We suggest you copy the template below, fill it out, and keep it handy. Make two; one for your backpack and another for your car. You can never be too careful.

Leave a Detailed Trail Plan with a Family Member or Friend

One of the best ways you can prevent becoming another statistic is by telling someone where you’re going and when you expect to return home. Should something happen, and you fail to return home at the agreed upon time, that person should immediately call the local search and rescue team to notify them of where you were hiking.

Your Plan Should look something like this:

Leave a Detailed Trail Plan in your Vehicle

One of the first places Search and Rescue teams often search is the vehicle you left at the trailhead. Often times, concerned hikers will report a vehicle that’s been left abandoned for a long period of time. It’s a good idea to leave an extra copy of your plan in the vehicle so search and rescue teams know exactly where they should be looking and who they are looking for.
Your plan should include:

• Your Departure Date & Time
• Your Expected Return Date & Time
• Your Starting Point
• Your Destination
• Your Intended Travel Route
• Any Alternate Plans that you may have
• Any communications gear you have including phone numbers or frequencies that you use
• And Any Medical Conditions you have
• Study Your Trail
• Before ever stepping foot on the trail, you should have a pretty good idea of what that trail looks like, and what’s physically required to successfully complete the hike. Most trails are rated, and can be found by searching numerous online hiking databases.
• You should also have a Topo map, and know how to use it. These maps can give you a wealth of knowledge including terrain, difficulties, waterways, vegetation and alternative routes.
• In a survival situation the clothes on your back, combined with what’s in your bag, will be your primary source of shelter and protection. Clothing is your first line of defense against the elements and is something that should never be overlooked.

Don’t forget that your plan should always include your departure date (and time), the starting point, the destination, an expected return date (and time) , the travel route and possible alternatives, and do not forget to leave your cell phone number I you happen to have it with you!

It may not seem necessary at the time because you are so certain everything will go without a hitch but a good survivalist and hiker is always prepared for anything.  Go to Survival Gear to read more!

When you are practiced you know about safety and the way to keep yourself and those you love protected!