Biome Basics

How to hike each of america’s 6 diverse environments

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Ever been on the trail in one part of the country and felt you had everything you needed, only to bring that same trusty setup to a different region and feel woefully unprepared?

Maybe you’re used to hiking the Pacific Northwest, so you’re always stocked with extra socks for when the ceaseless drizzle puts your waterproof boots to the test. Maybe you skimp on carried water because you know the next stream is just around the bend. While extra socks usually aren’t a bad thing, that water strategy certainly won’t be adequate for the deserts of the Southwest. Each region requires a different plan of attack.

According to National Geographic, a biome is characterized by its vegetation, soil, climate, and wildlife. Though there are various sub-categories within America’s biomes, there are six main environments in which you will likely find yourself if you set out on a hike. The trail conditions of each environment will vary significantly, and each will require different gear. Here, we break down the best time to hike in each, as well as each biome’s unique hazards and advantages.

Unless you’re truly a rugged outdoors person, you will probably only want to hike the Alaskan tundra during the warmer months. The problem with that plan? Literal clouds of mosquitoes. SHELLEY WALES / ISTOCK PHOTO

DECIDUOUS FOREST Region: EAST & SOUTHEAST