More people than ever are trying out multi-day hikes. It is exciting to face the elements and immerse yourself in nature.
The Caribbean for Less Than You Think
Up to 65% off + a resort credit + a free night at select Sandals resorts. 8 islands. 17 resorts. All-inclusive everything. See the deals →
We hear stories every year of hikers getting lost in the wilderness. Extreme heat and heavy snow are no exception. While it is true you can hope that rescue crews find you, it is best to have the skills and knowledge to stay alive in the case that they do not find you, or in the case that you do not get lost at all.
Bring the Right Equipment
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
Hiking is different based on the trails that you choose. Before you go on your hike, make sure to plan for what kind of equipment and food you will need.
As an example, when going on a hike overnight hike in the snow, you need to be certain that you have enough warmth for the night and that you have a portable gas stove for cooking warm meals.
Most hiking preparedness guides suggest that you carry an external charger for your cellphone, a radio for calling assistance (if needed), and an area map.
Tell Someone Where You’re Going
Image Credit: Depositphotos.
Let a friend or family member know about the trail you are hiking and the time you expect to return. It will help them contact a rescue team if you don’t return by the agreed time.
We can get really busy in life and end up losing contact with family and friends. Make sure someone knows your routine so they won’t think something is wrong if they try to reach you and you are unavailable.
Stay Calm
Image credits go to Depositphotos.
Always staying calm is the best choice if you have lost your trail and don’t know your precise whereabouts. stay calm
It’s common to make mistakes when feeling frantic. You might walk in the wrong direction, or make yourself so anxious that you have a panic attack.
By keeping your cool, you can likely look back and follow your trail back to a walking path. If you can’t, you’ll need to remain calm and attempt to reach a rescue team using your cell phone or radio.
Follow the STOP Rule
Photo Credit: Depositphotos.
If you’ve determined that you’re lost, the best approach is to follow the stop, think, observe, and plan (STOP) rule, experts say.
Stop – When you notice that you are lost, stop, remain calm, and stay where you are. If you keep moving in the wrong direction, you will be more lost and in a worse situation.
Reflect on your journey. What ‘landmarks’ have you passed? Where do you see yourself headed? What about right now?
Observe – Try to consider what is around you, possible reference points, perhaps a route back to the trail. Also, observe the position of the sun and estimate your time until sunset.
Plan – Stay where you are until you come up with a plan. If you can come up with a safe method for starting to walk back to the trail, do that. If you can’t, consider how to reach out to a rescue team.
Create a Warm Shelter
Image Source: Depositphotos.
When you realize you will be stranded in one place for the night, it is best to build a shelter to stay warm.
You could collect enough wood or branches to build a bed to keep you off the cold ground. You could also build a fire to keep warm, and to help rescuers potentially see you from above.
The 16 Best National Parks to Visit in June For Summer Fun
Whether you want to see Lassen Volcanic National Park’s stunning displays of wildflowers, or want to go world-class whitewater rafting at New River Gorge National Park, or something else entirely, this guide has tips to help establish your ideal national park adventure this June! Explore our guide for the best tips to make the most of your national park experience this June, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities!
6 National Parks To Avoid This Summer (And The Alternatives)
Photo Credit: Depositphotos.
Are you planning a summer trip to a national park? Do you want to avoid the crowds? This is the best article for you. This article tells you which popular national parks to avoid and suggests six alternate national parks with unique experiences instead. If you would like to enjoy rugged peaks and clear lakes, North Cascades National Park is for you. If you want to see the rocks and learn about the different eras of the earth’s crust (like the intro to geology), then you should check out Capitol Reef National Park. All the outdoor adventures you could want for this summer are just waiting to be discovered in this article.
Best 16 Utah Vacation Spots
Depositphotos is credited for the image.
If you’re searching for a place to take a vacation that has beauty like no other, try visiting Utah. It has the National Parks of Zion and Bryce Canyon. You can also see the unique destinations of Dead Horse Point and the Homestead Crater. This article contains recommendations and insider tips for the best places to visit in Utah for skiing, hiking, and soaking in hot springs. Get the chance to visit an incredible playground for the outdoors!
5 Waterfalls in Zion National Park For A Fabulous Day Out
Photo by: Depositphotos.
Are you looking for an outdoor adventure that will take your breath away? Absolutely Zion National Park in Southwestern Utah is the place for you! In this article I will describe the park’s incredible waterfalls like the Archangel Falls and the tougher Upper Emerald Pools. I will also compliment other natural wonders such as Great White Throne and Court of the Patriarchs. Dive in with me as I explore the vast landscape of Utah and all of its beauty!
