Glossary T

Articles containing information regarding Glossary T

• Tarp shelter

  A tarp shelter is a lightweight, non-freestanding shelter made from a flat or shaped piece of fabric that is pitched using trekking poles, guylines, or natural anchors. It offers adaptable protection with minimal weight.

• Technical footing (rocky, rooty)

  Technical footing refers to trail surfaces that require careful foot placement due to rocks, roots, uneven ground, or loose material. These conditions demand increased balance and attention.

• Ten essentials (planning concept)

  The Ten Essentials are a widely recognized set of items recommended for safe backcountry travel. They support navigation, shelter, health, and emergency preparedness.

• Tent footprint

  A tent footprint is a protective groundsheet placed beneath a tent to reduce abrasion, punctures, and ground moisture exposure. It extends the lifespan of the tent floor.

• Tent stakes

  Tent stakes are anchoring tools used to secure tents, tarps, and guylines to the ground. Their effectiveness depends on soil type, stake design, and correct placement.

• Thru-hike

  A thru-hike is a continuous end-to-end hike of a long-distance trail within a single season or defined timeframe. It involves completing the entire official route in one sustained journey.

• Thru-hiker

  A thru-hiker is an individual who undertakes a full end-to-end hike of a long-distance trail in a single journey or defined period. They develop routines and systems specific to long-distance travel.

• Timberline / treeline

  Timberline or treeline marks the elevation or climatic boundary above which trees cannot grow due to environmental conditions such as cold temperatures or strong winds.

• Toe box (shoe fit)

  The toe box is the front section of a shoe where the toes rest. Its width and volume significantly affect comfort and foot health during long-distance hiking.

• Topo map

  A topo map, or topographic map, is a detailed representation of terrain that uses contour lines to show elevation changes and landforms. It is a primary tool for backcountry navigation.

• Trail angel

  A trail angel is a person who voluntarily provides assistance, kindness, or resources to hikers on long-distance trails. Their support may be spontaneous or organized.

• Trail community

  Trail community refers to the network of hikers, volunteers, trail angels, and local residents who interact around long-distance trails. It encompasses shared culture, norms, and support systems.

• Trail culture

  Trail culture encompasses the shared norms, behaviors, language, and informal customs that develop among hikers on long-distance trails.

• Trail family (tramily)

  A trail family, often called a tramily, is a group of hikers who choose to travel together for some or all of a long-distance trail. These groups form naturally based on pace, personality, and shared experiences.

• Trail journal

  A trail journal is a written or digital record documenting a hiker’s daily experiences, observations, and logistical notes during a hike.

• Trail junction

  A trail junction is a point where two or more trails intersect, diverge, or converge. It is a key navigational reference on route maps.

• Trail magic

  Trail magic refers to unexpected acts of kindness or support offered to hikers, often by trail angels or local community members.

• Trail register

  A trail register is a logbook stored at trailheads, shelters, or junctions where hikers record their presence, observations, or comments.

• Trail reroute

  A trail reroute is a temporary or permanent change in the trail’s official path due to environmental damage, construction, safety concerns, or land-management decisions.

• Trail signage

  Trail signage includes all markers, posts, blazes, and informational signs used to guide hikers along the correct route and communicate regulations or hazards.

• Trail tread

  Trail tread is the physical surface of the trail that hikers walk on. It includes soil, rock, gravel, or constructed surfaces shaped by maintenance and use.

• Trail work / maintenance

  Trail work and maintenance involve constructing, repairing, and preserving trails to ensure safe, sustainable access. It is performed by volunteers, agencies, and conservation groups.

• Trailhead

  A trailhead is an official access point where a trail begins or intersects with roads or developed areas. It includes signage, parking, and sometimes amenities.

• Tramline (visible hiker line on snow)

  A tramline is a visible track created by repeated hiker footsteps across snowfields. It provides a firmer, consolidated path for subsequent hikers.

• Triple Crown (AT–PCT–CDT)

  The Triple Crown refers to completing the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail—the three premier long-distance trails in the United States.

• Trowel

  A trowel is a small digging tool used to create catholes for burying human waste in accordance with Leave No Trace practices.

• Twin bivy / double quilt (2-person systems)

  Twin bivy and double quilt systems are two-person sleep setups designed to share insulation and shelter space, reducing weight and increasing efficiency for paired hikers.