It has now been two months since I last hiked. I've been missing it, but I've only myself to blame. It's true how we make our own misery.

Fall is a wonderful time to hike. The days may be shorter, but the weather is cooler and there are less mosquitoes and people. With such appealing conditions (especially the less people part), it's hard to believe I haven't made any effort to hit a trail.

With the recent news about the rescue of the San Jose couple who were lost for five days in Castle Rock State Park and their lack of preparation, I've been thinking about how well-prepared I am whenever I wander into the wilderness.

Before I hike, I have a relatively good idea of the route I want to hike. I also try to make sure I have extra water, extra food, extra clothing, a hat, sunscreen, a poncho, a first aid kit, matches, a map, and a flashlight. How it all manages to fit in a backpack is a modern marvel. Somehow it all does, so I'm happy.

The one big omission from the list is a water filter. Until now, I've been lucky and have never needed one, but I should invest in a filter to be on the safe side.

With thoughts of preparation, I found a great list of common sense rules for hikers on Winehiker Witiculture that I wanted to share. It's called The Hiker’s Top 25 Rules for Returning Home Safely. It's a good bit of reference to keep handy and check before heading out on a hike.

I don't know if I'll be making it to any parks this month. The National Park Service is encouraging folks to visit a park during the holidays and it has a list of special events happening across the country through the end of the year. It would be great to experience Christmastime in a park. I hope to, but we'll have to see if the stars of free time and good weather align.