Preparing for a Wilderness Walk
EASY, MODERATE AND STRENUOUS
Each Wilderness Walk description in the Summer Walks brochure includes a comment about difficulty, elevation gain and trail mileage. For your safety and that of fellow hikers and leaders, please be sure you are aware of these important details and are properly prepared for the Walk.
"Easy" Walks generally cover level or gentle terrain and modest mileage. These outings are ideal for beginning hikers, families with children, and seniors.
"Moderate" Walks require previous hiking experience and good stamina for mileage and elevation gain.
"Strenuous" Walks may be a combination of challenges: long distance, altitude gain, bushwhacking, and exposure to heights.
YOUR CHECKLIST
- Carefully review the descriptions and make your selections of Walks based on your physical abilities, general state of health, hiking experiences, and equipment.
- Children with adult guidance are welcome unless it is noted in the narrative that a hike is not suited for children.
- Reservations are required and must be made directly with the Walk leader. Be sure to ask questions when you call so you are well informed and assured that the Walk matches your abilities.
- Each Walk has a size limit to guarantee a quiet experience, to protect fragile wildlands, and to comply with the guidelines of the managing land agency.
- All personal gear, food, and water are your responsibility. Please be sure you are properly equipped for abrupt weather changes with extra layers of clothing.
- No dogs are permitted, in fairness to fellow hikers and wildlife.
- Please leave all firearms at home.
- Be sure to plan adequate travel time so you are at the meeting place at the appointed hour.
- Don't be a "no show" at the trailhead after you have made your reservation. It leaves everyone waiting and worrying and denies someone else the chance to hike. If your plans change, you must notify the Walk leader as soon as possible.
There are no fees for the volunteer services of the Walks leaders.
The Montana Wilderness Association assumes no liability for personal injury or loss of personal property on the Wilderness Walks program. Prior to your walk, please be advised that you will be asked to sign a waiver and release agreement.