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I’m just going to point this out first. There are a lot of people that have written about this topic. I still consider myself a beginner. Also what works for me, may not work for you. Take what resonates with you, and less the rest. I don’t even remember when and how I got interested in hiking, but I am so glad that I did. It is one of many things that has changed my life.
When I started to be interested in hiking, the first thing I did was find nearby trails that are paved. I am absolutely terrified of getting lost. I slowly ventured out to different trails thanks to AllTrails. Some people like the adventure of getting lost in the woods, but I am not that person.
Choosing the Right Trail
At first, it was kinda overwhelming because there are so many options, but don’t get overwhelmed. Start small and work your way up to the more challenging hikes. One thing that I love about AllTrails is that filters. You can changed based on activity, distance, and difficulty. There are plenty of places to find trails but this is the app that I use the most.
You can also find a lot of trails at local parks. In my area, most parks have the trails mapped out and signs to keep you on track. Another way to find trails is asking for recommendations. When I was new, I would ask people best places to walk or hike.
Check the Weather
After you know, where you are going to hike you’ll want to check the weather. I call myself a fair weather hiker because I like to hike in nice weather. I typically don’t go for a hike if it’s raining, snowing, or cold. Recently, I have stepped outside my comfort zone and hiked in December. During the hike, it did start snowing. It was nice to experience, but I don’t know if I will do consistently.
Tell Someone Your Plans
Telling someone where you’re going and roughly how long you’ll be gone. Even if you are traveling with a group, tell a friend or family member where you are going. I usually have my phone on me as well so I turn on my location.
I have also seen from other hikers to leave a note or itinerary in your car. One of the first signs of trouble is a car that has been left in a parking lot for too long. The first place a search team will look is in your car. It seems so obvious, but I have never thought about that before.
Wear The Right Clothes & Accessories
The thing that I like about hiking is I didn’t have to go buy new clothes or gear to get started. I started with a pair of tennis shoes. As I continued to hike, I purchased a hiking shoes and socks.
In terms of clothes, it’s best to avoid cotton. This material takes too long to dry and easily absorbs sweat. Instead look for quick-drying or moisture-wicking fabric for hikes. I personally love nike dri-fit for an option to wear during hikes. I am a huge sports fan so I’m usually wearing one of my baseball dri-fits.
Distance doesn’t matter to me because I will always have a backpack. That was probably the first thing I purchased when I started hiking. I din’t want to carry things – even a water bottle. My backpack has a water bladder & l absolutely love it. I also bring other things with me on a hike, so it’s nice to have everything in one spot. I also have a smaller bag that for shorter hikes and when I don’t bring a lot.
Stay Hydrated & Bring Snacks
When I started hiking, I was shocked on how thirsty and hungry I got. Since then, I keep granola bars in my hiking bag and grab other snacks like applesauce, trail mix, something sweet, etc. I also have snacks either in the passenger seat or center console for when I get back as well.
Hydration in general is important, but especially when out on the trails. For shorter hikes, I usually grab a water bottle. Longer hikes I fill up my water bladder. I saw this somewhere and it’s such a good piece of advice. Keep an insulated water bottled in the car for when you get back. When I’m doing a lot of hiking this summer, I will definately be keeping that in mind.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
I do a lot of solo hiking and camping. I love it because it’s a time for me to get grounded and back to myself. Sometimes I think other people are more worried about me than I am be out there. I am cautious and tay aware of my surroundings. I also have a few things for protection but I have never needed it or felt like I needed it.
Leave No Trace
Leave the trail just as you found it. Be considerate of others. Respect the wildlife. I have seen some people bring along bags to pick up trash. Follow what feels right to you.
Hiking Recap
I am BY NO MEANS an expert. I still consider myself a beginner hiker. Also not sure what I would need to do to feel like an intermediate to expert level hiker, but that’s a topic for another day. These are things I did (and do) when I’m starting to prepare for a hike or a camping/hiking trip. If there is just one piece of advise I would give people, it would be to just start. Don’t wait until you’re in “perfect shape” or have all the equipment you think you need. YOU DONT! Just get outside and explore.
