Hike Safely

Going hiking is great fun and you can see many lovely and beautiful things. The atmosphere on a quiet mountainside can be extraordinary, with not another soul in sight you can feel like the last person in the world. It can be breathtaking.

Steps

  1. Plan your route. Get a good map of the area you are going to and decide on the route you will take. You could use local guidebooks to decide on a route or if you are familiar with the area just use the map.
  2. Make sure to tell someone your route and when you will be back from your hike. In case you have a problem people will know where to start looking for you.
  3. Wear sensible clothing for the conditions and carry extra in case the weather changes for the worse. For high-altitude and exposed hikes, wearing or bringing synthetic (non-cotton) clothing is strongly recommended!
  4. Take wet weather gear with you a waterproof jacket and leggings or gaiters.
  5. Wear comfortable, sturdy walking boots. They should be able to support your ankles and have tough enough soles that your feet do not get bruised on hard tracks and trails.
  6. Use a comfortable backpack that you can fit all your gear into.
  7. Take something to eat and drink while you are out for your hike.
  8. Wear blaze orange. Bright colors help you more visible to hunters, other hikers, and rescue team. If you wear bright colors when someone is looking for you they can see you more easily.


This video demonstrates how to hike safely over rough terrain like scree, rivers, and steep hills.

Warnings

  • This article applies to day hiking. If you plan on doing overnight hikes, you will need more equipment and know-how than during a day-hike. Make sure you are aware of all the suggested precautions and that you have packed the appropriate equipment.

Things You'll Need

  • Day pack
  • Water bottle & water
  • Rain jacket/wind jacket (some are combinations, if not, take both)
  • Layered clothing (peeling off is easier for releasing heat & popping back on is best for quickly gaining warmth)
  • High-energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, fruit bars etc.)
  • Lunch (sandwich, fruit, cheese etc.)
  • Good quality hiking or walking shoes/boots
  • Good quality hiking socks
  • Leggings (thermal)
  • Gaiters (good for swampy, marshy, muddy hikes)
  • Sunglasses & sun protection
  • Map or guidebook
  • Compass
  • Companion(s) - include 4-footed kind if permissible where you're hiking
  • Small emergency kit consisting of emergency blanket, matches, high-energy bars, flashlight/headlamp, band-aids etc.
  • Insect repellent
  • Whistle
  • Toilet Paper

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