5 Questions to Ask Before Going on a Hike with Someone

The people that we go on a hike with are our biggest assets AND liabilities, so it is important to be thoughtful when selecting our hiking companions. Here are five questions to ask to help determine if someone is a good fit: 

1. Do we have the same objective for this hike? It is important to make sure that the reason we are going on a hike aligns with our partners. For example if someone has their heart set on reaching a certain summit and the other person is looking for a relaxing stroll in the woods, they will have a hard time making decisions. 

These next four questions come from the NOLS Wilderness Guide

1. Does this person have common sense and good judgment? 

2. Do I trust this person to help me if I get injured?
   These two questions get to the heart of whether you can trust and rely on someone in the backcountry.
   

3. Are we of the same ability? This one is not 100% crucial, it is certainly ok to hike with people above or below your ability, but you need to be aware when that is the case. An easy hike for one person can be dangerously exhausting for another. It is important to select a hike and go at a pace that everyone can manage.
   

4. Would I enjoy this person’s company? There is no reason to hike with someone who you don’t get along with. Hiking can be strenuous, and can tax even a strong relationship, so it is important to find people who you get along with and want to spend time with. 

With these five questions, you can ensure you are selecting good hiking partners and setting yourself and your hiking party up for success.