Mileage Buffer Day
Overview
A mileage buffer day is an extra day built into a hiking itinerary to accommodate delays, weather disruptions, or lower-than-expected mileage. It increases schedule flexibility.
Key points
- Helps prevent rushed decisions late in the trip.
- Useful for weather events, injury recovery, or logistical changes.
- Often included in tight or high-mileage itineraries.
- Reduces stress around reaching resupply or exit points.
- Common for long-distance and complex routes.
Details
Buffer days acknowledge the variability inherent in backcountry travel. Factors such as storms, difficult terrain, or fatigue can reduce daily mileage. Including at least one buffer day allows hikers to adapt without compromising safety or comfort.
Long-distance routes or high-elevation traverses benefit from multiple buffer days, especially during seasons with unpredictable weather patterns.
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Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.