Have you been searching for a weekend getaway? Or, have you been desiring to immerse yourself more in the beauty of Mother Nature? If you answered yes to both questions, hiking is the ultimate outdoor activity for you.
Even if you’ve never hiked before, there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy every bit of this experience. One thing I love about hiking is that it doesn’t need a ton of skill or pricey gear that will break your bank. Just devote a couple of hours, bring your full sense of adventure, and prepare adequately.
Speaking of preparation, there are two elements that matter the most. One, ensuring that you have all hiking essentials, and two, picking a skill-friendly hiking trail. We have addressed both of these issues in our post, so read on to learn more.
If it’s your first time planning a hiking trip, you might be wondering, “do I really have to buy hiking shoes?”
Yes, you do and here’s why.
Hiking footwear is designed to withstand the conditions you’ll encounter in the wild; from muddy pools to rocky surfaces and steep terrains.
These shoes are equipped with excellent traction so they can grip on all types of surfaces and prevent you from slipping. They also cushion your soles and keep your feet warm.
When hiking, the worst thing you can encounter is to get dehydrated, especially if you’re on foreign land and have no idea of whereto get clean water.
To avoid getting into such dangerous situations, carry enough water. Aim to take half a liter of water every hour. So if you estimate that your hike will take four hours, carry at least two liters of water.
The next thing you’ll want to think about is your source of nutrition. Look for calorie-dense foods that will revitalize your energy levels as you hike. Ensure you carry an extra serving of food just in case your hike takes longer than you’d planned.
When it comes to hiking clothes, look for items that can be layered. This way, it will be incredibly easy to get rid of or add clothing depending on temperature changes.
While you may have planned your hiking trip to the last detail, things can still go wrong. For this reason, you should prepare in advance and carry safety equipment. These include:
The second part of your preparation entails finding a suitable hiking trail. There are a few tips you should keep in mind.
You need to be completely candid with yourself. Choose a hiking trail that you’re confident you can manage. If you have any health conditions (like joint problems, allergies, or asthma), consult your doctor first.
Another factor to consider when picking a hiking trail is distance.
If you’re a veteran hiker, you can probably cover 2 to3 miles in an hour. But if you’re just getting started, aim to hike just 1 to 2miles per hour to avoid overexertion.
Also referred to as grade, this term describes the extent of elevation that you’ll gain within a given distance.
A trail that goes up a distance of 1,000 feet within a5-mile coverage won’t be as steep as one that ascends 2,000 feet within just 2miles. For beginners, look for hiking trails with a mild grade. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can challenge yourself by choosing a steeper trail.
Hiking is one of those outdoor activities that offers heaps of fun. But to get the most from this adventure, prepare adequately.
Pack all hiking essentials, including proper footwear, outfits that can be layered, food, water, and safety gear. Similarly, choose your hiking trail wisely; it should be one that suits your fitness level.
