Maine hiker Geraldine Largay, who died on Appalachian Trail, didn’t know how to use compass

Thanks to social media sites like Instagram hiking and other outdoor pursuits have skyrocketed into popularity, essentially hitting the "mainstream." And that's a dangerous thing when something becomes mainstream or commercialized. It's at that point you get nonhobbiest, everyday day people who saw a pretty picture and want to go on a hike. They think these things are safe, monitored, and routine. I'm sad to say that many of the people I know who hike think we are past the point of needing maps and compasses. These are the same people who hang their bear bag but don't feel like going back later to out in the las wrapper they found in their pocket. These people simply don't understand the seriousness of being in the woods, be it 2 miles from civilization or 100. They have not seen the pictures of storms, white outs, or the pitch black dark of night. They don't understand that they will encounter many of these things on multiple occasions. Simply out, these people or not prepared nor do they value the importance of being prepared. This is a tragic case and not the best example of my point, but it still highlights it. I would never want to turn someone away who was interested in the outdoprs. However as these hobbys become more popular something must be done to educate people on being prepared, survival, respecting wildlife, and leaving no trace. Boy and girl scouts are a dieing breed and the upcoming generation is growing up totally oblivious on how to behave and survive outdoors. An aggressive campaign needs to take place that educates people on these matters. Perhaps permits should be issued for extended hikes and before getting that permit you must show that you are fully informed and prepared (I.e. you must show a detailed itinerary in order to receive a permit). Maybe larger parks could have people there to provide ten minute do's and don'ts. I'm not really sure the best approach. Sorry for the rant.

/r/AppalachianTrail Thread Link - pressherald.com