There & Back Safely: CapeNature’s Hiking Safety Booklet
Explore CapeNature’s There & Back Safely booklet, covering hiking preparation, etiquette and emergency situations, alongside links to current guidance.
Good hiking preparation includes understanding the route, knowing your equipment and planning what to do if things don’t go as expected.
There & Back Safely, produced by CapeNature, brings together information on hiking etiquette, preparation, personal responsibilities and emergency situations. It is a useful starting point for identifying topics to learn about before heading onto the trail.
What does the booklet cover?
The booklet includes sections on:
- Hiking etiquette and responsible behaviour.
- Planning a hike and sharing your itinerary.
- Clothing, equipment, food and emergency supplies.
- Navigation and becoming lost.
- Weather-related hazards, injuries and other emergencies.
Download CapeNature’s There & Back Safely booklet (PDF)
Use it alongside current information
This is an older publication. Use it as background reading, and check current guidance before relying on specific recommendations—particularly medical treatment, emergency procedures and contact details. Reading a booklet does not replace practical navigation skills or first-aid training.
For preparation advice, visit CapeNature’s hiking guidance. Confirm access, permits, closures, water availability and local emergency arrangements with the reserve or trail operator before departure.
Continue preparing for your hike
Our Multi-day Hiking Checklist helps you organise clothing, equipment and supplies. Read the Leave No Trace Seven Principles for guidance on reducing your impact outdoors.
This booklet is published by CapeNature and linked here as an external resource. It is not an HSA publication.