Preparation is half of the job:
Choose a hike that is suitable for all participants and plan the route in advance in both summer and winter. The basic rule is: tailor the entire tour to the group's weakest members.
Pay attention to the weather forecast. When hiking in winter, make sure to check the current avalanche report. The weather in the mountains can change suddenly, and special caution is required during thunderstorms, as the risk of lightning strikes increases on mountain peaks and exposed terrain. Early action, finding shelter and waiting until the storm has passed completely are of great importance!
Equipment:
Every tour starts with proper planning:
- Appropriate clothing for the weather
- sturdy footwear
- sun/rain protection
- hiking map
-hiking clothes
- provisions
- First aid kit
- Cell phone for emergencies: European emergency number: 112
-Waste bag
Respect:
Anyone seeking peace and quiet on alpine pastures is on other people's property. Respect is therefore essential - towards other people's property, towards like-minded people, towards nature and its ecosystem and towards the law. Among other things, the law regulates mushroom picking and the protection of wild animals and plants. So: treat nature with respect and avoid making unnecessary noise so as not to frighten wild animals. Follow the waymarks and stay on the marked paths. Close barriers and pasture fences and note that some paths lead through private property. Respect the vegetation, nature reserves and protected plants. Observe grazing cattle from a distance and try not to feed or pet them.
Litter:
Do not leave any waste in the mountains, including organic waste. Take everything home with you and dispose of it there, as even fruit peel cannot be biodegraded at higher altitudes due to the cold and instead leads to an increase in soil acidity: to the disadvantage of native plants.
Alpine animals:
Cows, sheep and goats are good-tempered animals and love peace and quiet. They do not feel disturbed by hikers, but caution to all dog owners: free-roaming dogs can frighten alpine cattle, but can also make them aggressive. Play it safe and keep your four-legged friends on a leash.