Glossary L

Articles containing information regarding Glossary L

• LASH (Long-Ass Section Hike)

  A LASH, or Long-Ass Section Hike, refers to completing a large portion of a long-distance trail in one extended trip without hiking the full length in a single season.

• Late-Season Conditions

  Late-season conditions describe environmental and weather patterns typically encountered near the end of a hiking season as autumn transitions toward winter.

• Layering System

  A layering system is a structured approach to clothing selection that uses multiple layers to regulate body temperature and moisture across a wide range of conditions.

• Layover Day

  A layover day is a zero-mile day spent at a campsite or in town to rest, recover, or wait out adverse conditions without advancing along the trail.

• Leave No Trace (LNT)

  Leave No Trace (LNT) is an outdoor ethics framework that promotes responsible recreational practices to minimize human impact on natural environments.

• Leg Pump / Quad Pump

  Leg pump, or quad pump, refers to the intense muscular fatigue and burning sensation experienced in the thigh muscles during sustained steep climbs or rapid ascents.

• Lightning Hazard

  Lightning hazard refers to the risk posed by electrical storms, particularly in exposed terrain where hikers may be vulnerable to strikes.

• Liquid Fuel Stove

  A liquid fuel stove is a backcountry cooking device that burns liquid fuels such as white gas, kerosene, or gasoline.

• Locking Carabiner (Utility)

  A locking carabiner is a metal connector with a secure gate mechanism used for utility purposes in hiking and backpacking.

• Log Crossing

  A log crossing is a method of traversing a stream or river by walking along a fallen tree that spans the water.

• Long Food Carry

  A long food carry describes a segment of trail where hikers must carry several days' worth of meals due to limited or distant resupply points.

• Long Water Carry

  A long water carry refers to a trail segment with limited or unreliable water sources, requiring hikers to carry large quantities of water between known points.

• Long-Distance Hiking

  Long-distance hiking refers to multi-day or multi-week travel on foot along established routes, typically covering significant mileage across varied terrain.

• Low Route (Alternate)

  A low route is an alternate trail or path that avoids high-elevation terrain by following valleys, lower ridgelines, or sheltered corridors.