Hiking is one of the most entertaining, inexpensive, and worth-while summer activities out there. There are endless trails to explore, and all hikes can be adjusted to the preferred intensity of the individual.
I'm more a casual hiker who enjoys getting outside for the day. My kind of hikes are just easy ways to have a great Saturday with my family, but all of these tips apply to adventurous rookies, no matter what level they're aiming rise to. Get out your trail mix, slather on some sunscreen, and take these five essential hiking tips to heart.
1. Don't bite off more than you can chew
This is the most important thing for a hiker to remember. You know you wouldn't decide one morning to go hike Everest that afternoon, so don't choose the most difficult trail for your first outing. More intense hikes are nice goals to work up to, but be honest with yourself. Whether a trail looks more strenuous than you'd like it to be or if a hill looks like a disaster waiting to happen, don't risk it. While hiking should be a lively and daring activity, don't take any obviously unnecessary risks.Take large inclines slowly, and never leave anyone behind. No matter the trail, I can promise that the going back down is much easier without a broken leg.
2. Dress comfortably
Wear comfortable shoes. If it's hot out, you'll probably want a hat. If it's even a possibility than your socks will slip down into your shoes or your jacket will irritate your skin, change whatever is in question before you leave your house. Having an itchy tag poke you in the neck for hours or shoes that keep sliding off will distract you from enjoying your hike and can be enough to ruin an otherwise perfectly sunny day.
3. Do your research
Before you just go out into the woods with nothing but high hopes and over-ambitious friends, make sure you know your stuff. You don't have to be MacGyver or Survivorman, but make sure you know the basics of your trail: what time it closes, how long your plotted path will take and the expected weather. If it's a public trail, chances are it's free, but if it's a private or national trail, don't show up without your admission ready.
4. Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks
It's definitely possible to underestimate how long you'll be out hiking, so make sure you always have water no matter how long you're planning on being out. It's recommended to take periodic sips throughout the day rather than chugging half of your water bottle when you start to feel exhausted. Whether or not to bring a snack is based on many specific factors, such as the needs of the individual, how long you'll be out, and when you last ate. You can judge how many, if any, refreshments you'll need for yourself, but don't forget to consider how long the drive there and back will be and how close the trails are to the nearest restaurant. Wise words of wisdom: When hiking with children, snacks are, more often than not, a must.
5. Bring your friends
Be really careful and overly prepared if you ever decide to go hiking alone. I'd advise against it, especially if it's your first time out or if it's an unknown trail. My recommendation is to take one hiking buddy with you the first few times until you really know your way around. Even when you're pretty comfortable with certain trails, it's always a good idea to take a friend. Plus, it's generally more fun with friends, and it's a great way to get to know someone.
If you're a beginning hiker, and you keep these tips in mind, your first expedition will be unforgettable. If you're looking for a fun, free, and simple way to get the most out of a weekend, consider hiking. If you enjoy it, it never gets old. Every hike is unique and the scenery is ever-changing and just as breathtaking as the first time you see it. If you don't enjoy it, at least you tried something new this summer and can pass on your own words of wisdom from the experience to others looking to have an adventure of their own. Be safe and have fun!
