About Backcountry Hiking

Hikers who are entering the backcountry for a day can travel light since they do not have to worry about cooking. Instead, they can carry lightweight and nourishing items such as dried fruit and energy food.

One should always be prepared for sudden changes of weather when they hike into the wilderness of our national forests and national parks. Weather forecasts for the surrounding areas may not be accurate for the backcountry, especially if the area is mountainous.

Backcountry hikers should always carry extra water, food, a map, compass, waterproof matches, a first aid kit and extra clothing. Training in wilderness survival and knowing emergency first aid is highly advised.

Hiking in the backcountry to collect wild herbs or plants is not a good practice because many of these plants are scarce and the number of hikers visiting the wilderness areas is increasing. Also, the practice of collecting plants is actually forbidden in many areas. And there's the possibility that some plants will be poisonous.

It is always a good idea to have a hiking partner when traveling in the wilderness. Sometimes, bad decisions are made by solo travelers and also if one hiker is injured, then the other is available to render first aid and to get help, if necessary.