BASIC TIPS WHEN ON TRAIL
- Wear adequate clothes & proper hiking shoes, as well as bring extra layers.
- It is often windy and cold at the top of a mountain.
- You might hike under the hot sun through long stretches of exposed terrain.
- It might start raining.
- A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are must-have items for any hike.
- Prepare for the unexpected.
- Hiking/walking in bad weather conditions is dangerous, – rain, thunder, wind, snow (occasionally) or extreme heat are best avoided.
- It’s never too late to turn around. If you notice that you might not make it before it gets dark/ if the weather changes to the extreme, it might be safer to turn around.
- Start early to enjoy the walk and keep your peace of mind. Right timing is the key!
- Make sure there is plenty of day-light ahead of you.
- If you are traveling by public transport, make sure to check the timetables and adjust your itinerary/pace accordingly.
- Take water seriously.
- Stay hydrated at higher elevations.
- One of the most important things you can do is to create a detailed hiking itinerary for your trip and leave it with a trusty friend or family member.
- Study the map and trail description before you go! Pay attention to the distance, elevation profile, estimated walking time, available shortcuts, terrain and such.
- You need to have some navigation skills and equipment to help you orient yourself when the trail is not obvious and there is no cell signal.
- A combination of electronic navigation and paper is a good route for hiking beginners.
- AllTrails is a great navigation application, which allows you to download an offline map.
- Bring a portable charger. Consider putting your phone in flight mode so the battery doesn’t die. Batteries drain quickly when you are out of cell tower range because the phone is continually looking for a signal.
- Avoid going off-road and shortcuts on dangerous terrain.
- Watch your step. Stay conscious to avoid twisting your ankle, slipping on a rock, tripping on a root, or worse, stepping on some poisonous wildlife.
- Don’t leave any rubbish, don’t pick up flowers or rocks.
- Hiking at a comfortable pace is also a great way to spot wildlife and other natural beauty.