Essentials for a great hike: timing and gear

Beyond knowing your physical limits and staying disciplined on the trail, a well-thought-out plan and suitable equipment are essential. So, where will your adventure lead you today? Veľký Choč, Siná, Chopok, one of the valleys – Žiarska, Jánska, Prosiecka, Demänovská, or the hidden gem that is Čutkovská dolina? These are all enticing destinations, but they’re far from a walk in the park. Mountain rescue teams in Liptov stress that – despite their frequent warnings – improper clothing and footwear are major contributors to injuries. Fortunately, ensuring a safe experience in Slovakia’s most beautiful mountains doesn’t require much.

It might seem like an old cliché to mention high heels, sandals, or even flip-flops in this context, but people still turn up on mountain trails in these inappropriate footwear choices. There are always those “daring souls” who set out on a hike dressed as if they were heading to the beach or for a casual stroll. A twisted ankle might then end up being one of the least of their worries. The fact is, mountain environments are unique, with challenging terrain – uneven, rocky, and often slippery paths, sometimes even dotted with patches of snow – that demands proper preparation. Responsible hikers should wear boots that offer support and protection, ideally extending above the ankles.

It is equally important to wear suitable clothing – and carry a spare set in your backpack. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security by a favourable weather forecast. In the high mountains of Liptov, conditions can change dramatically in a matter of minutes. A bright, sunny day can quickly turn into a cold, wet, and windy ordeal if a dark cloud rolls in. This is why it’s wise to pack almost winter-grade clothing even in summer – windproof and cold-resistant jackets, rain gear, and, of course, a dry T-shirt to change into.

A well-prepared hiker’s backpack should also include food and water. There’s an old saying that hunger can be quenched by water, but thirst cannot be satisfied by bread. So it’s recommended you bring at least a one-and-a-half-litre bottle of water for longer hikes. Anyone who regularly takes medication should carry it with them, even if it’s usually taken only in the morning or evening. You never know if something might delay you in the mountains, which could complicate things further.

Time management is also crucial for both comfort and safety on your hike. Underestimating or misjudging your timing can make you start to hurry, which increases the likelihood of mistakes and accidents. Mountain experts and seasoned hikers recommend starting early and allowing for extra time. After all, hiking is about soaking in the natural beauty, not setting speed records. So it’s best to start your hike earlier on in the morning. In the Liptov mountains, the risk of thunderstorms increases in the afternoon during the summer. These storms can be dangerous, especially if you’re caught in an exposed area or you’re navigating sections with chains. If you notice signs of an approaching storm, it’s better to turn back. This isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather of good judgement. You should also consider the time of year and daylight hours. In September, night falls much earlier than in July. Therefore, keeping a headlamp in your backpack is always a good idea.

Even those who aren’t keen on hiking – or perhaps have young children in tow – but still want to enjoy breathtaking views from the mountain peaks don’t have to miss out. For example, you can comfortably and safely reach Chopok, the second-highest peak in the Low Tatras, or Malinô Brdo via chair lift and cable car. Of course, we strongly advise everyone against wearing flip-flops.

The article was prepared in cooperation with the Low Tatras National Park.

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