Tips for Hikers

It’s the perfect time to head outside and check out the season at peak – but before you go, make sure you are prepared with these hiking tips from the DEC:

Use Maps, Guides, or DEC's Website to Plan Your Trip

Plan where you're going
Plan when you expect to return
Check trail conditions before hiking

Leave Trip Plans With Family or Friends

Update them with any changes to your plans

Be Realistic About Your Fitness and Skill Level

Don't overestimate your abilities
Don't underestimate mother nature
Choose trails within your or your group's ability
In the winter, breaking through fresh snow can be more tiring than regular hiking.

Check the Weather Forecast and Current Conditions

Day of your trip
Night of your trip and the next day so you can be prepared for an unexpected night in the woods
Know what time the sun sets and plan your hike to return before dark

Prepare For Survival

Know what to do in case of emergencies and be prepared for them to happen

When you get to the Trailhead or Parking Lot

Conceal valuables, and lock your vehicle
Save the DEC Dispatch number in your cell phone
Sign trail registers and indicate the time. This will assist searchers in locating you if you become lost

Hike in a Group and Stay Together

Pace your hike to the slowest person
Stay in sight of the person behind you and the person in front of you
Stay in hearing distance of everyone in your group

When You Return

Sign trail registers again and indicate the time
Return any trail guides
Dispose of litter properly
Inform person you left trip plans with that you have finished your hike

Emergency Phone Numbers

911
DEC Dispatch: 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264)

If You Are Lost or Injured

Stop where you are. Keep calm and assess your situation
Try to determine your location-look for recognizable landmarks and listen for vehicles on nearby roads
If you are sure you can get yourself out of the woods using a map and compass, do so - otherwise stay put
If you have cell service, call 911 or DEC Dispatch (see above). The dispatcher will ask questions to collect information needed to help searchers locate you quickly
If you don't have cell service, move to a location close by where you are visible to searchers on the ground or in the air. If you have something brightly colored, wear it or place it in a conspicuous location
If someone is injured or stricken and there is no cell service:
- One person should remain with the injured person while the others note their location and leave to obtain assistance
- If there isn't anyone to stay behind, make sure the injured person has shelter and supplies before leaving to seek help
If it appears that you will need to spend the night:
- Clear an area of debris to build a campfire to provide heat, light and comfort. A fire will help searchers locate you
- Using items from your pack, build a shelter that will serve as a "cocoon" to keep you warm and sheltered from the weather. You can also use dead branches, conifer boughs and leaf litter to insulate the shelter
- DEC has a brochure with safety tips on how to prevent getting lost and what to do if you are lost