For nature lovers at heart, embarking on a new journey of exploring the great outdoors can be truly exhilarating! Hiking is a popular leisure activity to pursue and for the first time hikers out there, don’t let the thought of unfamiliar trails and bug bites dissuade you from hitting the trails. Here are some helpful tips to get you started on your expeditions.
1. Embarking on Your Hiking Journey: A Beginners Guide
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking a nature-filled hiking expedition, it’s time to start planning and equipping yourself for a successful journey. Here is a beginners guide to ensure you start your journey with a bang:
- Get kitted:Choosing the right clothing and equipment for your journey is essential. Whether its a day-trip or a longer journey, select your clothing carefully. Fabric that allows your skin to breathe, materials like cotton and wool are ideal for unpredictable weather. Footwear and waterproof wear are also important to consider, not to mention having plenty of snacks to keep you full of energy for those long walks.
- Plan your route: Before heading off, take some time to map out your journey – After all, a well-planned journey is far more successful than one that didn’t involve planning! Be sure to account for the environment you’ll be travelling in – brushing up on the topography of the area, as well as the fauna and flora that are present is a must – Knowing your surroundings can help make your journey much easier. Don’t forget to check the weather before you go as this could affect the type of clothing and equipment you’ll need. Finally, be sure to provide someone with the details of your route, just in case they need to check in.
- Pack Sparingly: Before you begin your hiking journey be sure to pack only what is essential – no extra items should be taken along. Consider what you need in order to enjoy your journey, then take half of that – packing lightly will mean much more enjoyable walk.
- Listen to your body:Everyone’s body is different and will cope differently as you hike. If you’re feeling tired, take a break – there’s no shame in resting along the way. Taking breaks to stretch, snack, recharge batteries is essential for a successful journey.
- Stay on top of your hygiene: Although it is easy to get complacent when you’re out trekking, nothing ruins a hiking journey more than bad hygiene. Keeping your body clean can help you to avoid any nasty infections – a biodegradable body wash or a cloth wash is a great way to do this.
By following these steps, your first hiking journey will be a breeze, and who knows, you might be planning your next excursion before you even step off the mountain trail the first time!
2. Essential Hiking Gear to Have Handy
Whether you’re beginner or a seasoned pro at hiking, there is certain gear that you’ll need to consider taking with you when embarking on a trail. Here is a list of the essential items to pack on your next hiking adventure:
- Hiking Boots: Hiking boots are must-have item. You know your own feet best so it’s best to invest in a pair of boots that are comfortable and fit your feet well. Make sure to pay close attention to the grip on the sole. The grip is essential for rocky and uneven terrain.
- Backpack: A good backpack should include an adjustable hip belt. This will help distribute the weight of the items more evenly which will be really helpful especially during long hikes. Backpacks come in a variety of shapes and sizes so it’s important to pick one that’s suitable for your next outdoor adventure.
- First Aid Kit: Having on hand an emergency first aid kit is essential. Dressings, scissors and emergency numbers are just some of the items that should be included. Gather the appropriate items and ensure that they are within a reachable distance if needed.
- Weather Protection: It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the worst weather conditions. A windbreaker jacket, a knitted-hat and an extra pair of gloves are all great additions to have in your bag.
- Compass & Map: These are necessary items to bring if you are heading out for a longer, more advanced hike. No phone signal or GPS once you’re off the beaten path, so make sure you bring an old-fashioned paper map with you.
- Food and water: Keeping your energy up during a hike is essential for stamina and safety. Make sure to pack some food items that are nutritious and relatively lightweight. Water is also very important for hydration so make sure to bring enough for your regular intake as well as in case of emergency.
At the end of the day, your back will thank you for packing the right amount of items and not overburdening it. Make sure to pick the items you truly need and will be the most useful while hiking.
It goes without saying that the natural beauty you’ll encounter will make for a magical and memorable experience, but you must be well prepared to make this happen. Hence, all the above items are essential for the thoughtful hiker to consider bringing along on their journey.
3. Trail Etiquette: Must-Know Rules for Every Hiker
- Stay on the Trail: Respect the environment and your fellow hikers by staying on the well-defined trail. Straying off the path can cause damage to the surrounding areas and create difficulty for other hikers. If you must temporarily leave the trail, be sure to respect and avoid sensitive terrain.
- Be Considerate of Wildlife: It’s natural to be curious about the wildlife you encounter on the trail, but remember that they are in their natural home. Give wild animals a wide berth and keep your distance. Rushing or startling them not only disrupts their habitat but may put you in danger.
- Control Your Pets: If you’re hiking with your pet, you should keep them on a leash at all times. Not only will this help you stay in control of your pet, but it’s also a courtesy for other hikers. Keep an eye on their behavior and avoid having them jump on or harass other hikers.
- Stay aware: Even experienced hikers should stay aware of their surroundings instead of focusing on their device. Pay attention to the route you take, watch for danger, and keep an eye out for anything that could be a problem.
- Pack it Out: Leave no trace– not even the slightest. Make sure you pick up any trash you had and bring it back home. Not only will this help keep the environment clean, but it will also keep the area safe for other hikers.
- Leave What You Find: Resist the urge to take home souvenirs from nature, as it can disrupt the natural balance. When you come across any plants, animals, rocks, or other treasures, leave them untouched for others to enjoy.
- Tread Lightly: Since the landscape can be fragile, use caution when you walk. Because of this, it’s important to exercise courtesy when you’re out on the trails. Be sure to stay on the marked paths and watch your step when going through muddy or rocky areas.
Getting out of the city and into the wild is an incredible way to relax and soak up nature. But, just as with any activity, it’s important to know what you’re doing and to practice common courtesy when you’re on the trails. This includes respecting other hikers, the environment, and avoiding certain behaviors that can cause damage. To ensure everyone has a great hike, here are a few must-know trail etiquette rules for every hiker to follow:
4. Tips to Make Your First Hike a Success
- Research Your Trail: It’s important to do a bit of preparation for your hike. Research the trail ahead of time by looking up reviews and maps. Note the length of the trail, the difficulty of the terrain, and the estimated time it should take you. This will give you a good sense of what you’re signing up for and allow you to plan your hike accordingly.
- Wear the Right Gear: When hiking, it’s important to dress for the elements so that you have the right base layer and outerwear. For beginner hikes, it’s best to bring clothing that you can layer if necessary, and be sure to wear durable, comfortable shoes. Additionally, bring a small backpack with snacks and other essentials.
- Take Breaks When Necessary: When on a beginner trail, it’s important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Whenever you need to catch your breath or take a few minutes to appreciate your surroundings, don’t be afraid to take a pause. It’s also a good idea to take a few moments to fuel up with a snack or a drink of water if necessary.
- Set Reasonable Expectations: Chances are, you won’t be speed walking your first hike! Making your way slowly along the trail is a perfectly reasonable attitude, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself and set reasonable expectations. Enjoy the time outdoors and take in the beauty of nature.
- Bring a Map or GPS: It’s always a good idea to bring a GPS, map, or some other form of navigation device with you. Along with researching the trail beforehand, having a navigation tool with you in case you get lost can ensure that you have a safe and successful hike.
- Bring a Friend: Last but not least, it’s always a good idea to go on a hike with another person. Hiking with a buddy provides increased safety and often allows for more enjoyable conversation along the way. You can even find a hiking group near you, if you’re looking for a more social outdoor experience.
Following these tips will help make your first hike a successful experience. Taking the time to plan ahead and prepare accordingly will ensure that you’re well-equipped and empowered to tackle the trail.
An enthusiastic hike is all about enjoying the outdoors and discovering the beauty of nature. You can take on the challenge of starting an exciting adventure with the confidence that your newfound hiking tips will help you stay safe. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and savor the moment! Have fun, explore and get ready to experience nature in a brand new way.
