Heigh ho, up the trail we go

As the weather warms up, precautions must be taken when going hiking

According to statista.com, from 2009-2013, hiking was the fifth most popular outdoor activity. As more Americans become interested in hiking, many aspects of the activity need to be evaluated before going out on the trails.

While hiking is often a safe and fun activity for people to enjoy, hiking is also very strenuous and can lead to serious issues if hikers are not careful along the trails. In light of the many recent accidents in Lynchburg and the surrounding areas, hikers must remember how dangerous it can be and to follow hiking safety procedures while enjoying the fun time and great views.

ADVENTURE — Students have enjoyed hiking to see the sunrise. Photo credit: Leah Seavers

ADVENTURE — Students have enjoyed hiking to see the sunrise. Photo credit: Leah Seavers

“I think one of the biggest things even before you get out on the trail is that you need to prepare,” Lynchburg Parks and Recreation Chief Naturalist Debbie Hoffbeck said. “If you are not prepared, you are going to run into trouble.”

Whether hikers are hiking for a day or making a weekend trip of it, being unprepared for anything to happen is a hiker’s weakness. While hiking for a day does not require many supplies, knowing the area and what to bring is important.

“First of all, research the area that you are going to,” Hoffbeck said. “That means looking at trail maps, having a trip planned with someone knowing where you are, who you are with, (and) what time you are going, and letting those people know when you are back. Also, for preparation, make sure you are taking the things that you need to take with you.”

Hoffbeck said that for any hike, hikers should have their backpack, plenty of water, high-energy snacks and some type of first aid kit for any accidents that could happen. She also recommended taking a bright piece of clothing or cloth for the hike.

Hikers should not hike unless there are proper weather conditions. They need to stay updated on the weather conditions before setting onto the trail, or they could be caught unprepared. Wearing the right clothing while hiking is another important task.

“The weather can change in a heartbeat,” Hoffbeck said. “I always tell the hikers to not wear cotton because cotton gets wet, and it’s going to retain moisture, causing the hiker to get chilled on a 65-degree day. When your clothes get wet, that can cause hypothermia. I recommend layers, synthetics, and having rain gear. If you have all of those things, I would say you are off to a great start.”

Hikers know it can be dangerous to hike alone, but hikers in groups need to remember to have everyone in their group present. Hikers should stay together at all times in order to make sure of everyone’s safety.

“I always recommend that everyone stay with their group,” Hoffbeck said. “Everyone should be in sight of each other and know where everyone is going.”

Hikers in groups also need to make sure they are walking at a decent speed for everyone to keep up with in their group. Not all hikers are as experienced as others or have the same stamina.

“I think another great thing is to pace yourself,” Hoffbeck said. “I don’t know if you’ve ever gone out with groups (where) some people are running way ahead of everybody and leaving the rest of the group behind. Well now, if something happens, like an emergency, no one even knows.”

Hoffbeck also said new hikers should be careful when they first hike, and they need to start at an easy pace. She said it is not wise for new hikers to do a 10-mile long trail with a heavy backpack.
If hikers are unfamiliar with the area surrounding the trail, they are prone to getting lost. If hikers know what to do, they can be found.

“Make a hiking plan with someone because they know where you are supposed to be,” Hoffbeck said. “That is where they are going to start looking for you if they do have to send out a search and rescue team for you.”

She said hikers also need to be aware of trail markers that tell them where to go, as getting off of the trail can bring harm to both the hiker and the trail.

While hiking can be a great outdoor activity for people to enjoy, hikers need to remember to stay safe and to keep everyone else in their group safe. For more information on hiking, hiking safety or hiking clubs in the area, visit nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/safety.htm or nbatc.org/clubcontacts.htm.

Robertson is a news reporter.

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