Trail Smarts

1. Dress properly - consider the weather and terrain. Wear "peelable" clothing. It may be chilly when you start, but as the blood gets pumping and you start to sweat, you will want to be able to remove layers of clothing. Wear shoes with good ankle support, preferably hiking boots or hi-top sneakers you can lace up tightly. It's no fun to twist an ankle, and your fellow hashers will not appreciate having to carry you back to the cars!
2. Take a bottle of water, especially in hot weather. (Two bottles in very hot weather.)
3. Don't hike by yourself - stay with a group. It's more fun to socialize and admire the views together.
4. Stay on the trail. You'll do less damage to the environment that way and won't get lost!
5. Stay off of plowed or newly planted fields. Don't pick the fruit - remember, it's probably someone's livelihood. Be friendly to the locals - learn a few simple Albanian greetings.
6. Don't over commit yourself. Only you know your physical limitations. This is not a race or an endurance contest. If you think the trail is too steep, rocks are too lose, or if you begin feeling tired or short of breath - turn around and follow the trail back!! No one will think less of you!
7. Don't keep everyone waiting! If you fall behind the rest of the group, about 45 minutes after your start time, turn around and go back!
8. We all love the sun and having a great tan – but!! Continued exposure to the sun can damage your skin permanently! Use sunscreen from April to October, especially if you have little natural headcovering, like some of us!

Finally .... Enjoy! Discover this beautiful country, and its warm, friendly people.