If you've followed Survival of the Fittest, you know how to dress for cold weather and how to set up a camp that can protect you in a winter storm. But pay attention: hypothermia, a gradual cooling of your body, can kill. Know the symptoms, how to avoid it and what to do if someone in your group develops it.

The early symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, pale or blue-gray skin, and what the Mayo clinic staff call the "-umbles:" stumbles, mumbles, fumbles, and grumbles. The grumbling may appear as indifference to what's going on, and the mumbling can also appear as slurred speech. Difficulties with movement and balance are the stumbling part, and can also appear when numbed fingers fumble with tasks like pulling up a zipper. Later symptoms include confusion, slowing of breathing and pulse, muscle stiffness, extreme fatigue and loss of consciousness.

Most people assume that hypothermia occurs only when the temperatures are below freezing. That's a myth. If the weather is cool and cloudy, and you get soaked with rain and don't get into dry clothes and a warm place, you can get hypothermia. Cold water is another common cause of hypothermia. Depending on the temperature of the water, it can take several hours or just minutes of exposure to develop hypothermia.

Preventive measures include layering your clothing; wear a thin pair of gloves inside your regular gloves and double up your socks. Keep your head and ears covered with a hat or headband. Avoid too much exertion; evaporating sweat can make you much colder. If you swim in a mountain lake, make sure it's not too cold and don't stay in too long.

If someone is wet or cold and showing signs of hypothermia, get them back to camp immediately. Strip all the wet clothing and leave it outside the tent. Dress them in warm, dry clothing or wrap them in a sleeping bag, and warm their feet with dry wool socks or primaloft or down booties. Heat stones in a campfire, wrap them in fabric, and bring them inside to help warm the cold person. Provide plenty of hot liquids to warm the victim from the inside. Get the victim of hypothermia out of the cold and back to a better shelter, and apply medical care if needed, as quickly as possible.

Enjoy winter sports and mountain lakes, but make sure you can survive hypothermia.

(Sources: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hypothermia/DS00333 , http://firstaid.webmd.com/tc/hypothermia-and-cold-temperature-exposure-topic-overview, http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fitness/HQ01681 )

For many of us, the word "Niagara" is synonymous with "big". You've got Niagara Falls, of course, but the mountain climbers among us will be more impressed with Niagara Peak. It might not be the highest point in the country, but it's nothing to sneeze at.

This 13er (13,786 feet, to be exact) is located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, not far from several other ambitious summits. The triangular shape of Niagara Peak combined with the beautiful view climbers enjoy at the top make it a pleasurable climb as well as technical.

Both the approach and the face of Niagara Peak are rocky and pitted, making for slow climbing if you aren't used to the terrain. A pair of sturdy hiking boots with high ankles for extra support and a set of thick gloves are absolutely essential for this climb.

Additionally, make sure you check the weather before you attempt to climb Niagara Peak. The weather here is unpredictable, offering snowfall and rain on the unlikeliest of days. The last thing you want is to get stuck on the side of a treacherous mountain with thunder ringing in your ears.

The great thing about climbing Niagara Peak, however, is that you're within close proximity of several other summits. For example, many expert climbers traverse both Niagara Peak and Jones Mountain on the same hike. There are also a few unnamed peaks in the vicinity that you might want to try if you're feeling adventurous.

There are two basic approaches to Niagara Peak. The most difficult is to approach via the saddle between Niagara and Jones, which is marked by heavy tundra and often difficult to cross in the early winter. However, you can also approach on the northeast side directly opposite Jones, which offers a sheer face but less brush on the ground to deal with.

In addition to the amazing climb offered at Niagara Peak, there is also some beautiful hiking to be done in this region. Abandoned mines, beautiful woods and a few scattered streams and ponds make for lots of wildlife, and you can easily spend an entire week exploring on foot or horseback.

The experienced wilderness survivor knows the joys of winter camping, like silence and solitude. You already know how to dress; next, is to prepare for a winter storm. A winter storm can come out of nowhere in the mountains. So, let's set up your base camp so it's storm-ready.

Make your camp in a sheltered spot, like the down-wind side of a group of trees. Check them for dead branches and pull down any you find. Trample the base for your tent wearing your snowshoes or skis; make it as level as possible.

Start with an insulating footprint for your tent. The best tents are shaped to shed snow, like a dome tent., and also provide plenty of space. A tent fly can keep your tent walls freezing. Erect the tent on the footprint with the entrance away from the prevailing wind. Build a packed snow wall three to four feet high and a foot away from your tent walls along the back and around the sides to the entrance as a windbreak and for extra insulation.

Place a tarp or space blanket, like the one inside your first aid kit, on the tent floor for more insulation. Keep a brush just outside your tent (or in the vestibule) to knock off any snow on your clothes and boots, and keep it outside your tent. Use warm sleeping pads under a good winter sleeping bag like this one from Sierra Designs that's good to 30 degrees. Sleep in your baselayer top and bottom, and bring your outer clothes inside your sleeping bag to warm up before you put them on. Wear a hat or balaclava for warmth while you sleep as well as when you're outside, and make sure you're breathing outside your sleeping bag to avoid humidity building up.

Use your stove to cook and to melt snow; keep waterbottles upside down. Cook outside your tent; fuel fumes can be deadly. Eat plenty of carbohydrates, and make warm drinks throughout the day to help keep your core warm and to avoid dehydration.

Now that you've set up a storm-sturdy camp, your next big danger is hypothermia.

( Sources: http://www.princeton.edu/~oa/winter/wintcamp.shtml#Winter%20Shelters, http://www.backpacking.net/wintertips.html, http://www.eHow.com/how_2136526_winter_tent_platform.html )

Last week our very own Bill J. from the merchandising department took us on an outdoor adventure. We knew there would be some off-roading involved so we delightfully accepted his invitation to enjoy some awesome four-wheeling fun, and we actually learned something at the same time. In this installment of "Enjoying the Outdoors", Bill J. shows us how to shoot a bearing with a map of the area, a compass and a plastic ice chest.

One of the most important things to take with you into the wild, if not the most important, is water. You can survive for days or even weeks without food. Without water, you may not even make it two days.

Make sure you're completely hydrated before you start your trek or ride. Our bodies aren't very good at letting us know when we need water; in fact, by the time you feel thirsty, you're already dehydrated, so drink while water is available. If you note symptoms of dehydration, like confusion, weakness and a general slowing, rest in the shade and drink.

Carry a day pack that holds up to 3 liters but be aware that amount won't last you much more than half a day if you're exerting yourself in an arid environment. Consider carrying a hip pack below your backpack for longer trips and plan your trip around water sources, which are usually marked on USGS maps.

If your trek is planned for several days, you won't be able to carry enough water with you. Add things like water purification tablets and a good filter to your pack. Most available hydration packs have PureFlow TM technology, but while that may take care of most "common bacteria and fungi," it won't help with the Giardia and other parasites found in outdoor water supplies. A purification tablet in a liter bottle of water from a stream should take care of those.

If you can't find a stream, look for trees and a dry streambed near them. Carry a collapsible shovel in your pack and dig into the streambed; you'll probably find water less than 12 inches down. No trees? Look for succulents, like prickly pear cactus or agave. A multi-blade knife allows you a variety of tools to cut off pieces of these plants, pull out spines and peel off the skin, so you can suck the moisture from the interior of the plant. Vegetation and berries can provide moisture; dried foods just increase dehydration.

Want to be a survivor? Use these tips to stay hydrated - and alive.

Source:
www.survivaltopics.com/survival/how-long-can-you-survive-without-water

One of the most important things to learn if you're going to be trekking in the wilderness is how to create a shelter for yourself. Most survivalists don't carry tents with them on journeys because they are too heavy and sort of defeat the purpose of surviving without any creature comforts.

And as you learned in grade school science, shelter is one of the key human needs for survival.

A survivor knows that he or she can create a shelter with numerous materials, depending on the environment. You would use different things to construct a shelter if you were trekking through the rain forest than if you found yourself in the mountains. While shelter is more important during the winter months, you'll need some type of covering even in milder climes.

First, the goal is not to create the biggest shelter you can construct. If it's cold outside, you're going to want a shelter that is large enough to fit your entire body comfortably, but small enough to restrict the escape of body heat. The shelter should also serve as a morale booster; when you are protected from the elements, you will naturally feel safer in your environment.

In some cases, you might be able to find a natural shelter already created for you. Caves, for example, are an excellent form of shelter because they provide protection on all sides and often have a small mouth that will keep you safe from larger predators.

However, survivors know that there are times when you have to build your own shelter out of materials you collect in the wilderness.

An axe is a handy, lightweight tool to have with you during a survival excursion. You can use it to cut small branches from trees and construct a lean-to using the side of a boulder, tree or other natural formation.

You should also bring with you rope and a light source to make your job easier.

Surviving isn't difficult when you know how to use your surroundings to create a shelter but make sure you explore different methods depending on where you are traveling.

Outdoor enthusiasts aren't the only ones in need of a disaster preparedness survival kit. Driving across wintery terrain in a car, truck, SUV or snowmobile may lead you to hazardous road conditions that leave you stranded for several hours. When you're battling those icy roads and brutal winter temperatures this season, make sure your car or vehicle is well stocked with some basic survival gear:

Medical Supplies
If you survive an accident or have a last-minute emergency to manage, a first aid kit can hold you over until you can find some professional help. Pack a simple first aid kit supply bag in the backseat of the car or vehicle for easy access in case of an emergency.

Food Supply
Being stranded on icy roads may mean you go without food for several hours. Being hungry can reduce the ability to make sound decisions and make it hard to stay focused and warm. Make sure you have at least one thermos or flask filled with hot soup or foodstuffs so you can feed your brain and body in the case of an emergency.

Blanket or Sleeping Bag
If you're stuck without heat for several hours, you have to find a way to stay warm. A thermal blanket or sleeping bag will keep those toes and hands plenty warm when temperatures drop, so you'll need to drape yourself in a warm covering until help arrives at the scene. Just roll this up and throw it in the backseat or trunk; this is just as important for a camping trip as it is for a long road trip across snowy terrain!

Water
Fill up a water flask with water that won't freeze on you during your excursion. You'll need an ample supply of water to stay well hydrated for several hours on the road, so plan to store at least 1-2 gallons of water in the vehicle in case of an emergency.

Light Source
Headlamps and flashlights can help you navigate your path if you get a flat tire or find yourself in unknown territory. Just pack some light gear with fully charged batteries before you hit the road as an extra safety measure.

One place that's wonderful to visit is Big Sky, Montana. I mean, really, how can you not want to go to a place that has such a cool name? Hiking in a place like Big Sky is also amazing, with all that clear blue sky, mountains and massive amounts of land. The Big Sky area has two great places where you can hike: Gallatin National Forest and possibly the world's most famous national park, Yellowstone National Park.

Get in your head a picture of the movie, A River Runs Through It. Dramatic scenery, fresh air, pretty big mountains, rivers, streams and an incredible blue sky. This is what you'll see if you hike in Gallatin National Forest. Just a few miles away from Big Sky, Gallatin has almost 2,300 miles of hiking trails - it's truly enormous. One of the best hiking areas in the country, bar none, and some of the mountain peaks are over 11,000 feet.

To start off hiking in Gallatin National Forest, it's best to go in the summer when the weather isn't too severe. There are five different mountain ranges you can hike. On all of them you'll see incredibly diverse plants and wildlife, including the area's famous bald eagles and grizzly bears. Be very aware of your surroundings though and watch what you're doing. A fall or a grizzly bear attack on many of these trails could leave you badly injured and miles away from help. To get started, you're better visiting one of the park's offices - the main one being in Bozeman - to collect maps, information on good starting points for hikes, estimated times to complete trails and more. Also carry bear spray and wear clunky boots. Bears don't like a lot of noise, so the noisier you are, the less chance you have of accidentally stumbling upon one.

Yellowstone National Park is only a short drive from Big Sky and has 1,200 miles of hiking trails. One of the trails easily accessible from Big Sky is called Tee pee. It's about 13 miles south of Big Sky, right before you get to Yellowstone National Park. The great thing about Tee pee is it's perfect for all levels of hiker, especially kids, and it eventually enters Yellowstone National Park, where you'll find many more hiking trails to enjoy. Get more information about hiking trails from one of the many Yellowstone visitor centers.

The Amazon basin is famous for its untamed trails, unmatched terrain and incredible views of the lush rainforest and rivers. The birds, flora and fauna that live in the basin are ready to welcome you to the ancient forests and trails that are sure to take your breath away. However, Mother Nature can be less than forgiving on your rainforest hike so you'll need to turn to a safety kit that contains all the essentials to weather the storm. From waterproof clothing to first aid kits, here's what you'll need to survive on that tropical trail:

First aid kit
You'll need an effective solution for managing cuts, scrapes and bruises along the trail so you can press on like a true rainforest warrior. Make sure your first aid kit contains antibacterial gel, cotton swabs, alcohol and other basics to clean up any wounds and protect your skin in rougher conditions.

Water Purifier
Staying well hydrated in the humid climate is essential for survival; don't give yourself a chance to become dehydrated as you venture into balmy territory. A water purifier and water pack will help you stay well stocked with fresh water and may even deliver the boost of energy you need to finish your trail.

Emergency Snacks
If you get stuck in the middle of a hurricane or tropical storm, you'll need some food to make it through the day. Pack some basic snacks that won't melt or dissolve in the high heat. Trail mix, cereal bars, instant oatmeal and canned meals are a few must-have foods for your Amazon adventure.

Lighting Gear
When the sun disappears from the Amazon rainforest, you'll need a way to navigate the tropical terrain. Your instincts will serve as your guide for most of the trail, but you'll need the help of a lantern or flashlight to make it through the trail. Make sure you're well equipped with batteries and a backup light source if you're planning a multi-night camp or hike through the rainforest.

Waterproof Clothing
A light parka or waterproof jacket will protect you from intermittent rain showers and keep you dry and comfortable for the long night ahead. Make sure you have an emergency blanket or parka wrapped up tight in your pack as an extra safety measure.

If an adventure in the desert isn't appealing to your weekend warrior, a small tweak in the schedule may be all you need to turn into an eager desert beaver. While desert trekking and hiking across sandy dunes by day is a guaranteed killer workout and a chance to take in breathtaking views, waiting until sundown presents an entirely new opportunity to put your survival skills to the test.

Exploring the desert by night demands some extra gear and a well-planned route to get you through the challenging trail. Make sure you're heading out on your nighttime trek with these survival basics:

#1: Headlamps. Unless you're taking along some Bond-inspired night vision goggles, you'll need a reliable headlamp to cover the sandy turf like a pro. Go for the hands-free variety so you can use your hands to keep your pack in place and carry your water bottle with ease.

#2: Water bottle. When the sun disappears from view and you're left with cooler temperatures, you still need to guzzle that H2O; it will keep your mind fresh and your senses as sharp as a panther on the prowl. Make sure you're lugging an extra-large water bottle to reduce the need for refills so you'll always have some crisp and cool water by your side.

#3: Light blanket. If it's time to make a rest stop between dunes and you're body's yearning for a quick nap, enjoy a light snooze inside a weatherproof blanket. Keep it light so you're not responsible for hauling extra weight in your pack, and pick something large so it can easily be turned into a pseudo-sleeping bag.

#4: Protective eye goggles. You may be treated to a sandstorm during your hike, so make sure you're prepared for this gift from nature with a sturdy pair of goggles. Choose a larger pair that will act as a shield against the pelting sand and debris.

#5: Weatherproof boots. A pair of lightweight hiking boots is all you really need to set yourself on course for your nighttime trek, so choose boots that fit snugly but won't limit your ankle's range of motion. Even though you won't be doing a lot of trail hiking over a nighttime course, you still need a pair of boots with a strong grip and insulation to protect you from the elements.

If winter has you traversing the great outdoors in search of an exhilarating and new expedition, you may soon set your sights on trip to the Arctic tundra. The frozen dessert is a place to explore untouched lands, catch a glimpse of native wildlife and breathe in the fresh (really fresh) winter air. If you can survive an Arctic expedition, you'll be joining the courageous few who battled subzero winter temperatures and trekked through snowy banks, which are like no other place on earth. Ready to put your Arctic survival skills to the test? Here's what you'll need to explore the tundra like a pro:

1. Trekking poles. Unless you're wearing a pair of super boots that allow you to forge your way through hills and mountainous snow banks, you'll need a sturdy set of trekking poles to help you navigate the trail. Lightweight trekking poles will help you climb, maneuver and explore those slippery slopes with ease, and trekking poles can be folded and stashed easily into your pack when needed.

2. Insulated sleeping bag. Not any old sleeping bag will do when you're exploring the tundra, so make sure yours is designed with double or triple layers of insulation and has extra-tight padding to keep you well tucked in for your overnight stay in the Arctic. Sleeping bags designed with a hood attachment will keep that heat trapped in during those brutal nights, and any self-heating padding will ensure you're warm and toasty enough to get a good night's rest.

3. Temperature-resistant water filter. Making sure you're well-hydrated during your trip to the Arctic can be challenging, especially when battling cold winds and icy temperatures is at the top of your to-do list. Still, you'll need to stay well-hydrated to maintain strength and keep up with the challenging adventure ahead. A water filter that fits neatly into your pack will give you an endless supply of fresh water so you're always well-stocked on the essentials.

Heading out to bone-chilling territory isn't for every outdoor enthusiast, but if you're courageous enough to brave the Arctic and complete a trail, you'll need these essentials to survive the challenge. Pack up for your adventure with all of these survival basics for an exhilarating -- and safe -- winter getaway.

While hiking trips in the Rockies and overnight stays at nature trails in the Midwest offer plenty of opportunity to bond with the outdoors, the colder climate calls for padding up with layers and staying inside the tent for most of the trip.

Camping in an exotic rainforest offers a completely new experience for the avid nature lover: a chance to trek over rough terrain, catch a glimpse of indigenous species and take in a breath of very humid air. Rainforest camping survival is no easy affair, but you can make it through those hot and humid days with the right gear.

Get a head start on the trail with a lightweight and versatile backpack. The CamelBak H.O.S.S. is an expandable pack that can hold several water bottles, a change of clothes, your food stash and other essentials for your trip. This pack is also designed with a reservoir that has an extra-large mouth opening; you can fill it up with that much-needed H2O and haul it along on that multi-hour trek across the rainforest.

In addition to packing extra water bottles and storing water in your pack, you'll need a cooling reservoir to replenish water levels after a day or two of chugging down your stock. The Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter lets you fill up on water fresh from the rainforest without worrying about your health; the lightweight filter can process up to 300 gallons of water and generate nearly a quart of fresh water per minute. Taking along a water filter is an absolute necessity for desert trekking and multi-day rainforest hikes, and most filters can adapt to all types of water bottles for easy refilling.

Getting a good night's sleep inside a sleeping bag seems like "Mission Impossible" when temperatures continue to stay around record-high levels after sunset. However, a lightweight sleeping pad can help you keep your cool during those hot and muggy, air-conditioning-free nights. The Big Agnes Air Core pad is a lightweight pad that can be inflated within minutes. The pad provides a layer of comfort and relaxation after a hard day of trekking.

Heading off on a rainforest oasis trail can be an exciting adventure, but you need to take along the basic survival gear to get through that tropical climate like a pro.

As the days of summer fizzle away to give way to cooler temperatures and sub-zero days, heading outdoors for a cold-weather hike can be a great way to jumpstart your winter weather fitness routine. Still, hiking in sub-zero temperatures is a test of survival; if you're not clad in layers of clothing and well-protected from the elements, it's easy to get a severe case of the winter blues and miss out on the thrills of the adventure. When the forecast calls for rain, sleet and snow, make sure you're well-equipped with the right survival gear.

Layers that help get rid of moisture and dampness will keep you warm and toasty in even the most brutal temperatures. The key to layering successfully is to start with a basic non-cotton tee and then layer it up with thermally efficient fleece. The North Face TKA 100 fleece jackets are a good match for the avid hiking enthusiast. Just pack on those layers and you'll be fit for the adventure ahead.

It's easy to forget you need to stay hydrated when temperatures drop, but it's even more important to drink up when your body temperature is constantly shifting and adjusting. Load up on water! You'll need at least four liters of water for the day to keep your body in balance, and if you'll be out on the trails for more than a day, a mini water filter can help you keep up with your daily quota.

Thick socks, a padded pair of mittens and an insulated hat can ensure the extremities are well-protected against the elements. Your hands, feet and head need extra protection in that super-cold climate, and keeping them warm will keep your circulation going as you forge ahead on the trail. Just make sure you have a few extra pairs of socks in that backpack so you can layer up at night; wool socks are ideal for keeping you warm and toasty no matter what the forecast may be.

Whether you're heading to the Rocky Mountains or escaping to a ski resort with trails, packing the right gear will ward off those winter blues. When it's time to hit the hiking trails and battle those sub-zero temperatures ahead, prepare for a thrilling adventure with these survival essentials.

When summer season calls for hiking and exploring beach territory, being well-equipped with the right survival gear helps you forge ahead on those travels without the stress.

Since you'll be foregoing the standard hiking boots and spiked shoes for the beach, you'll need to choose a pair of rugged sandals instead - the type that provide comfort, support and durability for rockier pathways and potential rock-climbing adventures, but can also withstand the ocean waves or occasional thunderstorm.

Thankfully, you have several styles and designs to choose from; whether you're a flip-flop enthusiast or prefer clog-style sandals, consider these variations of the casual sandal for your beach trekking adventures:

The Clog Sandal

Clogs continue to be a top pick for eco-friendly types, and these versatile resin shoes are a great match for beach weather. The clogs are made with built-in arch supports and will keep your feet dry and comfortable even during the next tidal wave. The innovative design of these shoes also provide extra comfort and support for rockier paths and small climbs; use the adjustable heel straps to keep feet snugly in place, or remove them completely when you want to enjoy a slip-on style instead.

The Water Sandal

If you'll be spending lots of time near the ocean, sandals with webbing and extra lining will help protect your feet from the elements and keep your toes dry. Water sandals are also great for biking and hiking around the beach because they're designed with rubber toe guards and extra cushioning for arch support. Look for styles with extra traction so to avoid slipping and sliding on wet surfaces.

The Criss-Cross Flip Flop

Though flip-flops aren't the best pick for rockier climbs and hiking adventures, they do serve a purpose on the beachfront and can help you enjoy flatter terrain with ease. Flip flops made with a thick rubber sole and criss-cross straps can support your feet better than the standard thong-style, and also make it easy to kick off those sandals completely for that beach volleyball game.

Waterproof Leather Sandals

If you're looking for a classic beach sandal with some extra durability, a waterproof leather sandal is the perfect fit for your outdoor ventures. Hook and Loop straps and buckles can keep your feet securely in place on almost any venture; look for styles made with molded rubber for comfort and support, since these types of sandals can keep moisture at bay and absorb the shock from your daily travels.

The Hook and Loop Slide

If you're just settling for some fun in the sand and party-hopping at the beach house, a pair of simple Hook and Loop slides may be all you need to get through the day in style. Casual, comfortable and cool, a Velcro slide is a versatile pick for any day on the beach. Just slip into a pair of waterproof rubber sandals for those laid-back days in the great outdoors.

Whether you're setting your sights on hiking on rocky terrain around the beach coves or just settling in for a game of beach volleyball, make sure you have the right gear to survive the season! From water sandals to the classic clog, you have several options in beach-ready footwear for your summer ventures.

When you go hiking you need to have the right equipment to finish your expedition safely. The gear that you select needs to be appropriate for the weather, terrain, difficulty of the trail and your experience level.

Selecting a Hiking Boot

There are several ways you can select a hiking boot. However, a good rule of thumb is to select a boot that is designed for the type of hiking you plan on doing. Casual hikers, for example, that only tackle low level trails can get by with the lightweight, hiking boots. These boots weigh in around a pound a piece and look like a cross between a hiking boot and a running shoe. The drawback of this type of boot is that they aren't as waterproof as better hiking boots are, and they don't provide your feet and ankles with the stability needed to handle heavy backpacks or extra rough terrain.

The next level of hiking boot is the middleweight hiking boot. This boot typically weighs more than two pounds a piece. These boots are for the average hiker and backpacker. They are great for weekend adventures during the summer months. However, if you plan on an extended backpacking trip, if you plan on exploring extreme environments or if you plan a trip during inclimate weather, then you may want to upgrade your hiking boots.

The top of the line hiking boots are the heavy clompers. These boots weigh in at over five pounds a piece. These boots are designed for hard core backpackers and trekkers. They will provide your feet and ankles with the support that they need, they will keep your feet dry and warm and they will provide you with the traction and versatility that you need for your adventure. They also accommodate strap crampons.

High Altitude Hiking Gear

When you travel into high altitudes there are several pieces of equipment that you are going to need in addition to a great pair of hiking boots. First you will need warmer hiking wear. Weather in high altitudes is colder than you may expect and weather conditions can change rapidly. To stay warm you will need a great jacket, think layers, gloves, a hat and warm thermal underwear. You will also need a great pair of goggle style sunglasses to protect your eyes from solar radiation and the cold. You may also want to bring oxygen with you if you plan on going really high, as well as a GPS locator in case you get lost and need to be rescued. Finally, you can bring with you strap crampons, ice cleats, snow shoes and ski equipment with you to handle snowy and/or icy terrain.

Recreational Hiking Gear

If you are just a recreational hiker then you can experiment with the type of gear that you bring with you on your hiking adventures. Generally a short hiking trip will only require a good pair of hiking boots, a walking stick and a canteen of water. If you are hiking in warm or hot weather then you will also want to wear a hat, wear sunblock with an SPF of at least 30 and a carb rich snack. On the other hand, if you plan a hiking trip during cold weather then you will want to also bring appropriate clothing, ice cleats or snow shoes, matches in a waterproof container, a plastic garbage bag and extra food and water.

All Hikers

No matter what type of hiking adventure you want to go on, it is always a good idea to bring a friend with you. They can be your most valuable piece of hiking gear that you can have. After all if you get injured you have someone to help you out of the backcountry, or someone to go for help. A cell phone is another valuable piece of hiking equipment to bring with you. If you get reception in the area you are hiking you can call for help or update people on where you are and when you plan on returning home. This is very important to do, especially if you change your original plans.