How to Plan a Day Hike

Everyone knows that planning an extended hiking trip takes forethought and coordination to ensure a safe and pleasurable outing. But day hikes can pose challenges, too, even to experienced hikers. In addition to appropriate gear, planning a safe and successful day hike calls for an understanding of changing weather patterns, the terrain, and the fitness and experience level of the participating hikers.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Comfortable hiking shoes and socks
• Backpack with a compass, a safety whistle and other first aid emergency supplies
• Water
• High-energy snacks
• Cell phone
• Trekking poles (optional)

1. Consider the fitness level and experience of the climbers with whom you plan to hike, and select a trail accordingly. The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) ranks trails according difficulty. So, for example, if you'll have children or hikers who are inexperienced, physically unfit or who have physical limitations, you would want to select a trail for a day hike that the AMC ranks appropriate for beginners. If you'll be hiking with a group of well-conditioned, experienced athletes, you can select a trail ranked advanced.

2. Check the weather forecast for both the base and the peak of the mountain on which you plan to do your day hike. Sunny and 70s in the valley could very well be sleeting and 40s at the peak--or worse. Also, remember that weather conditions can change abruptly and unexpectedly during a day hike, so be prepared with the appropriate gear.

3. Verify the trail conditions before you set out on your day hike. Trail maintenance is an ongoing effort by public and private groups. Weather conditions erode trails and alter the terrain, so make sure the trail you have selected for your day hike is open, accessible and safe before you start your hike.

4. Dress according to the conditions in which you will be hiking. Usually dressing in (or packing) layers is the best strategy to allow for adding or removing clothing according to the varying conditions during your hike. Remember to apply (and pack extra) sunscreen and bug spray. You may also wish to wear sunglasses and a hat with a visor.

5. Plan for emergencies. Many a day hiker has been imperiled because he underestimated the risks inherent in any hike, be it a day hike or an overnight wilderness trek. Each hiker should pack enough water and high energy trail foods for herself, a whistle and an emergency blanket. In addition, at least one member of your hiking group should pack a map of the area in which you'll be hiking, a compass and a basic first aid kit. While it never hurts to carry a cell phone, you can't be guaranteed of a signal, so don't rely on technology to bail you out of a dangerous situation.

6. Calculate how long the day hike should take. Begin your hike early enough in the day to allow you to complete the full circuit well before nightfall, leaving enough time to stop for rest and relaxation along the way.

7. Notify friends, family and, if one is on duty, a park ranger of your plans. Tell them what time you plan to leave on your day hike and what time you plan to return. You should also inform them of your planned route. When you return from your hike, check in with the people you notified so they know you are safe.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're not used to hiking, make your first few hikes short to help get your body in condition for longer hikes.
• Maintain awareness of your surroundings so you don't get lost.
• Do not deviate from your route. If you or a member of your hiking party is injured or lost, you'll stand a much better chance of rescue if you are on or near the route the rescuers expect you to have taken.
• Don't hike alone. It's best to go with a hiking buddy or a group. If you must go alone, share your plan in advance with a park ranger or friend with whom you check in upon your safe return. Things can go wrong even if you're an experienced hiker. If you don't return on schedule, safety officials will be notified.
• Make sure you break in new hiking footwear before you hit the trail. Failing to do so will likely result in blistering, which, as you favor the sore foot or feet on the trail, could lead to falls and worse injuries.

Who Can Help:

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Resources

• The Appalachian Mountain Club provides tools to plan day hikes and more.