How to Plan a Backpacking Route
- 1). Make a list of the hikers in your group and note their hiking speeds and abilities. Note how many days you will be able to spend in the back country, and leave room for travel time to and from the trail.
- 2). Take out your map and scan the landscape for a likely starting point. If you know a landmark that you want to see, or if the road you will be taking only allows access to certain trail heads, make a note. Circle the landmark or trail head on the map with a pencil or highlighter.
- 3). Find a trail that comes near one of your circled areas. This will be a place to begin your plan. If you are starting with a landmark, follow the trail to find a trail head that connects with it, noting what roads access it and if they are open year round.
- 4). Begin planning the trek itself. Follow the trail from the trail head, noting mileage and land contour. On average, a backpacker can manage 2 miles per hour on an established trail throughout the day. Keep in mind, however, that this time will be changed by extensive climbing, meal breaks and unforeseen obstacles. Keep in mind the abilities of your fellow hikers when evaluating obstacles. Pick campsites along your route based on how many hours you want to stay on the trail.
- 5). Write down trail names, campsites and obstacles such as stream crossings and large climbs, listed by day. Make a copy for each member of your hiking group before leaving for your trip.
