We also scanned and printed the relevant pages from The Complete Hiker’s Guide to the Backbone Trail as a back-up. The phone signal is not reliable and, although the trail is mostly well-marked, there are times when this is not the case. Or, you might simply want to enjoy a picnic at one of the stunning viewpoints.Īlways take a map. You may get wobbly and just need a bit of energy to get you through that last mile to the finish line. It might even rain one day!Īlso, bring food. Whatever you decide, always carry a first aid pack in case of trips, cuts, bruises etc. So, work out what equipment works for you and feels safe before embarking on a long hike. It stops my hands swelling and provides balance on the rocky trails, particularly the steep descents. Sneakers won’t cut it.Įquipment – I always hike with sticks. There will be rocky, steep sections on part of every hike and in places it will be gravelly and slippery. Shoes – always wear proper hiking shoes / boots. Know the symptoms of heat sickness so you are aware if it starts to hit. Dehydration is very unpleasant and can be dangerous. And bring at least one quart of water for every hour that you’ll be hiking. Dehydration can be a real problem in this heat.

So, as the famous Scout motto states, it’s vital to ‘Be Prepared’.įirst off, water. It may be very close to the city and, in places, within spitting distance of suburban communities, but some sections are very remote. What to take: There’s no doubt that hiking the Backbone Trail (BBT) has an element of adventure about it. With thanks to The Complete Hiker’s Guide to the Backbone Trail by Doug & Caroline Chamberlin

Backbone trail water fountains