Get Out! - Go Hiking!
Maine is blessed with remarkable natural areas to explore. When you set out on foot, you get the added benefit of not only observing beautiful surroundings, but also the healthy exercise of moving yourself through nature. The images scrolling below depict just a few of the places to investigate and terrain to experience.
If you're gearing up for hiking, consider the first principle of Leave No Trace, "plan ahead and prepare". The following items are important to consider as you prepare for hiking outings.
| sturdy footwear and good socks (avoid cotton and consider a spare pair) | water and food (consider lightweight, high-energy emergency food) | map and compass (GPS units, though useful, may fail -especially batteries) | rain wear (shell layer) | insulating layer (pants, shirts, fleece, etc.) | hat (to help with sun, rain, or cold) |
| flashlight | waterproof matches | first aid kit | gloves, if weather could merit | watch | insect repellent |
| any needed personal medications | cord/lightweight rope | whistle | sunglasses | lightweight space blanket | pocket knife |
Good preparation requires understanding possible weather and condition extremes as well as recognizing the ability level of yourself or any group. Overpacking creates unpleasant weight, but a lack of appropriate gear is unsafe. Finding a wise balance for the trip at hand is the key.
Leaving behind a timeline and an expected route, expecially for longer backcountry hiking trips, can be an important safety practice. Remember: cell phones may be useful at times and in certain locations, but there are many hiking destinations where they do not work. A CELL PHONE IS NOT A REPLACEMENT FOR PREPARATION AND PRACTICAL THINKING.
-Rex Turner, Outdoor Recreation Planner, Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands