Hiking Discipline and Ethics
It is in the interests of hikers to follow the hiking discipline. In the last few years the culture of hiking has been developing in Armenia. It seems like many people are interested in this active leisure. Anyway, people don’t like disciplines and this also concerns this field. Meanwhile, hiking discipline is necessary first of all for the safety of hikers.
Of course, hiking discipline can be a key factor in making the hiking process more productive and pleasant, which is also very important. Now we will present some points of hiking discipline that are necessary to follow during hiking trips.
Following the instructions of the mountain guide
Following the instructions of the mountain guide is one of the most important points of hiking culture. Mountain guides are responsible for guiding hikers in less dangerous trails, but only if the group follows their instructions. In this case, mountain guides are the people who are familiar with the situation there and are responsible for your safety. If you hike, you should understand that you are not just visiting those places, but walk at a defined pace and direction. It means that this active leisure requires discipline and mountain guides are those who regulate it. Not following their instructions can be fatal not only for you but also for other members of the group.
Walking in line
Walking in line is also important for safety and controllability. This is an important component of hiking culture. Time management is very important in the mountains as the rapid changes of weather can make the hike difficult or impossible. Mountain guides calculate what speed and pace the group should have for reaching from one point to another. When you get out of the line you start walking at your own pace and it can create chaos in the group. Besides, mountain trails can be bumpy and difficult to pass. In this case, it is again safer to pass those trails walking in line, than in a chaotic way.
Carry your own backpack and other belongings
If you have decided to hike, be ready to overcome all the difficulties on your own. Walking with heavy belongings can be stressful for everyone. Do not think that someone is in better condition than you. So if you go hiking, take full responsibility for yourself and your belongings. Do not bother your friends as they need to carry their own belongings. It does not matter if you hike with your father, mother, brother, boyfriend or husband, do not give your belongings to them, even if they want to carry them.
Leave no trace
One of the most important rules of ethics in the mountains is not to litter. You should realize that no sanitary works can be done in those places and taking care of nature and keeping those places clean is a responsibility of the visitors. Each of us should feel responsible for keeping the mountains clean and for leaving no trace there.
Armenian Geographic pays great attention to hiking discipline and ethics. We strive to ensure that these guidelines are followed during our hiking trips.
The copyright of this article is owned by armgeo.am. The content of the article may be cited or used on other websites only with an active link to the source.