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Know Your Limits When Hiking

Most of us live our lives in the world made by man, but there is a vast and colorful natural world you can see first hand while hiking. We live close enough to nature that we can go a relatively short distance and step backwards into time to experience the world as it was. Whether you decide to rough it or go on an organized hiking adventure with guides, it is always a good idea to take someone who knows the area, understands the indigenous wild life, and can get you back to civilization safely.

Camelbak MULE Hydration Backpack

Camelbak MULE Hydration Backpack has a mesh harness which enhances ventilation.

See more backpacks from Rocky Mountain Trail.

When you plan a hike, it is important to know your limits:

• Are you directionally impaired?
• Are you experienced at hiking?
• Are you familiar with the hiking territory, or are you exploring new territory?

These things are all very important and your safety depends on you being prepared. Hikes can be short and sweet, beginning and ending at your automobile, with your day ending in your own comfortable bed. Hiking can be complex, lasting extended periods of time, requiring camping and eating on the trail. This type of hiking requires careful planning while being brutally honest about your abilities.

Please consider the following when planning your hiking trip:

Find Hiking Partners

You should never go on any extensive hiking trips alone. It is important, even for short, familiar hiking, that you have a partner, a cell phone, and that a responsible individual knows your itinerary, knows when you will check in, and knows the trail you plan on hiking. If something does happen to you while hiking, someone will know where to look in case of an emergency.

Plan Ahead

Most experienced hikers have a check list, and they follow it diligently. Some even suggest keeping the hiking lists, making notes, and using them as references when planning future hikes so that you can avoid mistakes you may have made previously, and refresh your memory from one hike to the next.

Get Permission to Hike

If you are hiking on a managed trail, check with the agency that manages the trails you'll be using. If permits are required, you might need to apply in advance.

Other Questions You Shoud Ask

• What are the weather and climate conditions likely to be?
• Is there any particular gear you will need?
• Are there any seasonal considerations you need to be aware of?

Decide who will bring what to eliminate carrying extra gear you don’t need and check with your partner regarding sharing gear: you don't both need an army knife, stove, tent, first aid kit, and water filter — so this is a great opportunity to shed some weight.

If you haven't been hiking in a while, it's a good idea to take a few walks wearing your boots. It'll help you toughen your feet — and avoid blisters on the trail -- ouch!

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