Prepare for your hike
Suggestions
- famille
- agriculture
- mobilité
- énergie
- tourisme
- faune
- biodiversité
- vélo
- patrimoine
- randonnée
- produit
- alpage
Plan, equip yourself, stay vigilant
Preparation
Hiking in the mountains is a challenging pursuit. Careful planning helps prevent nasty surprises and prepares you for unexpected eventualities. Plan your route and the time you will need to complete it. Also, give yourself a margin of safety by factoring in additional time as well as an alternative route. Familiarise yourself with the route, as well as current trail and weather conditions. To check the condition of the route, visit the SwitzerlandMobility website. Tell a third party about your plans and the route you intend to take, especially if you intend to hike alone.
Assessment
Not knowing your limits increases your risk of having an accident and could spoil what should otherwise be an enjoyable experience. Mountain hiking paths (signposted in white-red-white) can be steep, narrow and exposed. Only sure-footed hikers should venture there. Be realistic about your abilities at the time and adapt your route accordingly. Never undertake a difficult hike alone.
Equipment
Mountain hiking paths can be slippery. Ensure that you have sturdy hiking shoes or boots that have deep treads. Bring sun and rain protection with you as well as warm clothes because the weather in the mountains is more extreme and can change quickly. Make sure to take a recent map with you. Do not forget to bring a first aid kit, and a mobile phone for emergencies.
Check
When you are tired, you can lose your footing more easily. To keep your energy and concentration levels high, drink, eat and take breaks regularly. Make sure that you keep within the schedule you have set yourself and remain alert to changing weather conditions. Stay on marked paths and, where necessary, do not leave it too late to turn back, where necessary.
Livestock guard dogs
The route of your walk may cross a pasture protected by one or more herding dogs. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for encounters with patous during your walk.
Guide
Experienced mountain guides who have signed up to the Park's wildlife protection charter can guide you on one or more of the stages.
Hikers' charter
The Park has compiled a practical information sheet to print out and take with you when you go walking. Another sheet is aimed at dog owners.
