Man has been walking about since ancient times but it was usually their only means of transportation. It’s only in recent times that it has become a sport or a means just to get away and enjoy nature.
For some hiking in a wooded area or a canyon or just around a serene lake can be a way to forget your troubles or resolve some problem that’s been bugging you. It has a way of calming and relieving stress like no other. It lets you observe your surroundings both in the botanical and the animal realms. It’s also great exercise.
Let’s prepare your first experience on how to hike for beginners.
Things to consider before you hike
For your first excursion, search for small easy hikes in your area. You can usually find a listing on Google for “day hikes near me”. Then head out and go there. Not so fast! You want to be prepared for what you will find when you get there.
What is your purpose? Do you intend to take photos of natural landscapes? Are you just exploring to see if you like it? Or maybe you are looking for a way to spend an afternoon or a weekend by yourself.
What to Bring along
- Clothing: Be mindful of the terrain and the weather. Scratchy underbrush on your legs will not be a great first experience if you chose shorts for your outfit. Wear something comfortable that will protect your legs and feet. In most of your first hikes boots are not required but later when you venture into rugged areas you won’t want to be without them.
- Snacks: If you want to snack on the trail, bring foods that will provide energy. Many hikers take along a bag of trail mix which you can either find at your local grocer or you can build your own consisting of nuts, chocolate, and raisins or whatever you want to munch on. Avoid foods that contain meat; bears can smell meat a long way away.
- Water: Avoid dehydrating drinks like alcohol and beer. Water is what you want in your system.
- First aid just in case: Bring along a basic first aid kit. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate; a few band aids, some antibiotic cream, and moleskin for any blisters that might develop.
- Bring extra batteries: If your are bringing your camera be sure to bring along extra fully charged batteries. It just wouldn’t do to run out of juice at the most inconvenient time.
- Bring your Phone: It is just possible that it won’t work out there but it is also possible that it will. Bring some sort of signaling device like a mirror or shiny metal in the event you lose your way.
Have a plan
Map out the area you will be visiting. Topographical maps can be found online through the USGS and for the most part are free. Doing this will help you get familiar with the area beforehand.
Let someone know
One of the most important things you need to do is to let a trusted friend or relative know where you are going and what time you expect to be back. You should also have your mobile phone with your friend’s number so you can let them know if your plans get changed somehow.
Enjoy the venture
For some this will become a way of life. For others it will be an occasional get away. It should be an enjoyable experience whichever way you decide. For me there is nothing as relaxing and satisfying as a trip into the wild away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I go as often as I can because I enjoy being out communing with nature. You just might enjoy it too.
Let me know how you make out in the comments down below.