Premium: Outdoors News

Stone tools are deliberately made by the hands of hominins, like these worked on by the author. John K. Murray

Was it a stone tool or just a rock? An archaeologist explains how scientists can tell the difference

With a little guidance and a lot of practice, even you can make stone tools the way our oldest ancestors did – and learn to recognize the signs of a deliberately made tool.

Young bats learn to be discriminating when listening for their next meal

A frog-eating bat approaches a túngara frog, one of its preferred foods. Grant Maslowski

By listening to a frog call, adult bats can tell which prey are palatable and which are poisonous. Young bats must acquire this ability over time.

What is a downburst? These winds can be as destructive as tornadoes − we recreate them to test building designs

A downburst blasts Bangkok, Thailand, in 2017.

Engineers use giant fans in the Wall of Wind test facility to study the destructive ways these powerful winds can interact with tall buildings.

Budget cuts impact national parks: What visitors need to know

Outwander reports that 1,000 probationary employees recently were laid off by the National Park Service and there were an additional 700 resignations as part of federal workforce reductions under the Trump administration, creating operational challenges just before the busy season.

5 easy ways to keep your pool clean all summer

(BPT) - Hear the lively sounds of splashing water and good times? Summer is right around the corner, making it time to dive into prepping your pool — and keeping it fresh and swim-worthy, all …

Tick season heats up: 4 easy tips to help protect against these biting pests and the rise of Lyme disease

(BPT) - As rising temperatures and humidity signal the start of tick season, many Americans remain unprepared for the risks ahead. A recent survey commissioned on behalf of OFF!® brand insect …

Deck defense: 3 tricks of the trade to keep your outdoor space dry and durable

(BPT) - A deck is more than just an addition to your home — it's a relaxing retreat, a gathering space for friends and family, and an investment in your property's value. But without proper …

Visiting U.S. National Parks is More Popular Than Ever, Breaking Visitor Records in 2024 with over 330 Million Visits

America's 63 national parks draw in serious hikers, but they also provide opportunities for beginners and families to unwind, take their time and soak in nature's beauty. While many travelers often …

Building a dock? 5 factors to consider

(BPT) - If you own a home by the water, you understand that a dock is much more than a place to park a boat. It's a sundeck, a diving platform, a fishing perch and a year-round spot for stargazing …

Six ways to get ready for a national park trip

(BPT) - From the geysers of Yellowstone to the granite cliffs of Yosemite, America's national parks remain a premier destination for outdoor exploration. For many travelers, visiting national parks …

Podcast

Was it a stone tool or just a rock? An archaeologist explains how scientists can tell the difference

With a little guidance and a lot of practice, even you can make stone tools the way our oldest ancestors did – and learn to recognize the signs of a deliberately made tool.

Young bats learn to be discriminating when listening for their next meal

What is a downburst? These winds can be as destructive as tornadoes − we recreate them to test building designs

Budget cuts impact national parks: What visitors need to know

5 easy ways to keep your pool clean all summer

Tick season heats up: 4 easy tips to help protect against these biting pests and the rise of Lyme disease

Deck defense: 3 tricks of the trade to keep your outdoor space dry and durable

Visiting U.S. National Parks is More Popular Than Ever, Breaking Visitor Records in 2024 with over 330 Million Visits

Building a dock? 5 factors to consider

Six ways to get ready for a national park trip

All about thru-hiking

Exploring rural America

Outside storytelling