The Best Hiking Safety Tips To Get You To The End of The Trail
Whether you’re setting off for a short morning hike or an all-day trek, a little bit of planning can go a long way toward keeping you safe. The trail might look peaceful, but nature has a funny way of surprising you. And while hiking is a great way to unplug and explore, the goal is always to get home in one piece. Here’s the tips that experienced hikers know that you should too.
Tell Someone Where You’re Going
Even if you’re just going for a quick hike, let someone know your plans. Text a friend, leave a note, or tell your neighbor when you expect to be back. If something goes wrong, having someone who knows your route could make all the difference. It’s an easy step that many people forget about, but it could be the thing that saves your life before you even step onto the trail.
Check the Weather Twice
Weather in the mountains or woods can change a lot faster than you think. What starts as a sunny day could turn into rain, wind, or even snow if you’re hiking at higher elevations. Check the forecast the night before and then again the morning of your hike. If there’s even a chance of storms or extreme heat, it’s a good idea to make a backup plan and be ready to cut the hike short and head home early. Nature isn’t always predictable, so it helps to be flexible.
Pack More Water Than You Think You’ll Need
Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially if you’re not sweating a lot or feeling thirsty. Carry more water than you think you’ll need, especially when hiking in dry or high-altitude areas. Even if the trail is short, there’s always a risk of getting lost or stuck for longer than you’ve anticipated. A good rule of thumb is to bring half a liter of water per hour of hiking, and even more if it’s an especially hot or strenuous hike.
Don’t Skip the Map and Compass
Phones are handy, but batteries die, signals drop, and apps glitch. Having a printed map and compass in your bag, and knowing how to use them, is old-school but smart. Trails can look alike, and markers can fade (and aren’t always clear in the first place). It’s comforting to know that even if your GPS fails, you won’t be completely lost. Practice how to read a map and compass at home if you’re rusty, it’s worth the effort.
Dress in Layers, Even If It’s Warm
Temperatures drop fast on the trail once the sun starts to set or the wind picks up. What started as a comfortable hike can turn chilly in a matter of minutes. When getting dressed, start with a breathable shirt, then add a light jacket and something waterproof overtop. Layers let you adjust as you go without getting stuck in clothes that are too hot or too cold. It’s easier to peel layers off than to wish you brought more.
Shoes Make or Break the Trip
If you’ve ever been hiking before, you know that foot pain can ruin a hike faster than anything else. Good hiking boots or trail shoes with proper grippy treads can help prevent slips, twisted ankles, and sore soles. Break in your hiking shoes before a big hike and wear the right socks to avoid blisters. Cheap sneakers might work on pavement, but dirt trails and rocks demand better support for your feet.
Stay on the Trail, Even If It’s Tempting
Taking a shortcut through brush or stepping off-trail to explore a grove might seem harmless, but it’s way easier to get turned around than you think. Trails exist for a reason! They’re marked, and lots of work goes into maintaining them because they’re usually the safest path forward. Staying on trail also protects the plants and animals that live in the area. Just stick to the path and you’ll get where you’re going much more safely.
Keep a Simple First Aid Kit Handy
You don’t need a full ambulance pack, but having a few bandages, pain relievers, tweezers, and antiseptic wipes in your bag can make a big difference. Cuts, scrapes, and bug bites happen more often on hikes than you’d think. A first aid kit doesn’t take up much room and isn’t that heavy, but you’ll be thankful you brought it when you need it.
Pro tip: Toss in some moleskin if you’re blister-prone, it helps a lot!
Learn to Read the Signs of Fatigue
Your body will usually tell you when it’s time to slow down. Sore knees, brain fog, or even feeling clumsy can all be signs you’re pushing too hard. Rest, hydrate, eat something, and reevaluate. It’s better to turn around early and get to somewhere safe than to press on and risk hurting yourself or exhaustion. Safety should always come before pride, especially on longer or unfamiliar hikes.
Watch the Time and Turn Around Early
A lot of hikers plan to reach a certain destination, but forget that the way back will take just as long, or longer. Set a time before you start to hike that you have to turn around at, and stick to it even if you haven’t reached your goal yet. And, take the time the sun will set that day into account. Getting caught in the woods after dark without a headlamp or flashlight can turn into a very dangerous situation very quickly.
Bring Snacks That Actually Fuel You
Pack food that gives your body what it needs: protein, fats, and carbs. Trail mix, jerky, dried fruit, nut butter, and energy bars are great go-to options. Sugary snacks might give you a quick boost but when the sugar crash hits, they’ll leave you dragging. The right fuel will help your brain stay sharp and keep your legs moving, even on the toughest of trails. Plus, nobody want to hike with someone who’s hangry!
Listen to Your Gut
If something feels off, like a storm rolling in, a path that seems sketchy, or an eerie quiet, don’t ignore it. Instincts are there for a reason. You don’t need to justify turning around or changing your route to anyone. Hiking is supposed to be enjoyable, not a test of endurance, and there’s no need to do something you’re not 100% comfortable with. The rule 'better safe than sorry' has never been more true than when you’re out in the wilderness.
Know That Wild Animals Aren’t Out to Get You
Most animals don’t want to mess with humans, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about them entirely. Make noise on the trail to alert bears or snakes of your presence. Don’t feed wildlife, and always keep your food sealed. If you do see something, stay calm and give it space. Getting to know the wildlife in the area where you’re hiking and how to share the space with these animals is one of the best ways to protect yourself and the animals.
Enjoy the Trail Without Rushing the Experience
The best part of hiking isn’t just reaching the end. It’s the fresh air, the quiet nature, and getting to see the incredible views that you’d never see from the road. When you prepare well and pace yourself, you’re more likely to worry less and notice more of the small joys along the way. The goal is always to stay safe so that you can make it to the end of the trail, and keep hiking for many years to come.