Hiking Trail Preparedness

Walking or Hiking in Norfolk, CT and safely enjoying the Great Outdoors!

     Norfolk and surrounding towns have miles and miles of hiking trails in addition to the Rails-to-Trails line that once allowed trains to navigate Northwestern Connecticut. There is plenty of Geo-Caching as well.  These hiking trails offer a great glimpse into what Norfolk has to offer. Some trails are short and some are quite long.

     The best way to enjoy these trails is to be properly prepared.  Most Hikers get into trouble for one reason; they fail to adequately prepare themselves for their adventure.  Ask anyone who does search and rescue for a living, and they will tell you that 9 times out of 10, most rescues could have been prevented with just a little bit of pre-planning and preparation. 

      Keep reading below for a quick snapshot of how to take the necessary preperations to make the best of your outing adventure.  Most importantly… Bring your Camera and Binoculars and take lots of pictures!

Click HERE for FREE Maps of all the hiking trails/rails in Norfolk, CT., Litchfield County and designated Public parking at each trail head.

NOTE: on the link above, Click on the highlighted trail for more info about it.   

Call 911 for any and all Emergencies, Even if you’re lost!

If you come across someone in distress remember:

1. Stay with them or someone with a Cell Phone (9-1-1 can locate cell phone calls to them)

2. Get names and ages

3. Number of people in the group

4. Number of and types of injuries

5. Where they started/parked and what they drove

6. How long they’ve been in the woods

Make sure you are physically ready for your hike. Several short hikes will get you prepared for longer ones. 

 

If you become lost, stay calm and stay put

If you become lost: stop, relax and analyze your situation. If you believe you can make your way back to an identifiable location then do so. However, it you cannot find your way back to the right trail, immediately stop hiking to prevent wandering further away on an unknown path.

If you have a cell phone, now is the time to try to call 911. 

95% of all survival rescues take place in the first 6 hours of any survival situation. If you’re Lost, Staying Put and Staying Calm will maximize your chances of survival. The best thing you can do is remember that rescue is probably on the way, and then make yourself as visible as possible to the search and rescue teams.

Modern 13 Hiking Essentials

  1. Navigation Tools – Electronic & Printed Maps
    1. ​Fully charge your cell phone before starting your hike 
    2. Download the map to your phone, there may not be cellular data where you intend to hike. The woods and even many roads in Norfolk have several “dead” spots in regards to cellular capabilities. You may need to hike to a hill top to place a phone call. 
    3. Tell a family member or friend where your going, Your Intended travel route, When you plan to return, and Where you started/parked, Any alternate plans, and any medical conditions that may require medication
    4. Always hike in pairs, Never alone
    5. Purchase a small portable charger as a back up & charging cable
    6. Have printed maps of the area you are going to be hiking and a compass. Study the maps before hand so you have a pretty good idea of what the trail looks like
    7. Always stay on the trail, Never think you can make a short cut
  2. Hydration – Bladder & Potable Filter
    1. ​Ensure you have sufficient drinking water you and everyone in your party.
    2. Don’t forget your dog needs clean water too
  3. Nutrition – Dense Superfoods
    1. ​Power Bars, Granola, and Non-Salty food items are good to pack for a day trip. Trail mix is a good option. 
  4. Sun Protection – Sunscreen and hats
    1. ​We know its not the beach but hiking the trails you are exposed to the sun. Take precautions so you don’t get sunburned. 
  5. Hiking apparel – Shell, Footwear
    1. ​Warm in the day, Cold at night. Be sure you are layered properly for the weather conditions.
    2. Don’t underestimate the importance of your clothing. Make sure you select clothing that is based on your environment and the weather you expect to encounter.
    3. Wear trail appropriate footwear for your hike. Flipflops are not a good choice 
    4. Check the forecast before your trip and be prepared 
    5. Trails are open year round in Norfolk. Watch for Hypothermia and Heat exhaustion 
  6. Illumination – Headlamp or LED flashlight
    1. ​LED powered illumination is far superior over traditional incandescent flashlights and will last hours longer.  
  7. First-Aid Kit​ – Basic
    1. Local stores have pre-assembled first-aid basics perfect for hiking/walking  
    2. Bring any necessary Medication, Epi-Pens, Inhalers or rescue breathers, or Insulin
    3. ​Assorted Band-aids of different sizes, anti-bacterial ointment, and gauze.
    4. Know CPR and basic First-Aid skills for sprains, cuts, and minor bumps and bruises
    5. CALL 9-1-1 if someone is injured past your abilities and/or needs help getting out of the woods.  
    6. The Norfolk FD has members and a Utility Quad with a backboard transport unit to make an injured persons exit from the woods less painful and easier on all those involved.  
  8. Wildlife
    1. In Norfolk there are Black Bears, Coyotes, Linx/Bobcats, Snakes, Moose, Ticks and Deer.  You may come across them on your travels. Respect their space and NEVER approach wildlife. “Bear Bells” prevent the startling of wildlife as you’re walking in the woods.
    2. Bug Spray will keep mosquitos away and other flying insects. 
  9. Fire – Fire Starter, Magnifying Glass
    1. ​Strike anywhere matches & Disposable lighters. Be Fire Smart.. rake dried leaves away from your campfire. Ensure that the fire is out (Ashes are cold) before you leave camp. 
  10. Repair Gear
    1. Duct Tape, Webbing, Rope, and a Pocket Knife are good items to bring with you in case you need to repair something. 
  11. Shelter
    1.  Check the weather forecast. Consider postponing your trip if the heat index is excessive due to humidity, etc. 
    2.  Be prepared for bad weather. Summer T-Storms and torrential downpours can pop up at a moments notice in Norfolk. 
    3. ​ Emergency Bivvy bags are inexpensive, light weight and keep your heat in and the weather out.
  12. Bonus Essential
    1. Signalling Devices such as a mirror, an old CD can allow you to use the sun to get someone’s attention from far away.
    2. Whistles are small and handy to keep with you 
  13. Trash 
    1. ​If you bring it in, bring it out!  Everyone enjoys nature without coming across someone elses trash. Help keep the forest clean.