Glossary E

Articles containing information regarding Glossary E

• Early-season snowpack

  Early-season snowpack refers to lingering or newly fallen snow present on trails in the shoulder seasons, are oftenfore peak summer conditions. It can create mixed trail surfaces and additional route-finding and safety considerations.

• Emergency bivy

  An emergency bivy is a compact, lightweight shelter item intended for short-term emergency use. It is typically carried as a contingency rather than as a primary overnight system.

• Emergency blanket

  An emergency blanket is a thin, reflective sheet designed to help reduce heat loss from a person in distress. It is a common component of compact first aid and emergency kits.

• Emergency contact plan

  An emergency contact plan is a pre-arranged agreement describing how a hiker will check in with trusted contacts and what those contacts often do if communication is missed. It supports coordination during unexpected delays or incidents.

• Emergency locator beacon

  An emergency locator beacon is a device designed to send a distress signal and location information to coordinated response systems when activated in an emergency. Types include satellite messengers and personal locator beacons.

• Emergency shelter

  Emergency shelter refers to any improvised or dedicated setup used to provide short-term protection from weather in unexpected situations. It can involve specialized items or creative use of standard gear.

• End-to-end hike

  An end-to-end hike is a continuous or near-continuous journey along the full length of a defined route, from one terminus to the other. It is similar in concept to a thru hike, with terminology varying by region and trail culture.

• Energy density (food)

  Energy density, in the context of hiking food, refers to how many calories are contained per unit weight or volume of food. It is a key factor in planning efficient resupplies for long-distance hiking.

• Entry zipper (tent door style)

  Entry zipper, in tent design, refers to the shape and placement of the door opening and its zipper path. Door style affects ease of entry, ventilation options, and how well the tent manages weather.

• EPIRB / PLB (personal locator beacon)

  EPIRB and PLB are types of personal locator beacons that transmit distress signals via dedicated satellite systems. They are used to request emergency assistance from remote areas when serious incidents occur.

• Erosion control structures

  Erosion control structures are built features along trails designed to reduce soil loss, manage water flow, and maintain stable tread. They are part of sustainable trail design and maintenance.

• Escape route / exit route

  An escape route or exit route is a pre-identified way to leave a main trail or high-commitment area and reach roads, towns, or lower-risk terrain if conditions or circumstances change.

• Estimated hiking time

  Estimated hiking time is a prediction of how long a given section of trail will take to walk under typical conditions. It combines distance, elevation change, terrain, and individual pace.

• Exposure (heights / drop-offs)

  Exposure, in a hiking context, describes sections of trail where steep drop-offs or significant heights are noticeable next to the tread. It can affect both objective risk and how comfortable a route feels.