Before embarking on a hiking adventure in national parks, it is important to consider and assess your own hiking skills and capabilities. There is no need to worry about losing out on experiencing breathtaking views, spotting wildlife, and connecting with nature by opting for an easier trail. It is crucial not to overestimate your abilities, so take a moment to ask yourself questions before heading out.
What is my level of experience with hiking? Do I frequently go hiking or is this my initial time exploring the trails?
What is the maximum weight of equipment, food, and water that I can carry comfortably in a backpack? What is the duration for which I can carry a backpack containing all the necessary items?
Am I sufficiently fit for the hike I intend to undertake? Have I engaged in any hiking activities involving steep ascents and descents, or am I more at ease on level, paved surfaces?
Have I ever experienced hiking in this kind of environment previously? Adjusting to environmental factors like temperature and humidity requires time, particularly if you reside in a different environment than the park you are exploring.
Is it possible for me to go to higher elevations? Hiking at higher elevations requires more effort because there is less oxygen in the air. Keep in mind that at 8,000 feet, there is a risk of altitude illness, which can be life-threatening. If you are unsure, consult your healthcare provider.
Will I be hiking by myself or do I intend to bring someone along? Hiking with a friend is more secure, however, if you choose to go solo, make sure to take additional precautions to ensure you are adequately prepared as you will be embarking on the journey alone.
So…does this hike suit you?
Plan your hike
When hiking in national parks, it is your duty to ensure your safety. Part of being prepared for your adventure is to plan ahead. If you are heading to the backcountry, it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to take care of yourself in case you come across an unexpected danger or an emergency arises.
When choosing a trail for you and your group, it is important to consider your own abilities as well as the abilities of everyone in your group. Make sure to select a trail that can be completed by everyone safely and that will be enjoyable for all. To determine the difficulty level of trails, check the park’s website or consult with a ranger who can also offer suggestions of suitable trails. If you have any medical conditions, it may be wise to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider.
Create a trip plan containing information on your walking or hiking destinations, contact details, expected arrival and departure times, and the individuals accompanying you. Provide this plan to a trustworthy friend or family member who will not be joining you on the trip. In the event of an emergency, the information within this document can greatly assist search and rescue teams.
It is important to have an emergency plan. This plan should include steps to take if you or your fellow hikers become lost or injured. It is also wise to consider acquiring knowledge of CPR and basic wilderness first aid, particularly if you are planning to hike in remote areas.
- Have a way to communicate. Do not rely on your cell phone because there may not be cellular coverage and reception in your park. Consider having a personal locator beacon, should you need to call for help. If you are using your cell phone, keep the battery fully charged. Searching for a cell signal can quickly drain your phone battery, so consider turning off your phone or switching to airplane mode until you need it.
To ensure you are prepared for changing weather conditions, make sure to check the forecast before starting your hike. If the weather in the park is unfavorable, it is advisable not to continue. It is crucial to be ready to find shelter in case of severe weather and understand the necessary precautions for lightning or flash flooding. Make sure to have your rain gear packed and easily accessible.
Let someone know your plans
When going on a day-hike, inform someone about your whereabouts and the time you plan to return. For a long-distance hike, leave a duplicate of your itinerary and brief your support people about the trail and your logistics. Keep regular check-ins and inform when you anticipate the next check-in. Establish a protocol to follow if you fail to check-in or arrive as expected. Inform someone if you make any changes to your plans; otherwise, unnecessary search efforts may be initiated by concerned family members. Ensure that your contact is aware of your trail name, if applicable, and has information about your equipment.
Always carry current trail maps and know how to use them
When faced with an emergency, it is important to effectively communicate your whereabouts. If you find yourself in a situation where you must quickly depart from the established trail, maps can guide you towards the most suitable route to reach a road, town, or a person who can provide assistance. Certain maps and smartphone apps may only display a limited section of the trail. Therefore, it is advisable for careful hikers and riders to carry maps that encompass a wider area and include nearby starting points of trails. It is crucial to avoid veering off the path and risking getting lost or injured in unfamiliar terrain, as this will only worsen your predicament.
A cell phone or beacon may help in an emergency but they are not guarantees
Once considered controversial, carrying cell phones into the backcountry has now become a common practice. However, it is important to note that having a cell phone does not ensure safety and should not be used as an excuse for inadequate planning.
There are numerous accounts of individuals being rescued on trails after they called for assistance using either their cell phones or satellite devices. As time goes on, search and rescue personnel are increasingly recommending the carrying of a personal locator beacon or PLB. In the wilderness, there are several satellite-based communication technologies available, with some specifically built for contacting emergency services. While SPOT units are popular, they are not the sole choice. PLBs are regarded as the most dependable option for obtaining assistance.
However, it is still crucial to trust your instincts and abilities instead of relying solely on technology. This is because devices can malfunction, batteries can run out, and electronics can create a misleading sense of safety, causing individuals to exceed their actual capabilities by assuming that assistance is readily available.
Be mentally prepared for the risks you may encounter
If you come across a problem, it is unlikely that there will be a law enforcement officer or ranger nearby, and your cell phone might not have signal. Plan and strategize in advance for potential situations and determine your possible actions. Develop reliance on your instincts and be equipped to take immediate action.
Carrying firearms is generally discouraged
Firearms could be used against you or lead to accidental shootings, and they are additional weight that many hikers deem unnecessary. Horseback riders might consider carrying firearms to euthanize injured or sick animals.
The possession and utilization of a defensive weapon come with significant responsibility and the possibility of consequences. One must make additional efforts to comply with local ordinances and the regulations set by private-property owners. While traversing the trail that spans across three states and over 100 state, federal, or local agency lands, each with their individual regulations, it is your duty to be aware of and adhere to these rules. The laws concerning the carriage of nonlethal weapons, like pepper spray, can vary from state to state. A whistle can potentially deter both human and animal threats and can also serve as a means to alert others in the vicinity to your location.
Use the trail and registers
If an event occurs or if there is a necessity to locate you during a family emergency, your register entries might assist others in finding you. However, it is important to note that these entries are not primarily designed for this purpose, as they typically lack organization and cannot serve as a replacement for providing your itinerary and maintaining communication with your designated support person.
If you step off the trail, you will enter the wilderness and if an accident occurs, it is possible that you will not be discovered.
