Glossary H

Articles containing information regarding Glossary H

• Hanging Food

  Hanging food refers to suspending food and scented items from a tree or structure to reduce the likelihood of wildlife accessing them. It is a traditional backcountry food-storage method used when bear canisters, lockers, or other containment systems are unavailable.

• Hard Shell Jacket

  A hard shell jacket is a waterproof and windproof outer layer designed to provide weather protection in harsh or sustained conditions. It prioritizes durable weather resistance over breathability or insulation.

• Headlamp

  A headlamp is a hands-free lighting device worn on the head, typically used for night hiking, camp chores, and emergency visibility. It provides directed illumination while keeping the user’s hands free.

• Heat Exhaustion

  Heat exhaustion is a heat-related condition marked by heavy sweating, fatigue, dizziness, and impaired performance resulting from prolonged exposure to hot environments. It reflects the body’s difficulty maintaining adequate cooling.

• Heat Index

  The heat index is a calculated measure that combines air temperature and relative humidity to estimate how hot conditions feel to the human body. It reflects the reduced effectiveness of sweat evaporation in humid environments.

• Heat-Related Illness

  Heat-related illness is an umbrella term for medical conditions caused by excessive heat exposure and impaired thermoregulation. It ranges from mild heat cramps to life-threatening heat stroke.

• Heel Lock Lacing

  Heel lock lacing is a method of tightening footwear to secure the heel and reduce slippage during hiking. It improves foot stability on uneven terrain and helps prevent blisters.

• High Camp

  A high camp is an elevated campsite established above the surrounding terrain, often used prior to crossing an alpine pass or undertaking a demanding section. It provides strategic positioning for early starts.

• High Route

  A high route is a backpacking or trekking line that stays near or above tree line for extended distances. It often combines off-trail travel, alpine passes, and scenic ridgelines.

• High Water Mark

  A high water mark refers to the highest level reached by a stream, river, or seasonal runoff during periods of elevated flow. It is used to assess river dynamics and crossing safety.

• Hiker Box

  A hiker box is a communal container found at hostels, post offices, and trail towns where hikers leave unneeded items and pick up supplies left by others. It supports resource sharing along long-distance routes.

• Hiker Hunger

  Hiker hunger is an informal term describing the strong and persistent appetite that develops after sustained high-mileage days on long-distance hikes. It reflects elevated caloric expenditure.

• Hiker Midnight

  Hiker midnight is an informal term describing the early bedtime common among long-distance hikers, often around sunset. Fatigue, mileage demands, and natural light cycles shape this schedule.

• Hiking Poles / Trekking Poles

  Hiking poles, also called trekking poles, are walking aids used to improve stability, reduce joint stress, and enhance efficiency on varied terrain. They are commonly used on long-distance routes.

• Hiking-Specific Socks

  Hiking-specific socks are designed to manage moisture, reduce friction, and enhance comfort during extended walking. They incorporate specialized fibers and cushioning zones.

• Hitchhiking to Town

  Hitchhiking to town refers to accepting rides from passing vehicles in order to reach resupply towns, trailheads, or accommodations. It is a longstanding practice on long-distance trails where public transportation is limited.

• Hot Spot (Pre-Blister)

  A hot spot is an area of friction on the foot that becomes warm or irritated before a blister forms. Early detection and treatment can prevent further injury.

• Hyperlite / Ultralight Gear Trend

  The hyperlite or ultralight gear trend refers to the practice of minimizing pack weight through equipment choices that emphasize low mass, simplicity, and multifunctional systems. It focuses on reducing the physical demands of long-distance travel.

• Hypothermia

  Hypothermia is a dangerous drop in core body temperature resulting from prolonged exposure to cold, wind, or wet conditions. It impairs physical and cognitive function and can become life-threatening without intervention.