Hike Safely!
As fun as Hike MS is, please remember that a hike in Colorado’s mountains requires more preparation than a walk around the neighborhood. Rough terrain and sometimes extreme weather mean that you need to plan ahead and exercise appropriate caution on your hike. Afternoon rain showers with thunder, lightning, high winds, hail and dropping temperatures are normal in the mountains.Remember these guidelines as you train for and participate in Hike MS.
Be prepared for any situation with the Ten Essentials:
- Map and Compass
- Sun and insect protection
- Plenty of water and extra food
- Rain gear
- Warm clothing
- First Aid Kit
- Matches/Fire Starter
- Signaling device such as whistle, signal mirror or flare
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Pocket knife
Hike with a friend and give yourself enough time to make your way down the mountain before mid to late afternoon. Research your intended hiking route: how long a trail it is, how much elevation you'll gain and lose, and how long you should expect to spend on the trail. Leave written plans with a reliable friend or a family member about your intended hiking route and back-up plans in case your energy level, adverse weather, or a trail emergency force a change. When you start as a group, hike as a group, end as a group. Pace your hike to the slowest person. Plan enough time and energy to hike down, and factor changing weather into this equation.
Leave No Trace
In addition, the National MS Society encourages participants to observe the guidelines of Leave No Trace in order to protect and preserve our natural spaces for future generations:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors