1. Know Where You're Going
Plan your route carefully and know how many miles you're traveling. Have your map with you and your route drawn on your map. Bring as many terrain and topographical maps of the area you are off-trail hiking as you can find. Have knowledge of how to read the map and how long it will take you to hike your route. If you are on a marked path trail and want to venture off, make sure you have calculated how long you are going off the marked path and how long it takes you to hike. Use your GPS system or a compass with the aid of a map.
2. Pack the Right Gear
Wear comfortable clothing and have the right hiking boots. Make sure your boots fit comfortably and wear good socks to help keep your feet dry and free from blisters. Bring your backpack with rain gear, snacks, a change of clothes, bug spray, sunscreen and water. If you are hiking and staying overnight, you will need a tent and food. Your map with a marked route is the most important item to pack.
3. Be Careful Near Water
Use caution near ponds, lakes and beside rivers. If you fall in, your hiking boots and socks are wet the rest of the hike, which causes blisters and pain. Stay dry so you can enjoy your hike. If you must cross the river or stream to get to the next side, use caution walking on fallen tree limbs or river boulders. They are often slippery after a rain storm.
4. Watch Out for Wildlife Encounters
Know how to deal with a variety of wildlife before you venture into the off-trail hiking world. Research the area before you go to determine the native animals. Research what to do in case one of those animals attacks you while off-trail hiking.
5. Prepare for Anything
Off-trail hiking physically challenges your body. Make sure you are in shape to handle the climbs up and down on the off-trail hiking. There are obstacles that require you to climb over things or under and balance on top of things. Research what to do in case you get lost on your off-trail hiking adventure. Bring the items you need for survival if you are lost.
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