Learning from Tragedy

The recent tragic event on the high mountain of Katahdin in Maine, where a father and daughter both lost their lives to hypothermia, has prompted me to share a few thoughts. 

I believe one of the most widely neglected parts of Leave No Trace is planning and preparing for high peak hiking such as Katahdin. It’s very easy to let things go because of the thrill inherent in summiting a major peak like this, and also the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. I’ve been in that mood where one is so excited to reach a goal, you let go of the things that matter. Such as planning in a way that could save your life in certain situations. Humans like to believe in their invincibility, but we really do sacrifice it to the unknown.    

I’ve summited Katahdin twice, and the second time I did was in July, when pleasant weather existed at the base. But once the hiker ascended into the high peaks, the weather turned. I was very thankful to have full rain gear and insulated wear when hail began to fall. But many people up there wore flimsy clothing, no packs with adequate clothing and necessities, and not even rain gear. Hypothermia in these high peaks is an all too frequent scenario that hikers must prepare for. In a temperature of 50° with precipitation and high winds, you easily lose body heat. I’ve been in a situation where one of my family members exhibited hypothermia, and they became totally confused, entering the mumbles and grumbles stage. They don’t think, and they don’t react appropriately. It's important to know the symptoms, to know what to do in hypothermic weather and be ready for it. Dealing with Hypothermia in the Wilderness

But if, for some reason, things happen and you get stuck, a way to alert authorities is crucial. Thankfully, I listened to a good friend of mine who encouraged me to carry an emergency device, and bit the bullet for a Garmin inReach that I now use. It can send out emergency texts when cell phones fail, as well as an SOS feature. 

It’s important to do whatever you can to safeguard yourself. We mourn the losses, but through their experiences, perhaps future tragedies can be prevented. 

1. Know your limitations

2. Check trail details ahead of time. Don't be afraid to alter plans.

3. Check the weather right up to the start date

4. Bring adequate clothing, wind and rain protection. Bring food and other survival gear.

5. Know first aid, including hypothermia symptoms. Bring a good first aid kit

6. Bring a Garmin Inreach

7. Leave word of your hiking plans with others, and if possible, don't hike alone.