Backcountry Preparedness

What comes to mind when you think of being prepared in the Idaho backcountry? There are so many facets to preparedness with nuances for different activities and a newcomer to backcountry sports may not know where to start. Let’s lay some groundwork for some general preparedness ideas to keep you going on that wilderness trail.

1. Physical conditioning. Perhaps I’m biased because my work revolves around helping people be physically capable in their sport, but there’s a reason I put this at the top of the list. A backcountry athlete who isn’t physically up to the task is taking an unnecessary risk. I’ve seen people abandon gear because their backpack got too heavy to carry and hunters leave meat behind for the same reason. This isn’t an ethics discussion, so let’s just say that if you are recreating in the backcountry it behooves you to maintain a certain level of fitness.
2. Know the common injuries associated with your sport and how to manage them. Even if you are physically fit and up to the task you set out to do, the wilderness is unpredictable. A first aid kit gets left out of some packs because it’s just “extra weight” and they haven’t used it in the 10 years they’ve carried it-lucky them. Everyone’s preparedness kit should look different depending on their own health concerns and the activities they’re involved in. And remember it’s not just about what is in your pack, but what’s in your head. Knowledge is power-as they say.
3. Don’t get lost. Know where you’re going, have maps, have ways to communicate or call for help, don’t go alone, let people know where you’re going. I probably sound like your mom now…
4. Have the proper gear and how to use it. This does not necessarily mean the most expensive or trending gear. Stick with brands you’ve had good experiences with and always test gear before you go.
5. Find a good mentor. Backcountry sports are not for the faint of heart. It takes some guts to rope up and start up a trad route especially if you haven’t taken the time to learn from someone with more experience. On the other hand don’t be so prideful to think that you’re the expert and don’t have any room for improvement. Being teachable is one of the best qualities of an outdoorsman.

Every expedition takes planning and preparation. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but  these are 5 of my top considerations every person should have “top of mind” before venturing into the backcountry. If you’re (1) physically prepared, (2) understand how to manage situations when they go south, (3) understand how to navigate, (4) have gear that you know how to use, and are (5) teachable and seek out mentorship, your outdoor experiences will be more successful and more fulfilling for years to come. At Mountain Performance PT we understand the rigors and risks of playing and working in the outdoors. We work with people every day to get them stronger and more resilient to tackle the challenges they seek out in the mountains. If this sounds like you, we’d be a good fit.