Ian Campbell

The contour lines on a topographical map are designed to give a three-dimensional representation of the terrain you’re exploring. In addition to elevation, the contour lines give a rough idea of the terrain’s shape! Aside from the basic elevation information provided by the contour lines, the shapes and patterns the lines are organized into can help you identify specific features in the terrain such as depressions, cliffs, valleys, gullies, ridges and peaks. With practice observing the way the contour lines are shaped and organized, you’ll become much quicker to grasp the information.

Aside from packing your garbage, a garbage bag can be used to line your backpack and keep your items protected from rain and water exposure. That’s why its oh-so-important to come prepared with some semblance of a first-aid kit! Band-Aids, Neosporin, medical tape, butterfly bandages, safety pins, and tweezers can all come in handy. If you’d like something a little fancier at mealtime, consider preparing your own freezer bag meals ahead of time to be later cooked at camp!

Recognizing the symptoms of exposure as well as the plants themselves will help you to treat the problem right away. Knowing which plant is common to the area you’re exploring will help with the identification process. If the oil is on your fingertips or hands and you happen to rub your eyes or itch another portion of your body, you can bet that that part of your body will develop the rash as well. If you know for certain you’ve been in contact with poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac, its important to treat the problem as soon as you can to avoid worsening symptoms.

Capitol Hill Outfitters rents hiking and camping gear to individuals and groups, as packages or as single items. Our customers range from families who need a larger tent for their next trip now that their families have grown, to Hill interns here for the summer who didn’t bring their own equipment, but want to experience our fabulous parks. Prior to having children, I spent a lot of time hiking and backpacking in our new home region. I’ve done the corridor trails several times with families and groups, and there’s nothing like showing that place to someone the first time.