The following are some of the things you will want to keep in mind while hiking in Western North Carolina. Points are listed in no particular order. These points are not to be considered a complete list of everything you should know, and this site assumes you are familiar with hiking as an outdoor activity before partaking on any hikes listed within.
It is important to remember that the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Remember also that the area covers a large geographic region with wildly varying weather conditions. And most importantly, the weather varies considerably with elevation. Always check the forecast before you go, and always take it with a grain of salt! You can also find more information on this site about Weather and Climate in Western North Carolina.
Although it has been said many times to make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, I do not personally think this is always necessary and rarely do I wear them myself. If you have a propensity for twisting your ankle, find these types of boots comfortable, or plan on carrying a large, weighty backpack, this might be a good idea. However, one of the beauties of hiking is that no particular special gear - except something in which to carry water - is required to participate! There are many who enjoy hiking in sandals, or even (gasp!) barefoot! It is important to wear what is comfortable for you, and appropriate for the conditions on the trail.
Many trails will be extremely rocky and difficult, and in this case, a hard-soled shoe or boot is definetely recommended. Wool socks should be worn in cold weather, but should not be too tight to restrict blood flow. Waterproof boots may be beneficial on some trails during certain weather conditions.
It is important to wear clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for the conditions in which you will be hiking. A discussion on exactly what that may be is beyond the scope of this site; however, it cannot be emphasized enough to dress in layers that can be added or removed as weather conditions change!
It goes without saying that the woods are filled with potentially dangerous creatures - everything from honkin' bears down to the lowly bacteria that can make us all sick. However, encounters with wildlife are rare, and when they happen, even less likely to be up-close. Being attacked by a bear, cat, wild boar (hog), or the like is certainly a possibility, but not likely to be the thing that ruins your day. As an example, read and consider this story.
It is also suggested sometimes that you carry a map and a compass on every hike you take. While I do agree that a map is *almost* always essential, knowing how to read one - and knowing a map's limitations - is JUST AS IMPORTANT! A compass can come in handy but is generally not absolutely necessary on our trails. If you're heading into the wilderness, do carry a compass.
If you find that you have become lost, it is usually suggested to stay put and let yourself be rescued. In reality, it is up to you to decide what you will do at that time, and finding your way back out isn't always unreasonable. Ask yourself a few questions. Are you REALLY lost? How lost? Are you alone? When's the last time you know you were on track? If you're alone, when's the last time you saw someone else? What's the terrain like? How much light do you have left in the day? How many provisions (food, water, shelter, etc.)? What's the weather forecast? How many people are with you? Is anyone injured? Sick? Tired?
Even if you do not decide to backtrack or find another way out, knowing this information will be key in deciding how you will proceed. Every situation is different, and many people have been found by rescuers when sticking to one place. Many have found their own way out of the wilderness. Many have died trying!
