As Mark and I get closer to starting our hiking season, it's occurred to me that it's time for us to brush up on what it means to be a responsible hiker- specifically, leaving no trace in the woods. This is easier said than done, but I've come upon some great information in recent days that begs to be shared.
HikeSafe, it's your responsibility.
HikeSafe is a nonprofit, joint effort between the White Mountain National Forest and New Hampshire Fish and Game. It gives the best ways to be prepared for anything while subjecting yourself to nature's whims and reminds hikers of conduct on and off the trails. This is a must visit for anyone planning on hiking this year, even if you're planning on being gone for just a few hours.
Leave No Trace is an other great site with training opportunities and great reminders on how to maintain wild places while enjoying them. Humans have a huge impact on the world around them- even just walking into the woods has an impact.
For the folks who are looking to blend in, do some nature observation or even become one with the forest and life around you- read any and all Tom Brown novels you can get your hands on. I plan on attending his Tracker School at some point down the road. What a rush that would be!
That's all the time I have for now. It's about the time in the season for people to strap on their hiking boots or trail running shoes and get back to nature. Remember to be prepared: carry a first aid kit of sorts and let people know where you're going and when you'll be back. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Hike Safe everyone!
Best,
Say
1 comment:
kudos to this, as it's a subject that can't be hammered home enough. I wrote a similar article for the original Oxx, a while back, with tips from the AMC.
Also, Tom Brown and Tim Leary might have differing views on how to become one with the forest.
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