Wilderness Wise
Fremont County is beautifully diverse in terrain. Outdoor activities include whitewater rafting, hiking, horseback riding, ATV, hunting, rock-climbing, and much more.
Before you begin to enjoy all that Fremont County has to offer, please take a few minutes and review some common sense suggestions that will help you enjoy your adventure.
BE PREPARED
Never go alone.
Leave a plan: tell relatives or friends your destination and expected time of return; place a note on your vehicle at the trailhead with this information
Take the essentials:
First Aid Kit
Map and Compass
Warm Clothing — pile jacket, long pants, no cotton (wear wool or synthetic clothing), wool hat
Extra food and water
Flashlight
Matches/Firestarters
Whistle
Rain Gear (Jacket and Pants)
Pocket Knife
Be realistic about your physical condition. Check with your doctor to see if there would be any concerns about strenuous exercise, especially at Fremont County’s higher altitudes.
Dress in layers.
Find out the local weather reports and prepare for extreme conditions.
Know the terrain.
WHILE YOU’RE OUT
Don’t be afraid to “turn back”. While the excitement of reaching a goal carries a strong persuasive emotion, ambition is a bad reason to place yourself and others in a dangerous situation. Reasons to “turn back” include”
Sudden change in the weather
Unexpected conditions – high water, icy conditions, etc.
Fatigue – General rule: your pace should be set by the slowest hiker. If that hiker is unable to continue, everyone “turns back”.
Running out of daylight – especially in the winter months
Never change your route. If you do not return on schedule and your relatives or friends who have your plans notify the authorities, the search and rescue effort will begin where it is presumed you are located. If you change your route, you may delay your rescue and place the search and rescue personnel in danger.
INJURIES ON THE TRAIL
Common injuries can include
Falls – sprains, broken limbs, concussions
Heat exhaustion
Heat stroke
Hypothermia
Injuries can occur just a few feet from the trailhead or miles into the trail. Being prepared to rescue yourself can also assist in helping others who may be injured who are with you. Know the terrain, have the proper gear, and learn basic first aid.
IF YOU CANNOT RESCUE YOURSELF
STOP! Stay put and stay warm and protect yourself from the elements.
Drink water and stay hydrated.
Put on bright clothing.
Blow your whistle at regular intervals.
Do not lie on the bare ground. Use whatever equipment you have brought to protect yourself from the elements.
COMMON SENSE
Using common sense while enjoying Fremont County’s wilderness is your best way to avoid an unpleasant outing.
Ask yourself these questions BEFORE you head out:
Do I have the right clothing and the proper equipment?
Do I have appropriate skills and experience for the terrain?
Am I taking enough food and water?
Did I leave my plans with a relative or friend?
Have I checked the weather?
The four seasons in Fremont County present wonderful outdoor activities. Please respect the wilderness and be prepared while enjoying them.
