Hitting The Trail

Make sure someone else knows where you are going and when you will be back. It doesn't hurt to leave a note in your car at the trailhead with your plans and the time you left. That really helps search and rescue if something happens.

Plan the hike, know roughly how long it is going to take. You don't want to be hiking out in the dark. Start early, it is a great time to walk especially if you have a large elevation gain.

Have a turn around time in mind and stick to it.

Pace your hike, a leisurely hike is much more enjoyable.

Drink plenty of water, stop when you get thirsty and it helps to have a drink before a long climb. Water is heavy to carry but necessary on most hikes.

Keep the energy coming, eat an energy bar or snack on gorp as you go along. Sweets will give you that instant burst that you will use on the trail. Relax, your burning them off quicker then you can eat em.

Stop when the slowest member of the hike needs to. Don't make them have to ask. Happy hikers make better companions. Every hike doesn't have to be a race to the finish line does it? I know sometimes it does.

Make sure you have rain gear, just in case. This is the Northwest...

Don't forget to bring a camera to save that hike.

Crossing Streams safely...

Stop at streams to take a moment to rest. Check out the situation prior to crossing. There is most likely an easy way and a hard way to cross. In the summer it isn't too big of a problem but you never know unless you stop and think.

That clear mountain (icy cold) stream might look 2 feet deep and actually be 5 feet deep. Not to mention very slippery.

If you have to wade across, it is usually a good idea to take off your socks. Put your boots back on and cross then put your socks back on.Also a walking stick is helpful in crossing.

Take your pack straps off, if you fall in you don't want the pack pulling you under. Just hang it over your shoulder.

An extra dry pair of socks is handy if you have multiple water crossings.

After crossing, be aware of the hypothermia danger.

Hiking in the Rain...

Goretex gear is a god send. But you can survive with just a small poncho. Make sure and dress in layers, you will have to change clothes as you warm up and start to sweat. Try and keep your feet dry to prevent blisters.

Keep hypothermia in mind, wind and rain can turn even a 60 degree day into a dangerous condition. Stay aware of symptoms in other people, you rarely notice your own condition. Stop and build a fire if necessary. And put on dry clothing.

I have had some of the best hikes in the rain. Nothing like turning a corner on a trail and seeing deer right on the trail. And it is definitely great for reducing the crowds on a busy trail.

Just a few ideas to help you on the trail. Get a good trail book to bring with you on your hikes. They really do add to the experience.

Have a great hike.