Safety procedures make good sense and should be followed by all trail users. Presented here are a few general guidelines to make any trip more enjoyable. A little preparation can go a long way. The MST transverses all three geographic regions of North Carolina. Click on the region for tips pertaining to each Mountains, Piedmont and Coastal

Plan your trip carefully.

Leave your trip plan, with a map if possible, with someone responsible. The plan should include where you in intend to park, the trail or trails to be hiked, the time you expect to return and emergency numbers. Emergency numbers can be found in Allen DeHart's guidebook, Hiking North Carolina's Mountains-to-Sea Trail. It is important not to deviate from the plan. If you decide a change in plans is necessary, inform the person with whom you left your plan. When you plan the trip, allow about one hour for each two miles planned, plus an additional hour for each 1,000 feet of increase in altitude.

Do not go alone.

Unless you are experienced and prefer solitude, your party should number at least two. FOUR is recommended. If one of your party becomes unable to go on futher, two can be sent for help while one stays back.

Carry water.

Each person should carry at least a quart of water. Do not drink any untreated or unfiltered water. Be prepared to purify water with either iodine tablets or a water filter. Even if your trip is only a day trip you should be prepared to treat some water along the way. You may encounter unforeseen conditions requiring additional water.

Get a weather report.

The weather determines how you should dress for your trip. You may find after checking, that some modifications in your attire are needed.

Check in with the authorities if possible.

Rangers can offer valuable advice on trails, campsites and potential problems. You can also inquire about fire restrictions and trail closures that may affect your planned route.

Essential items.

Always carry these items when going on a trail:
map
compass
flashlight
sunglasses
whistle
pocket knife (check regulations)
watch
protective clothing (rain, wind, cold)
minimum first aid (in addition to your medications if any)
pen and paper
sun screen
insect repellant
extra food
bicycle helmet (for the sections you choose the bike)

Other useful items to have in your kit are waterproof matches, candles, extra batteries and bulb, GPS and toilet tissue.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Take note of the terrain. Loose rocks, and wet roots can always be hazardous. It is ok to evaluate others you encounter on the trail. How are they outfitted? There may be a time you will need to come to their aid. More important - do they seem like they should be there? Never tell strangers where you intend to camp. If you plan to stay in a spot for a time and you are not comfortable with the company, get some water and move on. Beware of animals in the area and never approach a wild animal. Look carefully before you sit on a rock or log and as you walk along trail.

Communications.

Consider carrying a cell phone. I know, don't kick me off the trail yet. I realize we are trying to get away from all that, turn it off, and pack it safely. If you find you have to use it know where you are. Cell phone technology has not progressed to the point where emergency operators can determine your location. The day is coming. You may have to get the top of a ridge in mountainous regions in order to use the phone.

Poisonous Plants.

Learn to identify them. Watch those children, all "blue berries" are not Blue berries. Learn what Poison Ivy looks like. It has three glossy leaves and a red dot in the middle. Touching it transfers its oils to the skin. This can cause a rash, which is very unpleasant to many. Poison Oak is another plant you may find in your travels. It is very similar to Poison Ivy in appearance and reaction if touched.

Hunting.

The MST crosses many areas where hunting is allowed. You can check the hunting season using the following web site - http://www.wildlife.state.nc.us/ It is important to make yourself seen during hunting seasons with blaze orange coverings. A blaze orange pack cover can be obtained from the Appalachian Trail Conference. Other articles can be found at local sporting good shops.

Mountains

Thunder and Lightening

Be aware of thunderstorms and lightening. If you find yourself at the highest point around, which can happen on Balds, get down as quickly as possible. You can measure the distance between yourself and an approaching storm by counting the seconds between the flash of lightening and the clap of thunder. Five seconds equals a mile. If you are not far enough down the trail to be in a safe position by the count of 2 between lightening and thunder drop your metal pack, squat keeping on the balls of your feet and tuck your head down. This will allow you to have the least amount on contact to the ground possible. Do not seek shelter under a lone tree or a rock shelf.

Camp Fires.

Use a backpacking stove. Only consider having a campfire where regulations allow. Use only wood lying on the ground. When you choose to have a campfire make sure there is adequate water to put the fire completely out. If you will not put you hands in the ashes - it is not.

Meeting others of the trail.

Equestrians have the right away. Hikers and cyclists should get, as far off the trail as safely possible. Let the equestrians direct you to help maintain the calmness of the horse. Mountain bikers should take care when coming around blind curves. Hikers, who are using a multi-use trail should take care to listen for others using the trail. It is often easier for you to stop or move aside. Hikers who are ascending have the right away over those descending. It is much easier for most to get started going down hill again.

Piedmont

Back Roads.

The MST in the Piedmont has to use back roads from time to time. Always walk on the shoulder, facing traffic. Wear clothing, which stands out so motorists will notice you. Put reflective tape on your pack or pack cover. This will make you more visible at dawn and dusk. Bicyclist should ride with traffic, wear a helmet and have some type of rear view mirror. Proper lighting on the bicycle is advisable also.

Rest stops.

Keep your pack with you. Park and lock you bicycle were you can see it. Some eateries may question bringing you pack inside. Handle it as pleasantly as possible. Ask if there is somewhere inside you can leave it in order to keep an eye on it. Equestrians, your guess is as good as mine. Just park your horse out front.

The family pet.
Watch out for dogs in the yards as you pass. They will normally only bark but keep an eye on them to be sure you are safe. Do not encourage a friendly dog. You may find yourself taking the pet back to its owner at the end of the day.

Meeting others of the trail.

Cars and then equestrians have the right away, they are bigger than you. Hikers and cyclists should get, as far off the trail as safely possible. Let the equestrians direct you to help maintain the calmness of the horse. Mountain bikers should take care when coming around blind curves. Hikers who are using a multi-use trail should take care to listen for others using the trail. It is often easier for you to stop or move aside. Hikers who are ascending have the right away over those descending. It is much easier for most to get started going down hill again.

Coastal

Unique Equipment:

Goggles are an item you may find useful as you hike the coastal trail when the wind kicks up.

White long sleeve shirts and long pants are recommended because there is little foliage to protect you from the sun.

Carry plenty of water, two quarts per person is recommended.

Be careful of fishermen and their hooks. They may not be aware you are behind them.