If you ever want to go on an adventure, start with a hike in the woods. It could be a three-mile hike, or a 30-mile hike, just go! You will be a little sore after, and smell disgusting, but you can't deny how great it feels to get out there and explore. After going on my first hike over the weekend, I learned a few things that will be helpful the next time anyone goes on their next hiking adventure.
Don’t: Forget to Look at a Map and Trail Markers
One of the best parts of a hike is seeing how far you’ve come, and how much left you have to go. Every time you see a map, get excited about your progress! You could be doing almost anything else right now, but you chose to get outside and explore. Take a picture with every mile marker you see just for fun!
Do: Take a Friend
When all you have to do is look at nature, and walk around, you want to go with someone who doesn’t get on your nerves easily. When planning your hike, your hiking buddy must be chosen carefully. Don’t go with someone whose voice makes you cringe, or who you can’t randomly burst into song with. Go with someone who will dance and laugh their way through the woods with you. *These qualifications can also be used when hypothetically choosing who you would want to be on a stranded island with.*
Don’t: Overpack
You may think you need three water bottles, a sweatshirt, chapstick, another pair of socks, two bottles of Gatorade, a lot of snacks, and extra bug spray/sunscreen, but you really don’t. While going on my first hike, I made the mistake of bringing everything I just mentioned, plus more because I always always always overpack. I guess I just like to be prepared, but who doesn’t? Really think about the length of your hike, and if you want to lug around all the stuff you don't actually need before you set off on your adventure.
Do: Appreciate Mother Nature
The only time it’s acceptable to use your phone on a hike is when you take pictures. Or, go old-fashioned and bring an actual camera (yes, people still use those) with you! You decided to go on a hike for a reason, so appreciate the nature you’re surrounded by. Taking a break from technology may be difficult, but it's worth it in the end.
Don’t: Kill Any Bugs or Spiders
I admit it. I'm a bug and spider murderer...when I find them in my house. I can’t stand the thought of one of those suckers crawling in my bed, shower, or my closet. They live outdoors, and should stay there. On the other hand, when I’m outside I let them be. I was overly cautious of any bug or spider on my hike. I nearly missed stepping on four daddy long legs, a snake, and a baby toad, but swerved at the last second. If I happened to step on any bugs or spiders while hiking, I can assure you it was a complete accident, and so should you.
Do: Reward Yourself After... You've Earned It!
After hiking 23,000 steps and burning around 700 calories, it was time for a reward. You will be sunburned, eaten alive by mosquitoes, and exhausted. At the end of the hike, all you'll want is a gigantic scoop of ice cream in a waffle cone, and that’s just what we got. Who cares about calories at this point, am I right? If you’ve gone on a hike, you go and get yourself a burger, pizza, cheese fries, you name it! Eat like you’ve never eaten before and enjoy every moment of it.
Even though I'm one of the least outdoorsy people I know, I had the best time hiking. It was a great way to start the day, and gave me a sense of accomplishment once I was finished. Hiking IS one of the best activities to do when you're in need of an adventure, so get out there!
