Hiking is a rewarding way to experience the great outdoors, offering both mental and physical benefits. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or just enjoy the natural beauty around you, hiking provides an excellent way to reconnect with nature. For those new to the activity, this guide will help you get started with tips on planning your hike, essential gear, safety considerations, and trail etiquette. Plus, we’ve partnered with Athletic Brewing, a company that supports trail-based non-profits and the preservation of outdoor spaces, to bring you this comprehensive guide.
Types of Hiking: What’s Right for You?
Before heading out, it’s important to know the different types of hiking to help you decide which style suits your goals and fitness level:
- Day Hiking: The most common type, perfect for beginners. These hikes can typically be completed within a single day and range in difficulty from easy walks to more strenuous trails.
- Backpacking: Involves carrying everything you need for an extended wilderness adventure. These hikes span multiple days and require more specialized gear.
- Fastpacking: Similar to backpacking but faster, often involving jogging or running with lightweight gear.
- Thru-hiking: A challenging form of backpacking that involves completing long-distance trails over weeks or months, like the Pacific Crest Trail.
For beginners, day hiking is the best starting point. These shorter trips allow you to gain experience and build confidence in the outdoors without overwhelming yourself.
Planning Your Hike: Where to Start?
When you’re ready to hit the trail, the first step is to choose a trail. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Use Trail-Finding Apps: Apps and websites can help you locate nearby hikes and provide essential details like trail length, difficulty, and elevation gain. Many apps also include user reviews and photos, making it easier to choose the right trail.
- Check for Permits: Some trails, particularly in national parks, require special permits. Make sure to research if permits are necessary before your hike to avoid being turned away.
- Start with Short, Easy Trails: As a beginner, choose shorter, well-marked trails with manageable elevation gains. This helps you build stamina and comfort in nature.
Before you go, check trail conditions and the weather forecast. Inclement weather or snow-covered trails may make for a less enjoyable or even dangerous experience, especially for beginners. Always know what you’re getting into, so you can be prepared.
What to Bring: The 10 Essentials
One of the most important aspects of hiking is being prepared. Here’s a list of essential items to bring on your hike:
- Navigation Tools: Map, compass, and/or GPS device to help you stay on track.
- Extra Clothing: Always bring extra layers in case of changing weather, such as a rain jacket or warm gear.
- Food & Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need. Stay hydrated and nourished, especially on longer hikes.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Headlamp: In case you’re out longer than expected, plus extra batteries.
- First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies for injuries or emergencies.
- Knife or Multi-tool: Useful for a variety of situations.
- Fire Starter: Matches or a lighter to help you build a fire in an emergency.
- Shelter: A lightweight emergency bivvy or space blanket in case you need to spend the night unexpectedly.
Investing in a comfortable, supportive backpack is also essential, especially for longer hikes. Choose one that fits well and can carry your gear efficiently.
What to Wear: Dressing for Success
Clothing is another key factor in ensuring a comfortable and safe hike. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and can lead to chafing or hypothermia. Instead, opt for moisture-wicking materials like polyester, wool, or nylon. Layering is important to adapt to changing temperatures. Here’s what to wear based on conditions:
- Warm Weather: Light, breathable layers that wick moisture away from your skin.
- Cold Weather: Insulating layers and weatherproof outerwear to protect you from wind and rain.
- Rainy or Snowy Conditions: Waterproof gear, including jackets, pants, and sturdy boots, will help keep you dry.
Safety Tips and Overcoming Fears
As a beginner, it’s natural to have concerns about safety or getting lost. However, hiking can be safe as long as you take proper precautions:
- Know Your Limits: Start with manageable trails and gradually increase their difficulty as you gain experience and strength.
- Tell Someone Your Plans: Always inform a friend or family member about your hiking plans, including your route and expected return time.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Avoid wandering off-trail to minimize the risk of getting lost.
- Stay Calm: If you feel overwhelmed or unsafe, turn around. It’s better to end a hike early than push beyond your limits.
By knowing your fitness level and choosing a trail that matches it, you can ensure that your hike is both enjoyable and safe. If possible, hike with a friend or join a group to enhance safety and provide company along the way.
Trail Etiquette: Leave No Trace
Hiking isn’t just about enjoying nature; it’s also about preserving it for future generations. The Leave No Trace (LNT) principles are a set of guidelines that promote responsible outdoor behavior:
- Pack it in, pack it out: Take all trash with you, including food scraps.
- Stay on the trail: Stick to designated paths to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.
- Respect Wildlife: Never approach or feed wild animals.
- Keep it Quiet: Keep noise to a minimum so others can enjoy the peace of nature.
Being considerate of other hikers and the environment ensures that everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly.
Get Involved: Give Back to the Trails
Once you’ve caught the hiking bug, consider giving back to the trails you love. Many organizations, such as the American Hiking Society, offer opportunities for trail maintenance, advocacy, and education. You can also get involved in fundraising initiatives, like Athletic Brewing’s Two for the Trails program, which supports non-profits working to improve trail access and sustainability.
Final Thoughts
Hiking is an accessible and rewarding way to connect with nature, improve your fitness, and relieve stress. With the right preparation, gear, and mindset, you’ll soon be exploring new trails and building your outdoor experience. Happy hiking!