Trail
Conditions
Near North Trail Association
|
| Hiking |
|
Hiking Tips
* Proper planning
is important. Obtain trail maps, guidebooks, trail distance,
estimated time required and any other information before you leave
on a hike.
* Keep trail maps and guidebooks in a waterproof
Ziploc bag.
* Check weather conditions and
forecast.
* Consider the ability level of everyone in your
group, when choosing a hike.
* It's very important to tell
someone of your plans and when you expect to return. In an
emergency, this could help with the rescue. Check in with them when
you get back.
* Never hike alone. Always go with a
friend.
* Don't pack to heavy. Keep your pack weight as light
as possible.
* Take plenty of water--2 or 3 quarts per
person. Staying hydrated will help maintain your energy
level.
* The temperature is always cooler in the mountains.
Plan and dress accordingly. Dress in layers.
* Start early so
that you have plenty of time to enjoy your hike and the destination.
Plan to head back so you finish your hike well before dark.
*
Hike only as fast as the slowest member of your group.
* Pace
yourself. Don't hike too quickly. Save your energy.
* Stay on
trails unless you have excellent navigational skills.
* Never
approach wild animals. They may look cute and harmless but they are
very unpredictable and can be very territorial and protective.
Always be alert and aware of your surroundings. In most cases, the
animals are more afraid of us and will run away. Do not attempt to
feed wild animals. Most injuries occur when people try to feed
them.
* Look out for snakes, spiders and other critters.
Watch where you are walking, be careful when picking up sticks or
rocks and look around before taking a seat. Again, snakes are
usually more afraid of us, but if they feel threatened or if you
make sudden movements they may strike. Stay calm and slowly move
away from them.
* Be careful where you are walking. Watch out
for low branches and loose rocks. Take it slow through mud and water
and be careful of loose leaves on the trail. Stay away from steep
cliffs and other drop off areas. Look out for brush with thorns and
learn to identify poisonous plants.
* Keep track of your
progress on the map so that you know where you are at all
times.
* Take turns leading and following trail markers.
Share decisions.
* Pack high energy snacks like granola,
energy or fruit bars, trail mixes, fruit, candy, beef jerky,
bagels, or pita bread, etc.
* Don't drink soda or alcohol
when hiking. They will dehydrate you.
* Use a purification
system for water from a natural resource.
* For blisters or
hot spots use moleskin or bandages immediately to stop further
damage and to relieve pain. Keep your feet dry--change socks
often.
* Hiking sticks or poles may help make your trip a
little easier by giving you some stability on wet trails, and
reducing strain on your legs when going up or down slopes.
*
Be aware of your increased exposure to ticks when hiking in the
outdoors.
* Protect yourself against other insects such as
bees, ants, mosquitoes, flies, etc. Not only can they be annoying,
but they can cause quite a bit of pain and discomfort. Many people
have severe allergic reactions to their bites and need to carry
necessary medical supplies or seek medical attention. Again be aware
of your surroundings. Refer to Keeping the Bugs Away for more
details.
* Bring a whistle on hikes. Three short whistles
mean you are in trouble and need assistance.
* Learn to
identify the many things you will discover as you hike.
|
|
