All Hikes in 'Extreme Hikes'

Extreme hikes are serious objectives for experienced, properly equipped hikers. They may combine remote terrain, very long distances, major ascent, difficult navigation, high altitude, technical ground, severe weather exposure or a level of self-reliance that makes rescue slow and complex.

Experience must match the route

This tag is not a badge to collect. Read the full route description, understand the season, obtain permits or guides where required and make an honest assessment of every person in the group. A hard trail may still be unsuitable when visibility, river levels, snow, heat or fatigue turn against the plan.

Prepare a conservative safety margin

Use dependable navigation, suitable clothing and shelter, sufficient food and water, emergency communication where possible and a clear exit strategy. Tell a reliable contact exactly where you are going, and be willing to turn back before a manageable challenge becomes an emergency.