Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Heading Out
Proper preparation for a day in the wild means being prepared for every
eventuality. With so much to choose from, it is easy to select a route for
your individual fitness level and the abilities of those in your party. Take
it slow, there is plenty of time. If you set out to “Just do it,” you are miss-
ing the point and won't get to savor much of what Northern New England
has to offer. Accurately assess your physical condition and ability to com-
plete the hike you have chosen.
Weather conditions can change several times in a day. Conditions can
vary greatly depending on one's proximity to the ocean and change in al-
titude.
Daylight fades quickly in autumn, so make sure you have plenty of time
to complete your walk before dark. It doesn't hurt to put a small flash-
light in your day pack along with other essentials.
Studies have shown that the average temperature drops a degree or two
for each 300-400-foot elevation gain. Add in a steady wind and most sum-
mits are markedly cooler than the surrounding lowlands.
Clothing
Even on the hottest days be sure to pack a windproof and waterproof
jacket. A hiker soaked in a passing shower and then buffeted by high
winds can succumb to hypothermia, the sometimes deadly lowering of
the body's core temperature, even when the mercury is above 60°. A
large percentage of body heat is lost through the head. Packing a
hat
is
also a good idea. A disposable “
space blanket
” is also a popular pack
item.
Proper footwear
is vital. Many trails traverse slippery ledges that
become treacherous after a rain. In some areas the dark algae that flour-
ish in the runoff after rains is particularly slippery. A good, solid, hard-
soled boot that also provides ankle support is vital. Sneakers or sports
sandals offer little protection to the bottoms of feet while leaping from
boulder to boulder on some trails.
WISE WORDS:
To prevent blisters, wear a poly-
propolyne under-sock under a heavy boot sock. The in-
ner sock helps wick moisture away from your feet; the
outer layer reduces abrasion. Keep a small piece of
moleskin foam in your first aid kit; it is invaluable for
covering hot spots before they develop into blisters.
