Load Before You Go: Tips, Tools and Apps to Keep Safe on the Trails

Thank you to Nigel Dyson-Hudson, Vice-President of Cayuga Nordic Ski Club and a member of the Highland Forest Ski Patrol for providing these recommendations.    Questions, comments and suggestions - please contact him at cavensar@gmail.com

• Check trail conditions & the weather for both driving & at the trailhead.   

• Leave trip plans with family or friends. 

• Research your planned route and take a paper map.   

• Learn how to use a compass and/or load a compass app on your mobile device (see video below). 

• Use an online map app such as Avenza or Maprika (see videos below).   

• Load or bring an emergency tracking device such as Airflare (see video below)

• Charge your mobile device before heading out.

• Carry back-up power sources for your devices (see Nitecore video below).   

• Carry extra water and food/fuel. 

• Carry a first-aid kit, an emergency blanket/bivvy.  

• Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain.   Bring extra layers, including inclement weather gear.  

Additional Resources 

• NYS DEC "Hike Smart NY" 

• Barcelona Field Studies Virtual Compass & Map and Compass Simulator 

 Questions, comments and suggestions - please contact Nigel Dyson-Hudson at cavensar@gmail.com