1. Planning a Hike

2. What to Pack COMMON SENSE!!!!!! – Good judgment can keep most problems from happening! Proper clothing – Layering! – Shorts and pants – T-shirt, long sleeve shirt, and jacket (wicking layer- cotton chafes) – Hat (wide brim), bandanna – Sunglasses, sunscreen & insect protection!

3. Proper clothing (continued) – Gloves – Socks (cushion feet, wick moisture to prevent blisters…have an extra pair!) – Hiking boots (proper sole to protect foot, snug fit and ankle support!) – Rain Gear!!! Rain Jacket, Pants & Hat Cheap rain poncho!

4. Proper Snacks – Eat throughout the hike! – High energy, compact foods – Trail mix, tuna & crackers, energy bars, jerky – http://www.hikingdude.com/hiking-food-needs.php http://www.hikingdude.com/hiking-food-needs.php WATER!!! – ½-1 cup every 30-45 minutes, even if you’re not thirsty – Bring more than you will need! – Filtration systems (just in case)

5. Basic First-aid kit – Band-Aids, tweezers, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, tape, ace bandage. Map & compass/GPS – always a chance you might get lost! Watch (other than cell phone) Flashlight Fire Starter (must be kept dry!)

6. Knife Whistle Trash Bag Camera Photo ID

7. When Time of day – Check the weather ahead of time – Many places have afternoon storms – Avoid hottest & coldest times of the day Time of year – What kind of hike are you looking for (warm/cold) – What do you want to see (plants, wildlife, etc.)

8. Where Research what trail is best for you Different difficulty levels Location (travel time to trailhead) Pets, Bikes, Horses, etc.

9. Hike Plans Trail Information & Location – Distance – Surface & condition – Ownership (private land, national park, etc.) – Best season to hike – Elevation (start, end, change) – Difficulty raiting

10. Date you plan on hiking Times – Leave home – Leave trailhead – Return to trailhead – Return home Weather conditions!

11. Maps – Driving directions to trailhead and time it will take – Trail map showing where you plan on starting and how you will get back Contact info for all parties involved (have a designated hike leader!) Other pertinent information – Are you planning any “pit-stops” along the way – Any other information that is valuable