RESEARCH
BE ORGANIZED:
- Start by making sure you won't get lost. Print maps, download offline directions, and check trail sites for the beta of where you're going.
- Consult local guidebooks if you can - there are many area secrets and knowledge that never graces the internet.
- Check the weather to know what type of gear to bring (and don't forget those nighttime temperatures for overnights)
- Charge your gadgets and throw a external charger in your pack just in case
- Realize your plans can always go out the window - familiarize yourself with nearby options in case something gets in the way
- Scour the location tags on social media for where you're going for up-to-date conditions - often the next best thing to a webcam!
- Service your vehicle and remind yourself where the jack is - don't let car trouble steer your adventure into the ditch.
BE SPONTANEOUS:
- Consult apps like Mountain Project or Trailforks for nearby route options and information - then toss a coin and go!
- Try a service likeĀ Pack Up and GoĀ for a preplanned trip without any worries
- Switch it up - if you're always the planner of your friend group, let someone else figure out the details for a change. Go with the flow and try someone else's style of adventure - and remember to relax!
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PACKING
BE ORGANIZED:
- Packing cubes are your best friend: keeping clothes, food, underwear, dirty laundry, etc separated prevents the need to turn your backpack inside out to find your lighter.
- First aid kits are a must, no matter how simple the excursion. Sometimes epic injuries happen in the most mundane places.
- Estimate how many meals you'll need and what ingredients you'll need to make them.
- Use a checklist every time you go out: add commonly forgotten items (stove fuel, gloves, headlamp) to save yourself the worry next time.
- Always be prepared to spend the night, even if you don't plan to. Have emergency tools ready and know how to use them (practice in the backyard!)
- Extra snacks, socks, and first aid goodies are always worth the weight.Ā
BE SPONTANEOUS:
- Keep a bug-out bag in your car or office, to grab and go when adventure strikes
- Pack multi-sport gear on trips where you don't have to pack light - you never know when you'll come across the perfect crag or amazing hammock spot.
- Pack a variety of food options to suit your trail fancy - try newĀ recipesĀ instead of slogging down the same dehydrated beans every trip
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ON THE TRAILĀ
BE ORGANIZED:
- Always have a weather back up plan - the mountains are unforgiving. Use your layers, find shelter if needed, and cover your pack to keep your things dry.
- Hike with buddies, agree on a route and turnaround time before leaving.
- Communicate any safety concerns or worries with your group and leave your trip plan with someone back home with as many details as you can.
BE SPONTANEOUS:
- Try side trails and viewpoints that veer off your main road or trail - you've prepared enough to get yourself back to the trail and you never know what you might find!
- Don't panic if unexpected circumstances block your original plan - you can still have fun doing your second choice adventure. You can always try a new trail, do an out-and-back instead of a loop, or sleep in the car instead of your rained out tent.
- Invest in a satellite phone to keep in touch if plans change or if anything unexpected comes up so you aren't stuck out of service with worried folks back home.
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We can all be a little more spontaneous or a little more organized in all aspects of our lives. With the right balance we can be safe, enjoy the outdoors, and have a lot of fun. Because that's what it's all about, right?