Like any sport, hiking can be intimidating for first-timers. While the premise is pretty simple – go up a trail and come back again – the actual execution can range from mildly difficult to downright dangerous. If you want to start hiking seriously, these tips can help you get started.
Hike With a Friend or Group
One of the most dangerous things about hiking is, if you do it alone, you could risk getting lost or injured and having no way to contact someone for help. While hiking solo can absolutely be an enjoyable and safe experience, when you’re first getting started it’s a good idea to find someone to hike with you. Not only is it safer, but you’ll feel more motivated to finish the trail. If there are outdoor groups near you, that’s a great way to get some guidance and learn more every time you hike. Groups are especially great for through-hiking, when setting up a tent and being able to light a fire are crucial skills that you may not have just yet.
Gear Up
It’s easy to get excited when you first start a new hobby. You might be tempted to the nearest REI or sporting goods store and load up on gadgets that promise to help you filter water or sleep like a king on the hard, cold ground. But it’s better to get the basic necessities out of the way first and then add gadgets as you learn more about what you need.
Your list should include items like a backpack, hiking boots and socks, first aid, sun protection, food, water, a headlamp, and things to help you light a fire and construct a shelter. Extra clothing may be necessary based on how long your hike will be like women’s performance jackets and layers to keep out rain or cold. This list will already be expensive and time-consuming enough without adding on unnecessary do-dads, so focus on the basics first.
Choose Your Route
Next, you’ll want to think about where you’ll be hiking. If you have trails local to you, that’s a great place to start, but you’ll want to make sure they’re the right difficulty level for you first. Trail guides and websites will help you find out that information, along with things like elevation and weather conditions.
If your trail is a higher difficulty than you’re accustomed to, it might be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the map so you know what to expect. Your fitness level will help you determine what kind of trail you want, as well. A lengthy trail with lots of elevation and some necessary climbing will require a higher fitness level, while a more level trail can be done by any fitness level, provided you have the time.
Consider Your Safety
It’s easy to underestimate a trail and think that you’re not going to run into any kind of danger or trouble along the way. But anything can happen once you’re out in nature. Twisting an ankle or getting lost can happen to anyone, and if you haven’t prepared properly in advance, the smallest incident can quickly become an emergency. Bring along a first aid kid whenever you hike and be prepared to use it. Make sure someone knows your itinerary, and consider bringing along a GPS tracker so they can track your location if necessary.
Leave No Trace and Learn Train Etiquette
With how many people love hiking and hitting the trails year-round, it’s a wonder how clean and safe the trails continue to be. This is because hikers generally follow a code of conduct that ensures that the hikers coming after you will find the trail the way you did. Don’t leave any food or trash behind you when you leave camp, and cause as little damage to the surrounding area as possible. Remember to give uphill hikers and horses the right of way, and watch out for mountain bikers. By following some simple rules, hiking can remain a pleasant hobby for everyone who wants to participate.
