Improvisational Hiking Trend Grows

The recent surge in hiking's popularity, which saw a 171% increase in logged hikes in 2020 compared to the previous year, has continued to grow. National Parks in the U.S. saw a record-breaking 331 million visitors in 2024, a 28% increase from 2020, leading to more crowded trails and fueling the desire for off-trail exploration. Venturing off-trail, however, is the primary reason adult hikers require search and rescue. Hikers and backpackers consistently represent the largest group needing rescue, according to data from Garmin's inReach satellite communicators, which tracked over 3,000 SOS incidents in 2025. In Colorado alone, between 2,800 and 3,000 people are rescued from trails annually. Established trails are designed for safety and sustainability, while off-trail terrain is unpredictable and can feature unstable ground, increasing the risk of slips and falls. In Washington's Sauk Mountain, for instance, three hikers have died in recent years after falling from shortcuts between switchbacks. Rescue efforts are also significantly more difficult and dangerous for search teams in off-trail areas. The environmental impact of going off-trail is significant. Trampling fragile vegetation can take hundreds of years to recover in some ecosystems. This practice also leads to soil compaction and erosion, disrupts wildlife habitats, and can introduce invasive species to new areas. To minimize impact, outdoor ethics organizations advocate for the "Leave No Trace" principles, which include traveling and camping on durable surfaces like rock and gravel. If traversing vegetation is unavoidable, it's recommended to spread out to avoid creating new paths for others to follow. Proper preparation is critical for any hike, but especially for off-trail adventures. The "Ten Essentials" system, developed by The Mountaineers, includes navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), a headlamp, sun protection, a first-aid kit, a knife, fire-starting materials, an emergency shelter, and extra food, water, and clothes. Modern technology offers a safety net, but shouldn't replace skill and preparation. Personal locator beacons (PLBs) and satellite messengers allow for two-way communication in areas without cell service. Despite advancements in navigation apps, getting lost remains a major issue, often due to unfamiliarity with the area rather than a lack of technology.