WILDERNESS TIPS
Tip #1:
Be prepared for weather changes. This preparation can be both physical and
mental. Bring rainproof clothing and be sure to carry it in your day pack
always. Even if the day looks clear in the morning, afternoon thunder showers
have a way of materializing out of thin air. Mentally, you should be prepared
to experience life amid the elements. Rain, and even snow, are not uncommon
in any mountain environment. That doesn't have to mean the trip is ruined.
Some of the best hiking is on cool, bug-free, dustless days when the mist
moves up and down the mountains, and the streams are cascading through the
forest. Throw in a couple extra plastic garbage bags and you'll find
a use for them on damper days.
Tip #2:
Dressing for success in the backcountry means having layers of clothing that
will keep you warm and dry should the weather turn cool. I highly recommend
polypropylene or silk long underwear. These fabrics have the ability to "wick"
moisture away from your skin. In this way they prevent you from getting chilled
as the moisture evaporates, and allow you to stay warm while hiking in cooler
weather. Polypropylene is sold in several different weights and sometimes
with another fabric in a "duofold" garment, using wool or cotton as the outer
layer. These fabrics are lightweight, fold into nothing in your pack.
Tip #3:
Don't forsake comfort for style. Hiking in jeans can be hot in warm weather
and a disaster in rain if they get wet (and cold and heavy). For Winter hiking
especially, please do not wear jeans as they are cold and provide no shelter
to your legs against wind and rain. You may want to wear a comfortable
pair of sweatpants or nylon jogging pants as an alternative.
Tip #4:
Blisters! To avoid them, make sure your boots are well broken in. Light-weight
hiking boots have a definite advantage -- they quickly become comfortable
mile in and mile out. If you know you have some perennial problem areas with
your boots, be sure to carry a Spenco® Blister kit in your day pack.
The minute you feel a "hot spot" on your foot, STOP and take care of the
problem. Many hikers find that wearing a thin pair of liner socks inside their
heavier wool pair reduces friction on their feet. For water crossing
we recommend water proof NOT water resistance hiking boots. Please
no dress shoes, flip-flops, or open back shoes for hiking.
Tip #5:
LADIES ONLY: Panty liners are the way to go in the woods, obviating the need
for excess toilet paper during quick trail side pit stops. We carry
our "bathroom bag" equipped with wet-wipes, toilet paper, disposal bags,
and shovel. As you can see, when nature calls you can really commune
with nature! Quite nice and peaceful actually. Some of our trailheads
are in close proximity to campgrounds.
All rights reserved