On preparing for hiking trails

We’re getting ready to go to Pico Viejo tomorrow — this is the second peak in our 3 Peaks project.

In general, organizational work consumes a lot of time and resources — that is with the right approach when participants are properly informed and the route is studied.

70% — planning and informing participants.
30% — the hike itself.

Here’s what I do the day before each hike:
✅ I study the route using different maps, take both an electronic version and a paper map with me
✅ I think through rest and evacuation points in case of an incident
✅ I make a list of participants and coordinate the hike time with everyone
✅ I check the weather conditions the day before and inform the participants
✅ I coordinate transport to the hike location
✅ I inform about accident insurance and how to obtain it
✅ I provide information about suitable gear and equipment
✅ I find interesting facts to share with the participants
✅ I check the equipment before starting
✅ I guide you on the route.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a guide’s responsibilities, where often only the hike itself is visible.