Following the Guidance of the Scallop Shell The Camino de Santiago is not a single path, but a network. Among its routes, the French Way stands as the most iconic and popular. This nearly 800-kilometre journey from the foothills of the Pyrenees to Santiago in Spain’s northwest transcends mere walking; it is an inner voyage …
Leave No Trace in the Wilderness Principle: Leave nothing but footprints
Leave No Trace is not merely a set of guidelines, but an outdoor ethic and philosophy. Its core lies in respect and conservation, aiming through our modest efforts to ensure future visitors enjoy nature as pristine as we did. Detailed Explanation of the Seven Principles 1.Thorough Planning and Preparation Beforehand Understand destination regulations, plan small …
Why I Choose to Face the Wilderness Alone
To others, trekking deep into the wilderness alone always carries a hint of irrational adventure, even a touch of reclusiveness and tragic grandeur. They ask, “Aren’t you lonely? Aren’t you afraid? Isn’t it better to share the scenery with someone?” I usually respond with a smile, unable to fully explain. Because some journeys are meant …
The Power of Walking: Conversing with Nature
We inhabit a world profoundly reshaped by human civilization—surrounded by forests of steel and concrete, our ears filled with artificial sounds. We’ve grown accustomed to understanding the world through screens, our connection to nature reduced to occasional photo browsing or brief strolls in parks. Only when you truly pack your bags and step into the …
When Lost in the Wilderness, the “STOP” Principle Teaches You to Stay Calm and Rescue Yourself
Statistics show that 90% of incidents related to getting lost worsen due to poor decisions made in panic. Remember this simple STOP principle—it provides a clear framework for action when you’re most disoriented. S = Stop Immediately T = Think O = Observe P = Plan Based on the above information, select the most appropriate …
Comprehensive Guide to River Crossing Techniques: Practical Instruction for Safely Navigating Rapid Water
Rapid rivers represent one of hiking’s most insidious and deadly hazards. Icy water temperatures, slippery rocks, and powerful currents can transform an easy crossing into an accident. This guide systematically teaches you how to assess and safely navigate such obstacles. Stage One: Risk Assessment – ‘Cross’ or ‘Don’t Cross’ This is the most critical step, …
Solo Hiking Safety Manual: Embrace Solitude, but Reverence the Risks
Introduction: Doubled Responsibility in the Wilderness Solo hiking offers unparalleled freedom and tranquility, but it also means you bear sole responsibility for every decision and its consequences. This guide isn’t meant to discourage solo travel—it’s designed to help you safely embrace this unique experience. Part One: Pre-Trip Preparation—Taking Personal Responsibility Part Two: Hiking Code — …
Preventing and Treating Hypothermia and Heatstroke During Hiking—Essential Knowledge for Every Outdoor Enthusiast
In the outdoors, body temperature imbalance poses a deadly threat. Hypothermia and heatstroke are two common “silent killers” in the wilderness. Understanding their mechanisms, symptoms, and countermeasures is essential for every outdoor enthusiast. Part One: Hypothermia—The Silent Killer Part Two: Heatstroke—The Overheating Crisis Stay Vigilant, Return Safely Mastering this knowledge isn’t meant to cause panic, …
Essential for Beginners! A Beginner’s Guide to Using Maps and Navigation Apps
Say Goodbye to Getting Lost, Embrace Confident Exploration In the wilderness, the ability to navigate is a core source of security. Today, we have powerful digital tools at our disposal, but using them correctly is a fundamental skill. This guide will walk you through using navigation apps, empowering you to traverse mountains and wilderness with …
What’s in My Hiking Emergency Kit? This Checklist Could Save Your Life
An emergency kit is no ordinary piece of kit; it is your lifeline in the worst-case scenario. My principle is: minimise weight without compromising functionality, be comprehensive without being redundant. Below is my battle-tested emergency kit checklist. Core Life-Saving Items Medical First Aid Survival Tools Multi-tool card: Integrated utility knife, pliers and other practical toolsHigh-strength …