1. Essentially Prepared for Trail Hiking
Prepare before you go on a hike. Occasionally in the news you hear about hikers lost, trapped or worse who had ventured out unprepared. We all like to believe bad things won't happen to us. However, it just takes one unfortunate event to change lives forever. Always carry the right equipment when you go trail hiking. Start with what avid hikers call the 10 Essentials: extra food, extra clothing, map(s), compass, knife, matches, fire starter, first aid kit, sunglasses and flashlight or headlamp. Keep some of these items in a plastic bag, especially matches. Also, bring a small tube of sunscreen. Most importantly, wear good hiking boots when you go trail hiking.
2. Got to Get Away
Practical safety precautions can save your life during trail hiking. Always let someone know exactly where you're going. Also write it down on a piece of paper or sticky note and place it near your phone or computer; stick it on your refrigerator; or opt to send an email instead. People forget verbal instructions, so it's best to write or type it somewhere as well. Know where you're going. Do research before trail hiking some place new. Understand the area and trail. Plan out your hike with a map. Unfamiliar environments are extra confusing in emergencies. It's best to hike with a friend, group or even pets; however, it's not always practical, and sometimes people just like to get away alone. Just take extra precautions.
3. Trail Hiking's not for Sissies
Although, trail scenery is usually beautiful and relaxing, hiking is exercise. It's typically more than walking and often involves some uphill and downhill hiking, and that's on easy hiking trails. More advanced trails involve rigorous exercise and climbing. Many new hikers often don't realize how long trails are and end up in trouble. One thing to keep in mind is as far as you hike in, that's how far you'll have to hike back. So, if you're too tired half way through your hike, it means you need to turn around. Some hiking trails are straight through, but you have to plan for transportation on the other side. Stay away from trails you're not ready for; hiking can quickly turn into rock, cliff or even mountain climbing on some trails.
4. Lions, Tigers and Bears...Oh My!
You might not have to worry about tigers in North America, but you do have to watch out for mountain lions and bears, plus other wild animals on and around hiking trails. Never approach or touch wild animals--even bison can be aggressive. And never touch a dead animal as it may carry diseases, such as rabies.
5. Watch Your Step
Terrain can be tricky on hiking trails. Although, most parks do a nice job of maintaining trails, they can't always keep up with damage caused by Mother Nature. Watch for unstable ground, especially along cliffs and areas prone to slides. Be aware of holes and dips, and be extra careful in snow covered areas and around glaciers (look for crevasses). Don't hike at night.
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