Glossary S

Articles containing information regarding Glossary S

• Saddle (between peaks)

  A saddle is a low point along a ridge between two higher peaks or knobs. In hiking contexts, saddles often serve as natural crossing points, trail junctions, or sheltered locations relative to surrounding terrain.

• Safety margin

  A safety margin is the buffer between current conditions or decisions and the point at which they would become unacceptably risky. In thru-hiking, it reflects extra capacity in skills, equipment, time, or fitness beyond what is strictly necessary for a plan.

• Safety whistle

  A safety whistle is a compact signaling device used to draw attention in an emergency or to communicate over distance on trail. It is often carried as part of a basic safety kit.

• Sastrugi (wind-sculpted snow)

  Sastrugi are wind-sculpted snow formations that create ridges and grooves on the surface of a snowpack. They can affect footing and travel efficiency on snow-covered routes.

• Satellite communicator

  A satellite communicator is a handheld device or service that allows messaging, location sharing, and sometimes emergency signaling via satellite networks, rather than relying on cellular coverage.

• Scrambling (non-technical)

  Scrambling, in a non-technical hiking context, refers to movement over steep or rocky terrain where hands are occasionally used for balance or support, but where ropes and technical climbing equipment are not normally required.

• Section hike

  A section hike is a trip that covers a defined segment of a long-distance trail rather than attempting the entire route in a single continuous journey.

• Self-evacuation (planning concept)

  Self-evacuation, as a planning concept, refers to preparing for the possibility that a hiker may need to leave the trail under their own power or with assistance from companions, using established exit routes rather than relying solely on outside rescue.

• Self-supported hike

  A self-supported hike is a long-distance trip in which the hiker handles logistics and resupply without a dedicated support crew following along, while still making use of public services such as stores, lodgings, and mail drops.

• Shake-down hike

  A shake-down hike is a deliberate practice trip taken before a longer journey to test gear, clothing systems, routines, and fitness under realistic conditions.

• Shelter platform

  A shelter platform is a constructed surface, often made of wood or composite materials, designed to provide a level, durable place for tents or other shelters in designated camping areas.

• Shelter system (overall sleep setup)

  A shelter system is the combination of components that create overnight protection and sleeping comfort, including the primary shelter, sleep insulation, sleeping pad, and any associated accessories.

• shoulder season

  shoulder season refers to transitional periods between a region’s primary warm and cold seasons, often characterized by variable weather, lingering snow, or early-season storms.

• Side trail

  A side trail is any trail that branches off the main route, leading to alternate destinations such as viewpoints, lakes, trailheads, or towns.

• Slackpacking

  Slackpacking is a style of day hiking along a long-distance trail segment while carrying a relatively light pack, often made possible by arranging transportation or temporary gear storage off trail.

• Sleeping bag

  A sleeping bag is an insulated, typically zippered sleep system component designed to retain body heat during rest. It is a core part of most backpacking shelter systems.

• Sleeping bag liner

  A sleeping bag liner is a lightweight fabric insert used inside a sleeping bag or quilt to provide a more comfortable interior surface, help manage cleanliness, and in some cases offer modest additional warmth.

• Sleeping pad

  A sleeping pad is a portable mat used under a sleeping bag or quilt to provide insulation from the ground and additional comfort while lying down.

• Slow snowmelt year

  A slow snowmelt year describes a season in which winter snowpack melts later than typical patterns for a region, often resulting in persistent snow on high routes and delayed opening of certain trail segments.

• Snow travel

  Snow travel is movement over snow-covered terrain using techniques and equipment suited to the conditions, such as careful foot placement, traction devices, and route adjustments.

• Snowfield

  A snowfield is an area of relatively continuous snow coverage that persists on the ground, often at higher elevations or on shaded aspects, after surrounding areas have melted.

• Snowpack

  Snowpack is the accumulated layer of snow on the ground that evolves over a season through snowfall, settling, melting, and refreezing processes.

• SOBO (southbound hiker)

  SOBO, short for southbound, describes a hiker traveling from a northern starting point toward a southern terminus on a linear long-distance trail.

• Solar charger

  A solar charger is a portable device that converts sunlight into electrical energy to recharge batteries or electronic devices via integrated panels or foldable arrays.

• Solo thru-hike

  A solo thru-hike is an end-to-end journey on a long-distance trail attempted by a single hiker without a permanent on-trail partner, while still potentially encountering and spending time with others along the way.

• Spill kit (for fuel)

  A spill kit for fuel is a small set of materials intended to help contain and clean up minor stove fuel spills in a way that reduces environmental impact and fire risk.

• Spine / ridge crest

  A spine or ridge crest is the high, narrow line of a mountain ridge, forming the dividing edge between two drainage basins. It often provides clear travel despite exposure to weather and wind.

• Spring (natural water source)

  A spring is a natural point where groundwater emerges at the surface, providing a reliable source of clean water in many landscapes.

• Stealth camping (dispersed, regulation-compliant)

  Stealth camping refers to dispersed camping outside designated sites while following all land regulations and Leave No Trace principles, typically chosen for low visibility and minimal environmental impact.

• Sternum strap

  A sternum strap is an adjustable buckle across the chest that connects a backpack’s shoulder straps to improve fit, stability, and load distribution.

• Stove system

  A stove system is the combination of stove, fuel, pot, windscreen, and accessories used to heat water or cook food in the backcountry.

• Stuff sack

  A stuff sack is a lightweight storage bag used to organize and compress gear such as clothing, sleeping bags, or loose accessories inside a backpack.

• Sun hoody

  A sun hoody is a lightweight, long-sleeved top with a hood designed to provide UV protection, breathability, and moisture management during high-exposure hiking.

• Sun protection

  Sun protection encompasses clothing, equipment, and behavioral strategies used to reduce UV exposure during outdoor travel.

• Switchback

  A switchback is a zigzagging trail segment designed to reduce the steepness of ascent or descent by traversing the slope at an angle.

• Synthetic insulation

  Synthetic insulation is man-made fill material used in jackets, sleeping bags, and quilts, designed to provide warmth even when damp.