• Never go off alone: There's safety in numbers.

• Consult your doctor before hiking; ask about altitude sickness medications.

• Take a day or two to acclimate to the altitude before starting a hike.

• Bring a first aid kit: include moleskin and an extra pair of shoelaces.

• Prepare for unexpected weather changes: Bring clothes you can layer

• Pack a brimmed hat, sunblock, sunglasses or transition lenses, rain gear, thermal underwear, a warm jacket, wool gloves, and a cap.

• Get in shape first: start hill walking two months before, push yourself to get out of breath.

• Buy properly fitting hiking shoes from a reputable sport shop.

• Pack a pair of lightweight camp shoes for the evening.

• Bring a water filter or purifying pills.

• Pack a rope and knife.

• Consider a cell or satellite phone although they do not always work.

• Use trekking poles, they help with balance and take weight off your joints.

– Ellen Kirschman started backpacking in her 50's. She's a public safety psychologist and the author of two books: I Love a Cop: What Police Families Need to Know (revised 2007) and I Love a Fire Fighter: What the Family Needs to Know (2004). Visit her web site: ellenkirschman.com [1].

Learn More About Wilderness Walking

» Getting Started: [1] If you're adventurous and in reasonable health, you're never too old to go wilderness walking. Our writer shows you the ropes.

» Resources: [1] [1]Helpful books, websites, and organizations for the novice hiker.