Outdoor Advice for Fresh Air Enthusiasts

The Essential Hiking, Camping, and Van Life Blog

Gather everything you need to feel empowered on your next outdoor adventure

Kick off your mud-caked boots. Slide into your coziest camp chair. And get ready to live your best life outdoors with Bearfoot Theory.

Whether you’re looking for a mid-week outing to unplug or a month-long camper van road trip to escape from it all, you’ll find the tips you need to get out the door.
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If you’re just starting out…


Dip your toe into the great outdoors (or try a new activity) with these beginner friendly posts

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Explore our Latest Blog Posts

Sprinter van camped in the desert with camping gear set up outside

Best Van Life Gear at REI

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Want to live in a van? Discover my favorite van life gear available at REI that are must-haves for camping and life on the road.
A woman stands on a ladder on the back of her Sprinter van

Owl Vans Sprinter Accessories Review

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Looking for the best Sprinter van accessories? In this Owl Vans review, we cover everything from bike carriers to storage boxes and ladders.
Ultralight Zpacks Triplex backpacking tent set up with a backpacking pack and boots in front

Best Ultralight Backpacking Gear

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Find the best ultralight backpacking gear for your next adventure from ultralight tents, ultralight sleeping bags, and more.
Being an REI Member comes with perks like REI coupons and discounts on gear rental. Learn all the benefits you get when you join the program.

12 Reasons to Become an REI Member

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Being an REI Member comes with a ton of perks like member-only coupons and used gear trade-in. Learn why I became an REI Member and about all the benefits you get when you join!
Landscape photo of Garden of the Gods hike in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

10 Best Weekend Trips From Denver

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Plan an adventurous weekend trip from Denver to one of these top destinations. From ski resorts to National Parks, there’s something for everyone.
Landscape photo in Death Valley National Park field of yellow wildflowers and rocky mountains in the distance

16 Best National Parks to Visit in Spring

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In search for an adventure-filled spring destination? We’ve hand-picked the best National Parks to visit in spring for great weather, wildlife, spring recreation, and more.
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Sleep under the stars, plan that epic road trip, and breathe in the fresh air.
Essential Outdoor Spring Travel Tips

Enjoy spring to the fullest

Spring is one of the best times to get outside. Learn how to make the most of this season.

welcome

Helping you become an independent explorer…

Maybe you didn’t grow up in an outdoorsy family. I certainly didn’t. I know that mustering up the courage to get out there can be as much of a mental challenge as a physical one.

We scour the internet, looking for advice, only to find that most of the resources skim the surface. Or often they’re written by extreme adventurers who we just can’t relate to. 

In 2006, I decided to say yes to adventure and went on my first backpacking trip near Mt. Rainier. It was tough to say the least, especially as I forgot my hiking boots and ended up doing the whole trail in Chacos!

But that trip empowered me. It was the first time I felt strong, and I realized that getting outside was my ticket to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilled life.

I started Bearfoot Theory as a way to share real-world outdoor advice and experiences that the average outdoor enthusiast could finally relate to.

With our resources, you’ll no longer feel held back by your fears or lack of experience. As one of the leading outdoor blogs run by an all-female team, we’re here to help you become a confident, independent explorer who enjoys a little challenge.

Bearfoot Theory Founder
Kristen Bor

Hi! I’m a hiking obsessed, half-time van lifer who is happiest in the mountains. My team and I are here to show you it’s never too late to get your start and accomplish your goals in the outdoors.

Let’s connect!

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Relatable Outdoor Advice

Explore with your own two feet

Hiking and Backpacking

If you want to dedicate more time to hiking and feeling the wind on your skin — you don’t need to climb a 20,000 foot mountain to reap the rewards of the outdoors. All you need is a good pair of boots, a pack, and a few important hiking essentials.

Get ready to hit some incredible hiking trails with our essential hiking tips and hiking gear roundups.

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Outdoor Gear Guides

Stay warmer.
Ache free. And better fueled.

Wherever you’re adventuring off to next, make sure your gear has got your back. Through thick and thin. 

The last thing you want is gear that’s going to fall apart after just a few uses. Or fail in bad weather conditions when you need it the most.

You’ll find expert advice from our team, with handpicked and thoroughly-researched gear, right here. 

Be responsible outdoors.

We all have a responsibility to look after the places that we love.

Find Freedom on the Open Road

All About Van Life

Imagine being able to wake up every morning with nature at your doorstep. Being able to travel on a whim with the comforts of home.

The Bearfoot Theory team has over 12 years of van life between us in all different types of vans, and we’re here to show you how it’s done. Learn how to pick the right van for your lifestyle, get inspiration for your van conversion, and learn practical advice and smart solutions to living a more spontaneous lifestyle.

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We will walk you through the entire process of buying a van, planning a conversion, and hitting the road in a van that you absolutely love.


Car Camping and Road Trips

The open road is calling

Tuck into the forest someplace quiet. Set up base camp with views as far as the eye can see. Refuel at the end of the day by the crackling campfire, knowing a new adventure is waiting for you tomorrow. Explore road trip tips and detailed itineraries across North America to find hidden gems off-the-beaten-path.


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