Hiking is an enjoyable activity that allows you to appreciate Mother Nature in all her splendor.  However, hiking also poses some potential dangers and risks unless the proper precautions are taken.  When it comes to hiking, there are two essential components of safety; be aware of your surroundings, and stay dry. It’s important to monitor your surroundings because the environment can change rapidly, and a carved walking stick can help you test unfamiliar terrain. At dusk, it becomes dark in a forest much more quickly than it does elsewhere, and visibility can fall at an alarming rate. You should always carry hiking equipment like a map, a flashlight, and whistle in case you should become lost. And while you may not be planning to spend the night in the woods, packing a Big Agnes Seedhouse tent is never a bad idea either.

Staying dry might seem trifling, but in truth, nothing will slow you down like wet boots, wet socks, or wet apparel. In addition, there is the danger of conditions like hypothermia and even frostbite. In some cases, it might be better to stop and stay dry than continue moving, even if you’re heading back to your car. By taking these precautions you will ensure that you have an enjoyable and safe hiking experience.