Trail Nutrition: Essential Tips for Adventurous Travelers
The longing to travel into the unknown began when I was a child. It was a call to a kind of sacred relentlessness, an unyielding hunger that I could not ignore. As my bravery grew, so did my boundaries until I could no longer see the wall. Throughout the years, my voyager spirit has led me deep into the mountains, wilderness, deserts, and coastlines, both within the United States and beyond. In Greek mythology, Hermes, the son of Zeus, protected ancient travelers who, like myself, felt the same call to journey. The idea of being watched over while navigating undiscovered terrain offered comfort, but I knew that I could never rely solely on guardian angels.
The allure of the road may be beautiful, yet without proper preparation, even with divine intervention, a trek can turn perilous. Today, our primary protector on any adventure is knowledge. Every traveler must stay in touch with the earth and everything that roams the ground or soars through the heavens.
Native Americans had it right. They were masters of their domain. They studied their surroundings, never taking more than they needed, and were well-versed in identifying which plants, berries, insects, and animals could nourish their bodies and which could harm them. This is crucial wisdom, especially as we engage in outdoor activities like hiking and trekking. As we immerse ourselves in nature, we must also prepare for potential emergencies. In situations where food is scarce, understanding your environment can save not just your day, but your life.
Essential Trail Nutrition
When trekking through diverse landscapes for extended periods, the last thing you want is to lug around a heavy pack. Traveling light is paramount. Here are some staple foods that I always pack:
- Beans & Lentils: Compact and easy to cook—just boil them up.
- Pasta: Another lightweight option that’s quick to prepare.
- Rice: Fast and tasty, especially mixed with beans and spices.
- Spices: Don’t forget powdered garlic, onions, pepper, and salt to enhance your meals.
While these staples are essential for Trail Nutrition, it’s equally important to embrace the environment around you, which can provide a plethora of delicious and nutritious food options.
Homemade Trail Mix: A Delicious Recipe
Along with the fundamental supplies, I always carry my trusty Peterson's Field Guide. This trusty guide has aided me in identifying both edible and poisonous plants for years. My golden rule in the wild is: never rely solely on pre-packed food for sustenance. A wise traveler prepares for any eventuality.
Exploring Edible Berries and Plants
Even when your adventure goes smoothly, incorporating wild plants and berries into your diet can bolster your Trail Nutrition and add excitement to your palate. Edible wild plants can be more nutritious than most processed store-bought produce. During the summer months, nature provides a seasonal buffet!
- Wild Asparagus: Found between March and June, this nutrient-rich veggie is excellent raw or boiled.
- Bear Grass: An edible plant found in open meadows and forests, great when roasted or boiled.
- Cattail: This plant grows near freshwater and is edible both raw and boiled.
- Dandelion: A common plant that’s packed with vitamins and can even be used to brew a coffee substitute.
Edible Insects: A Surprising Source of Nutrition
Globally, roughly 2 billion people include insects in their diets, with many edible species full of protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. For example, mealworms offer omega-3s comparable to fish, while crickets provide calcium and high protein. Always cook any insects you plan to consume to eliminate any natural toxins.
Hunting and Trapping as Part of Trail Nutrition
In cultures worldwide, animals represent a fundamental resource. If hunting interests you, here are some common animals you may encounter:
- Fish: A variety like bass, trout, cod, and salmon are commonly found in U.S. waters.
- Rabbits: Numerous species roam wild, and they can provide a vital protein source.
- Birds: Various species including ducks and pigeons can make for a satisfying meal.
Into The Wild Recipes for Adventurers
Baked Autumn Trail Mix
This delightful trail mix, inspired by a November 2013 Outside Magazine recipe, provides energy for your hikes. Customize it to suit your taste preferences!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup each of raw walnuts, almonds, and pecans
- ½ cup each of raw pumpkin and sunflower seeds
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tbsp vanilla
- ¼ tsp each of cinnamon and nutmeg
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup raw honey
- ½ cup chopped dried apricots
- ½ cup dried cranberries
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees, chop the nuts, mix with all ingredients (except dried fruits), and spread on a baking sheet. Toast for 3-5 minutes, then add dried fruits and mix!
For additional tips and recipes about Trail Nutrition, check out these related articles:
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Animal fat contains 9 calories per gram, that’s 4000 calories per pound. Bacon weighs a lot less per calorie than either beans or rice, and bacon won’t rot your teeth. Negating the need for a dentist and toothbrush.