A common and popular hobby for Liberty University students, since we do live in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains, is hiking. There are several magnificent places to hike and explore nature. From our experience there are some critical life lessons to be taken from hiking.

1. Don’t overly rely on intuition

It goes without saying that we have to use common sense when navigating different hiking trails. But of course sometimes we might be tempted to depend too heavily on our intuitions. We were hiking on one of the parallel trails near the SnowFlex and did not take a map with us. Even though we did see signs along the way that were somewhat helpful, we eventually got lost because we had no map to guide us and relied too much on intuitions on how to navigate the trails. Take the first chance you see to return to starting point.

2. Getting lost happens more often than you think.

Do not panic! But if it is dark, then panic!!! I am notorious for misdirection and we have more than once, twice, thrice (you get the picture) ended up nowhere near where we began or intended to end. Wandering and getting lost can be fun and you stumble upon new discoveries and paths. However, when two people are lost, then the ensuing “intense discussion” breaks out and it is neither correct nor productive.

3. Bring more food and water than you think.

Healthy snacks to keep your energy up for the mountainous climb around the bend and even for the “easy” way back. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Fainting is not allowed during hiking because your friends don’t want to carry you back. This is especially true when you are hiking during the summer or late in the spring when humidity is at a peak.

4. Maps are Essential

Research the location of your hiking beforehand. Spontaneity is wonderful, but caution keeps one alive. Don’t go all Bear Grylls! The chosen hiking locale might have frequent rock slides, mud slides, river rising or aggressive deer (ya never know!). Print out maps if there will be none provided. Basically, the Boy Scout motto: be prepared. Luckily, modern technology has saved our butts on several occasions.

5. Animals

Yes, the cute chipmunk crossing your path and the butterfly resting on a flower are fine to behold. But the rustling in the bush of a much larger sounding animal is not pleasant. Especially when your hiking partner say something about bears or scares you with bear growling noises on their phone (happened IRL). The human mind seems to jump to the worst possible scenario even when you logically know you are not in an area with dangerous creatures.

Besides these issues, hiking is a thoroughly enjoyable activity and everyone should try it at least once, because being a student with the great advantage and opportunity to hike our gorgeous VA should not be missed out on. Moreover, hiking is a great way to cultivate friendships as part of one’s college experience.