Choose and check your route
Start with an open trail that fits the least-experienced person in your group. Consider distance, elevation, terrain, expected pace, daylight, and the time you have; a shorter route is a good first outing. Check the park or land manager’s current information before you leave, because access and conditions can change.
- Confirm the trail is open and check for alerts, permits, fees, parking details, facilities, and local rules.
- Review the forecast for the trail area and the hours you expect to be out. Consider heat, cold, rain, wind, lightning, and the forecast changing during the day.
- Estimate the time for the full route, including breaks, and set a turnaround time that leaves room to return before dark.
- Choose a backup route or a different day in case the trail, weather, or group’s energy does not match your plan.
- If a health condition or medication may affect exertion or heat and cold tolerance, plan with a qualified health professional before the hike.
Pack for the day and the conditions
Pack for the route, season, forecast, and your group rather than relying on one universal list. Keep essentials accessible, and check any destination-specific packing guidance from the land manager.
- Water for the route and conditions, with a plan for more if the hike requires it. Do not assume a trail has a safe water source.
- Food and snacks for the outing, plus extra in case the return takes longer than planned.
- Comfortable, suitable footwear; socks; and layers, including weather protection and an extra warm layer when conditions call for it.
- A map and compass or another navigation method you can use, with an offline copy of route details as a backup.
- A headlamp or flashlight with working batteries, even if you expect to finish in daylight.
- Sun protection such as sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen; insect protection where appropriate for the place and season.
- A basic first-aid kit, any personal medication, and knowledge of how to use the items you carry.
- A whistle, an emergency shelter suited to the route, and a small repair item; add any other safety gear the land manager recommends.
- Fire-starting supplies only when they are appropriate and permitted; check current fire restrictions and know how to use them safely.
- A bag for packing out wrappers and other waste, plus any supplies required by local toilet and sanitation rules.
At the trailhead
- Read current trailhead notices and check that your route and return plan still make sense.
- Tell your check-in person when you start and let them know if your plan changes.
- Review the route with your group, including the turnaround time and what to do if someone becomes tired, hurt, or uncomfortable.
- If the trail is closed or conditions are unsafe for your group, choose the backup plan or postpone.
While you hike
- Stay on open, marked routes, keep the group together, and choose a pace that works for the slowest hiker.
- Take breaks, eat, and drink as needed. Watch the weather, daylight, trail surface, and how everyone is feeling.
- Turn around early if conditions worsen, someone is hurt or unwell, the route is harder than expected, or your turnaround time arrives.
- Give wildlife room, do not feed or approach animals, and follow posted guidance for food and wildlife encounters.
- Pack out your waste and follow local guidance for human waste, fires, pets, and trail etiquette.
- Avoid crossing flooded or fast-moving water. Use an alternate route or turn back when a crossing is not clearly safe.
After the hike
Let your check-in person know when you are safely back. If your route or return time changed, share that update so nobody acts on an outdated plan.
Further hiking safety guidance
National Park Service: The Ten Essentials