On the trail
Terrain, weather and preparing to head off-road.
30 articles
Pass livestock gates without creating a problem
A gate across a running route is working equipment for the land, not just an obstacle. Slow down, read any instructions and leave the crossing organised for the next person.
Read article ↗
Carry your waste back from a trail outing
Carrying waste out is easier when a place for it exists before you open the first wrapper. Keep that place separate from items you need to handle repeatedly.
Read article ↗
Keep a paper route backup dry
A paper backup only helps if the useful area remains readable and accessible. Prepare it as something you may actually use in wind or rain, not as an item to tick off a packing list.
Read article ↗
Download an offline map before leaving reception
A saved route and a downloaded map are not always the same thing. Test the exact view you will need without a connection while you are still somewhere comfortable.
Read article ↗
Use a GPX track as a clue rather than a guarantee
A GPX track tells you where a line goes. It does not tell you whether that line is currently open, comfortable or suitable for the people following it.
Read article ↗
Check a trailhead noticeboard before setting off
The trailhead board can contain information that was missing when you planned at home. Give it a deliberate stop before starting the watch.
Read article ↗
Plan around hunting information and closures
Check hunting information as part of choosing the route, then read the signs on arrival. An old calendar or a familiar path is not enough to establish today’s access.
Read article ↗
Reconsider a forest outing after strong winds
The wind dropping does not tell you that a forest route is clear. Treat a recent windy period as a reason to check access and reconsider the setting.
Read article ↗
Leave room for weather changes in the hills
A hill outing needs room for the forecast to be imperfect and for progress to be slower than expected. Build that room into the route before deciding what to pack.
Read article ↗
Choose a shorter trail in hot weather
When the day is hot, change the outing itself rather than keeping the same route and hoping it will feel different. A short loop near the start gives you more choices.
Read article ↗