Hiking is a great low-impact exercise. According to research, it has numerous physical and mental benefits. Hiking is an outdoor activity that has benefits other than being scenic and fun, such as reducing anxiety and preventing osteoporosis.
Hiking, as opposed to walking on a treadmill or paved path, involves more, and sometimes unpredictable, variables. Of course, these variables contribute to the enjoyment! To make your first hikes a success, use the following hiking tips:
1. Begin small and select the appropriate trail for your fitness level.
Choose a hike that is a little shorter than the distance you normally walk on a level or paved surface. To estimate the time required to hike the trail, assume a 2-mile-per-hour pace. After that, go over the elevation changes and add an hour to your estimated hiking time for every 1000 feet gained. After a few outings, you'll have a good idea of what distances and elevation changes work best for you.
2. Get acquainted with the trail.
After you've decided on a trail, get a map of the area and go over reports and data. There are some fantastic online resources. Determine whether the trail is a loop or if you'll have to backtrack or look for a second car. Take note of any intersecting trails where you might take a wrong turn. I also like to look for a good lunch spot, such as a lake or a vantage point on a mountain.
3. Examine the weather.
Check the weather in the days leading up to your hike, and again a few hours before. This will provide you with useful information on how to dress and what to bring. If the weather is predicted to be bad, you will have the opportunity to change your plans rather than being caught off guard on the trail.
4. Tell someone of your plans.
It's critical that someone who isn't on the hike is aware of the itinerary and knows when to be concerned and call for assistance. I didn't say "when you expect to be finished." The "worry time" may be several hours later than your planned finish time to allow for slow hiking, breathtaking views, or a sprained ankle.
Another option is to carry an emergency device, such as a SPOT tracker, which allows you to call for help via satellite. One caveat: devices such as the SPOT are not an excuse to abdicate responsibility for your own personal safety – they are merely a backup.
5. Bring the ten essentials.
The ten essentials have evolved from a list of items to a list of systems. These are the systems you should bring with you if you want to stay safe in the outdoors, including if you have to spend the night. Expand or minimise each system based on the length and remoteness of your hike. A compact emergency blanket, for example, should suffice for a short summer hike near services. A remote winter hike, on the other hand, would necessitate something more extensive. Here are the ten most important systems:
Ten Essential Systems
Navigation (map & compass)
Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
Insulation (extra clothing)
Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
First-aid supplies
Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candle)
Repair kit and tools
Nutrition (extra food)
Hydration (extra water)
Emergency shelter (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)
This list may look daunting, but once you tailor it to your hike, it won’t be so bad. Many of these things are what you’d pack for a picnic. Visit Mountaineers Books for more details.
6. Put on the proper shoes and socks.
A hike can be ruined by sore feet. Purchase high-quality hiking boots and socks. This does not necessarily imply heavy leather boots; there are many "light hikers" available that require little break-in compared to the old hiking boots I started with. Also, don't skimp on socks, and for God's sake, don't wear cotton! Socks made of wool or synthetic materials are preferable. Blister dressings should also be packed just in case.
7. Put on a successful outfit.
After you've taken care of your feet, the key to comfort on your hike is to dress appropriately. Avoid anything made of cotton because it absorbs moisture and retains it, leaving you feeling clammy and causing chafing. Instead, use synthetics. Wear layers that you can add or remove as needed to easily adjust for your temperature and the weather. Finally, bring an extra warm layer above and beyond what you think you'll need, preferably something that will also block wind.
8. Keep it simple.
Okay, now that I've told you to pack everything, I'll tell you to keep your pack light. This entails selecting the lightest of each item. For example, instead of the No Ad 16-ounce tube you found on sale, opt for a travel size tube of sunscreen.
9. Take your time.
When you first get on the trail, you may feel like a hero charging ahead. If you don't pace yourself, you'll be a zero by the end of the day. Instead, choose a pace that you can keep up all day. It may feel awkward at first, but after a few miles, especially if you're going uphill, you'll be glad you saved your energy.
10. Leave no trace
The beautiful trails we enjoy will only remain so if we take care of them. Take the time to read and follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles. It is the responsibility of every outdoor enthusiast to protect our natural spaces.
I hope that by following these guidelines, you will be able to go hiking this season. Where are you going? Leave a comment with your thoughts; I'd love to hear them!