The critical role of proper nutrition, and hydration in preventing accident and illness during any wilderness trip cannot be overemphasized. If you think of the human body as a soft machine, then the importance of fuel (nutrients) and engine coolant (water) become obvious.

For most of us the concept of wilderness has little to do with the notion of access to medical care, and everything to do with the sense that only in wilderness are our spirits truly free. Nevertheless, every time we enter the wilderness, we risk injury, illness, or worse. Injuries and illness to backcountry visitors are quite common.