The term backcountry generally refers to isolated and undeveloped areas of forest, mountain or desert that are difficult to access. Hiking in the backcountry is attractive to hikers for many reasons, including untouched scenery and wildlife. Hiking in remote areas where help may be hundreds of miles away must be met with caution. Hiking with care in the backcountry can help you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Step 1
Gather the necessary equipment for your hike. This may include a tent if you are camping out, food, maps, compass, rope, first-aid kit, water, a multitool with a sharp knife and a backpack. Get a frame pack for longer hikes to help distribute the weight on your hips and not just your shoulders. Break in your hiking boots by oiling them and wearing them several times before your hike.
Step 2
Learn how to read maps and a compass before you go into the backcountry. Remain calm if you get lost. Use your energy to find clean water and start a fire, advises Great Outdoors. Notify a handful of people as to your scheduled return date so your absence will be noticed if you are not back on time.
Step 3
Pack enough of the right kinds of foods for the hike. Ensure they are lightweight and nutrient dense to provide energy without weighing you down. Dehydrated fruits and vegetables, beef jerky, mixes made from nuts, seeds and fruits, and pasta are good backcountry hiking choices. If you will be cooking, choose one-pot meals that are easy to prepare and clean.
Step 4
Set up your camp well before the sun goes down, so you won't have to navigate too much in the dark. Also, take breaks throughout the day when your body tells you it is time for a rest.
Step 5
Cover all food in the appropriate containers at night to avoid bears and other wildlife poking around your campsite. Confront a bear in a firm voice, as you make a slow and gradual departure from the area, advises Denali National Park. If you are attacked by a bear, lie on your stomach and cover your head and neck with your arms and hands, and try not to move.
Step 6
Leave no trace that you were there when it is time to leave the backcountry. Minimize waste during your hike, leave any natural elements that you find and travel in groups of no more than four to six people, according to Denali National Park. Do not make new campsites, but find areas to camp where you won't have to disturb too much. Burn your campfires to ash and scatter the cool ashes around the area, so no one will know a fire had been set.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider traveling with a guide if you are inexperienced or unfamiliar with the territory.
Things You'll Need
- Backpack
- Tent
- First-aid kit
- Food
- Multitool
- Sewing kit
- Map
- Compass
- Matches
- Water
- Iodine (for water purification)
- Rope
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