I just returned from an absolutely INCREDIBLE trip to the Boundary Waters Area Canoe Wilderness in Minnesota/Canada and am already missing early morning coffee next to the campfire, the breeze in my hair on the boat, and the trails that we hiked that could have taken us to no-mans land. The opportunity for exploration is endless up there and it was so refreshing to meet some like minded people. Chris and I also had the opporotunity to take our 2 nieces on a hike while we were in Duluth and they couldn't have had a better experience! They were so entralled with the trail that they had to take turns every 5 minutes being the 'trail guide'. Rather than hiking at times we were running because of the sheer excitment that they just had to see what was around the corner. I had to smile because I was reminded of my childhood and how the outdoor experiences that my mom and dad provided to my sister and I shaped who we are today. We learned so much about ourselves and about mother nature. We grew up appreciating the simple things like widdling a stick to cook a marshmallow on, catching a fish on a homemade rod, picking blueberries for jam and enjoying the company of good friends on a camping trip. Like all other trips when I was younger, we made this hiking trip no different for the girls-there would be a lesson on safety first and foremost. When your dad is a survival instructor, you learn at a young age to 'always be prepared'. That motto is with me for a lifetime and I have applied it in all sorts of events in my life.
Chris and I both wanted Justice and Ellie to understand that you have to be prepared before you venture into the woods on your own. Below you will find the tips that we provided for them and in effect, everyone should heed. (We quizzed the girls after the hike and they got a 100! :-)
Bugspray
being blessed to have family in two mosquito capitals of the U.S. (Minnesota and Florida-although i think Minnesota still claims that the mosquito is their state bird), this is essential. Spray or pay.
Sunscreen
Even though the cover of the trees is excellent protection from harmful UV rays, you're still not immune to coming down with lobster face. Spray it on, rub it on, wear long sleeves and a hat-whatever you do, don't come out fried!
Whistle
If you get lost, the whistle will never fail you. The garmin might run out of batteries, the map might get wet. But if you ever loose your hiking buddy, the whistle will be there rain, sleet or snow.
Knife
Now for the girls, we mentioned only the 'adults' carry these. You never know when you might have to defend yourself against some strange wood creature, filet a fish, cut a branch, or play McGyver. Never leave for the trails without one.
Water
Because you've gotta stay hydrated. Depending on temperature and climate your body will loose plenty of sweat climbing that elevation or winding along those curves through the trees-'you don't want to come out looking like a raisen do you?' I told Justice-she quickly responded 'EW! No way!' Drink up-and bring plenty of it. For a short 1-2 hour hike in the summer a 40 oz bladder should be plenty. Anything longer and if the temps are scorching in the 100's- be safe with the 100 oz. Better to be a fish than a raisen right?
Food
If you don't have to truly 'survive' in the woods, don't resort to picking things and hunting for food. Pack granola bars, trail mix, a pb&j or even a candy bar! With all the calories you can burn on a hike verses a walk you'll need to replinish for energy. What a better way to bribe a kid to enjoy some mother nature than with a chocolate bar?
Map/Compass
Even though sometimes we'd like to think we won't get lost, there will be no gas stations along the way to ask for directions-so err on the side of caution and bring a map and a compass. Plot your possible course and note the mileage making sure you'll have enough time to complete the hike before dusk.
Cell Phone
Yes, the modern eco-adventurer now carries a cell phone on his list of priorioty items. Preferably in a waterproof case just in case of rain. Even though service might be spotty, there are always hills to get to the top of to find service should you need it for an emergency. Just don't count on it as your number one survival tool. If you do, you'll find yourself highly disappointed that most major cell phone companies fail to cater to lost 'granola's'.
First Aid Kit
There will be bug bites, scrapes, cuts, bruises and maybe even a few slivers so never and I mean NEVER hike without one! It may not be able to save your life with it, but it comes pretty close to making it a lot more enjoyable for the duration of your journey.
HIT THE TRAILS!
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