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The Ozark Trail in Missouri now comprises over 350 miles, with approximately 230 miles available as a continuous through-trail. Long-distance backpacking on the OT is now an exciting possibility. In fact, using newly established trails is as almost as vital as building them, because traffic on the trail helps pack down the new tread and discourages vegetation from growing back.
Whichever season is your favorite, now is always a good time to check over your gear and plan for new adventures. Whether day hiking or backpacking is your style, you need to take essential gear. Your list may vary somewhat, but here is a “top ten” guide to get you started. What you choose will depend in part on the length of your trip, the number in your party, the season and your experience level.
Water
Take more than you think you’ll need and remember to treat or filter wild water. Hydration bladders are available in many sizes to enable convenient hands-free drinking. Better yet, they’re light weight and collapse as they empty. If backpacking for several days, study your route to know where your water sources are.
Food
Take lightweight, high-energy snacks and food. Granola bars, candy bars, cheese sticks, tortillas and jerky work well for quick day hikes. Fresh fruit is heavy, but day hikers often include it. Backpackers often prefer convenient, lightweight MREs (Meals Ready To Eat).
First aid kit
Whether it’s a small, pre-packaged hiking kit or a kit you assemble yourself in a heavy-duty lock-top bag, first aid supplies need to be checked before each outing. At minimum, it should include moleskin for blisters, adhesive bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, disinfecting ointment and disinfectant wipes, an ace bandage, tweezers and pain reliever of choice.
Map and compass
Know how to use your compass and how to read your map. Your map should either be waterproof or tucked inside a transparent page protector. While taking a GPS device is increasingly popular, they’re expensive and don’t always receive a signal.
Sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent
It’s Missouri, where it can go from cloudy and cool toblazing hot on an exposed ridge. Ticks have been seen as early as February.
Emergency fire starter and waterproof matches
Dryer lint and re-lighting candles stuffed into a film canister work great. Remember to carry special waterproof matches, or try one of the new wind- and water-proof lighters.
Flashlight or headlamp
Always check the batteries and be prepared with spares.
Whistle
Each member of your team needs his or her own whistle, the kind without the ball in it. If you’re hiking with kids, establish limits for how far a kid or group of kids may stray from your sight. Make clear they should only use their whistle in an emergency. If they feel lost, they should whistle, stay put until help arrives, and answer searchers in a loud voice.
Rain gear
Again, it’s Missouri. Ultralight rain gear is available for higher prices, but tried and true rain wear that’s heavier is very affordable. Shove it in the bottom of your pack and leave it there to ensure you’re not soaked in a cloudburst.
Knife or multi-tool
Once the domain of the Swiss Army, the new generation of multi-tools are available everywhere and feature every conceivable combination of tools. At minimum, find one with a good sturdy blade, screwdriver and fold out scissors.
In addition to these “top ten” essentials, it’s imperative to give your hiking plans to someone outside your party. Let them know where you’re going, when you expect to be back and where to call if you don’t return (the local forest service or sheriff’s office for example).
Before you slip on your pack, make sure you’re wearing the right clothing. Layers are best to give you flexibility. The latest synthetics are lightweight, wick moisture and insulate even when wet. When jeans and a tee shirt get wet in cold weather, they can lead to hypothermia and are considered “dead man’s clothes.” With microfiber garments available at even big-box discount stores, appropriate clothing is within reach of almost everyone.
You may want to leave an extra set of clothes, shoes, water and snacks in the car. They’re real luxuries at the end of your hike and add nothing to your pack weight. Now that you’re prepared, get out there and get hiking! For more information and detailed maps of the Ozark Trail, visit http://www.ozarktrail.com.