Glossary F

Articles containing information regarding Glossary F

• Face covering / buff

  A face covering or buff is a lightweight tubular fabric used to protect the face and neck from sun, dust, wind, insects, or cold. It is a common multi-use item in long-distance hiking.

• Fall-line descent

  A fall-line descent refers to descending a slope along the path that gravity would naturally pull an object straight downhill. It is the steepest, most direct downward route on a slope.

• False summit

  A false summit is a high point on a ridge or mountain that appears to be the final summit but reveals additional elevation gain once reached. It is a visual perception issue caused by angles and terrain shape.

• Featherweight / ultralight kit

  A featherweight or ultralight kit refers to a gear setup focused on minimizing base weight through careful equipment choices and streamlined packing. It emphasizes efficiency, simplicity, and load reduction.

• Filtered water

  Filtered water is water that has been passed through a physical filtration device to remove sediment, protozoa, and bacteria. It is a primary method of water treatment on long-distance trails.

• Fire ban

  A fire ban is a temporary or seasonal restriction on open flames, campfires, and sometimes stoves, imposed by land management agencies to reduce wildfire risk.

• Fire ring

  A fire ring is a designated or constructed circle of rocks or metal used to contain campfires in established campgrounds or sites. It helps limit fire spread and supports responsible fire use.

• First-aid kit

  A first-aid kit is a collection of medical supplies used to treat minor injuries, manage discomfort, and stabilize conditions until professional help is available.

• Flip-flop thru-hike

  A flip-flop thru-hike is a thru-hike completed in multiple non-linear segments rather than a single continuous direction. It often involves starting in the middle, hiking one direction, then returning to complete the opposite end.

• Flow rate (water filter)

  Flow rate describes how quickly water passes through a filter system under pressure or gravity. It declines as filters clog with sediment or biological material.

• Food bag

  A food bag is a dedicated storage sack used to contain food, scented items, and cooking supplies while hiking. It is part of food protection and organization systems.

• Food storage regulations

  Food storage regulations are rules governing how hikers must store food and scented items to protect wildlife and prevent habituation. They vary by region and land-management agency.

• Foot care kit

  A foot care kit is a set of supplies used to manage blisters, hot spots, nail issues, and general foot health during long-distance hiking.

• Foot path / tread

  A foot path or tread is the physical surface of a trail as formed by repeated use and maintenance. It includes soil, rock, gravel, or constructed trail surfaces.

• Footprint (tent footprint / groundsheet)

  A tent footprint or groundsheet is a protective layer placed under a tent to reduce abrasion, puncture risk, and moisture transfer from the ground.

• Ford (river ford)

  A ford refers to a shallow section of a river or stream where crossing on foot is possible. It requires assessing depth, current, riverbed stability, and safety conditions.

• Free-standing tent

  A free-standing tent is a shelter that can maintain its structure without stakes due to a self-supporting pole system. Stakes are still used to secure it, but the primary frame remains upright on its own.

• Freeze-dried food

  Freeze-dried food is dehydrated food created through a process that removes moisture while preserving texture and nutritional content. It is lightweight and commonly used in backpacking.

• Front-country campground

  A front-country campground is a developed camping area accessible by vehicle and equipped with amenities such as picnic tables, restrooms, and designated sites.

• Fuel canister

  A fuel canister is a sealed metal container of pressurized gas used with compatible backpacking stoves. It typically contains isobutane, propane, or blends designed for efficient combustion.

• Full-value day (long day out)

  A full-value day refers to a long day of hiking that occupies most of the available daylight and sometimes extends into early or late twilight hours. It reflects a full day's effort on the trail.