Tips for planning your route

Good route planning is the first key to a great backpacking experience.  Here are some tips to help when planning your backpacking trips.

• Make sure to that there are water sources along the way.
• Is your route an in-and-out route, circular route or do you need to arrange for a pick up at the end of the trail.
• When planning the length of your trip and how far you plan to go each day make sure to plan for slowest/weakest person.  Give the fastest person an assignment.
• Be aware of the terrain, add one additional hour for each 1000 feet in elevation. Remember that the first day out is never what you expect.  Take into consideration that some Pathfinders may have new boots, straps that don't fit, and people in bad shape.
• Avoid peak seasons and most popular trails especially if you want to get away from it all.
• Leave a plan with someone at home, let them know when you expect to return and when to send someone looking if you haven't returned.  Don't plan on cell phones working.  If you are using a GPS make sure to have a compass to back it up.
• Check the fire regulations in the area you will be in.  At some times of the year it may be too dry for fires.  Make sure that you have another way to do the cooking.
• Have a back up for every position.  For long trips incorporate a rest day.
• If you've mapped out your route by yourself, make sure to have someone else look over the plan to make sure you didn't miss anything.  After all two heads are better than one.