Beginners guide to Hiking

It is the perfect weekend or even day time activity to get away from the hustle and stresses of modern life. It's a great way for friends and families to participate in an activity together with multiple health benefits including heart, respiratory health, building lean muscle and improving one's sense of balance.

One of the things that a lot of hikers admit to after years on the trails is that they were never really ready during their first hike. When first beginning a new hobby or activity, it is important to be prepared and have all essentials needed for an enjoyable experience! Hiking is more strenous and physically demanding then simply walking around a park.  Additionally depending on terrain and environment your chosen attire will need key attributes. While hiking is one of those outdoor activities that does not require an exquisite set of skills, save for good balance, endurance, and gait, it still remains that there are pointers that can make your hiking experience be it for the first time or not a lot more enjoyable.

Hiking Tips And Skills 

Chosen location -  you do have to know where you are going, and how to navigate the trail or route you've chosen. Researching trails and areas before heading out it always encouraged. If you are hiking trails at a state park, they will have maps of the area. Make sure to have one of these available. When hiking areas without trails, any form of gps is a good idea and always carry a map. I would advise when exploring new areas to travel with  someone that has experience and knowledge of the area. You should build your hiking skills, with manageable treks that you are familiar with at first. Guides can help you tackle harder and less hospitable trails. When you are confident in your skill, you can then try moving on to the harder trails.

Weather and Conditions- Checking the weather for the day of your trip is important, but equally if not more important is how the weather has been the prior week. A lot of trails will be near creeks, rivers, and other bodies of water that could be flooded if its been rainy the past week. Rain can also result in extra muddy and slippery paths that may pose dangerous conditions. 

Wind will also pose various dangers especially when venturing through forests. Fallen trees and limbs can be fatal. 

First aid- Basic first aid skills are a necessity when venturing away from civilization. Nobody plans on getting hurt or injured, but it happens. When you're miles away from the nearest road, vehicle, or first aid station a twisted ankle, broken bone, or large laceration can be extremely dangerous without the proper know how of treatment. 

Hydration- One of the most important factors during any strenuos activity is to stay hydrated! Never forget to carry water!  Dehydration is extremely dangerous and can result in dizziness, soreness, headaches, confusion, heat exhaustion, and in extreme cases heat stroke or death.  

Gear

1. Clothing
Hikers have various gear depending on the condition of the trail, but as a rule you should wear light, weather resistant, rugged wear. It would be better if it drew away moisture from the skin. Cotton is a no no, especially in cold conditions, or even very hot ones. A hat would do well in extreme conditions as well both to keep away the sun and to protect the head during extreme cold. 

2. Hiking Shoes/Boots and Socks 

Having the correct socks and footwear is important, and will prevent blisters, hot spots, stress fractures, swelling and other foot issues. When choosing socks, combonation of wool and synthetic materials are advised over slow-drying cotton. The thickness and fit will also help prevent discomfort and issues. Any old sneakers are not advised as your footwear should be able to weather a good beating, the elements, and water. Also, hiking footwear should have aggressive treads patterns to make hiking on difficult surfaces a lot easier. Wet rocks, muddy trails, and dusty surfaces can be terrible for most hikers, especially the new ones. Comfort is key when choosing the proper shoe/boot. Going to a retail store, and trying on different footwear is recommended more then just buying on-line and hoping for a good fit.

3. Backpack or Daypack 

Aside from footwear a good backpack will definitely be helpful to carry essential gear and supplies. While in the Army we were issued camelbaks, which is a small backpacks that contains a water bladder inside. Personally I highly recomend  these.  They are fantastic for carrying plenty of water and staying hydrated. They have a hose that clips on the shoulder strap and acts as a straw. The only downside, the bladder must be dried out thoroughly after trips and cleaned every couple months. Another consideration with backpacks is they must be comfortable and not swing around while walking. I like to look at bags that atleast have an additional strap that goes around the mid section to help keep it in place.  Backpacks made of water resistant materials are nice too. Although a backpack cover, or a small trash bag can help with this. Like footwear comfort is one of the tops things to consider in choosing a good backpack. 

4. Weather Gear

Depending on the weather, you may need to take along extra gear. When it rains a nice light raincoat or poncho to keep the cold and rain away from your packs and your body will make your adventure much more enjoyable. Sunglasses are great for sunny hikes and will save your eyes from too much sun exposure. You may also want to consider sun block when going for hikes that will put you under the sun for extended periods. Those nice warm sunny days also means mosquitoes and ticks. Be sure to have a repellent with you. 

 5. Trekking pole

Trekking poles or a hiking stick is also recommended. They offer increased stability when manuevering tricky terrain, reduce force on your knees, and offer additional balance. Trekking poles come in 3 types: telescoping, collapsible, and fixed. For those new to hiking the collapsible and telescoping are great due to their adjustability for ones height. You want your elbows to be bent at a 90⁰ angle while holding the pole. 

Packing list

Below I will list the essentials, recommended gear and some nice to have items that will ensure you are fully prepared for your hiking adventure, and can experience the best nature has to offer.