2.  Trip Planning 101  The 10 Essentials  Before You Go!

3. Research  Decide where you want to go well in advance.  Accumulate as much information about the trail as possible.  Official Websites (i.e. fundyhikingtrails.com, fundytrailparkway.com)  Blogs  Books  Trail Guides/Maps (blazes, stream crossings, elevation changes, other trails that intersect, etc)  Google maps  Social media (ask questions!)  Trip Logs (i.e. trailpeak.com, geocaching.com, waterfallsnewbrunswick.ca, hikingnb.ca, fbramazingplaces.ca, everytrail.com, etc!)  Typical weather and conditions for the area  Ask locals! Pick up the phone

5. Timing  The length of time it takes you to cover a given distance depends on 3 main factors:  Total distance covered  Elevation gained  Type of terrain  On flat ground, a hiking speed of 4-6 km/hour is average to speedy.  For every 300 meters of elevation gain, add an extra half-hour.  Smooth, dry trails are easier going than rough, wet trails, or ones that involve loose talus or bits of bush.  Stop and smell the flowers.

6. Know your Limits  Ensure that your fitness level matches the trail difficulty.  You can do shorter distances or easier terrains to test out your ability prior to a challenging hike.  Start small! Don’t ruin your first experience by taking on too much.

7. Equipment  Make a list of everything you need to bring to have a safe and enjoyable hike.  Look through your list and ask yourself, “Do I really need to bring that?”  Share the load with your fellow hikers.  Field test your equipment.  Each adventure requires a different list of items.

8. Make a Trip Plan  A trip plan explains your destination, travel route, equipment and expected return time. It is vital information to assist authorities searching for you in the event of an emergency.  Leave your plan with a trusted friend or family member.  Remember to contact this person upon your safe return – many search and rescue operations have been launched for people who were never actually lost.  adventuresmart.ca

9. 1. Map & Compass –Even if you are carrying a GPS, it is essential that you can navigate using a topographic map and compass. 2. Water – Make sure you carry enough water and/or the means of treating water along the way. 3. Extra food – You may be delayed, have to deal with emergencies, or someone may forget their lunch. 4. Extra clothes – Weather can change quickly and unpredictably 5. First-aid kit – The size depends on the number of people, length of the trip, remoteness and level of risk you plan to engage in. 6. Knife or multitool with a blade – More than just a kitchen tool, knives come in handy for repairs, building fires and shelters, first-aid, and other emergencies.

10. 7. Light – Bring a headlamp or flashlight along with spare batteries. Even on a daytrip an emergency or delay might keep you until dark. 8. Signalling device – A whistle attracts attention, can be heard over long distances, and works even if you've lost your voice due to dehydration or hoarseness. 9. Fire starter – Matches (waterproof or in a waterproof container), fire rod or a lighter along with a commercial fire starter or a candle. 10. Emergency shelter – This is one of the most valuable items on the list. The orange colour is highly visible and helps attract attention, particularly from the air. Emergency blankets and bivies reflect body heat back towards you to help keep you warm.

11.  Check the forecast.  Leave your Trip Plan with your friend/family member (include any last minute adjustments).  Pack everything up on your checklist. Ensure that between yourself and your fellow hikers that you have everything.  Leave your print.

12. You may have planned your trip to the umpteenth degree, but Mother Nature has ideas of her own. When you enter the wilderness, be as prepared as you possibly can, but at the same time go with an open and adaptable mindset.