swimmers to avoid risks in open water.

"As in this tragic case, open water can have hidden dangers that can prove fatal and I would urge anyone who spends any time on or near open water to use this case as a devastating reminder of that."

It's not yet clear how the boy got into difficulty, but this death is not being treated as suspicious.

Group Manager Tom Staples, of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service added: "This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers of open water. We urge everyone to take care around lakes, rivers, and other natural bodies of water. "

While it can be safe and enjoyable, open water swimming carries multiple risks, including cold water shock and illness from bacteria and pollution in the water.

Safety advice

If you're planning on open water swimming, make sure to prepare in advance and check out our essential safety tips.

• Don't go alone - From rip currents to cold conditions, open water swimming carries multiple risks. A friend or group of other open water swimmers can get help and potentially save your life in an emergency situation.
• Prepare for conditions - The best open water swimming gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable swim. Rivers, lakes, and seas are almost always colder than open-air and indoor pools, so get yourself ready for a chilly dip. If you feel too cold, leave the water and wrap yourself in something insulating like a changing robe.
• Don't jump in - Never jump into open water. It can be unclear where the bottom is and what lies beneath the surface, so wade in slowly and carefully.

• Monitor the water quality - Open water can contain dangerous bacteria like E. coli, particularly after heavy rainfall. You can check pollution levels using the How's My Waterway map in the US and the Surfers against Sewage map in the UK.
• Keep an eye out for currents - Strong currents can carry you off course, whether you're swimming in a river or the ocean. Ensure you can spot one, and if you're caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore until it peters out.

For more open water swimming safety tips, check out our expert guide.

• The best changing robes: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

Fancy a tough swim? Why not try endurance athlete Ross Edgley's latest challenge?

In the coming weeks, the British open water swimmer is taking on a historic first, aiming to swim around the entire Icelandic coastline in record time. That's more than 1,000 miles (1,610km) in no more than 100 days.

To complete his mammoth challenge, the 39-year-old will have to swim upwards of 18 miles (29km) a day in temperatures as low as 33.8°F (1°C) and choppy Nordic seas. He's likely to encounter wind gusts of up to 160 miles per hour (257kmph) and share the seas with killer whales.

Edgley forged a name for himself in 2018 by becoming the first and so far only person to swim all 1,780 miles (2,864km) around Great Britain. Last year, he completed the world's longest non-stop river swim, travelling a whopping 317 miles (510km) down Canada's Yukon River.

Edgley is taking on his latest crazy challenge to push the limits of human performance and aid in two 'pioneering' scientific studies.

While swimming, Ross will take water samples, which will be sent back to researchers at the University of Iceland and the University of Victoria (Canada) to monitor pollution levels.

He's also teamed up with the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute of Iceland to help map biodiversity and monitor the creatures swimming alongside him off the Icelandic coast.

Ross explained his motivation behind this latest challenge, saying: "I grew up with my grandad telling me stories of great explorers navigating every fjord, bay, and beach for the first time in the late 9th century.

"Now I’m a little older, I would love to follow in their footsteps, but since I’m not much of a sailor, swimming around it seemed like the next logical choice.”

He adds: “But in all seriousness, Iceland is one of nature’s great masterpieces, and swimming around it represents a unique opportunity to fuse sport, adventure, and science.

"We’re working with some incredible researchers from the University of Iceland and the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute to conduct pioneering research that will help preserve and protect our oceans."

Christophe Pampoulie, research director of the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute of Iceland, said: “Coastal areas are rarely studied in Iceland due to the lack of small research boats.

"The collection of environmental DNA by Ross and his team will drastically improve our knowledge on species distribution and biodiversity.”

Ross begins his challenge next week.

• The best changing robes: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

Scientists at Yellowstone National Park have uncovered a large, underground magma cap that is likely crucial to containing one of Earth's largest volcanic systems.

Hidden 2.4 miles (3.8km) beneath Yellowstone's northeast caldera, the cap acts as a lid for the intense heat and pressure below it, which could otherwise cause large-scale eruptions.

Its discovery paints a vivid picture of the magma reservoir beneath Yellowstone's surface and offers insight into how it's likely to behave.

Geologists at Rice University uncovered the cap using a 53,000lb (24,040kg) vibroseis truck, which sent small seismic waves into the ground to map beneath the surface. They revealed their findings in a paper published in Nature.

"For decades, we’ve known there’s magma beneath Yellowstone, but the exact depth and structure of its upper boundary has been a big question," co-author Professor Brandon Schmandt said in a statement.

"What we’ve found is that this reservoir hasn’t shut down - it’s been sitting there for a couple million years, but it’s still dynamic."

Magma activity in underground volcanic systems can cause gases like water and carbon dioxide to form bubbles, which can accumulate and fuel dangerous eruptions.

Thankfully, the research indicates that this isn't the case at Yellowstone.

"Its bubble and melt contents are below the levels typically associated with imminent eruption,” Schmandt continued.

“Instead, it looks like the system is efficiently venting gas through cracks and channels between mineral crystals, which makes sense to me given Yellowstone’s abundant hydrothermal features emitting magmatic gases.”

Located beneath the bubbling hot springs and geysers of America's oldest national park, the ancient Yellowstone caldera is one of the largest volcanic systems on Earth. Any eruption would be catastrophic, covering the surrounding 1,000 miles (1,609km) in multiple feet of molten ash.

It last erupted more than 640,000 years ago, spraying over 240 cubic miles (1000km³) of molten rock, dust, and volcanic ash into the atmosphere and wrecking the existing habitat.

Scientists at the Yellowstone Volcanic Observatory have previously said an eruption is unlikely in the near future.

In February, chief scientist Dr. Michael Poland used the metaphor of a boiling pot of water to describe Yellowstone's volcanic activity to KPAX-TV.

“If you know how hot the burner is, how much water there is, that calculation is possible. Well, right now for Yellowstone, the burner's not on," said Poland.

"I think that's also a reassuring bit that, you know, the stove isn't on in Yellowstone. So we're not worried about a volcanic event there in the near future. It would take a while for the water to get to boiling."

More than four million people visit Yellowstone National Park each year to hike, camp, and climb in the stunning North American wilderness.

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
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Search and rescue officials at Yosemite National Park are urging visitors to take care around its freezing, fast-moving water as the peak summer season approaches.

The park's search and rescue team responds to roughly 15 to 20 water-related incidents every year in its ice-cold rivers and lakes, which present a life-threatening risk to open-water swimmers, and hikers.

"As water levels rise, so do their danger levels," explains a Yosemite Facebook post.

"Many of the park’s search and rescue cases involve visitors accidentally falling in after crossing streams, scrambling on rocks, or hiking near water. Take your time and use caution."

There are two major rivers in Yosemite National Park: the Merced and the Tuolumne. Both flow westward from the Sierra Nevada mountains and contain a significant amount of melted snow, which keeps the water cold all year round.

Yosemite also has more than 2,000 lakes, many of which are also fed by snowmelt and therefore dangerously cold.

"Swimming here is like swimming in an ice bath. Know your limits; even professional swiftwater rescuers need layers of insulation in the water," continues the post.

There are also significant dangers hidden under the surface, where powerful currents and hidden debris like tree branches and rocks can cause serious injury.

"If a sign says, 'No Swimming,' it is usually near a dangerous area where water-related incidents have happened in the past. When you see a sign, keep yourself safe and find a different location to enjoy."

Yosemite's Facebook post also includes a video in which officials simulate a water rescue from the rapid and icy currents.

"By the time I got here and they did the work to pull me out of the water, I was exhausted, and I was tired, I was cold, I was shaky," said park ranger Jason Deger, who acted as the victim of a water accident, and was pulled to safety by search and rescue workers.

If you fall into water with a strong current, Yosemite National Park advises you to "float on your back, direct your legs downstream, and point your feet up on the surface" to maximise your chances of survival.

For more safety tips, check out our expert guide to staying safe in open water.

• The best changing robes: cocoon yourself post-swim in a protective layer
• The best water shoes: fast-draining, quick-drying and ready to take you from the shore to the sea

Rewilding has been increasingly making headlines on both sides of the Atlantic in the last few years. For the uninitiated, rewilding is the act of restoring the Earth’s natural ecosystems so that they become thriving, self-sustaining environments without the need for significant human intervention.

Remarkably, the term was only coined in 1998 by American biologists Michael Soulé and Reed Noss. Today, 27 years on, its principles are, I believe, one of our main tools to avert climate catastrophe. As outdoor lovers, we have an inherent appreciation of nature, though it may be that nature's role in protecting our planet is more fundamental than many of us realize.

A word that many of us are perhaps more familiar with is conservation. My problem with conservation on its own, as detailed by British environmentalist and activist George Monbiot in his 2013 book Feral, is that it seeks to do exactly that: conserve. Many of the landscapes and ecosystems that we enjoy hiking in and those that we seek to conserve are already in a denuded state compared to how they naturally would, and therefore should, be.

The unconscious bias brought about by the fact that we live relatively short lives means most of us fail to grasp just how diverse and vibrant the wildlife in the lands we explore should be. Rather than seeking to conserve, rewilding seeks to restore – something I can definitely buy into.

Arguments against rewilding

There are plenty of arguments against rewilding too, particularly as it, by its very principles, hands control back to nature. So, it's not an exact science. The repercussions of many rewilding actions are not fully understood and there's an argument that they could never be. Many argue there's a danger that rewilding efforts could actually do more harm than good.

As an example, reintroducing apex predators to an ecosystem makes some people uncomfortable, as the result is not entirely predictable (more on this later). Running with this example, what happens when said apex predator decimates a farmer's flock, damaging livelihoods in the process?

Nevertheless, perhaps I'm an optimist, but I'd like to think a world where agriculture, industry and sensitive rewilding efforts can exist in something closer to harmony than the picture we see today.

Rewilding in the news

In the UK, rewilding was put in the spotlight lately when, on two separate occasions, activists attempted to illegally reintroduce feral pigs and lynx to the Cairngorms National Park. Other legal rewilding efforts get less press and public attention but are surely worthy of praise, such as those in Scotland’s Glen Affric, to name just one case.

In the United States, there have been many instances of wolves and other carnivores being reintroduced in the last few years. However, government actions, such as the order to fell swathes of US forest for timber production, I fear aren’t great news for our planet. This is very much dewilding, rather than the rewilding it needs.

All this is taking place to the backdrop of record global temperatures, devastating wildfires in LA, Hurricanes Milton and Helene causing untold suffering and severe flooding affecting millions in Central Europe.

So, I'm of the opinion that a more richly biodiverse Earth is more important than ever. Here are 5 ways I believe rewilding can help save the planet...

Five ways rewilding could help save the planet

Increased biodiversity: Biodiversity is fundamental to life on Earth.

Natural carbon capture: Many rich ecosystems are excellent at sequestering carbon, keeping carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.

Improving ecosystem resilience: Thriving, species rich ecosystems are more resilient to change.

Kickstarting natural processes: Helping to kickstart natural processes helps ecosystems to recover and become more diverse.

Preventing flooding and wildfires: Rewilded land holds water better, in turn protecting it from wildfires.

Increased biodiversity

We’ve all learned about food chains and food webs at school. We know the theory. The organisms in any given habitat are all linked and exist in a state of balance. Upset this delicate balance by removing an organism and the whole ecosystem suffers. As Mufasa says to Simba in The Lion King: “And so we are all connected in the great Circle of Life.”

Remove the bees and there’s nothing to pollinate the flowers. The spiders, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals that eat the bees also suffer. Remove an apex predator, such as the wolf, and there’s nothing to eat the deer, which proliferate and eat all the saplings, denuding the land of its rich woodland habitats. This is exactly the state of affairs in the Scottish Highlands, where huge tracts of upland represent something of an ecological desert. Our perceptions are skewed, we often romanticize these sorts of upland environments, something I've admittedly been guilty of myself.

We also often think of ordered acres of farmland as idyllic and mowed lawns as desirable. The Herdwick sheep of the English Lake District National Park are celebrated as part of its character, when I believe they should be scorned for this otherwise beautiful landscape's lack of woodland. They're nothing short of 'hoofed locusts', to paraphrase what John Muir famously said about Yosemite's domestic sheep.

In truth, many of these landscapes are, from an ecological point of view, relatively barren. Most species cling to survival in regions of intensive farming, places where they ought to be thriving. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against farming – we all need to eat after all. I absolutely applaud farmers who seek to strike a very delicate balance between the need to produce and the need to protect nature on their patch.

However, it's not always the case. A point I often come back to is this: if anyone can convince me that the land upon which the Amazon rainforest stands is better off as farmland for rearing cattle than as the rich, life giving 'lungs of the Earth', then perhaps I'm wrong about all of this.

I find it hard to stomach the idea that we shouldn't be seeking to partly restore our own potentially wild places closer to home due to current use for industry or agriculture, particularly where the hugely damaging, inefficient, land-hogging and carbon producing beef industry is concerned.

Most of us appreciate that biodiversity is a nice thing. Having a larger variety of plant and animal species thriving is obviously more pleasant than the monocultures seen across swathes of intensively farmed or denuded land. Time spent in biodiverse, natural places is known to have a positive impact on mental health. But is biodiversity actually important to the planet?

Well, it’s a resounding yes. It’s fundamental for the processes that support life on Earth. It’s the pillar that holds the roof up. The food we eat depends on fertile soil, a teeming ecosystem in itself that’s only truly understood by too few people, despite the fact it props up our entire civilization. According to the Royal Society, a third of the world’s crop production depends on pollinators, many of which are vanishing at an alarming rate.

Beyond food, many of the medicines we rely on come from plant life, while many useful materials we use across the world, such as the rubber we use in a hiking boot's sole, also come from plants. Then, of course, there’s the air we breathe, which has photosynthetic organisms such as plankton, algae, bacteria and plants to thank for.

So, we’ve established that biodiversity is key to a sustainable and healthy planet. I believe that rewilding is our means to encourage and restore biodiversity, handing control back to nature and letting it do its thing. This is vital, as nature is our most important ally in the fight against climate catastrophe.

Natural carbon capture

The need to capture the excess carbon that is already driving negative climate change is very well publicized. Mechanical means of carbon capture are continuously championed by politicians, yet there may be a more straightforward and sensible solution in the long term: rewilding.

Many of the world’s ecosystems, from forests and saltmarshes, to peatlands and wetlands, are highly effective at sequestering carbon, keeping carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. By reinstating and protecting natural processes on the kind of land that no longer hosts the vibrant ecosystems it historically would have, we could start to heal the damage that’s been done. As a bonus, we’d be creating a more vibrant landscape that, given time, would be full of wildlife and a treat to explore on foot.

Similarly, rewilding the oceans and stopping destructive practices like dredging, bottom-trawling and over-fishing could have a similar impact for carbon capture at sea.

Improving ecosystem resilience

To conserve and then restore the world’s biodiversity, we need to ensure that its ecosystems are resilient. This is particularly important as warming changes the climate in different parts of the world, providing opportunities for species to gain new footholds. However, some specialist species will face great challenges – the polar bear can hardly migrate much further north, after all.

Greater diversity and complexity leads to enhanced resilience. Imagine a gigantic food web, where hundreds of organisms are all linked by multiple branches. This is a species rich environment. Submit this web to a shock, such as removing an apex predator, and the system will adjust, perhaps by giving one of the other predators greater opportunity to thrive. A new balance will be found – the ecosystem has resilience.

Now, imagine a much simpler food chain, where there’s only a limited number of organisms and perhaps only one apex predator. Submit this species poor situation to a shock and the effect cascades throughout, upsetting the balance. Remove the apex predator and its herbivorous prey will multiply – bad news for the plants they eat and the ecosystem in general. This is a less resilient ecosystem. Bad news for plants is generally bad news for the food chain, which is also bad news for the food that humans eat.

In theory, rewilding helps to produce more vibrant, complex and species rich ecosystems, which is good for the planet in the long run. Crucially, they're more resilient, which they'll need to be for the coming decades.

Kickstarting natural processes

I'm of the opinion that well-considered rewilding efforts have an obvious benefit when it comes to kickstarting the natural processes needed to make all the above happen. Take, for example, the 1995 reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park, partly intended to help control the thriving elk populations. With some parallels to the aforementioned deer in the Scottish Highlands, the elk were responsible for reducing willow height across the region, due to their grazing efforts.

Today, there are over 100 wolves in the park and the reintroduction is generally considered a success. According to Defenders of Wildlife and Yellowstone National Park (among others), it has led to a healthier balance of the deer and elk populations, the stabilization of riverbanks, river recovery in general, greater willow and aspen numbers and the return of many species, such as beavers, eagles, foxes and badgers.

As a caveat, I should state here that rewilding isn’t a magic wand that perfectly restores landscapes to their former glory with any kind of speed, as ecosystems can be hugely complex. It's not an exact science. Research from Colorado State University suggests that the vegetative imbalance in the national park remains, but that, given more time, Yellowstone’s willows could recover to something like their previous state.

As we’ve already discovered, a healthier, more diverse ecosystem leads to greater carbon capture in the long run and provides us with a more secure and resilient food system.

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Preventing flooding and wildfires

Two of the most destructive symptoms of the climate emergency are flooding and wildfires. Unless you've been living in a cave, you'll have noticed the increasing severity and frequency of flood and wildfire events across the globe in recent years. That is, unless your cave got flooded, or the scorched uplands surrounding it fell victim to a wildfire.

A thriving landscape with fertile soil that’s rich in tree and plant life soaks up water much more effectively than the over-grazed uplands and the monocultures created by agricultural sprawl. Water is collected and released slowly, rather than running off the land and causing flash flooding events.

Likewise, the introduction of species like the beaver has a profound effect on the course of rivers, a phenomenon known as re-wiggling. These natural dam builders and habitat engineers help to shape rivers that can hold back flood waters.

I was delighted to read that, in March 2025, two wild beavers were set free in England for the first time in 400 years, marking a significant step forward in Britain's efforts to rewild its landscapes.

Fertile land that holds water is much more resistant to wildfires than damaged moorland, peatland, grazed grasslands and large plantations, all of which give rises to drier conditions. It’s a vicious cycle when you consider the long-lasting destruction to ecosystems that can be wrought by almost instantaneous events like wildfires and flooding. I strongly believe that stopping them from occurring in the first place, by allowing the land to thrive, is key in the battle to save the planet.

Environmentalists have pulled no punches in their criticism of rampant tourism in the Spanish island of Tenerife's Teide National Park.

The centerpiece of the national park is Mount Teide, a 12,188ft (3,715m) volcano and Spain's highest peak. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, with many visitors to the island keen to scale its heights. An estimated three million people visit the national park every year.

However, the Telesforo Bravo–Juan Coello Foundation, an environmentalist and scientific group based on the Canary Islands, has called the current management of the situation 'unsustainable', with tourists currently free to wander off trails and climb on protected terrain.

Jaime Coello Bravo, director of the foundation, took to social media to air his grievances with the Cabildo de Tenerife (Tenerife Island Council). He claimed the council were complicit in allowing and promoting "the massification and destruction of what they themselves call, ‘the crown jewel of the protected natural spaces of Tenerife’."

Bravo posted accompanying images showing overcrowding at the car parks, visitors seemingly climbing on protected rock formations and someone appearing to pick up and move stones. He was scathing of what he called a lack of care from the council, saying: "It is a scandal and a shame the lack of response, inaction and complicity with an unsustainable situation."

On Tuesday 15 April, Bravo posted on his Instagram account, drawing attention to a vehicle that had driven cross-country through the national park, before its occupants started a bonfire and left the area strewn with garbage. Once again, he challenged the council to act, asking (in Spanish): "Do more barbarities like this have to happen before those responsible for the Cabildo take action on the matter?"

Council announce new measures

The criticism comes after the Cabildo de Tenerife announced new measures to 'preserve the natural environment and control the influx of people'. An online reservation system has been put in place for the national park's more advanced trails, including those to the summit of Pico Del Teide.

Hikers are required to register through the Tenerife On platform or app, while those seeking the summit also have to obtain a permit from the National Park Administration. As well as checking relevant permits, park staff also check that hikers are wearing the appropriate clothing and equipment.

Essential kit for Teide

On Tenerife has laid out the mandatory equipment list for Teide:

• Quality mountain footwear: sturdy hiking boots or hiking shoes.
• Full length hiking pants.
• Warm jacket, gloves and hat.
• Water or other hydrating liquids: take a water bottle or hydration bladder.
• A fully charged mobile phone.
• Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries.
• Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap.
• Thermal blanket, high energy food and an emergency whistle.

When you think of tools National Park Service responders use in missing person rescue efforts, certain technology or animals may spring to mind – drones, mobile phone GPS data, patrol dogs, for example.

But a group of scientists working for a Californian non-profit has come up with an ingenious idea of using a natural resource that is lower cost and more effective: the honeybee.

In the past, honeybees in Joshua Tree National Park have been considered a pest. As water becomes scarce over the hot, summer months, bees seek it from new sources, which include car air conditioning units, visitors’ water bottles and hydration packs, the perspiration on their skin and even the moisture in their breath.

This has led to closures of sections of the park at times, to prevent people being swarmed by the thirsty bees.

Researchers have been trying to harness the benefits of this behavior, and it seems they have been successful as they launch a new scheme in 2025, using bees to help track missing persons.

Dedicated entomologists at Bee Optimization & Organix (BOO) have discovered that by releasing bees that have been deprived of water for a short time in small groups, they can track their flight paths. As the bees move towards the missing person, recognizing it as a water source, responders can then follow in vehicles or by foot.

Each bee is fitted with a nano radio transmitter, the size of half a grain of rice, attached to its back. The bees are released in the park in locations where the missing person was last sighted or is thought to be destined for or passing through.

The bees are later coaxed back to their release point with a sugar-water solution.

Far from winging it

In 2024 the first successful field trials were completed, using 30 groups of search and rescue bees. Each group contained five bees. Over a period of 15 releases, the bees successfully located a person carrying only a small water bottle or a hydration pack, 12 times.

Two of the other times, bee disorientation was thought to be caused by strong breezes that carried them off course. On the other failed release the bees found alternative water sources.

However, the success rate has since grown and now the initiative has been given the green light by park authorities.

Entomologist and project lead at BOO, Buzz Keane said: “Honeybees can cover a huge amount of ground, flying over difficult terrain that humans and dogs cannot access. They have an incredible sense of smell and can locate even the smallest water source miles from its location.

“It’s their high drive to find water for survival that we knew would make them a vital tool in future search and rescue operations."

The researchers have spent many years working in laboratories developing a honeybee with modified genetics that could be used for search and rescue missions.

The new subspecies, Apis lenire, is stingless and has a greater roaming distance than the common honeybee, Apis mellifera. The colonies of hand-raised strains of modified bees, which include queens, drones and workers, are now ready to be rolled out into the field in a revolutionary move in Joshua Tree National Park in summer 2025. Only worker bees will actually be used in the search and rescue efforts.

Buzz was quick to reassure visitors with phobias or who suffer from anaphylaxis that the new honeybee is harmless.

Pollinating the tech sector

Two different technologies were trialled to track bees in their remote locations. The first was from provider HoneyTracks, which uses harmonic radar tags attached to bees and a receiver carried on a drone. However, this proved too costly with high set-up fees.

The second was more simple GPS tracking where the tracker is glued to the bees' backs. The tracking system, provided by FlyBee, is linked to AI technology that will alert responders if the bees' foraging behaviour lessens. It can overlay their location with maps featuring known water sources. If the bees come to rest at a location which isn’t a known water source, responders will be alerted.

Flora Scout, NPS Emergency Service Communications Officer, said: “We are so excited to welcome the BOOBees into Joshua Tree National Park. Summer are dangerous months where visitors can become dehydrated and get disorientated quickly.

“Dogs are tied to one trainer and are limited in the amount of ground they can cover in a certain time. The cost of buying and deploying the number of drones we’d need to cover huge areas of parkland is too great, especially in light of recent budget cuts.

“We are delighted to have the support of this wonderful not-for-profit and the voluntary services of such skilled researchers. They have proved that bees are as trainable as dogs when it comes to finding missing persons in hot climates.”

Creating a buzz

Park wardens will now start creating internal and external comms - social media messaging and printed signs - to alert visitors to the new search and rescue invertebrates.

The messaging will contain advice on what to do when you see the bees, which includes not to alarm them by flapping.

Safety advice for swarming bees remains the same:

Stay safe around bees

• If you are allergic to bee stings, always carry appropriate medication.
• If bees do swarm near you, move away from them slowly and remain calm. These animals are focused on getting water so do up bottle lids and move away from your hydration pack.
• Wear long-sleeved, sweat-wicking clothing to prevent attracting bees. Breathable layers can provide extra protection from stings and the heat of the sun.

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Spring blossoms are bringing the trails back to life, the rivers are filling with snowmelt, and in certain parts of the country, the bears are yawning, stretching and rubbing their eyes with their paws. Just as we're starting to think about more backpacking trips, bears are thinking about their next meal, and right on cue, REI has released a new style of bear canister that can be adapted to meet your needs.

At first glance, the REI Co-op Traverse Modular Bear Canister just looks like a larger version of any old canister, but look closer and you'll see that it's smarter. This modular canister comprises two sections that can be used independently for shorter trips, screwed together to make one big canister for longer adventures, and nest one inside the other as your food supple dwindles over the days.

If you don't know, a bear canister is a solution for keeping your food – and yourself –safe in bear country, and it's easier than hanging a bear bag. Typically, they just consist of a plastic tub that's difficult for a bear to pick up and impossible for it to open, such as this one by Bear Vault. The Modular Bear Canister boasts those exact attributes, but it's more versatile and looks like a great option for thru-hikers who have to carry a lot of food.

Certified bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, this canister does require a little finesse to access your best backpacking food. To open it, two buttons need to be pressed. REI says you can operate it with the click of a finger, while audible clicks help you know when the lid is locked shut and your snacks are safe.

It hasn't been on the market too long, but long enough that some campers have had a chance to test it out and give it some feedback. While there are a few campers who say they couldn't get it open, there are others who report they had no problem after reading the instructions, so we suggest you do that or watch the helpful video below if you have questions. As we say in bear country, you just have to be smarter than a bear to operate it.

At its largest capacity, this canister holds 11.25L, which is easily enough for a week on the trail, and REI says it's big enough to use as a stool when you're setting up your camp kitchen for the night.

It shrinks down to nearly half that size at 6.25L as you get closer to your next refueling spot. As for packing it, at its smallest, it squashes down to roughly 9in X 8in, which is smaller than that Bear Vault we mentioned and should be able to sit nicely on top of your sleeping bag inside your backpack. Cleverly, it also comes with a carry bag with reflective trim, so you can stash it away from your tent and if you need it, it will be easy to find in the dark with your headlamp.

The REI Co-op Traverse Modular Bear Canister is available now from REI for $79.95, which is cheaper than any other canister the brand sells.

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Hikers in Japan will soon be hit with higher charges for scaling the nation's tallest and most famous mountain.

From this summer, climbers on Mount Fuji will be charged a ¥4,000 (roughly $26) entry fee, regardless of which route they take. Visitors were previously charged half this amount to climb the popular Yoshida trail.

This payment is the latest in a series of measures aimed at reducing over-crowding on the 12,389ft (3,776m) peak, which is climbed by about 200,000 people each year.

The iconic mountain has suffered from a surge in tourism over recent years, prompting concern over pollution and overcrowding.

In July 2024, Japan introduced the first toll payment and restricted the daily number of hikers on the Yoshida trail to 4,000. The toll gate opened at 3am each day and closed at 4pm during the 2024 hiking season, barring hikers from beginning their ascents outside of these times.

Despite a reduction in the numbers, Fuji was still extremely crowded and needed further protection, according to officials.

"There is no other mountain in Japan that attracts that many people in the span of just over two months," lawmaker Natsuko Sodeyama told The Independent.

"Some restrictions are necessary to ensure their safety.”

Mount Fuji is typically open between July and early September, during its peak climbing period.

Lawmakers are yet to set a specific date for the introduction of the latest charge, but confirmed it will come into effect this summer.

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2024 was a big year for the Green Runners, a British community of runners committed to fighting climate change. After a campaign spearheaded by the group, along with big names like Kilian Jornet and Zach Miller, Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc dropped SUV manufacturer Dacia as its principal sponsor. Then, at the 2024 Tor des Geants, British ultra runner and co-founder Damian Hall made the news by crossing the finish line wearing a blue t-shirt emblazoned with the Ford logo and the words “F*** off”. He then went on to hold aloft a green banner reading “Stop oily money in sport”.

Earlier in the year, the legendary Jasmin Paris, another Green Runners co-founder, achieved what some had thought impossible by becoming the first ever woman to complete five laps of the Barkley Marathons. She managed this remarkable feat as an unsponsored athlete, having decided to step away from periodically receiving brand new running kit that, deep down, she knew didn’t really need.

As the actions of its high-profile founders have hit the headlines, it's drawn wider attention to the Green Runners community. It’s primarily a members’ community and one that’s growing year-on-year. The primary aim is to reduce its members’ carbon footprint by helping them to make better, more sustainable decisions when it comes to various aspects of their running.

The Green Runners story

It was the work of ultra runner Dan Lawson that initially inspired the Green Runners. In 2018, he set up ReRun, an idea whereby second-hand clothing was collected and resold online, with all profits going back to the running community. This inspired fellow co-founder and runner Darren Evans to write a “Runners against Climate Change Ode” for COP26: the United Nations Climate Change Conference which, in 2021, was held in Glasgow.

Damian Hall, British ultra running royalty, got involved and helped to craft a video of the Ode, featuring many high-profile runners, including Jasmin Paris, Scottish skyrunning sensation Finlay Wild and former Dragon’s Back Race winner Jim Mann. The video was unveiled before the conference and some of the individuals who’d go on to form the Green Runners attended in solidarity with other climate protest groups.

However, disappointed with the result of COP26, the group set about creating a community of likeminded runners ahead of COP27. Thus, in early 2022, the Green Runners was born. With collaborations with Dan Lawson’s Rerun Clothing and Trees Not Tees, the community was officially launched, rather fittingly, on April 22, 2022: World Earth Day.

Members pay a small monthly fee to support the running (no pun intended) costs and the wider work of the Green Runners, while being empowered to spread the word in order to bring about positive change in the running community. They receive a monthly email newsletter, have free access to Green Runners events and gatherings, can join the Strava group and more. One of the most important aspects of being a Green Runners member is the pledge…

Pledges and the four pillars

When new members join, they’re asked to make at least one pledge to improve their running from a sustainability standpoint. According to the Green Runners website, there have been just under 3,000 pledges made to date. These pledges are based around four main pillars: How we travel, How we fuel, How we kit up and How we speak out.

How you travel

The way runners travel to and from events, festivals, races and their own handpicked adventures can make a big difference to their carbon footprint. The Green Runners encourage the use of train travel or car sharing to get to races and remind their community to be mindful of their travel footprint when organizing their race calendars. Flying is the least sustainable way to get to and from events and members are asked to make it a last resort only.

How you kit up

There are a few elements to this pillar. The first is to do with carefully considering any purchase as to whether or not it’s really needed or whether the kit could be borrowed or bought second-hand. Then, there’s properly looking after the kit you already own to extend its lifespan and selling the stuff you don’t really use. Finally, when it comes to races, the Green Runners ask members to encourage organizers not to give out medals and running tops, planting trees instead.

How you fuel

The Green Runners recognize the huge impact what we eat can have on the environment, especially if you’re in the habit of burning thousands of calories every week during your training for a terrifying mountain ultra.

They point to the fact that the equivalent calories in a plant-based diet is better for the planet than a diet that’s more skewed towards meat and dairy. That’s not to say the Green Runners expect all their members to be vegan or vegetarian. They don’t. However, they do ask that members pledge to cut down their meat consumption to one or two days a week at most. Due to its high carbon footprint and grossly inefficient use of land, beef production is the worst offender, and the Green Runners emphasize cutting down on cow chow in particular.

How you speak out

In order to succeed in their mission, the Green Runners are aware that their message needs to be spread widely in order to initiate change across the sporting community. They ask members to share their pledges on social media, encourage brands and businesses to adopt greener practices and converse with other runners about the values of being a Green Runner.

High-profile founders

The Green Runners’ most famous co-founder is Jasmin Paris, who made global headlines in 2024 when she became the first woman in history to complete all five laps of the infamous Barkley Marathons within the allotted 60 hours. The former inov-8 athlete now runs without a sponsor – not a reflection on inov-8 but as a way of setting an example when it comes to kitting up for her runs.

Another well-known co-founder, the current director, and one of the Green Runners’ most outspoken members, is Damian Hall. He’s the holder of several impressive FKTs and has enjoyed victories at many high profile ultras, including the brutal Montane Winter Spine Race in 2023. Like Paris, he recently severed ties with sponsor inov-8, thanking them for 8 years of “supporting a balding, crooked-toothed dad’s bumbling”. Damian has authored several books about running, including We Can’t Run Away From This: Racing to Improve Running’s Footprint in our Climate Emergency.

How the Green Runners are making a difference

Beyond raising awareness of ways that we, as runners, can act in a more environmentally sustainable way, the Green Runners also very publicly praising race organizers who have been diligent in making sure their events are as green as possible. They’re also just as quick to call out sportswashing, greenwashing and when organizers haven’t fully considered their event from an environmental perspective.

The highest profile instance of the Green Runners calling out a major event was when the world’s most legendary trail running event, the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) accepted sponsorship from car manufacturer Dacia. The team sprang into action, delivering an open letter (which you can read below) to UTMB HQ and setting up a petition that was signed by over 3,000 concerned runners, including big names like Kilian Jornet and Emelie Forsberg. The Green Runners, along with members of the Pro Trail Runners Association, were invited to share their concerns by UTMB.

In April 2024, UTMB announced they were changing their principal sponsor from Dacia to Hoka, though Dacia remained one of the event’s partners. Nonetheless, for the Green Runners, it was a step in the right direction.

The Green Runners continue to challenge brands and race organizers across the sport, lamenting various issues way beyond sponsors, such as the widespread use of plastic bottles at some events.

Meet the expert

Usually when we write about wildlife encounters on the trail, we're covering stories of bear attacks or defensive moose, but a group of Washington hikers recently got the surprise of their lives when they came across a giant octopus just off the trail.

"What is this thing doing right here?" asks Micah Moehller,in a video he shared to Reddit, which you can view below.

Moehller reveals he was hiking Clark's Point, a coastal hike in a wooded peninsula in Bellingham when he came across the extraordinary scene of a Giant Pacific octopus swimming in a shallow tide pool.

Different angle of the octopus I saw in bellingham bay! from r/Bellingham

Moehller says there are train tracks nearby that separate the ocean from the pool and he thinks the octopus must have swum through a pipe that runs underneath the tracks to reach this inland area.

According to the Seattle Aquarium, Giant Pacific octopuses can weigh from 40 to 100lb (that's 18 - 45kg) and grow up to 14 feet long. They live in dens and do most of their hunting at night, so a sighting like this is extremely rare and another great example of why it's always worth getting out on a hike – you truly never know what you might see.

If you do come across any amazing creatures on the trail, follow the example of these hikers and stay back, admiring it from afar. Check out our guide to wildlife safety for more tips.

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Wild swimmers in England may soon benefit from extra protection from pollution after claims that the UK government plans to allow beaver releases for the first time in centuries.

As we reported yesterday (February 27), new research has revealed that beaver dams have a cleansing effect on British waters, blocking pollutants for swimmers and other wildlife downstream.

Now, an exclusive report from the Guardian claims that the UK government will soon announce plans to grant release licenses to various nature organizations, which will have permission to release the animals in England.

To gain a license, organizations will reportedly have to present a detailed ten-year plan explaining how and where they'll release the rodents.

The news has been welcomed by wildlife activists who've long fought for an official re-introduction of the formerly native species.

Wildlife and Countryside Link chief executive Richard Benwell told the Guardian: "These much-loved animals can help restore rivers and wetlands and reduce flooding and drought."

"Their eco-engineering creates diverse habitats that are great for local communities and for wildlife. It’s high time for wild releases and excellent that the government is making progress."

The news is also welcomed by England's wild swimming community, which benefits from drastically cleaner waters with the presence of beavers.

After two years of monitoring different beaver-engineered water systems, researchers at the University of Stirling in Scotland concluded that beaver dams reduce 'pollution peaks' by up to 95%.

Dams made from logs, branches, and mud slow the flow of water and stop harmful microbial pollutants like E. coli from traveling downstream, inadvertently cleansing the waters for wild swimmers.

Lakes, rivers, and ponds in the United Kingdom have been bombarded by pollution in recent years, thanks to the excessive use of pesticides and fertilizer, and the release of untreated sewage.

Microbial pollutants like E. coli are particularly dangerous to wild swimmers and can cause various gastrointestinal illnesses and infections.

Check out our expert guide for information on how to stay safe and avoid illness while wild swimming.

Beavers became extinct in Britain more than 400 years ago due to excessive hunting.

In 2002, rogue rewilders released beaver families in Kent to improve the local habitat. Illegal releases were followed by an official re-introduction program seven years later. There are now more than 400 beavers in Britain.

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Climbers across the US. have been blocked from climbing in popular areas across the country to protect raptors as they return to crags and cliffsides to nest.

In the coming months, raptor species will return to America's wildlife areas to build nests and nurture their young on ledges, cliffs, and rock walls.

To protect them, officials from the National Park Service and other bodies overseeing the American wilderness have banned climbers from scaling a range of popular routes.

Much of the Lumpy Ridge area in the Rocky Mountains National Park is closed until the middle of March. Climbers in the area must avoid several popular routes, including Thunder Buttress and Bookmark Pinnacle.

Check here for a full list and map of closures in the Rocky Mountains National Park.

Climbers have also been warned to stay away from a number of routes in the Indian Creek wildlife area in Southwestern Utah.

“Falcons, eagles and hawks return annually to nest on cliffs and rock walls, and human disturbance can jeopardize their success,” said a statement from the Bureau of Land Management, which oversees the area.

“Notices have been posted, and climbers should refer to BLM’s raptor protection map to identify avoidance areas.”

Zion National Park is also expected to close multiple routes at the end of March to coincide with the peregrine falcon nesting season.

It's not just climbers who are affected by closures. Hikers in Vermont won't be able to access miles of pristine hiking routes to protect the sensitive peregrine falcon population.

Peregrine falcons are extremely sensitive to human behavior and recovering from near extinction in the 1970s, thanks to the excessive use of harmful pesticides and other chemicals at the time.

To protect the raptors, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has completely or partially closed 14 hiking routes across the state.

"We ask climbers and hikers to please maintain a respectful distance from their nests,” Bird Biologist Jillian Kilborn told the Burlington Press.

“The areas closed include the portions of the cliffs where the birds are nesting and the trails leading to cliff tops or overlooks.”

The majority of these trails are due to reopen on August 1.

Reckless climbing and hiking can have dire consequences for nesting birds.

At Yosemite National Park, human interference from climbers and the use of harmful pesticides all but wiped out the native peregrine falcon population, which is only now beginning to recover.

In that case, several popular climbing routes up Yosemite's El Capitan mountain had to be closed while population numbers recovered. There are now at least 17 peregrine breeding pairs on El Capitan compared to just eight in 2009.

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Stunning views of the Aurora Borealis have wowed hikers in Alaska over the past few days, appearing in freezing conditions over trails near the city of Fairbanks.

The dazzling natural phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth's magnetic field. Otherwise known as the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis is visible on clear nights in parts of the Northern Hemisphere.

See for yourself

On average, the Aurora Borealis is visible four out of every five nights in Alaska, during its peak season. However, getting a clear, uninterrupted look can get a little tricky. Here are our top tips to help you get the best view of this colorful light show.

• Head north: The lights are clearest at the North Pole, where Earth's magnetic field is at its strongest. Alongside Alaska, the Aurora Borealis can be seen from the northern parts of Russia, Canada, and Greenland as well as the arctic regions of Scandinavian countries like Finland and Norway.
• Visit during the peak season: The Aurora Borealis can be seen from late August to mid-April but is strongest around the equinoxes, when the Earth's Axis is tilted neither away from nor towards the sun. These occur in late March and September and present a great opportunity for Aurora Borealis viewing.
• Get away from man-made light pollution: Bright city lights can worsen your view of the Aurora Borealis by overpowering the stunning light show. For the best view, get out of the city and onto the trails. The more remote you are, the better the visibility will be.
• Check the weather forecast: Clouds and fog can obscure the glowing lights, so check ahead of time and pick a clear night.
• Avoid a full moon: Like man-made light pollution, the bright rays of a full moon are often overpowering. Aim to avoid full moon nights for an unobstructed view of the Aurora Borealis.
• Stay up late: The best viewing times are usually between 10 pm and 2am, so be prepared to miss your bedtime and wait a while for the lights.

For more on how to view the Aurora Borealis, check out our expert guide.

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Eight feral pigs have been captured and killed in the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland, following a suspected second illegal rewilding attempt in just under a month.

The pigs were spotted in the dense Uath Lochans area on Monday, and located by authorities the next day. After consulting with veterinarians and the police, Forestry and Land Scotland said they 'humanly culled' the animals.

The FLS is the Scottish government agency responsible for managing the country's forests and land. They condemned the apparently illegal release in a statement.

"The feral pigs, classed as a non-native species, were released with an apparent disregard for the illegality of such action and for the potential consequences that this might have on local habitats and wildlife, on other livestock or even on the welfare of the feral pigs themselves," said a spokesperson.

The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK. It's visited by almost two million people each year, who flock to hike, camp, and, run in the picturesque Scottish wilderness.

A month ago, we reported on the illegal release of four wild lynx in freezing conditions at the Cairngorms National Park. After their subsequent capture, authorities transferred the animals to Edinburgh Zoo, where one died.

Gamekeepers are now urging authorities to take swift action against 'guerilla rewilders'.

“Rewilding is becoming popularised as a concept, and there’s a lot of organizations pushing the rewilding mantra,” said a spokesperson for the Scottish Gamekeepers Association.

“It would appear that this is more a form of guerrilla rewilding.

“Perhaps people or devotees within that movement are becoming frustrated at the standard stakeholder processes which must happen around any reintroduction of species."

Several wilderness organizations are in favor of a structured, legal rewilding program. They believe species like lynx should be reintroduced to the British Isles to redress issues with ecosystems and restore biodiversity in areas like the Scottish Highlands.

"It’s the people who have to deal with the consequences of that, they should ultimately have the final sign-off, because they have got to live with it every day,” the SGA spokesperson continued.

“If that process is not followed, then the authorities have to act decisively to ensure that this type of guerrilla rewilding does not take hold in Scotland as the norm."

Authorities have not said whether they believe the two incidents are linked.

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Got a swim in the Great Lakes on your bucket list? You might want to think again, after scientists called for more monitoring of microplastics there in a new report.

The report found evidence of microplastics in Great Lakes water sources and fish, prompting concerns for wild swimmers, and people who might eat the fish. The microplastic levels in some Great Lakes fish were among the "highest reported worldwide", it said.

Microplastics are minute, often invisible to the eye, chunks of plastic that are toxic to humans. They have been linked to serious health issues like infertility, colon cancer, and poor lung function. Microplastics shed off anything containing plastic and are particularly common in highly populated areas. They can enter humans via ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact.

Levels of microplastics are particularly high in the most popular lakes, Michigan and Ontario, which attract regular visitors all year round.

The report said: "Microplastics are ubiquitous in all environmental media (e.g., water, sediment, biota, and beaches) in the Great Lakes basin, and they are especially concentrated in more populated systems such as Lakes Michigan and Ontario."

Now researchers from the International Joint Commission's Great Lakes Science Advisory Board are urging the US and Canadian governments to take immediate action over microplastics.

Neither the US nor Canadian governments regularly test for microplastics in the Great Lakes, as they do for mercury and other hazardous pollutants.

The Great Lakes Science Advisory Board is urging both governments to begin regular coordinated testing immediately.

The report said: "Such monitoring is critical for quantifying microplastic sources and emissions and understanding their transport and fate in the Great Lakes."

The report calls for a new real-time pollution data system. Depending on whether the information is made public, this could potentially allow swimmers can make an informed decision about whether they feel it's safe to take a dip.

Spanning 94,250 square miles (244,106km²) across the United States and Canada, the Great Lakes are the largest freshwater lake system in the world, measured by surface area.

The five lakes are visited by millions each year and host a sprawl of wild swimming clubs and events.

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The remains of an ancient forest have been discovered in a popular hiking area of the Rocky Mountains.

Surrounded by backcountry hiking trails, the Beartooth plateau is a frozen tundra that sits at over 10,000ft / 3,048m in the Absaroka Beartooth wilderness, north of Yellowstone National Park.

Underneath lies the remains of a roughly 6,000-year-old Whitebark Pine forest, untouched for thousands of years beneath the ice. Despite its perfect preservation, parts of the forest are now visible thanks to climate-change-induced ice melting.

Scientists from Montana State University, the US Geological Survey, and various collaborating institutions discovered the ancient woodland while carrying out an archeological survey of the area.

"We were really surprised to find a forest was emerging from the margins of the ice," Cathy Whitlock, a professor of Montana State University, told ‘As It Happens’ radio host Nil Koksal.

“I'm thrilled because it's a window on the past. It tells us what this high-elevation environment was like 6,000 years ago.”

Whitlock’s team uncovered around 30 trees, over 500ft / 152.4m above the existing tree line. Through carbon dating and looking at the rings inside the trunks, they were able to date the trees from 5,440 to 5,950 years old.

Alongside the immaculately preserved forest, researchers discovered evidence of ancient humans beneath the tundra, including a wooden shaft they believe was used as a spear.

As global temperatures increase, snow and ice in alpine areas like the Rocky Mountains are melting alarmingly fast.

“As a person who worries about the future and climate change and what these alpine areas will look like for my grandchildren, it makes me really sad,” continued Whitlock.

“These ice patches are melting and they probably won't be there in a few more decades.”

The effects of climate change are evident in mountainous areas worldwide.

In 2023, a hiker in the Italian Alps made a similarly startling discovery when she happened upon the remains of an ancient ecosystem previously covered in snow.

Claudia Steffensen found footprints belonging to a giant pre-historic lizard, dating back some 280 million years.

“Snow cover is absolutely important for the energy balance of the atmosphere,” Professor Marco Carrer of the Department of Land Environment Agriculture and Forestry at the University of Padova told Carbon Brief.

“For the biosphere, there are a lot of plant and animal species, especially in the mountain area that really need the snow cover.”

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Conservationists have raised fears over plans to build a luxury resort near the boundary of Zion National Park.

A historic ranch in the Canaan Mountain Wilderness area, which borders the south west of the national park, will be turned into a 350-guest complex following approval by local lawmakers.

They have signed off a change in zoning, which means that greater development will be permitted than was previously allowed.

The planned resort will now cover 1,960.67 acres and include a hotel and short-term rentals capable of accommodating up to 350 guests a night. Up to 25 private homes are also planned, as well as a swimming pool and spa.

The approval of the resort has sparked concern from wildlife and conservation groups. There are fears it could impact the sightscape and soundscape of the national park and surrounding wilderness area.

A campaign director at the National Parks Conservation Association, told St. George News: "As development continues to close in around the south side of the park, people are rightfully concerned about the impact on the landscape and wildlife.

"This parcel of private land sits right on the edge of Zion National Park and borders designated wilderness areas. For decades, previous owners have maintained this property with traditional agricultural uses and conservation of open space."

Current Trees Ranch owner Ryan Lee has reassured stakeholders and the public that he will work to minimize impact on wildlife and the Zion National Park visitor experience.

The Salt Lake City-based entrepreneur bought the site for $21 million in 2021.

Lee told St. George News: "I have removed multiple sections of several miles of fencing that were previously put up so that the animals may more freely move around the ranch and in and out of the park."

Several species in and around the park are listed as threatened or endangered. These include the Mexican spotted owl, desert tortoise, yellow-billed cuckoo, California condor and peregrine falcon.

Lee added: "We are very sensitive to the wildlife on the ranch: I view the ranch as a wildlife refuge."

The owner has also declared that the resort will be located in the south-west corner of the ranch, away from the National Park.

Resort plans also include a horse center and tent campsites.

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Humans have a lot to answer for when it comes to animals ending up in places that they shouldn’t be. From Australian wallabies bouncing around on an island on a Scottish loch to pigs swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas, the ability of animals to adapt to their surroundings never ceases to amaze. Whether they were put there on purpose, escaped from a local zoo or hitchhiked their way across the globe, there are many places across the world where you might encounter some rather unexpected inhabitants.

Last week, we shared the story of the lynx that had tragically died having been recaptured after ‘rogue rewilders’ had set four of these medium-sized wild cats free in Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park. It’s thought that these cats, which were raised in captivity, would have lacked the survival skills to thrive in the wild.

However, there is a growing clamor for the introduction – or reintroduction – of the Eurasian lynx into places like the Scottish Highlands. The species represents very little to no danger for humans, and it’s increasingly accepted that an official, carefully managed release of lynx would be beneficial to local ecosystems. Imagine the thrill of sighting these elusive creatures through your binoculars while bagging Munros. After all, the lynx is indigenous to the British Isles. They lived in Britain at least around a thousand years ago, if not more recently, before being eradicated by hunting and habitat loss. So the lynx is an example of an animal that should be present in a certain place but isn’t because of human intervention.

But, what about animals that aren’t where there supposed to be? In this feature, we take a look at some famous examples, revealing the theories behind how they ended up there and their impact on the region.

Cats run amok on Stephens Island

One of the most famous and simplest examples of an invasive species having a catastrophic impact on the local wildlife is the tale of Tibbles and Lyall’s wren…

In the late 19th century, the construction of a lighthouse on the previously uninhabited Stephens Island in New Zealand was terminal for the now extinct Lyall’s wren, a once charming little flightless bird. This was because the settlers brought domestic cats to the island. A pregnant cat escaped into the wild and eventually the little felines ran amok, killing all the wrens.

The blame for the slaughter is often attributed to a single cat, the comically cutely named Tibbles. We’re sure Tibbles ate his fill of wren, but he wasn’t the only one, so it seems unfair to lay all the blame at his door, or cat flap for that matter. The truth is that many cats were responsible for the downfall of this wren species, mere years after it had first been discovered.

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Wallabies and the fastest granny on the water

Any rugby fan will know that wallabies are associated with Australia, a nation whose national rugby union team is nicknamed the Wallabies. (However, the English football team are nicknamed the Three Lions, so some nations clearly have a habit of pinching animals from elsewhere.)

The wallaby is a macropod, a smaller member of the family that also contains the very, very, very Australian kangaroo. Indeed, wallabies are indigenous to Australia and New Guinea but have established a foothold in some very unlikely places…

It seems the British are useless at keeping wallabies captive. Escapes from wildlife parks and zoos, as well as occasions where they’ve been purposefully introduced, have seen these leaping marsupials colonizing places as far flung as the Isle of Man, a large island in the Irish Sea; the windswept moorlands of the Peak District National Park in the Midlands; and the tiny island of Inchconnachan on Loch Lomond in the Southern Highlands of Scotland. That's just the tip of the iceberg. There have been numerous other wallaby sightings across the country too.

In the case of Loch Lomond’s Inchconnachan island, they were purposefully placed in the 1940s by the eccentric Fiona Bryde Gore, an aristocrat who had a love for exotic creatures. She had a holiday home on the island and decided to move her marsupials across. A free spirit, she was also a proficient power boater and was known by the locals as ‘the fastest granny on the water’. These days, the many tourists that visit Loch Lomond can enjoy seeking out the unique inhabitants of what has become known as ‘Wallaby Island’. However, some have proposed that the wallabies should be culled to protect the island’s native capercaillie, a member of the grouse family.

Swimming pigs in the Bahamas

Pigs can’t fly, but they do swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas. It’s not known exactly how these plucky pigs came to inhabit the small island of Big Major Cay. Some say they were left by sailors who’d forgotten to cook them for a meal, others believe they survived a shipwreck. A more cynical theory is that they were placed here purposefully to generate a tourist attraction. Whatever the case may be, it would appear that they’ve won the pig version of the lottery, spending their days in the sunny, Caribbean paradise of the Outer Exumas.

Tourists flock from the nearby resorts to see the famous Pig Beach and feed its inhabitants. In 2017, there was controversy when around ten of the pigs were found dead. There are various theories to do with how this happened, with sand ingestion among the most credible. It’s thought this may have been exacerbated by tourists throwing morsels of food onto the beach’s sands.

Cingino Dam's daring mountain goats

It’s not that mountain goats shouldn’t live in the Alps (that’s exactly where they should live), it’s just that the sight of them scampering precariously up and down the sheer wall of the Cingino Dam is somewhat on the more appealing end of the dull/remarkable spectrum. The dam is located in the remote Antrona valley at over 2,000 meters above sea level, not too far from the iconic giants of Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn in the Western Alps.

The mountain goats, or more correctly alpine Ibex, cling to the wall above absolutely huge drops, drawn to the salty sustenance they find by licking the bricks and munching the lichen that grows in the cracks. It’s also thought that this exposed position protects them from predators. After all, you’d have to be a pretty suicidal lynx or wolf to attempt to set foot on the dam’s near-vertical wall. While the occasional goat has tumbled to its doom, they clearly fancy their chances dicing with death on the dam rather than being out on the mountainsides.

The bears of Český Krumlov Castle

In the Czech Republic’s South Bohemia, the 700-year-old Český Krumlov Castle is an architectural marvel, while its moat has some rather special inhabitants: brown bears. In fact, bears have lived in the moat on and off since 1707 and today there are three. Unsurprisingly, visitors to the castle are keen to view the bears and they’ve become something of a tourist attraction in their own right.

There’s even an annual Bear Festival, held on Christmas Eve. Children are invited to bring tasty treats for the bears into the enclosure, leaving them under the trees. After the children have safely departed, the bears are released and have a ruddy good festive feast.

It seems likely that this particularly odd situation’s days are numbered, as animal rights campaigners have petitioned to end the practice of keeping the bears at the castle. This is despite efforts to reconstruct the moat to make it a more pleasant living environment.

Most wildlife typically likes to give humans a wide berth, but occasionally the two intersect and the results can be explosive. Over the weekend, a disoriented moose found itself on the busy slopes at Breckenridge Ski resort, sending unsuspecting skiers ducking for cover.

In a video posted to Instagram, which you can view below, skiers at the Colorado resort scatter as the moose comes running towards them, with one skier losing a ski in retreat. At one point, an adult skier with a young child enters the frame heading towards the moose then hastily changes direction before falling over.

Skier Kylee Rinker, who captured the footage, positions herself safely behind a ski rack, and by the time the camera returns to the scene, the moose is heading in the opposite direction towards the lift tower.

"Nobody got hurt and she walked right back up the mountain," says Rinker.

What to do if you see a moose on the slopes...

Though the sight of a wayward moose charging around a ski resort might seem shocking, it's something we see at least once a season. Last January, we reported on a similar incident at Winter Park Resort, also in Colorado, where there are an estimated 3,000 moose.

Moose are generally an elusive species, but one that finds itself on the ski slopes in the middle of a busy Saturday is likely to feel panicked and may charge if it feels threatened or accidentally cause damage in its attempt to escape – these giant animals weigh upwards of 800 lbs.

If you encounter a moose on the slopes or the trail, the most important thing you can do is give it plenty of space. Immediately secure your pets and children, slowly back away and if it's acting aggressively, position yourself behind something like a tree or a boulder in case it charges. Learn more in our article on what to do if you meet a moose.

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A lynx that was illegally released into the Scottish Highlands has died despite the best efforts of experts who captured and attempted to save it.

On Friday, January 10, officials from the Scottish Police confirmed that they’d managed to track down and capture two lynx spotted in the Cairngorms National Park, a popular spot for hiking in Scotland.

The wild cats, which became extinct in the UK 1,000 to 1,500 years ago, were tracked down using trail cameras, and humanely captured in a collaborative effort between the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, local police, and Cairngorms park rangers.

While the pair were initially believed to be in good health, the Royal Zoological Society announced on Saturday, January 12 that one of the animals had died.

“After extensive efforts to capture these animals safely and humanely, we were very sad to discover that one of them has died overnight,” said Dr Helen Senn in a statement.

“We do not yet know the circumstances behind its death but will be carrying out a post-mortem to try to establish what happened.”

Officials had been working hard to track down another pair last week that had been spotted near the Highlands town of Kingussie.

These two were also captured quickly and humanely using trail cameras and bait.

Police believe that all four lynx were illegally released together.

Calls to re-introduce the once-native Eurasian lynx in Britain have grown louder in recent years. Advocates claim a wild lynx population could redress issues with Britain’s eco-systems and restore biodiversity to nature areas like the Scottish highlands.

David Field, chief executive of the Royal Zoological Society, thinks the illegal release could be the work of rogue rewilders.

"Sadly, there are rogue rewilders out there who bypass all the established international best practices," he told the Guardian.

"That’s really sad and that’s a real, real risk."

What are lynx?

Found in forests and mountainous areas across Europe, Asia, and North America, lynx are medium-sized wild cats.

There are four species of lynx. The large Eurasian lynx can grow to the size of a labrador dog. The deceased lynx was reportedly Eurasian.

Despite their size, wild lynx aren’t typically dangerous to humans. They tend to prey on small mammals like rabbits and hares, birds, and larger species like deer.

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