Helpful Hints for Day Hiking |
| Just getting started in the outdoors? Even expert hikers enjoy a day hike from time to time--ranging from a few hours to a full day on mild to moderate terrain. Dayhiking can be one of the easiest and most quickly rewarding ways for you and your family to enjoy your time in state or national parks and many other outdoor locales, especially if you follow these simple guidelines: |
| Acquaint yourself with the area and its trails ahead of time so you can set a reasonable timetable. Many guidebooks give time estimates for trails. |
| To save fuel and avoid the nuisance of shuttling cars, plan hikes that begin and end at the same parking area. |
| Carry more water than you think you'll need, as much as you can comfortably carry. |
| Fill your canteens before you leave. Backcountry water sources are unpredictable. |
| Carry more food than you think you will need. It's better to take extra snacks home with you than to go hungry on the trail. |
| Store your clothing and food in different colored sacks in your pack so you can find them easily. Put the items you need most frequently, such as your water bottle, guidebook or jacket, at the top of your pack. |
| Weather on the trail can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Layer your garments, and be prepared for severe weather. |
| If you are driving into remote regions, make sure your vehicle is in good running order and top off your gas tank. |
| Start off slow to avoid fatigue partway through your hike. Take frequent breaks. |
| Let the slowest member of your group set the pace. If skill levels are dramatically different, break into groups and meet at agreed-upon locations. |
| Practice low-impact hiking. Carry out whatever you pack in so others can enjoy the surroundings, too. |
| To increase your chance of seeing wildlife, choose less traveled trails and start your hike early in the morning. (When you choose less traveled trails, you also help reduce erosion on overused ones.) |
| Leave your itinerary with someone you trust, and check in with them when you return. |
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L.L. Bean's Outdoor Discovery Program ODP Outdoor Skills School |