Tips for hiking trails

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Mud Dog
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Tips for hiking trails

Post by Mud Dog »

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Planning and prerparation:
• Get as much info as you can in advance about the trail and terrain from the land owner / trail management. Also speak to anyone that has done the trail before.
• What is the distance and how long should it take.
• Consider your level of fitness / physical health.
• Take into consideration time of year ..... how soon it gets dark, weather and temperature conditions.
• How good is the cell phone reception in the area.
• What hazards are there, terrain related, predators and snakes.
• What emergency services are available in the area.

Equipment (keeping in mind bulk and weight)
• Comfortable back pack.
• Suitable and comfortable footwear.
• Waterproof jacket.
• Sunscreen and hat.
• Cell phone.
• Mini first aid kit.
• Route maps if they are available.
• GPS.
• Utility knife.
• Adequate water supply for your group.
• Eats and energy bars.
• Matches / lighter should you need to make a camp fire (even for day outings in case you get lost / stranded).
• Pencil flares.


Confirm with the base camp / land owner what time you should be back at the latest and arrange a RV point if possible.
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Royco
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Re: Tips for hiking trails

Post by Royco »

Excellent list, Andy, thanks.
One thing to add is never think that the weather will remain constant.
We started off hiking in shorts and t-shirts, a very hot day. As we got nearer to the top of the mountain, clouds came over the mountain and we almost froze! Had to turn back.

So I'll add to the list:
• Waterproof jacket and warm clothes. (In any kind of weather.)
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JJBotes
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Re: Tips for hiking trails

Post by JJBotes »

I think that list covers about every thing. I think I need to get Pencil flares.

I always carry a Jerry can with water in the back of the bakkie, and I never leave home without my leatherman,torch and GPS.
:thumbup:
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