August 2022 - 24

or slip-on shoes, to wear in the evening. It's
important to keep dirt and debris out of your
boots by wearing gaiters or pants that are
long enough to keep the tops of your boots
covered. If you feel a pebble or grit inside a
boot, stop immediately and get rid of it.
Should I make a
campfire?
It depends on the conditions and your
surroundings. Check before you leave if
campfires are allowed in the area and if there
are any fire bans. If campfires are legal, make
a ring of stones to contain it, on rock or dirt,
then collect dead, downed wood. Keep water
near the fire. If it's windy, wait for another
time. Always be sure your campfire is totally
out before you crawl in your tent for the night
or leave the site.
A father and daughter hike toward a remote lake to fish and camp. (Photo by Dominic Ballard)
heat from an uncovered head. Retaining
that 10 percent might make the difference
between feeling chilly and warm. If you're
still cold, wear your down jacket inside your
sleeping bag.
Can I prevent blisters?
Blisters are caused by friction inside your
boots. Start by getting proper-fitting, goodquality
hiking boots made to support the
amount of weight you plan to carry. Wear
them a few times around the neighborhood
or on several short hikes before your big
backcountry trip. Lace them snuggly so your
feet aren't moving, but not so tight that your
feet can't articulate as you hike. You may need
to adjust the laces as your feet settle in or
change in size. Wear wool or wicking socks.
Cotton retains moisture that can create a
hotspot. It helps to take off your boots and air
your feet now and again during the day, and
have a pair of camp shoes, like sturdy sandals
24 | August 2022
What if I get hurt?
Some of the protocols for injury are the
same as getting lost, like telling someone your
plan before you depart and staying put. If
you've got a cell signal, call 9-1-1, then layer
on clothing or wrap up in your sleeping bag
to stay warm and prevent going into shock
if the injury is serious. If you know first aid,
use it, otherwise just stay calm. Help might
take some time to arrive, but it will come.
Should I bring my kids?
Backcountry time is family time, though
it's better to limit your outings to day hikes
until your kids reach school age. The key
to teaching your kids to love the outdoors
is keeping it fun, which means properly
outfitting them with clothing and footwear,
and keeping the distance reasonable. A rule
of thumb is to go half your youngest child's
age. For a 6-year-old, limit the day to three
miles or less, and remember the rule to limit
pack weight to 25 percent of body weight.
If your kid weighs 60 pounds, their pack
should be about 15 pounds, so probably just
water, lunch and some clothing. You'll need
to shoulder the rest.
Should I bring my dog?
If pets are allowed, bring Rover along but
with a few caveats. Dogs should be on-leash
as a courtesy to other backpackers and to
prevent them from harassing wildlife or worse,

August 2022

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of August 2022