The Discovery Trail Tourism Association has recently published a hikinng guide book. Trail users are encouraged to purchase this book since it contains directional maps and brief trail descriptions. Proceeds from these books go towards trail maintenance.

Basic Tips

• Plan ahead and prepare for your trip and know exactly where you are going. Always be sure to let people know where you intend to hike, and when you expect to be back. Back
• Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. Weather in Newfoundland is constantly changing. Wear layers of clothing that can be added or removed depending on the weather. Be sure to bring appropriate rain gear.
• Nutritional Needs. Bring high energy food. Take and drink plenty of water. If you find that you are thirsty, you have already gone too long without a drink. It is important to have that nutritional base so that you can maintain a high energy level throughout your walk, and continue to concentrate on the areas beauty, rather than your stomach. A mix of nuts, dried fruit, raisins, and some chocolate will provide you with the carbs and fat needed to keep you trekking.
• Be aware of your physical limitations. Remember that your goal isn't to get to your destination, but to enjoy yourself. Don't press youself and be sure to take breaks if necessary. The DTTA hiking guide book identifies the trails in the region that are designed to suit the abilities of each individual.
• Carry a simple first aid kit containing bandages, alcohol tabs, a pocket knife, antiseptics and pain relievers.
• Hiking Stick. You may not realize it but a hiking stick can transfer about 20 percent of the weight to your arms, increase stability and reduce the amount of wear on your leg muscles. They continually provide balance and make stream and rocks crossings much easier.
• Don't hesitate to ask for directions. Carry a map of the area and a compass. As already mentioned, guide books containing maps with brief cultural and physical features can be purchased throughout the region
• Many people recommend that you carry field guides to plants, shrubs, and birds. This makes the journey more enjoyable and educational as you learn about various Newfoundland species.

• Go early and go light. It is better to leave at dawn then it is to come back from your hike in the dark. This also means cooler temperatures. It is also obvious that the less you carry, the further you go. Every pound affects your pace. The hard part is knowing what is important to carry and what isn't.
• Steady Pace. A consistant pace is of more benefit then a speed up / slow down pace. It is also important that you set you own speed and not follow the pace of someone else.
• Food and Water. Sport bars work. Carry something with high carbs, good taste, and something that is easily digested. Water is probably the heaviest item you carry. A good idea is to stash water bottles on the way up your path, to be retrieved on the way down.
• Clothing Attire. By layering light weight clothes and wearing large brim hats you remain much cooler and protected from the harsh sun. Wool is out and gortex and spandex is in. You may think you look foolish but it works. Sunscreen is also a good idea as well and remember that just because its cloudy, it doesn't mean that you can go without it.
• Shoes and Socks. Comfort is everything. Avoid stiff and heavy hiking boots. Your shoes should have good ankle support and a steel shank. In some cases, the more expensive shoe is not necessarily the best. Avoid wearing coarse threaded socks since they will eventually dig into your skin and cause irritation and blistering. Thin nylon socks and liners are the best. An extra pair is always a good idea as well.

• Travel on stable, durable surfaces and stay on the trail to prevent unnecessary erosion
• Pack out what you pack in
• Avoid fires along the trail
• Avoid drinking from streams and rivers unless you are sure that the water is safe to drink
• Dogs should be kept on a leash
• Some trails traverse clffs up to 100 feet in elevation. Children should be supervised at all times