By Scott Stegenga

Special to The Courier

As the fall season advances, hiking activity will be on the increase. Getting out on a trail is a great way to exercise and enjoy the wonderful natural resources we have close at hand. Longer hikes should be wisely planned and require extra preparations. Even a short walk in the woods can turn to misery if some basic safety precautions are ignored.

First and foremost, always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. It is always better to hike with someone, but if going alone, this is especially important. If the trail head has a registration system in place, be sure to sign in and out as instructed. If hiking with a group, avoid wandering off by yourself, as this can lead to more serious problems that can affect not only yourself, but others in the group if they don’t know where you are.

Having the right clothing is critical to a good hiking experience. Footwear should always fit comfortably and be sturdy to cope with uneven terrain. Wearing thicker socks or a double pair can help prevent blisters. If your

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