Each year, over 3,600 search and rescue (SAR) operations take place in Colorado alone. These missions often involve hikers who underestimated the challenges of the wilderness. While outdoor adventures can be exhilarating, they can also be risky if you’re unprepared. By following these 44 expert tips, you’ll greatly reduce your chances of needing SAR assistance and ensure you return safely from every trip.
Pre-Trip Planning
Proper planning is crucial for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. Before you set foot on the trail, take the time to prepare thoroughly. This section covers essential pre-trip planning steps that can help prevent emergencies and ensure you’re ready for your outdoor adventure.
1. Research Your Route
Study maps, trail reports, and weather forecasts before heading out. Know the terrain and trail difficulty.
2. Share a Trip Plan
Always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Leave them a detailed itinerary in case something goes wrong.
3. Pack the Ten Essentials
Always bring the 10 essentials (navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first-aid supplies, fire-making tools, repair kit, nutrition, hydration, and emergency shelter).
4. Know Your Limits
Don’t push yourself beyond your physical or technical abilities. Choose a route appropriate for your level of experience and be ready to turn back if required.
5. Check the Weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Ensure conditions are safe and pack for sudden weather shifts. When the forecast deteriorates, consider postponing until conditions improve.
6. Know How to Use a Map and Compass
GPS is great, but don’t rely solely on electronics. Bring a topographic map and compass, and know how to use them.
7. Update Apps & Devices
If using a GPS device like the Garmin InReach or smartphone, ensure your maps, apps, and emergency contacts are up to date.
8. Understand the Season
Know how seasons impact trail conditions, like snow or avalanche risks in winter, high variability in spring and autumn, and afternoon thunderstorms in summer.
9. Train for the Terrain
Practice hiking in the conditions you expect. Train on similar elevations, inclines, and surfaces. Do a few hikes in the foothills before you attempt hiking above 12,000 feet.
10. Check Permit Requirements
Some areas require permits to limit the number of visitors. Failing to obtain one may leave you stranded.
On the Trail
Once you’ve completed your pre-trip planning, it’s time to hit the trail. However, being prepared doesn’t end when you start hiking. This section covers essential tips and practices to follow while you’re on your outdoor adventure. By adhering to these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of getting lost, injured, or encountering other emergencies during your hike.
11. Stick to Marked Trails
Going off-trail increases your risk of getting lost or injured. Stick to known, marked routes and trails whenever possible.
12. Pace Yourself
Overexertion can lead to injury or exhaustion, leaving you vulnerable. Walk at a steady, sustainable pace.
13. Monitor Hydration & Nutrition
Drink water regularly and keep your energy up with frequent, light snacks.
14. Watch for Trail Markers
Keep an eye out for trail markers and cairns to confirm you’re on the right path.
15. Avoid Solo Hiking
If possible, hike with a buddy. This way, you can assist each other in emergencies.
16. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Frequently check your location in relation to landmarks, ridges, or streams.
17. Respect Turnaround Times
Plan a strict time to turn back, even if you haven’t reached your goal, to ensure you return before dark.
18. Mark the Trail If Needed
If you need to step off the trail (e.g., bathroom break), mark the spot clearly so you can find your way back.
19. Regularly Check Your Map
Frequently compare the map to your surroundings to ensure you’re on course.
20. Watch for Changing Conditions
Weather and trail conditions can shift fast. Be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.
Navigation & Communication
Effective navigation and communication are crucial for a safe hiking experience. This section covers essential tools and techniques to help you stay on course and maintain contact with the outside world, even in remote areas. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of getting lost and ensure help is available if needed.
21. Use a Satellite Communicator
In remote areas with no cell service, carry a satellite communicator for emergencies.
22. Download Offline Maps
If using a GPS device or phone app, download maps to access them without cell service.
23. Use Landmarks for Navigation
Identify and remember natural landmarks to help you retrace your steps if necessary.
24. Establish a Check-in Plan
If you have a satellite communicator or cell service, establish regular check-ins with someone back home.
25. Bring a Whistle
A whistle can be heard farther than shouting. Use the international distress signal—three short bursts.
Emergency Preparedness
Being prepared for emergencies is a crucial aspect of hiking safety. This section covers essential items to carry and skills to develop that can help you handle unexpected situations in the wilderness. From first aid to emergency shelters, these tips will help ensure you’re ready for anything nature might throw your way.
26. Carry a First Aid Kit
Include items for treating blisters, cuts, sprains, and other common hiking injuries. For longer trips, bring gear for more significant injuries.
27. Learn Basic First Aid
Take a wilderness first aid course to know how to treat injuries and illnesses in the backcountry.
28. Carry a Multi-tool or Knife
A multi-tool can help with gear repairs, food preparation, or cutting branches for shelter.
29. Bring an Emergency Shelter
Always have an emergency bivy or tarp in case you’re stuck overnight.
30. Keep Extra Layers
Mountains can be cold, even in summer. Always pack an extra layer in case of temperature drops.
31. Know How to Signal for Help
If you need rescue, know how to make a signal fire or use a mirror to catch the attention of rescuers.
32. Practice Leave No Trace
Following Leave No Trace principles reduces accidents and avoids wildlife encounters.
33. Learn Survival Skills
Basic wilderness survival skills—fire-making, water purification, and building shelter—can save your life.
34. Pack Enough Food for 24 Hours
Carry extra food in case your trip takes longer than expected. If you end up needing it, stretch it to last you as long as is necessary.
If You Get Lost or Injured
Despite our best efforts, sometimes things can go wrong on the trail. Getting lost or injured in the wilderness can be a frightening experience, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. This section covers crucial steps to take if you find yourself in a challenging situation. Remember, your actions in these moments can significantly impact your chances of a safe return.
35. Stay Calm
Panic leads to poor decision-making. Take a deep breath and assess your situation.
36. Stop and Assess
If you realize you’re lost, stop moving. Assess your surroundings and try to identify landmarks.
37. Retrace Your Steps
If you’re confident you know the way back to the route or trail, backtrack to the last place you were sure of your location.
38. Stay Put if Lost
If retracing steps doesn’t work, or you aren’t sure which direction to go, stay put to avoid getting more lost. It’s easier for rescuers to find you that way.
39. Call For Help
If you have cell service or a satellite communicator, alert rescuers to your location. If you do not have a cell signal, try climbing to a nearby peak or ridge and try sending a text to 911 – they often work with a very weak signal.
40. Use a Signal
Use a whistle, signal mirror, campfire smoke, or brightly colored gear to signal rescuers.
41. Start a Fire for Warmth
If you’re stuck overnight, gather dry materials and start a small fire to keep warm. Be careful to ensure it does not grow out of control.
42. Conserve Energy
If you must stay in place, avoid unnecessary movement to preserve energy and warmth.
43. Set Up Shelter
Use a tarp, bivy, or natural materials like branches and leaves to create a shelter from the elements.
44. Remain Visible
Spread out brightly colored gear, use a mirror, or start a smoke signal to stay visible to search parties.
Conclusion: Stay Safe!
By diligently implementing these comprehensive tips and strategies, you’ll significantly enhance your safety on the trail and minimize the risk of getting lost or injured during your outdoor adventures. These practices not only help prevent emergencies but also equip you with the knowledge and tools to handle unexpected situations effectively.
Resources
Check out these additional guides and resources to learn more about outdoor safety!
FAQ
Check out these answers to common questions related to outdoor safety and preventative search and rescue.
Q: What are the Ten Essentials for hiking?
A: The Ten Essentials typically include navigation tools, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first-aid supplies, fire starter, repair kit and tools, nutrition, hydration, and emergency shelter. These items are crucial for safety and survival in outdoor adventures.
Q: How do I choose the right hiking boots?
A: When choosing hiking boots, consider factors such as the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on, the duration of your hikes, your foot shape, and the climate. Look for boots with good ankle support, water resistance, and a comfortable fit. It’s best to try on boots at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen.
Q: What should I do if I encounter wildlife on the trail?
A: If you encounter wildlife, remain calm and give the animal plenty of space. Do not approach or feed wild animals. For large predators like bears, make noise to announce your presence and slowly back away. Each animal requires different tactics, (you should make eye contact with mountain lions and wolves, but avoid eye contact with bears), so research the wildlife in your hiking area beforehand.
Q: How can I accurately estimate hiking times?
A: To estimate hiking times, use the general rule of thumb: allow 1 hour for every 3 miles (5 km) of hiking, plus an additional hour for every 2,000 feet (610 m) of elevation gain. However, factors like terrain difficulty, your fitness level, and pack weight can affect your pace.
Q: What's the best way to purify water in the wilderness?
A: There are several effective methods to purify water in the wilderness: boiling, using water filters or purifiers, chemical treatments (like iodine or chlorine dioxide tablets), and UV light devices. Each method has its pros and cons, so choose based on your specific needs and situation.
Q: How do I properly dispose of waste while hiking?
A: To properly dispose of waste while hiking, follow Leave No Trace principles. For human waste, dig a cathole 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources, camp, and trails. Pack out all trash, including toilet paper. Some areas require you to pack out human waste as well, so research local regulations.
Q: What should I do if caught in a thunderstorm while hiking?
A: If caught in a thunderstorm, seek lower ground immediately and avoid tall objects like lone trees or rocky outcrops. Stay away from water bodies and metal objects. If possible, find shelter in a low-lying area or a stand of shorter trees. Crouch down if you’re in an exposed area to minimize your risk of being struck.
Q: How can I improve my navigation skills for hiking?
A: To improve navigation skills, practice using a map and compass regularly, even on familiar trails. Take a navigation course, learn to read topographic maps, and familiarize yourself with natural navigation techniques using the sun, stars, and landscape features. Practice these skills in safe environments before relying on them in remote areas.
