Explore tens of thousands of sets crafted by our community.
Hiking and Backpacking Key Terms
30
Flashcards
0/30
Trailhead
The point at which a trail begins.
Switchback
A zigzag path that makes a steep ascent or descent more manageable for hikers.
Base Layer
The layer of clothing worn closest to the skin, essential for regulating body temperature and wicking moisture away from the body.
Trekking Poles
Supportive tools designed to assist hikers in maintaining balance and reducing stress on joints while traversing difficult terrain.
Gaiters
Protective garments worn over the shoe and lower leg to keep out water, mud, and stones.
Hypothermia
A potentially dangerous drop in body temperature, caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.
Layering
Wearing multiple layers of clothing, which can be added or removed to regulate body temperature and adapt to changing weather conditions.
Moorland
Upland areas characterized by low-growing vegetation on acidic soils.
Fjord
A long, narrow, deep inlet of the sea between high cliffs, typically formed by submergence of a glaciated valley.
Katabatic Winds
Strong, cold downslope winds that are typically found along mountain slopes.
Avalanche
A rapid flow of snow down a sloping surface, which can be dangerous for hikers and mountaineers in certain conditions.
Guyline
A tensioned cable or cord used to stabilize a tent, tarp, or other structure.
Hydration Pack
A water reservoir or bladder with a drinking tube that allows hikers to drink hands-free while on the move.
Glissade
A method of descending a steep slope of snow or ice by sliding down on one's feet or buttocks, often using an ice axe for control.
Isotherm
A line on a map connecting points having the same temperature at a given time or on average over a given period.
Topographic Map
A map characterized by large-scale detail and quantitative representation of relief, usually using contour lines in relation to sea level.
Summit
The highest point or top of a mountain or hill.
Orienteering
A competitive sport that combines racing with navigation. Participants use a map and compass to navigate from point to point as quickly as possible.
Backcountry
Remote, sparsely inhabited areas, particularly forest or mountain regions, that are accessible only by hiking or other non-motorized means.
Boreal Forest
Coniferous forests found in northern regions around the world, characterized by long winters and short summers.
Lentic Environment
An ecological term describing stationary or relatively still freshwater, such as lakes, ponds, and wetlands.
Leave No Trace
A set of ethical guidelines designed to promote conservation in the outdoors by minimizing human impact on the environment.
Scree
Loose stones and rocks covering a slope, often encountered in mountainous regions and can make hiking more challenging.
Bivy Sack
A small, lightweight, waterproof shelter designed to cover a sleeping bag for protection against the elements.
Contour Line
A line on a map that connects points of equal elevation.
Deadman Anchor
An anchor constructed by burying an object in snow or sand to provide support in areas where traditional anchors would not hold.
Eddy
A circular movement of water, counter to a main current, causing a small whirlpool.
Cairn
A human-made pile or stack of stones often used to mark a trail or a summit.
Bear Bag
A bag used by campers and hikers to store food and other items that can attract bears, often hung from a tree to keep it out of the bear's reach.
Ridge
A long, narrow elevated land formation, often with steep sides, which is higher than a hill.
© Hypatia.Tech. 2024 All rights reserved.