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RESOURCES

TO HELP YOU IN THE BACKCOUNTRY

COMMON BACKCOUNTRY MISTAKES

Here are some of the common mistakes that people make when traveling in the backcountry

With proper planning, preparation, and prevention, these mistakes and their consequences can be avoided

Regardless of experience level, no one is immune from getting lost, stranded, injured, or worse while recreating or working in a wilderness environment

Backcountry Mistakes

NOT TELLING SOMEONE WHERE YOU ARE GOING

Give someone you trust a written copy of your trip plan. This plan should include:

  • Your estimated time of departure

  • The names, addresses, and phone numbers of all group members

  • Any relevant medical conditions

  • Your vehicle's make, model, and license number

  • Your expected route of travel, trail head information, and camp sites.

  • Your final destination and expected time of return.

NOT PACKING THE 10 ESSENTIALS

  1. Flashlight: plus extra batteries

  2. Fire: lighter, waterproof matches, tinder, or stove

  3. Knife: and/or multitool

  4. Navigation: map, compass, GPS, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger

  5. Shelter: emergency blanket and/or bivy

  6. First Aid Kit: including a tick kit, foot care, and insect repellent

  7. Extra Water

  8. Extra Food

  9. Extra Clothing

  10. Sun Protection

SEPARATING FROM THE GROUP

Always start as a group, hike as a group, and end as a group

The group should stay within conversation distance of each other. This will help everyone stay close together

If you are faster than others in your group, be a friend and slow down for the safety of everyone. The slowest person should lead and set the pace. Be patient! You will get there

HIKING ALONE

Always go with a group

There is safety in numbers

NOT DRESSING PROPERLY

Be prepared for the worst kind of weather possible for the time of year in the area you are going to be in or traveling through

Avoid cotton clothing. When it gets wet it will be very slow to dry and it will no longer keep you warm when you need it

Use wool, or a synthetic material instead

NOT TURNING BACK

There are many things that will cause you and the group to turn back. Not making this decision to turn back can jeopardize your life or the life of others in your group. Avoid Summit Fever!

LINKS

WEATHER FORECAST

The Weather Network

TRAILS OF HOPE

Hope, Cascades and Canyons

TRIP PLANNING

Adventure Smart Trip Plan

AVALANCHE FORECAST

Avalanche Canada

Links
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