Planning a Hike in Remote Areas
Remote hiking offers solitude, immersion in nature, and a strong sense of exploration. However, distance from infrastructure, limited communication, and delayed rescue response significantly increase the consequences of mistakes.
This article outlines the key planning considerations required for hiking in remote areas and explains how to manage the increased level of self-reliance these environments demand.
Why Remote Areas Require Special Planning
In remote terrain, small issues can escalate quickly. A minor injury, navigation error, or weather shift may become critical due to:
Long distances from help
Limited or no mobile coverage
Sparse trail markings
Reduced presence of other hikers
Planning must compensate for the lack of external support.
Defining “Remote” in a Hiking Context
A hike can be considered remote when:
Rescue response times are extended
Communication coverage is unreliable
Exit routes are limited or long
Trail traffic is minimal
Remoteness is not defined by distance alone but by accessibility.
Route Selection and Research
Thorough route research is essential:
Study maps in detail
Identify escape routes and access points
Check recent trail reports
Understand terrain and navigation challenges
Avoid routes that exceed your experience when rescue options are limited.
Communication and Emergency Contact Planning
Before departure:
Inform a trusted contact of your route and schedule
Set a clear check-in or alert time
Know local emergency numbers
In very remote areas, consider satellite communication devices.
Navigation Redundancy
Remote hikes demand robust navigation planning:
Primary navigation (map, GPX, app)
Backup navigation (paper map, compass)
Ability to navigate without digital tools
Navigation errors in remote areas often lead to severe delays.
Equipment and Self-Sufficiency
Key considerations include:
Extra food and water
Weather protection
First aid and repair kit
Emergency shelter
Carry equipment that allows you to manage unexpected delays or overnight stays.
Time and Energy Management
Plan conservatively:
Shorter daily distances
Larger time buffers
Strict turnaround points
Fatigue management is critical when exit options are limited.
Risk Management and Decision Thresholds
In remote environments:
Lower tolerance for uncertainty
Earlier decisions to retreat
Conservative weather margins
If conditions deteriorate, retreat sooner rather than later.
Common Planning Mistakes in Remote Hiking
Overestimating self-sufficiency
Inadequate navigation preparation
Underestimating rescue delays
Carrying insufficient emergency gear
Most remote-area incidents are rooted in planning gaps.
Final Thoughts
Remote hiking is deeply rewarding but demands respect, discipline, and preparation. The goal is not to eliminate risk, but to manage it intelligently through thorough planning and conservative decision-making.
Self-reliance is the defining skill of remote-area hikers—and planning is where it begins.
