On trail, the hiker has no control of conditions he/she will encounter. Consider erosion, wet, mud, steep, snow, and exposed rock, and root, as the most common conditions you may face. Consider the following when trail is not ideal.
- Step between, not on rocks/roots
- Step beside loose rocks
- Crossing solid rock: step on natural creases/ledges in the rock for traction; use poles for stability
- Step up: Adjust poles, plant ahead to next level, pull body to poles, continue to push body past poles, repeat: get in a rythm
- Step down: Plant poles ahead to next level, lean forward, allow poles to take much of body weight while stepping down just beyond poles; repeat, get in a rythm
- Never step on wet logs, branches, or water bars
- Take most direct route through mud/standing water (do not cut new trail)
- Approach snowfields w/caution: Continue through field using poles for balance. Step in premade footholds or make steps w/boots sideway
- If trail splits (left/right of tree or boulder) take side most traveled
- Deeply eroded trailbed: Stay on original trail. (do not cut new trail).
Methods described are based on common sense and consideration for the natural environment we all enjoy. A hiker is bound to remember, he/she is only a visitor to the back country. The natural state of our world will be there for future generations only if we give it our utmost respect every time we visit it.
It is all about The Journey!
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