Preparation is everything, especially in the mountains. When hiking with family or in a group, it’s important to consider everyone’s fitness levels beforehand, as a group is only as strong as its weakest member. This helps to avoid unnecessary frustration among stronger hikers and reduces the risk of less fit individuals pushing themselves too hard and making mistakes or injuring themselves. It’s important for groups to stick together so that they avoid becoming separated. Agreeing on a meeting point at a trail marker, counting heads, and moving on together is a wise approach. Parents, in particular, should keep a close eye on children to ensure that they don’t stray from the path.

Mobile phones have become an interesting aspect of hiking. For some, they provide a sense of security – “If something happens, I can always call for help…”. But remember, a mobile signal isn’t guaranteed in mountainous areas, and rescue teams won’t arrive in five minutes, nor is a helicopter always on standby. Even making a phone call can be distracting, so it’s best to take a break before you dial. On mountain trails, you need to walk with more caution than you would on a beach. And let’s not forget the temptation to find the perfect spot for that amazing photo or selfie. Unfortunately, countless accidents have been caused by people losing their footing while trying to get the perfect shot – so many that it hardly bears repeating, yet it keeps happening. We trust that you’ll avoid such mishaps in the mountains of Liptov.