Epinephrine in a prefilled syringe (for people known to have severe allergic reactions to such things as bee stings; usually available by prescription only)
Gauze (one roll and a half dozen 4-x-4-inch pads)
Hydrogen peroxide or iodine
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Note: Consider your intended terrain and the number of hikers in your party before you exclude any article cited in the previous list. A botanical-garden stroll may not inspire you to carry a complete kit, but anything beyond that warrants precaution. When hiking alone, you should always be prepared for a medical need. And if you’re part of a twosome or hiking with a group, one or more people in your party should be equipped with first-aid material.
General Safety
The following tips may have the familiar ring of Mom’s voice as you take note of them:
Always let someone know where you’ll be hiking and how long you expect to be gone. It’s a good idea to give that person a copy of your route, particularly if you’re headed into any isolated area. Let that person know when you return.
Always sign in and out of any trail registers provided. Don’t hesitate to comment on the trail condition if space is provided; that’s your opportunity to alert others to any problems you encounter.
Never count on a cell phone for your safety. Reception may be spotty or nonexistent on the trail, even on an urban walk—especially if it’s surrounded by towering trees.
Always carry food and water, even for a short hike. And bring more water than you think you will need. (I cannot say that often enough!)
Ask questions. State forest and park employees are on hand to help. It’s a lot easier to solicit advice before a problem occurs, and it will help you avoid a mishap away from civilization when it’s too late to amend an error.
Stay on designated trails. Even on the most clearly marked trails, there is usually a point where you have to stop and consider in which direction to head. If you become disoriented, don’t panic. As soon as you think you may be off-track, stop, assess your current direction, and then retrace your steps to the point where you went astray. Using a map, a compass, and this book, and keeping in mind what you have passed thus far, reorient yourself and trust your judgment on which way to continue. If you become absolutely unsure of how to continue, return to your vehicle the way you came in. Should you become completely lost and have no idea how to return to the trailhead, remaining in place along the trail and waiting for help is most often the best option for adults, and always the best option for children.
Always carry a whistle, another precaution that cannot be overemphasized. It may be a lifesaver if you do become lost or get hurt.
Be especially careful when crossing streams. Whether you are fording the stream or crossing on a log, make every step count. If you have any doubt about maintaining your balance on a log, ford the stream instead: use a trekking pole or stout stick for balance and face upstream as you cross. If a stream seems too deep to ford, turn back. Whatever is on the other side is not worth risking your life.
Be careful at overlooks. While these areas may provide spectacular views, they are potentially hazardous. Stay back from the edge of outcrops and be absolutely sure of your footing; a misstep can mean a nasty and possibly fatal fall.
Look up! Standing dead trees and storm-damaged living ones pose a significant hazard to hikers. These trees may have loose or broken limbs that could fall at any time. Be mindful of this when walking beneath trees, and when choosing a spot to rest or enjoy your snack.
Know hypothermia symptoms. Shivering and forgetfulness are the two most common indicators of this stealthy killer. Hypothermia can occur at any elevation, even in the summer, especially when the hiker is wearing lightweight cotton clothing. If symptoms present themselves, get to shelter, hot liquids, and dry clothes ASAP.
Likewise, know the symptoms of heat exhaustion (hyperthermia). Lightheadedness and loss of energy are the first two indicators. If you feel these symptoms, find some shade, drink your water, remove as many layers of clothing as practical, and stay put until you cool down. Marching through heat exhaustion leads to heatstroke—which can be fatal. If you should be sweating and you’re not, that’s the signature warning sign. Your hike is over at that point—heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can cause seizures, convulsions, and eventually death. If you or a companion reaches that point, do whatever you can to cool down and seek medical attention immediately.
Most important of all, take along your brain. A cool, calculating mind is the single most important asset on the trail. Think before you act. Watch your step. Plan ahead. Avoiding accidents before they happen is the best way to ensure a rewarding and relaxing hike.
Watchwords for Flora & Fauna
Hikers should remain aware of the following concerns regarding plant life and wildlife, described in alphabetical order.
BLACK BEARS: Though attacks by black bears are uncommon, they have occurred around Charlotte. The highest concentration of black bears will be found in the western part of the region that is closest to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and also to the east in the Uwharrie National Forest.
The sight or approach of a bear can give anyone a start, but if you encounter a bear while hiking, remain calm and avoid running in any direction. Make loud noises to scare off the bear, and back away slowly. In primitive and remote areas, assume bears are present; in more developed sites, check on the current bear situation prior to hiking. Most encounters are food-related, as bears have an exceptional sense of smell and not particularly discriminating tastes. While this is of greater concern to backpackers and campers, on a day hike you may plan a lunchtime picnic or will munch on an energy bar or other snack from time to time. So remain alert and be particularly cautious about going on a hike or camping after grilling meat. Often the smoke
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