About Backcountry Hiking
Hiking is a sport enjoyed by many outdoor enthusiasts. Avid hikers are always on the lookout for rough and rigorous terrain to explore. Hiking the backcountry--hiking trails that are far off the beaten path--attracts many hikers. For those who are up to a good challenge, hiking in a backcountry location where there are no hiking trails brings about a sense of accomplishment. Hiking the backcountry requires skill, stamina and, above all, good equipment.
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Function
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Backcountry hiking is a great way for hikers to explore uncharted territory throughout any season or weather condition. Hikers can also test their physical stamina and determination when it come to hiking in backcountry locations in which weather conditions or landscape is dangerous, such as sub zero locations, high temperature areas, dry conditions and areas that are prone to falling rock or ice. Backcountry hiking may also include using trek gear to keep balance when hiking across steep unsteady ground. In some cases, rock-climbing skills may also have to be utilized when coming across steep mountains or terrain.
Time Frame
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Most hikers plan a day trip when they want to get out and explore an area. For many backcountry hikers, the terrain and destination oftentimes is unfamiliar, so it is hard to predict a set time frame as to how long the excursion will last. Bringing along proper hiking gear and first aid supplies will aid in making it a safe trip while assuring that all needed equipment is readily available in case of an emergency, such as an unforeseen illness and even an unexpected landslide or avalanche. Hikers should also have a complete physical a month or so before leaving on a backcountry hiking excursion to ensure that the hiker is in satisfactory health.
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Geography
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Backcountry hiking is typically done in areas that are considered rural or off of the beaten path. Locations where there is dense woods, mountainous terrain and heavy brush are examples of backcountry areas. Vast prairies and desert plains where there are no main roads or service stations are also considered backcountry locations. Some of the most popular locations for backcountry hiking and exploration are the Kodiak region, Talkeetna, Prince William Sound and western regions of remote Alaska. Areas of Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon National Park, Death Valley and Lake Tahoe have miles of backcountry hiking trails. There are also several side trails and off the path trails that are yet to be discovered and explored in many of these locations.
Features
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Backcountry hikers are generally equipped with backpacks to hold survival supplies and first aid items such as water, trail mix and bandages. Hikers also have weather appropriate clothing such as coats, trek gear, parkas, sunglasses, navigation systems, two-way radios, binoculars, watches and maps. Many hikers who also camp carry camping supplies with them as well.
Identification
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Backcountry hikers can be identified by the gear that they carry and the locations in which they walk or hike. Besides backpacks, some hikers can be seen in winter gear, such as snowmobile suits and winter hiking boots, if they are traveling into snow and ice. Some hikers may also pack tents and carry them on their back if they intend on spending the night somewhere while on their backcountry hiking excursion.
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Resources
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