How Hiking Helps Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are incredibly common ailments of 21^st Century humans. But while there are a number of different treatments for these illnesses (and you should always discuss your symptoms with your doctor and seek the treatment he or she recommends), too many people overlook one of the best: hiking.

Hiking is often very effective for easing anxiety and depression, and it is a treatment option that is accessible to the vast majority of people. In fact, there are a number of reasons hiking is such an excellent way to feel better, which we’ll outline below.

Exercise Promotes Brain Health

Hiking is a fantastic form of exercise that provides a variety of benefits for your body. It’ll help you lose weight while simultaneously strengthening your muscles. And if you keep at it for long enough, it’ll likely help lower your blood pressure and reduce your chances of suffering from strokes, diabetes or heart disease.

But while these benefits are all clearly valuable, exercise also helps to promote a healthy brain too. If your hikes are strenuous enough to elevate your heart rate and cause you to sweat a bit, they’ll likely help increase the size of your hippocampus – the portion of the brain associated with verbal memory and learning.

Exercise also causes the body to release growth factors – chemicals that help encourage blood vessel development in the brain and support the production of healthy brain cells. And don’t worry, you needn’t hike for very long to start enjoying improved brain health; research shows that even a 20-minute hike can improve the way your brain processes information.

Hiking Is Easy to Do and Affordable

Unlike so many other treatments for anxiety and depression, hiking is available to just about everyone, regardless of your location or tax bracket.

Most Americans probably live within a short drive of at least one hiking trail, even if it is nothing more than a 1-mile loop around the local park. You may have to do a bit of digging to find longer, more challenging or more scenic trails, but you’ll still likely find multiple options within driving distance.

Additionally, hiking rarely costs much – if anything – at all. Some trails require you to pay for parking or for entry to the park, but even these typically offer “frequent use” passes, which will allow you to enjoy the park or trails for very little money. You may also have to purchase a water bottle and pair of hiking boots, but with a bit of effort, you can likely find these things at very affordable prices.

Hiking Helps You to Disconnect from Day-to-Day Life

Chances are, you are constantly barraged by stimuli from the moment you wake up until the moment your head hits the pillow. Your phone, TV and radio constantly buzz with messages, information and entertainment, and you probably don’t have much time to quietly reflect on your thoughts.

But to get away from all of this, all you need to do is strap on your hiking boots and hit the trail. In contrast to our neighborhoods, homes and offices, wilderness areas are generally quiet and peaceful. This helps you to shed some of the stress caused by daily life. Disconnecting from your day-to-day life in this way can be very restorative and help reduce your anxiety and depression.

Obviously, you should still bring your phone along with you for safety’s sake, but maybe you should turn off the ringer for a while – at least until you get back to your car.

Hiking Provides Perspective

Often, anxiety and depression cause people to lose sight of the big picture. Instead of enjoying life, people struggling with depression or anxiety become stuck focusing on the small challenges, failures and disappointments that happen on a daily basis. But hiking in natural settings can help you bust out of this rut and gain a bit of perspective.

If, for example, you find yourself overwhelmed by a big work project coming up, you may find that a hike through your local mountains will help you remember that the project is just a tiny part of your life, and that there is a big beautiful world out there waiting for you to enjoy it.

Hiking Helps You to Build Resilience and Self-Confidence

If you hike for long enough, you’ll surely experience a tough day on the trail. Your feet may blister, you may get lost, or you may find that the trail you chose was a bit too strenuous. But chances are, you’ll find some way to tough out the hike, and overcome these challenges.

This will help build resilience and boost your self-confidence in profound ways. In truth, any challenge you face and overcome will help in both of these respects, but doing so in the natural world often provides the most profound results.

Just be sure that you don’t take this concept too far. It’s always good to challenge yourself and set increasingly difficult goals as you progress, but you must keep safety in mind. Always keep a cell phone on you so you can contact help if you need it and let someone know when you’ll be returning.

You Only Compete Against Yourself: There’s No Pressure to Perform

Many people understand the health benefits that exercise provides, but they aren’t interested in engaging in an implicitly or explicitly competitive pursuit, such as joining the local softball league or gym. This is certainly understandable – especially when you are already feeling depressed or anxious.

But hiking is a fantastic exercise, that lacks the competitive aspects that many of these other types of exercise feature. You are only competing against yourself and – to a lesser extent – Mother Nature. You get to celebrate those times you hike a bit further or complete a loop a bit faster; and yet your tough days, when you don’t perform quite as well, will remain your secret.

Additionally, it doesn’t matter if you go out and hike 1 mile a week or 50 miles a week – the only person you have to impress while you’re hiking is yourself.

Hiking Relieves Stress

Stress is often a contributing factor to anxiety and depression, so anything you can do to help relieve stress should help you feel a bit better. Hiking definitely fits this bill, as it not only provides great exercise (which helps to relieve stress too), but it takes place in gorgeous natural settings.

Scientists have even found that spending time in nature – even simply looking at nature – helps relieve stress and recharge your mind, body and soul. In fact, looking at a natural setting helps reduce pain and accelerate the healing process. And if you hike with a friend or loved one, you’ll often find this helps alleviate your stress even more thoroughly.

As you can see, hiking provides myriad benefits to those battling with anxiety or depression. So, find your closest trail and start trekking. Don’t forget to discuss your anxiety and depression with your doctor (and make sure you are healthy enough to begin hiking if you aren’t normally active), but you’ll likely find that regular hikes are exactly what the doctor ordered.

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Common Hiking Injuries and How to Treat Them

Injuries are simply a fact of life for hikers, campers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Spend enough time outdoors and Mother Nature will surely dole out a few bites, bumps and bruises for your trouble.

If you are careful and prepare properly, you can probably avoid many of the most common injuries hikers experience. But you won’t be able to sidestep them all, so it is important that you familiarize yourself with the best way to treat some of the most common hiking injuries.

We’ll discuss 13 of the most common injuries that befall hikers below and explain the best way to treat them on the trail.

1. Blisters

Blisters are likely the most common minor wound hikers experience. And while blisters are relatively minor injuries in the grand scheme of things, they can quickly turn an otherwise-enjoyable hike into a miserable experience.

It’s always better to prevent blisters from forming than it is to treat them after they’ve appeared, so be sure to break in any new hiking boots before hitting the trail. Also, if you simply keep your feet dry you’ll further reduce your chances of getting blisters, so always wear moisture-wicking socks, which will absorb most of the sweat your feet produce.

The best way to treat blisters on the trail is by first washing the area (and your hands) with soap and water. Then, sterilize the affected area with an iodine swab. If the blister is still intact (it hasn’t popped), you can relieve the pressure by inserting a sterilized needle into the sides of the wound.

Once drained, apply a little triple-antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover it with gauze. Secure the gauze in place with some tape, but be sure to check the wound frequently and replace the gauze as needed.

2. Snake Bites

Snakebite is an exceedingly rare phenomenon in the United States, but serious snake bites can be life-threatening, it is important to know what steps to take to give yourself the best chance at a full recovery.

First of all, forget about the “cut and suck” method popularized by old Westerns – this is a good way to ensure the wound becomes infected, and you won’t be able to remove a significant amount of venom anyway. Instead, you’ll want to take a photograph of the offending serpent if possible (for identification purposes) and head directly to the nearest hospital. Phone ahead if you can, as the hospital may need to have antivenom shipped in from another facility.

There’s no need to apply a tourniquet (and doing so may lead to tissue death), but it isn’t a bad idea to wash the bite with soap and water. Try to keep yourself as calm as possible and try to avoid elevating your heart rate. Assuming you arrive at the hospital in a reasonable amount of time, you’ll likely recover fully.

The above instructions all assume that you are bitten by a venomous species. However, if you are positive that the snake that bit you was not venomous, you needn’t interrupt your hike. Simply wash the wound with soap and water and monitor it for any signs of infection (redness, swelling, etc.).

3. Frostbite

If you are hiking during cold weather, you should always take steps to avoid frostbite. This primarily means wearing appropriate clothing and keeping your ears, nose, fingers and toes covered (the parts of your body that are most likely to suffer frostbite).

However, you can still suffer frostbite if the temperatures are low enough or you become wet during cold weather. So, you’ll need to be able to identify frostbite and learn how to treat it. Note that serious frostbite will require prompt medical attention to limit the damage, but mild cases of frostbite can be treated on the trail.

Frostbite occurs when the water inside the skin and underlying tissues freezes. This can cause a “pins and needles” feeling and it may be painful. It’ll also cause the skin to turn red, white or black and take on a waxy appearance.

Basic first aid for frostbite involves slowly and gently warming the afflicted area. Warm (not hot) water is the ideal way to do so, but you can also use body heat and clothing to do so, if need be. But, it is important to avoid warming the area back up unless you’ll be able to keep it warm – repeatedly thaw-freeze cycles are very destructive.

If you believe the frostbite is severe, if blisters appear or you cannot regain feeling after warming the area, you’ll need to cut your hike short and head to the closest hospital. Mild frostbite may not be a very big deal, but serious cases can necessitate amputations, so you’ll definitely want to err on the side of caution.

4. Deep Cuts and Serious Wounds

Small cuts are pretty easy to treat with a bit of antiseptic and a bandage, but large or deep cuts can be very serious and often require medical assistance. The trick is to stop any excessive bleeding (if present) and keep the wound clean and protected while you head to the local hospital.

Light bleeding usually only involves damage to the capillaries, which will heal relatively quickly. Just press a clean gauze pad on the area, and you’ll usually be able to stop the bleeding. You can then clean the wound with a mild antiseptic (such as an iodine pad), apply some triple-antibiotic ointment, slap on a fresh bandage and get back on the trail.

But, if compression will not stop the bleeding, it is likely that you’ve suffered damage to an artery or vein. This can be quite serious, so you’ll need to apply pressure to the area with a gauze pad and seek immediate medical assistance.

Don’t walk if you don’t have to, as this will speed up your heart rate and accelerate the rate of blood loss. Instead, call for help if possible. Also, if you can, try to keep the bleeding area above the level of your heart, as this will help slow the bleeding a bit.

5. Burns

Minor burns are painful, but they rarely require extraordinary care. As long as the skin is intact (though likely red) and no blisters have formed, the burn is likely of the first-degree variety. This means you’ll want to stop the burning process by soaking the area in cold water for at least five minutes. Then, you’ll want to wash the afflicted area with soap and cool water, cover it in a loose-fitting sterile bandage and leave it alone.

You can apply a bit of topical pain-relief cream (such as aloe vera) to the wound a few hours later, and an over-the-counter painkiller (such as ibuprofen) may help provide further relief.

However, second- and third-degree burns are particularly nasty wounds, which are not only painful, but very susceptible to infection too. Second-degree burns cause the formation of blisters, but the blisters remain intact, which provides some degree of protection against infection. Third-degree wounds, on the other hand, entail broken blisters.

Second- and third-degree burns will usually require medical attention, so you’ll want to stop what you are doing and head to the nearest hospital or call 911 and wait for assistance to arrive. You can rinse second-degree wounds in cold water to reduce the temperature and eliminate some of the pain, but third-degree wounds should simply be covered in a clean, loose-fitting bandage (water may cause third-degree burns to become infected).

6. Broken Bones

Broken bones are usually pretty serious injuries that’ll require you to seek professional medical assistance as quickly as possible. Accordingly, your goal should be to stabilize yourself or the afflicted hiker, and then, you’ll want to begin hiking out (if the broken bone doesn’t preclude walking) or contact emergency responders and have them come to your location.

Stabilize the injured party by stopping any bleeding present and watching for the signs of shock (cool skin, racing heart, rapid breathing, weakness or nausea). Have the injured hiker lay down and prop his or her feet up about 1 foot above the ground. Toss a blanket over the victim to help retain body heat and provide reassurance until help arrives.

If the injured hiker is in otherwise good health and able to walk normally, you’ll want to head back to the trailhead and then to the hospital.

However, you’ll want to splint the broken appendage first to prevent further damage. You can make a splint from just about anything long and rigid, including sticks, trekking poles or tent poles. Tie the splint to the affected limb gently and try to limit any unnecessary movement.

7. Sprained Ankles

Sprained ankles are incredibly common, thanks in large part to the rugged terrain many hikers must cross. Sometimes, sprained ankles are very mild injuries, which won’t even prevent a hiker from continuing on the trail, but serious sprains are very painful and will usually prevent you from walking much at all.

In the latter case, you’ll simply need to keep yourself warm and comfortable, contact help and wait for them to arrive. But, if the sprain is mild, and you intend to push through, you’ll want to rest it as much as possible and apply ice. This will help reduce the pain and swelling and accelerate the healing process.

You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever to further reduce pain. It is also wise to wrap the ankle in an Ace Bandage before heading on the trail the next day.

Regardless of the severity of the sprained ankle, it is important to avoid removing your shoes or boots to inspect it for several hours. Doing so may allow your foot and ankle to swell dramatically and prevent you from getting your shoe back on later.

8. Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions vary significantly in terms of their severity. Mild allergic reactions may involve nothing more than a runny nose, if the reaction occurs in response to pollen, or a bit of irritation, if the reaction occurs in response to a bee sting or bug bite. Conversely, serious allergic reactions may cause breathing difficulties and necessitate immediate medical attention.

Minor allergic reactions needn’t interrupt your hike. Try to avoid contact with the allergen as much as possible and then take an over-the-counter antihistamine (such as Benadryl) to calm the allergic reaction. If the allergic reaction occurs in the form of a rash, you can apply a topical rash cream to provide further relief.

Serious allergic reactions require immediate medical care. Call 911 immediately, and follow the advice given. Be prepared to administer CPR if necessary and watch for the signs of shock.

If you have potentially serious allergies, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor about carrying an epi-pen, which may be able to stop an allergic reaction before it threatens your life.

9. Treating Rashes

Rashes – typically characterized by discolored, irritated or swollen skin – are never fun, but they can be extremely unpleasant when they occur during a hike. And, while rashes are usually not serious, they can occasionally progress, leading to blisters, raw skin and long-term damage.

The most important thing you can do when treating a rash is to identify the substance triggering the problem and then take whatever steps are necessary to avoid it.

But unfortunately, rashes can be caused by a wide variety of different things. Some rashes are caused by direct contact with a plant, animal or other substance, while others can occur in response to something eaten. Rarely, rashes can even in response to diseases. Further complicating matters, some rashes do not occur immediately. Poison ivy rashes, for example, generally only occur several days after the initial exposure.

Therefore, your best bet is to treat the rash by washing it with soap and water and then applying zinc oxide to rashes that produce burning sensations, or cortisone lotions if the rash itches. Contact your doctor if the rash doesn’t go away within a short time.

10. Poisonous Berries

There are a number of poisonous berries growing on trees and plants across the United States, and many look quite similar to edible varieties.

The relative danger presented by different species varies significantly. Some may cause nothing more than a mild stomach ache; others may prove deadly in a matter of hours. Accordingly, you should always call 911 or Poison Control whenever you or someone in your group is thought to have eaten poison berries.

Some of the most common symptoms associated with berry poisoning include:

• Headaches
• Stomach pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Breathing difficulties
• Slow pulse
• Low blood pressure

Do not eat or drink anything after potentially eating poisonous berries, nor should you try to induce vomiting. Simply follow the advice of the medical professionals you’ve contacted.

11. Dehydration

Dehydration is another extremely common problem that afflicts hikers, and unfortunately, it is usually one of the easiest medical problems to avoid. If you simply drink plenty of water while hiking and avoid traveling or exerting yourself during the hottest parts of the day, you’ll usually be able to avoid dehydration.

You’ll usually want to drink ½ liter per hour while hiking or whenever the temperatures are high. However, different people require different amounts of water to remain healthy. So, it is generally wisest to simply listen to your body; if you are thirsty or you aren’t urinating frequently, you should drink more water.

The symptoms of dehydration are pretty obvious: Excessive thirst, dry mouth, headache, nausea, infrequent urination, and fatigue. If anyone in your party starts exhibiting these symptoms, have them sit down in a cool, shaded location and drink plenty of water (have them do so slowly).

12. Heat Stroke

Heat stroke occurs when your body temperature rises above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The symptoms are unfortunately quite similar to those caused by dehydration (fatigue, headaches, dizziness, etc.), but they may also include mental confusion. Accordingly, you’ll always want to keep an eye on the mental status of your companions when hiking in hot weather.

Understand that heat stroke is a serious condition that can quickly become fatal. If you suspect that you or someone in your group is exhibiting the signs of heat stroke, call 911 and immediately move to the coolest location you can find (such as a shaded grove or creek). Have the afflicted person drink plenty of water and do whatever you can to reduce his or her body temperature.

You may want to spray the person down with a bit of water, fan them with a towel or have them wade in a creek or lake. Cold compresses can also be helpful for cooling down someone with heat stroke.

13. Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is always a concern anytime you hike at high elevations, where the air carries relatively little oxygen. This can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue and nausea; it can also make it difficult to breathe. In a worst-case scenario, altitude sickness can be fatal.

Some people begin feeling the effects of altitude sickness at relatively modest elevations, but others only start experiencing symptoms when they begin nearing the tallest peaks. Generally speaking, it can occur as low as 5,000 feet, and most people will experience problems once reaching 15,000 feet or so.

There are medications that can ease the symptoms of altitude sickness, but the best way to treat it is by simply descending and seeking medical assistance. You can sometimes prevent the symptoms from starting by ascending slowly (over the course of several days), so that your body has a chance to acclimatize.

Injuries can certainly throw a wrench in a hike, but if you do your best to prevent them from occurring and learn the best ways to treat them, you’ll likely be able to avoid serious problems. Just be sure that you always carry a fully stocked first aid kit with you and that you bring a cell phone or satellite phone in case of emergencies.

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How to Prevent Injuries While Hiking

Camping/hiking is fun and I love it. Like any other person who has got the zeal and passion for the paths to amazing views and high alpine trails, I sometimes forget that the activity is strenuous and has several potential dangers. I have been hiking for quite some time and I won’t sugar coat things by assuming and declaring that it is a safe haven since I have had a taste of what it is to get an injury from hiking. An injury from hiking can be severe and I am sure most people have had all sorts of stories about fatal hiking accidents. In this post, we discuss ways to prevent injury while hiking.

First, I am going to mention common injuries that occur during hiking. They include;

• Sunburns
• Blisters
• Bug Bites
• Poison ivy
• Chaffing
• Twisted ankle
• Scrapes and abrasions
• Muscle cramps
• Swollen feet

So, how can such injuries be prevented from causing havoc during hiking?

Dress Accordingly

Dressing properly for hiking is quite important. I remember one time I went hiking on a hill adjacent to my place with my normal rubber shoes putting no much attention to other pressing factors. I had to deal with blisters on my feet for a whole week. Thank God they never got infected otherwise; I could be in for greater problems leading to endless hospital visits. Injuries such as blisters, sunburns and twisted ankles are often caused by inappropriate dressing while hiking. Don’t go hiking with yoga suits or tennis shoes and workout tops. I usually go for synthetic clothes that keep me dry as I start to sweat during the hike. I also avoid short-sleeved shirt since they expose my skin to the poison ivy. I pick shoes that are durable and make my feet comfortable to avoid spraining my ankles. When I am in a mountainous and rocky terrain, I prefer boots that come slightly higher on the ankle to improve support

Checking the Weather Patterns

This is among the most important element in one of my hiking principles “Know Before You Go”. I usually play it safe by checking on the internet or consulting with weathermen about the weather pattern that day. Poor weather such as rain leads to slippery leaves and rocks which make it very easy to slip and fall. Lighting is a common phenomenon in mountainous places hence I pay close attention to weather forecasts to avoid getting trapped in the ridges during electrical storms. If I find the weather unfavorable that day, I calmly return my hiking boots to the house and patiently wait for another favorable day. I hate getting injuries due to ignorance or defiance.

Taking a Break to Rest

Taking time to rest during hiking is a basic way that makes the trip safer, enjoyable and refreshing. As long-distance runners pace themselves to avoid getting tired, a good hiker needs to take it slow and take some time to rejuvenate. I usually rest after 2 kilometers of hiking to reduce stressful exertion on my body which usually leads to muscle cramps. I normally find a slump and sit on it in solitude while I take some time to enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature before I resume.

Using Hiking Sticks

When I was still a novice, hiking sticks came in handy to help me complete the activity as safely as possible. For instance, I really enjoyed using trekking pole which assisted me on the trail. The trekking pole helped me a lot in offloading work on my legs and arms making them work significantly less. An overstrained leg or arm can snap up or suffer muscle cramps. The poles also help in ensuring better balance while climbing a steep hill. However, you need to use the poles with appropriate technique to achieve the safety benefits mentioned above.

Good Knowledge of the terrain

A thorough research on the prospective place for hiking is quite essential for a good hiking experience free of injuries. As an experienced hiker, the first thing I do before hiking in a new place is carrying out an extensive research that includes reading guidebooks, using online resources, Topo maps, Google and satellite images. This makes me have a good insight of the terrain and helps me avoid obstacles such as cliffs and deep holes that can cause injury.

Staying Alert Always

When I talk about staying alert during hiking, I am simply referring to the importance of watching every step. A single wrong step can mean spending days in the hospital. A slippery rock or a clay soil can cause a serious accident while leading to injuries. To stay safe, I normally avoid slamming my foot and varying my steps to mitigate the chances of getting an injury from falling.

Adequate Preparations

It is important to start off the day on the right foot. Even though many people think it is simple, hiking is like a workout and thus needs certain body tweaks. Before embarking on hiking, I make sure my muscles are adequately prepared for the activity by doing some warm-ups. This prevents incidences involving muscle cramps.

Eating well

A good overall diet is essential to overall health. It is also an important factor that plays an integral role when it comes to preventing injuries while hiking. When hiking, our body and bones are usually under a lot of workloads. As a result, we need certain nutrients such as calcium for strong bones that cannot break due to work overload. The absolute worst thing that I will never do to my body while hiking is to deprive it of essential nutrients that enable it to optimize its functions. While hiking, one can lose between 3000 to 6000 calories which need to be replaced immediately.

I also need to get properly hydrated when I am hiking. That is why I never part ways with my pack of water bottles. Like any other person, if I am not properly hydrated, I will start experiencing incidence of muscle cramps, reduced alertness, and lethargy which makes very easy for me to fall and injure myself.

Being aware of Animals

Giving animals their space can help get rid of injuries such as bug bites and stings. Hiking in the wilderness is risky due to the presence of wild animals. It is thus important that a hiker stays in his or her trails always to avoid injuries caused by such animals.

In conclusion, hiking can only be an exhilarating activity if it comes out as a safe adventure if only the above safety measures are taken into consideration. I usually feel good when I sit around the fireplace safe and sound with all my three children eagerly waiting to tell them stories about my hiking adventure.

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Field Guides: Great Tools for Enhancing Your Outdoor Experience

Hikers, campers, kayakers and other outdoor enthusiasts are often eager to learn about the flora and fauna of the places they visit. But, this is often a difficult task to accomplish and few adventurers know where to start. Most people become familiar with local plants and wildlife over the course of many years, not during a week-long trip.

And while it is true that you’re unlikely to become an expert on the trees, insects or mammals of a given region in a few short days, you’d be surprised how much you can learn about the local plants and animals by bringing along a good field guide. Field guides are specifically designed to help you identify unfamiliar plants or animals, and the best ones assume no prior knowledge about the area.

So, we’d encourage you to bring along a good field guide or two for your next trip. We’ll talk about the way field guides work and recommend some of the best options for your next trip below.

How Do Field Guides Work?

Field guides differ in many ways depending on the subject matter and the author who writes them, but most catalog the members of a given group from a given area. They provide information, photographs, illustrations and other types of content that allow the reader to learn the basics of the target subject.

Additionally, field guides typically provide tools that allow the user to distinguish between similar forms. Most do so through the use of dichotomous keys, which require the user to answer a series of binary questions.

For example, if you were using a field guide about trees, you may need to begin by determining whether the tree’s leaves are arranged in alternating or opposite fashion. Then, you’d need to figure out whether the leaves were simple or complex. Eventually, you’ll have answered the questions in a way that leads to a single tree species – hopefully the one in front of you.

Note that while field guides traditionally took the form of a printed book, modern outdoor enthusiasts may prefer to use digital versions instead. While each choice will affect your packing and planning in different ways, either format will work. So, bring whichever type of field guide you like and suits your packing needs best.

Great Field Guides for Hikers and Campers

Field guides cover an amazing diversity of subjects, ranging from living creatures to rocks and minerals. But the seven listed below should offer the most benefit for the average adventurer.

1. Reptiles

In the minds of most, reptiles evoke wonder, as well as a bit of fear. You may see a snake basking on a rock and find it beautiful, while simultaneously wondering if it is dangerous in the back of your mind. A good field guide about reptiles will help you determine whether or not the sunning serpent is dangerous, and it will also help you put a name to the attractive creature, so you can label the ensuing photos correctly.

Note that reptiles are often among the most commonly encountered vertebrates in most terrestrial ecosystems, so a reptile-related field guide will often get more use per mile on the trail than others will. Be sure to select a reptile-oriented field guide that is appropriate for your region, and those that focus on a very small area (such as a given national park or state) typically provide better information than those covering huge areas.

2. Stars

You can see stars on almost any clear night during the year, but you’ve never really enjoyed them properly unless you’ve spent the night gazing skyward while camping dozens of miles from the nearest city. The light pollution caused by street lights, neon signs and sports arenas ruin the view from cities and suburbs, but these things aren’t a problem in most isolated wilderness areas.

Star maps aren’t like most other field guides, but they serve the same basic function: They educate you about part of the natural world (or galaxy, as the case may be). Learning to identify constellations may not have the real-world value that you’ll obtain while learning to recognize local plants or animals, but it can be a very rewarding experience and help you connect with others who’ve gazed up at the same stars throughout human history.

3. Birds

Birds are typically some of the most obvious and visible components of the ecosystems in which they dwell, and they are often quite fun to watch, photograph and identify. In fact, millions of people around the world enjoy watching and identifying birds, as they complete life lists that tally every species they’ve had the chance to observe.

Note that birds present a few unique challenges for those attempting to identify and observe them. For starters, you’ll often need to use binoculars or other visual aids to help appreciate the fine details of their plumage. Additionally, birds exhibit different plumages that vary with both the season and the life stage. Accordingly, bird watching is an activity that takes some practice to master, but you’ll certainly have great fun while you practice.

4. Insects

If you want to get the most use possible out of a field guide, pick up one covering the insects of your destination. Insects exhibit more diversity than just about any other group of species on the planet — the United States alone is home to an estimated 90,000 species – so you’ll never have a shortage of subjects to investigate.

When using a field guide to identify insects, you’ll typically want to start by noting the insect’s general body shape and then turning to the corresponding section of the guide. From there, you’ll follow a simplified dichotomous key based on things like color, size and other characteristics. Note that most field guides only attempt to identify insects down to the genus level, as the individual species are often difficult for experts to distinguish.

5. Trees

The trees of a given area typically serve as the backdrop for the region. Chances are, when you are back home, reminiscing about your adventure, the forests and trees you encountered will figure heavily into your memories. Accordingly, it can be very rewarding to learn to identify these trees, so you can put names to the mental images.

One of the nice things about learning to identify trees is that there are usually only a few dozen species in most areas, and many areas are only home to a handful of species. This can make it much easier to learn the trees of a given region, as opposed to incredibly numerous groups, such as insects or birds.

6. Non-Woody Plants

Non-woody plants can be challenging for many novices to identify by using a field guide, but it is well worth the effort to do so. Those who become familiar with local non-woody plants (which generally refers to shrubs, herbs and grasses, rather than trees and vines) often learn a lot about the ecosystem as a whole.

For example, many of these non-woody plants form important dietary staples for the local wildlife. You may even be able to identify edible varieties you can enjoy on the trail. Also, some non-woody plants can represent hazards, which you’ll be wise to avoid. A good field guide can help you learn about all of these things and more.

7. Tracks and Other Signs

Many people flock to the great outdoors in hope of seeing deer, bears or other large and charismatic wildlife species. But while such encounters aren’t unheard of, they are not as common as many would like. But, while it may be rare to share the same space and time with one of these iconic wilderness inhabitants, you can almost always find signs that they’ve passed through the area.

These signs take the form of tracks, shed anatomical structures (skins, antlers, exoskeletons, etc.) or scat, and many field guides provide information about all three. It can be tricky to learn to identify tracks and other signs, but once you learn to recognize some of the subtle features they exhibit, you’ll be surprised to learn how much information can be inferred from them.

Don’t wait until you are on the trail to start using your field guide. Try practicing with it at home a bit, if you live in a region similar to the one covered by the book. If nothing else, you can search online for images of frogs, trees or birds, and then use the field guide to try to identify the species in question. Field guides and dichotomous keys can be tricky to use at first, but with practice, you’ll find them easier and incredibly helpful.

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Three Fire-Starting Problems; Three Fire-Starting Solutions

Beginning campers often struggle to start fires, but with time and practice, most become quite proficient at the task. However, that doesn’t mean you’ll always find it easy to get a fire started. From time to time, even the most skilled and experienced campers will struggle when trying to start a fire.

Often, these struggles are due to environmental factors. This means that if you camp often and long enough, you’ll probably experience such difficulties and spend a night shivering in the cold. But fortunately, most of these difficulties occur because of one of three common issues. We’ll explain these problems below, as well as potential solutions that may help you make a warm and roaring fire.

Problem #1: Wet Wood

Wet wood is perhaps the most common fire-starting challenge campers face, and it is always a possibility for those who routinely camp in the Pacific Northwest, Southeastern United States or other rainy locations.

Wood will not burn when it is wet. In fact, wood has to be heated enough to dry out completely before it will burn. This doesn’t mean that a given log must be completely dry before it will burn, but the actual wood burning at any point in time has already lost all of its water. Accordingly, it can be very frustrating to try to start a fire immediately following the rainy weather.

Solution: Find Dry Wood

There’s no simple way to sidestep the problem of wet wood. You must simply find dry wood. However, there are a few tips and tricks that will help you accomplish this.

• Look for broken branches that are suspended high in the trees. Water will not only drain away from these branches more quickly and completely than it will drain from a log laying on the ground, these branches are also exposed to more wind, which helps them dry even more quickly. Obviously, you must limit your search to those branches you can reach, but you should be able to find enough wood to start a fire with sufficient effort.
• Harvest dry wood from inside large logs. While large logs can become drenched through to their cores, most will remain quite dry on the inside. Using a large knife or your camp ax, strip away damp portions of the log until only dry wood remains. You can also use this technique to create your own tinder. Just shred the dry wood harvested from the log’s interior into very fine fibers and they’ll make excellent tinder.
• Look for logs and branches lying in exposed, sunny locations. Forests are often damp places, even several days or weeks removed from rainy weather. But sunny, exposed locations are typically quite dry – especially if they are also buffeted by strong winds.
• Look for branches under overhangs and other sheltered locations. Lots of natural features create sheltered spots, which can remain surprisingly dry. Cliff bases are often excellent locations to search, as the vertical walls will usually protect small areas at the bottom of the wall from the rain. You’d be surprised how dry some of these places – and the branches found in them – can be.

It’s also a good idea to gather even more tinder and kindling than you normally would when faced with damp conditions, as it may take a long time to heat up the fuel logs enough to burn well. And once you’ve started your fire, be sure to use the heat generated to help dry out wood collected for future fires.

Problem #2: High Winds

High winds are often thought to increase the danger of campfires (and they do); but ironically, they can also make it very difficult to start one. Many campers have struck one match after another in an effort to light their tinder, only to have the wind extinguish the match flame before the tinder would ignite.

Solution: Create a Wind Screen

The easiest way to start a fire in high winds is to simply create or improvise a structure that blocks the wind. However, there are a number of different ways to do this, including:

• Stack additional rocks around the fire circle. You should only build a fire in a circle of stones anyway, so just take the time to find some more rocks and stack them on top of the existing circle. In extremely windy conditions, you may need to stack the stones high around the entire circle, but moderate winds will only require you to stack them on the side from which the winds are blowing.
• Use your body to shield the match. Chances are, you’ll intuitively try to use your body to block the wind, but it bears mentioning anyway. You may have even better luck by stretching the side of your jacket out sideways.
• Start the fire in a sheltered location. In the windiest conditions, you may not be able to use rocks or your body to adequately shield the match. In such circumstances, you may need to seek out a sheltered location, such as a cliff base or cave to start the fire. You can then transfer coals or burning logs to the desired location.
• Build the fire in a subterranean pit. By digging down into the soil and then partially covering the pit with branches, you can create an enclosed space to start your fire. You’ll need to provide the fire with more access to oxygen once the fire is burning, but this shouldn’t be a problem – just remove the covering branches as necessary.

Note that there are also lighters on the market which feature extendable windshields, which allow them to light in even the windiest conditions. These types of tools will provide additional value and should always be considered by campers who often visit windy regions.

Problem #3: Kindling Lights, but Fuel Wood Does Not

Many campers manage to get their tinder lit, and they may even get the kindling wood to ignite. However, they’ll have great difficulty getting the fuel logs to light. Eventually, such campers end up looking at a pile of ashes that used to be kindling and a stack of fuelwood, with a lightly charred exterior.

Solution: Re-Construct the Wood Pile

Assuming that you aren’t battling strong winds or being forced to use damp wood, the most common reason campers have trouble igniting their fuelwood is due to design problems. Specifically, it usually means that the fire is not getting enough oxygen. You can help correct this problem by:

• Use a log-cabin, rather than pyramidal design. Although the traditional pyramidal design can be very effective, it is often easy for beginners to place the sticks too closely to each other, which chokes off the oxygen and prevents the fire from growing. But, a log-cabin-style wood pile will allow plenty of oxygen to pass through the wood.
• Stack the wood so that the prevailing winds blow through the center of the pile. You can accomplish this by building your log-cabin on top of two large, parallel logs. Make sure that you light the fire from the side the wind is blowing. The wind will not only carry oxygen through the woodpile, but it will carry heat through the wood too.
• Dig a trench through the center of the wood pile. By creating a small tunnel, you can help flood the woodpile with oxygen. It will also make it easier for you to blow air into the coals, if necessary.

Even the most experienced campers will eventually find themselves having difficulty starting a fire. The question isn’t “if” but “when.” But if you familiarize yourself with these three problems and their associated solutions, you’ll likely figure out how to overcome these challenges when they present themselves.

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How To Use Trekking Poles

I used to think that trekking poles are for cowards, and one day, out of curiosity, I decided to give them a try. At first, I felt like off, but it so happened that the same day I used them I slipped while crossing a stream. I kept thinking throughout the day what could have happened if I didn’t have them since there was a sharp stick just on the place I was about to fall.

That was eight years ago, and I never stopped telling people about how poles are useful for crossing streams. I have since been using trekking poles, and I have come to realize that when using them I hike more miles, I have fewer backaches, and my knees aren’t so rubbery. They are more than poles; they’re an extension of me.

Think of them as two extra legs. This means with them you get extra stability, allowing you to hike faster, safer, and for long distances. A study done in 1999, published in the Journal of Sports Medicine showed that trekking poles are able to reduced pressure on your knees by up to 25 percent. Another study by the Copper Institute indicated not long ago that trekking poles allow you to burn 40 percent extra calories while hiking.

So, to cut a long story short, trekking poles WILL make a huge difference for you. But first, you need to know how to use them properly; otherwise, they won’t do you any good.

Here, I will describe a methodical approach on how to use poles to your advantages, which will make your hiking easier, safe and efficient.

Adjusting The Wrist Strap

A wrist strap is one of the things people never take seriously and in fact, most people do not even know how to use them. When the wrist strap is correctly used it goes a long way in preventing aching hands and sprained wrists.

• To adjust the length of the strap, pull the tension block out. Once the block is removed, you may pull the loose end to tighten the strap, or the upper portion to loosen it. Once the desired size is reached, push the tension block back in.

 

How To Use Your Wrist Strap

Put your hand through the appropriate strap from the bottom so it rests snugly around your wrist. Then grasp the grip and top of the strap with your hand. Having your straps too loose is a common mistake. A properly adjusted strap is tight enough to help support the weight of your hand on the pole, but not so tight that it’s difficult to remove or restricts circulation to the hand.

Adjust The Pole Length

Adjust the poles so your elbow is at a 90 degree angle. When adjusting the height of the poles, make sure the number on the top segment of the pole is the same as the bottom segment.

Tightening Your Trekking Poles

Flip open the clasp, then proceed to make 1/4 turn adjustments to the screw until you get the desired tension. The bolt should be tight enough that when you close the clasp the pole supports your weight without sliding. And remember, when twisting the screw, righty tighty, lefty loosey!

Walking Uphill

When hiking uphill it’s better to keep the pole is short enough not to pull yourself up the hill but to help push off. So the tip of the pole should not be in front of the lead foot, rather keep the poles close to the body.

Walking Downhill

For extended descents or hilly terrains, your pole should be a little longer, in a way that you will be standing upright when you plant the pole in front of you.

There are times you may need to adjust your poles so that one pole is on the longer side and the other is a bit shorter. For instance, when following a slope that zigzags. Having one short and the other one long helps you alternate them at each turn without any need to adjust every few moments. Make sure you test both pole lengths to make sure they are suitable for the terrain.

Moving The Pole Forward

This is one of the things that you might not think is important, but I’ve learned these few tricks from my friends who began using trekking poles years before me, and I have found them to be very helpful. For a minute, just think about how you naturally walk. When you step forward with your right foot, your left-hand swings forward. The same thing happens when you step forward with your left foot. What is the basic science behind this? Our body is optimized to move this way to help maintain stability.

Use the same principle on your hiking poles. So;

• Each trekking pole moves forward when the opposite leg does. Don’t try to alter the pattern by planting the pole on the foot near it.
• When stepping up (say on a ledge), make both poles move forward at the same time. This is a great technique, and you can use it to minimize leg fatigue.

I have seen some hikers plant the pole after two or three steps, but that kind of movement pattern isn’t good for me. But, that’s not to say it isn’t a style that can be beneficial when you’re free of heavy loads
and on smooth terrain.

I’ve come to realize it only takes a short while to develop the right movement patterns. Eventually, the poles will feel like an extension of yourself.

Be careful when you plant your poles on the rocky and hilly terrain. If the pole slips between two rocks, you may fall or snap the pole if you do not pull it back out straight away.

These are just a few tips that can really help you use trekking poles to your advantage. As you use them, you may find other ways that work better for you. These are general recommendations that can make your hikes easier and more efficient.

Most importantly, remember to choose the right trekking pole for you, since the kind of pole you use will also have an impact on your hiking experience.

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Patagonia Trekking & Hiking: Everything you Need to Know

An Adventurer’s Guide to Patagonia

A lot of campers and hikers fall into a rut and continue to visit the same places time and again. And while there’s something to be said for getting to know your favorite park or wilderness area inside and out, the world is a big place and it behooves you to get out and enjoy it.

There are a number of fantastic destinations available for hikers and campers who are interested in expanding their horizons, but few are as appealing as Patagonia. Encompassing 400,000 square miles of South America, Patagonia is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Home to vast grasslands, arid deserts, temperate rainforests and picturesque glaciers, the region draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

But as with any other exotic location, you must learn all you can about Patagonia before scheduling your trip. We’ll try to help you in this journey below, as we outline the basics geography of the region, detail a few of the most notable parks and wilderness areas and provide tips and tricks for packing and staying safe during your Patagonian adventure.

Getting to Know the Destination: Patagonia at a Glance

It’s easy to see the appeal of Patagonia – it’s one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Typically defined as the area between the Andes Mountains, the Colorado River and the Atlantic Ocean, it stretches as far south as the Tierra del Fuego – an archipelago off the southern coast of South America.

Most of the region (approximately 90%) lies in Argentina, although a few portions of Chile are considered part of Patagonia as well. The entire region is a semi-arid plateau, covered in deserts, pampas and grasslands. A series of dramatic cliffs separate the Patagonia plateau from a thin coastal strip alongside the Atlantic Ocean.

Patagonia is a wide-open area that is primarily comprised of treeless plains. However, there are a few densely forested areas found in the western stretches of the region. Most of these forests are classified as temperate rainforests, and they are home to a unique collection of plants and animals.

In fact, this illustrates a general trend of the region: The farther west you travel, the greater the biological diversity you’ll see. Until that is, you reach the beautiful peaks and mind-blowing glaciers of the Andes, where the biodiversity begins to return to levels similar to those in the east.

Patagonia’s climate is typically cool and dry, with the warmest temperatures occurring in the east. Most of the precipitation falls during the South American winter, from May to August. However, annual rainfall levels generally decrease the farther east you travel, thanks to the rain-shadow effect created by the Andes. Some areas near the Chilean border receive 400 centimeters of rain annually, while rainfall totals in the east are typically in the 30- to 50-centimeter range.

Popular Hiking and Camping Areas

Of course, Patagonia is a big place – it’s about the same size as California and Texas combined. Accordingly, you’ll need to decide on a specific location or two when planning your trip. Fortunately, Patagonia has no shortage of world-class camping destinations from which you can choose.

A few of the most popular trails and parks include:

Los Glaciares National Park

Los Glaciares is one of the most popular destinations for North American and European visitors, and it is located near the shores of Lago Argentino – a huge, beautiful reservoir fed by melting glaciers. Los Glaciares is a remote park, without many signs of civilization, so you’ll need to camp when hiking into the park’s interior. There are plenty of scenic views in the park, but you’ll usually have to hike across rugged trails to enjoy them. And, as you may expect from the name, you’ll have the chance to see plenty of stunning glaciers while visiting Los Glaciares.

Torres del Paine National Park

The most popular destination in the Chilean portion of Patagonia, Torres del Paine is a bit more populated than Los Glaciares. Stores and hotels dot the region and roads provide easy access to many of the scenic points of interest. Torres del Paine is home to the region’s famous W Trek, which stretches for 34 miles and typically takes about four days of hiking to complete. You can see glaciers while visiting Torres del Paine, but you’ll only be able to see them up close via boat.

Reserva Nacional Cerro Castillo

Reserva Nacional Cerro Castillo provides some of the best scenic views in the entire Patagonian region. In fact, travelers who’ve visited the region have one recurring bit of advice: Allow plenty of time to stop and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and take photographs. The park’s roads are in very good condition, which makes traveling between the various scenic wonders quite easy, but you can also hike around the park in about four or five days. There are also shorter trails you can enjoy on foot or via horseback. If you don’t mind a steep and strenuous hike, check out the trail to Lago Carrera, which provides some of the best views around.

Monte León National Park

Located in the province of Santa Cruz on the southeastern coast of Argentina, Monte Leon National Park is primarily comprised of steppe habitat and features plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities – you can even see several different species of penguin while visiting the area. However, the primary attraction of Monte Leon is undoubtedly the beautiful sandstone cliffs and rock formations that characterize the coast. It is important to prepare for chilly weather when visiting Monte Leon, although warm ocean currents do help moderate the area’s temperatures somewhat.

Queulat National Park

Located in southern Chile, Queulat National Park is another popular destination among travelers visiting Patagonia. The Andes dominate the park and serve as the primary geological feature of the region — some portions of the park sit nearly 6,500 feet above sea level. Queulat is quite damp and the region receives enough rainfall to support dense forests on the mountain slopes. The species found in the park often change with increasing altitude, which gives you the chance to enjoy and witness a great deal of biodiversity when visiting the park.

Staying Safe During Your Trip

Fortunately, Patagonia is a relatively safe place for adventurers, and most of the dangers and threats present are similar to those in any other wilderness area. Accordingly, it is important to embrace the same basic safety practices you’d employ when traveling anywhere else.

Among other things, this means:

• Travel in groups. Vast tracts of Patagonia are uninhabited or nearly so, and several of the trails pass through very remote lands. The best way to stay safe in such isolated areas is by traveling with several companions.
• Let someone know when your trip is scheduled to conclude. Just like if you were camping in a stateside park or forest, you’ll want to be sure a friend or family member is anticipating your return. This way, he or she can alert authorities if you fail to contact them at the predetermined time.
• Watch out for big cats. Although there aren’t many big predators in Patagonia, pumas are occasionally spotted lurking near the trails. The best way to stay safe around these big cats is by remaining alert and traveling with others. Pumas typically want to surprise their prey and they aren’t keen on attacking animals traveling in packs.
• Sterilize water before you drink it. Although some of the glacial streams in the western reaches of Patagonia are reportedly safe to drink, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Additionally, the water at many of the more popular parks and campsites becomes polluted from the activities of other campers.
• Bring a fully stocked first aid kit and know how to use it. Because of the remote nature of Patagonia’s parks and trails, you’ll have to tend to any wounds on the trail.

Packing and Preparing for Your Trip

Proper preparation is important for any trip, and your Patagonian adventure is no different. You’ll want to start with the same basic packing list you use for any journey, but there are a few extra items you’ll want to pack when heading to southern Chile and Argentina, and you may need to make a few adjustments to your gear.

Some of the most important and noteworthy changes you may want to make include:

• Rugged, waterproof hiking boots are imperative. You’ll always want high-quality hiking boots when planning to trek for several days, but given the muddy, wet and rock-strewn trails common to most Patagonian parks, they’re more important than usual.
• Your tent must be capable of withstanding strong winds. Patagonia is a very windy region, which will ruin the shape and rip the seams of flimsy tents. Be sure the model you select has robust tie-downs and orient the tent so that one of the poles faces directly into the prevailing winds.
• Prepare for the sunshine. Although Patagonia is relatively cool, some portions of the area are bathed in very strong sunlight – particularly near the glaciers, where the light reflects off the white ice in all directions. Bring plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin and a pair of sunglasses to keep your eyes safe.
• Make sure you bring a camp stove. Open fires are prohibited in many of the region’s parks, so you’ll need to use a camp stove, rather than a campfire to cook your food. Don’t forget to bring plenty of fuel, as many of the hikes you’ll take through Patagonia will take several days to complete.
• Prepare for mosquitos. Patagonia may be a bit cool, dry and windy, but the mosquito population can explode anytime rainy weather happens in the summer. Consider repellant mandatory and consider bringing along a mosquito net for even more protection.
• Layers are your friend Patagonia can experience 60-degree temperature swings over the course of a single day, so you’ll want to be able to adjust your clothing as the weather changes. Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking materials close to your body, use heavier insulating garments for your mid-layer and top everything off with wind- and water-resistant garments.
• Trekking poles are invaluable in such rugged terrain. Patagonia will challenge even the most physically fit hikers, and the miles of rugged trails and rocky escarpments can make it difficult to keep your balance and take a toll on your joints. But, a good pair of trekking poles will help you stay upright and relieve some of the stress on your knees.

 

Logistical Considerations and General Traveling Tips

Unlike scheduling a camping trip for the national park that may only be a couple of hours up the highway from your home, you’ll need to travel thousands of miles to reach Patagonia. Such journeys entail serious logistical challenges, so it is important to plan and prepare carefully.

Some of the best ways to ensure your trip goes smoothly include:

• Get your paperwork in order. You’ll need a valid US passport to enter Argentina or Chile (you’ll also need it to exchange American currency for Argentine or Chilean pesos. However, you will not need a visa as long as your trip won’t last longer than 90 days.
• It is usually wisest to travel during the South American spring, Summer or fall, as you’ll have better access to hotels and retail outlets. Many are only open seasonally and close during the off-season. You’ll face fewer crowds during the spring or fall, but you’ll enjoy the warmest temperatures during the summer.
• Check to see if you need to obtain permits or book a campsite at the parks you intend to visit. Many of Patagonia’s parks and wilderness areas require visitors to book a campsite in advance or purchase a permit to enter the park. Torres del Paine, for example, charges campers $38 to enter the park.
• Plan for inclement weather. Strong thunderstorms are common during the spring and early summer, so it is wise to build a couple of extra days into your schedule to make up for days lost to rain.
• Purchase your airplane tickets several months in advance. Unless you are planning a month-long visit, you’ll want to fly directly into Patagonia – it’ll simply take too long to get there by car. Flights fill up quickly during the peak travel season, so you’ll want to secure yours early.
• Fly into one of the most convenient locations. To maximize your time spent on the trail, try to fly into one of the closest cities you can. A few of the best choices include Calafate or Ushuaia if you are headed to the Argentinian side of Patagonia; for those heading to the Chilean portion of Patagonia, Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas are good choices.
• Plan your overland travels in advance. There are a number of ways to explore Patagonia and travel between the different cities in the region, but bus and chartered car services are two of the best options. However, bus tickets go quickly and charter services book weeks in advance, so don’t wait until you get there to make arrangements.
• Save money by eating at your hotel. Many of the local hotels provide meals as part of the standard nightly rate, and most of the nicer motels in the region count world-class chefs among their staff. This means you’ll have the chance to sample local specialties, many of which were grown or raised within a few miles of the hotel.
• Do not plan on purchasing gear in Argentina. Argentinian sporting goods stores and camping supply stores are notoriously over-priced, as they try to capitalize on tourists in need of gear. Chile’s retail outlets are also quite pricey, though not to the extent that Argentina’s stores are. In either case, be sure to bring along everything you’ll need. This can make travel more challenging, but you’ll be glad you brought all your gear when you see the exorbitant prices attached to even the most basic camping items.
• Be sure to check the CDC’s list of recommended vaccines before traveling. Currently, the CDC recommends that travelers heading to Argentina or Chile be sure that they are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations (measles, mumps, etc.) and that they obtain vaccines for typhoid and hepatitis A. Additionally, some travelers are also encouraged to obtain vaccinations against rabies, hepatitis B and yellow fever.

Patagonia is certainly one of the most remarkable locations in the world, and any hiker or camper who gets the chance to visit should consider themselves lucky. But, to ensure that you make the most of your trip and have the best time possible, you must prepare for the trip carefully.

To that end, be sure to embrace the tips, tricks and suggestions explained above and read everything you can about Patagonia. It is also wise to speak with anyone you know (or can contact) who has visited the region, as first-hand accounts and experiences are often quite helpful when trying to understand a foreign land.

Once you’ve completed your homework and formulated a complete travel plan, take a deep breath and relax. It’s time to start getting excited and mentally prepare yourself to make the most of your journey. As with any other trip, you’ll surely experience a few minor challenges, but that’s part of the reason adventures are so much fun.

 

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