The Autumn Hiking Season is Almost Here, Are You Prepared?

Autumn is just around the corner and it wil tempt hikers at the latest when the leaves change colour to tread the different hiking trails in Northern Finland. It is invigorating and a way to charge your batteries for the coming winter. You should however start planning your outdoor excursion well in advance, so that you will be sure to find the perfect destination for you. There are many to choose from and with some research everyone can find the perfect one for themselves. It will be worth the effort when you find a hiking destination that is challenging yet lets your mind and body rest.

What could I still do to prepare?

It is time to take a look in the mirror and asses your own capabilities to set off into the wilderness. Check that you have the needed equipment and have chosen the right destgination according to the previous answers. You still have time to brush up on your orienteering skills, fix up old equipment and look for information on interesting destinations. To make sure you are capable of setting off on your own you should practice your map and compass reading skills. A GPS device should never be your only orienteering tool on outdoor excursions.

Before setting off on your excursion make sure you remember all the safety information needed while in the wilderness and take into consideration that weather conditions can change quickly especially in Lapland and in fell areas. Also the later in autumn you leave for your excursion in Lapland the more likely it is that you will be there when the first snow falls. Having the right sort of equipment with you will make your trip more comfortable and safe. For an excursion lasting only a few days you will not need to even have a full trekking rucksack with you but your equipment will not fit into a smaller backpack if you are planning to camp. For good tips on what equipment to take with you contact hiking organisations.

With the proper preparation you can ensure that your hike is a successful one with wonderful memories to keep you company throughout the winter.

For more information see

Choosing a destination
Safety information for hikers
Needed equipment
• Maps (www.excursionmap.fi)