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Section: Safety | Hiking | Camping Regulations | Rangers | Leave no Trace | Books/Maps | Joining

Ranger's Day Hiking Insights

Important hiking information...

1. Water - carry some and have a way to purify more. Plan to have more, not less, than needed!

2. Pack contents for a day hike:

Even for a day hike these are essential since accidents happen - folks should have enough to stay at least one night if injured! Weather changes quickly in the hills.

3. Proper foot wear- ankle support, closed toe, etc...

4. Plan in advance for groups: groups larger than 9 need a permit, folks staying more than 3 nights need a permit. Permits are free and issued by the local ranger- we use them to regulate high use concerns.

5. NYS Rules and Regulations- they are posted at most trail heads and are on the DEC website.

6. Know emergency contacts: local Ranger phone number, hospital, etc. Carry them with you and let someone know where you intend to be and for how long. Great help for searches/rescues.

7. KNOW THE FORECASTED WEATHER! Or have a weather radio.

8. Folks that get lost need to Stay Calm, Think, Observe, Plan! Most folks that stay put or stay on the trail are the quickest rescues or finds.

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