Pike & San Isabel National Forests
Cimarron & Comanche National Grasslands

Rules of the Trail

• Stay with the group (don’t run off, get ahead or fall behind)
• Obey your parents or adult(s) in the group
• Dress in bright colors
• Stay on the trail
• Have your daypack with you at all times
• If you get lost, stay put

Daypack Checklist

Basic Items:

• Wear a Whistle
• Clothing (rain gear, extra socks, sweater or coat)
• Water
• Hat
• Food (bring extra)
• Flashlight/Chemical Light Sticks
• Red Bandana
• Aluminum Foil (about a 14 inch square)
• Small Roll of Toilet Paper

Option Items for Older Children:

• Map and Compass (know how to use them)
• First Aid Kit
• Insect Repellent
• Sunscreen and Sunglasses
• 25 feet of Nylon Cord
• Pocket Knife
• Disposable Foil Space Blanket
• Water proof matches

Wildlife Tips

• Be aware that there are bears, mountain lions, snakes and bugs in nature.
• Stay with your group.
• Watch where you step and where you sit.
• If you come across a bear or mountain lion don’t run. Make lots of noise, uses your whistle. Try to look big and scary.
• Always check yourself for ticks.

If You Get Lost
(Stay warm and dry, while waiting to be found)

1. Stop where you are, don’t continue to wander around. Find a tree for shelter on the trail or near an open spot. Don’t hide. Wait for an adult to find you.
2. Blow your whistle 3 times really loud, count to 3 and listen for a response. If no response blow your whistle 3 more times. Repeat until found.
3. Hang the red bandana and aluminum foil together on a small tree or bush. Or use the foil as a signal by reflecting the sunlight off its surface.
4. If cold, put on some of your extra clothes.
5. At dark, eat a small portion of your food and drink some of your water. Hang a glowing light stick nearby, make a nest by raking up leaves or pine needles and sleep under your space blanket.

Tips for Parents

• Always let someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back.
• Know how to contact emergency services.
• Keep your group together.
• Bring extra food, water and clothing
• Get a weather report and be prepared for changing weather.
• Don’t over do it- travel at a pace that the youngest child can keep up with.
• Make sure your children have fun and enjoy the adventure.

Click here for general Hiking Safety Tips

Become a Jr. Forest Ranger

To learn more about nature become a Jr. Forest Ranger. Visit any of the United States Forest Service offices or go to www.symbols.gov to receive your free copy of the Jr. Forest Ranger Adventure Guide.

Play games with Smokey Bear and learn about fire safety.

Become a Junior Forest Ranger!

Researchers report their discoveries in The Natural Inquirer.

Lend a hand to care for the land with Woodsy Owl!