Hiking Essentials   

 

Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains is an enjoyable experience for many people. However, the mountains are not without their challenges, and if you are new to the hills, you should be aware of the possible dangers.

There are some way-marked routes in the Wicklow Mountains. (ie: the  Wicklow Way and the Walking Trails of Glendalough.) However, most hiking in the Wicklow Mountains is off track on unmarked routes and requires navigation skills. The Wicklow Mountains can be quite difficult to navigate - much of the terrain can be quite featureless.

 

Before You Go

Let a friend or family member know your route and plans.

Before hiking cross-country, know how to navigate using a map and compass in any weather conditions (heavy fog, snow and rain).

Bring proper clothing and equipment, including the ten essentials (see below).

Know the weather forecast and if necessary adjust your plans.

Plan for emergencies. Do not rely on a rescue. A rescue may be difficult or impossible due to weather conditions or terrain. Carry first aid gear and other emergency equipment.

Cross-country routes are not officially marked. There are many small tracks many made by animals. Instead, navigate using a compass and topographic map. Study your maps and plan your routes according to terrain features.

Be aware of the symptoms of hypothermia.

 

Ten Essentials

These items are considered to be the minimum that should be carried on any trip into the mountains. Supplement this list based on the time of year and length of your trip.

 

Clothing

Weather conditions can change dramatically in the Wicklow Mountains.  One of the most important decisions you make in trip planning is packing the right clothing.

A waterproof jacket is essential – it can rain any day in the mountains, regardless of the weather forecast.  This jacket will also protect you from the wind.  Many people underestimate the chilling effect of the wind. 15°C in the valley may be 5°C on the mountain and will feel like -5°C with a moderate breeze!

Proper water-proof hill-walking boots will increase your enjoyment of the experience.  Some areas of the mountains are wet underfoot 365 days a year, and most trails can be very rocky, slippery and uneven.  25% of accidents in the Wicklow Mountains are lower leg injuries that may have been prevented by better ankle protection.

Carry several layers so that as you get hotter or cooler you can wear more or less to suit.  A warm fleece or duvet jacket is great if you stop for any period.  Never wear cotton (including jeans) while hiking – cotton not only loses 90% of its insulating value when wet, but is slow to dry, sapping your body of heat.

 

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a real problem in the Wicklow Mountains. It can be described as a lowering of the body’s core temperature through exposure to the elements. Hikers have suffered from hypothermia even on a sunny summer’s day because they have dressed poorly and underestimated the effect of wind chill.  Almost everyone going for a walk in the hills in winter will suffer from mild hypothermia.  Symptoms to watch out for are:  shivering, stumbling, lethargy and confusion.

Should someone in your group exhibit these symptoms it’s vital for their well-being that the group stops and spends time re-warming them – ideally out of the elements (group shelter, etc.).

To avoid hypothermia:

 

 

National Parks & Wildlife Service, 7 Ely Place, Dublin 2. Phone: +353 1 8882000 Fax: +353 1 8883272