I have acute muscle soreness in my calves (delayed onset muscle soreness). I had a workout on Friday, have muscle soreness kick in on Sunday and today's Monday. I have a long hike to do on Saturday. I want a quick and effective protocol for recovery by then

For calf DOMS, use gentle movement, compression, massage or percussion, and—if you prioritize short-term soreness relief over muscle-growth adaptation—cold-water immersion before Saturday’s hike.

• Low-intensity movement: Try easy walking or other light activity that gently contracts the calves rather than complete rest; contractions may help move fluid out of the tissue and ease acute soreness. 1
• Compression garments: Wear comfortable, snug compression leggings or socks, particularly over the sore calves. Compression may help with recovery and fluid movement; it need not be painfully tight. 2 3
• Cold-water immersion: It can reduce muscle soreness, but may trade off some muscle-growth adaptation. Cold-water immersion—not merely a cold shower—was described as an option for soreness; use a safe exposure and don’t force an extreme temperature or duration. 4
• Massage or percussion: Gentle soft-tissue work or a percussion tool may help by increasing blood flow and moving fluid from the tissue, reducing pressure on sensory nerve endings and easing pain. 5 6

These methods may ease soreness, but the cited guidance does not promise full recovery by Saturday. 7