Please, be prepared!! Here are some tips to improve the quality of your experience.

• A detailed (preferable topographic) map and compass are necessities. They will only help you if you know how to properly use them.
• Know your route ahead of time and inform someone of your travel plans and expected return.
• Take along a first aid kit and sunscreen.
• Take plenty of bug repellent in the summer months. Although few cases of Lyme disease have been reported in Vermont, the threat exists. Hikers should be familiar with the disease's signs and symptoms. Lyme disease, which is spread by deer ticks, can pose a serious health threat if untreated. Wearing long pants (tucked into your socks) and long sleeved shirts, aids in prevention.
• Pay attention to the weather and plan for the unexpected. Hypothermia can occur in any season. Symptoms include shivering fits, slurred speech, memory lapse, lack of coordination, drowsiness, exhaustion and lack of judgment. Early recognition, warm liquids and warm, dry clothing can help. Always carry rain gear.
• Carry an adequate supply of safe drinking water (one gallon per person per day is recommended). Even in winter, hikers lose water through perspiration. Avoid dehydration!
• Treat all drinking and cooking water. The parasite giardia lives in many of Vermont's streams and lakes and can cause severe intestinal discomfort. Symptoms may occur a day or so after drinking and last up to six months. Know the signs and symptoms and seek treatment immediately if necessary. To treat water bring to a rolling boil for about five minutes or use a reliable filter. Check manufacturer's information to obtain desired level of protection.
• Wear bright colors during hunting season. For more information on hunting seasons, contact the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
• Store food properly to avoid wildlife conflicts. Never feed wildlife, they can respond unpredictably. Never bring food into your sleeping bag or tent. Hang food with a rope ten feet from the ground and six feet from the trunk of a tree while sleeping or away from camp. Keep your site clean.
• If you get lost, stay calm. Your survival depends on good decision making and how well you have prepared while packing. Vermont wilderness areas are not very large. Stay put or follow a stream or old roadbed downhill. Keep all of your gear with you, as you may need it.

Leave No Trace...>>

Green Mountain National Forest Regulations to Protect Wilderness and Your Experience

• No motorized or mechanized use is allowed in Wilderness. This includes all bicycles and hang gliders. (36 CFR 261.16(a))
• No camping more than 14 days within any 30 day period. (36 CFR 261.58(a))
• No camping more than two nights in any shelter. (36 CFR 261.58(a)). Order of the Forest Supervisor Restricting the Use of the Long and Appalachian Trails on the Green Mountain National Forest.

For further explanations of these regulations, please visit the Wilderness Area Management Web site at www.wilderness.net

For more information about wilderness volunteer opportunities and organizations, please visit www.wilderness.net

Enjoy your Visit!