Are you new to hiking and need help figuring out where to start?
Hiking is one of the most beautiful ways to spend time outside. You can get away from the crowd and disengage from electronics. However, hiking might be scary for novices.
There are several components to consider: purchasing the proper equipment, selecting a path, finding hiking companions, animals, and trail safety.
That's why we've put up this detailed hiking guide for hiking beginners. We'll show you how to identify and train for hikes, what to bring and wear, and how to protect yourself and the environment while hiking.
You'll be able to tackle any path and enjoy the outdoors by the end of this guide. And you'll fall in love with hiking as much as we have!
Types of hikes
Day hiking - When most people mention hiking, they mean day hiking. A day trek is completed in a single day. This might vary from a short 1-mile trail to a 12-hour expedition.
Backpacking (also known as trekking) is a multi-day adventure. Trips require bringing your stuff to spend the night in nature, including a tent! Backpacking experiences may last as little as one night or as long as many months!
Thru-hiking is a style of backpacking in which the journey begins and concludes at separate places. These treks are often lengthier, such as the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail.
Training before your hike
To prepare for hikes, you may practice many physical exercises at home or the gym.
Running or walking. Cardio is one of the most effective strategies to increase your trail endurance. To prepare for your trek, gradually increase your walking or jogging distance. Make sure to include elevation gain in your workout. Find a hilly area or up your treadmill grade. No amount of practice on a level sidewalk can prepare you for trekking in the mountains or on undulating hills.
Strengthening exercises. When preparing for a trip, many novice hikers make the mistake of concentrating only on cardio. Strengthening your core and lower body allows you to climb hills and carry a large backpack. However, you do not need a gym to strength train. There are several bodyweight cores and complete body routines available online!
Yoga and stretching are both beneficial. When it comes to muscle recovery, flexibility is crucial. Stretching should be included in your cardio and strength exercises to aid recovery. Yoga at least once a week helps you improve your flexibility.
Shorter hikes. Shorter or easier paths are the best method to prepare for a demanding walk. Prepare for your challenging target trek by gradually increasing the distance and height of your hikes.
Tips for finding your hiking trail
Before deciding on a trek, consider the season. Is the park open all year? Is the region prone to snow or flooding? Before hiking, ensure your path is open and in excellent shape.
Before you go, check the weather. Beginner treks are most enjoyable in bright, warm weather. Avoid trekking in the rain, snow, or severe winds.
Make sure you have enough time to do the trek. You don't want to hurry through your hike. Pace yourself and take breaks along the route. Avoid making plans or making promises just after your trek.
Research any trail permits or logistics. Check whether the path you want to climb has prior permission needs or challenging logistics. The best place to learn about hiking logistics is on the park website, where you'll trek.
Learn about navigating and parking. Check to see where the path begins and how you'll get there. Some trailheads need the use of an all-wheel drive vehicle or a trek! Check out the trailhead parking reviews on the park's website. Because popular trailheads have limited parking, starting your hike early in the morning is usually advisable!
Hiking essentials
As a beginner, ensure you have these essentials to enjoy your trail. These essentials are the safety equipment that every hiker should have with them. You should have these few vital things in your bag in an emergency. You can shop for most of them from Arc'teryx.
Navigation. We suggest downloading a personalized, offline Google Map for beginners. Also, take a picture of the trail map with your phone and bring a simple compass.
Headlamp. Every hiker should carry a headlamp with fresh batteries while trekking after dark.
Protection against the sun. This may be done in various ways, but as a novice, carry a sun hat and sunscreen.
Basic First Aid. A compact 1-2 person off-the-shelf first aid pack is all you need for short trips. Before you start the trail, take inventory and refill your kit.
Knife. A little pocket knife should be carried in case of emergencies. It's also a good idea to include a small roll of duct tape in your bag in case you need to repair your backpack or gear.
Fire. Fire-starting equipment is also recommended if you need to spend the night in the woods. In your bag, have windproof matches.
Shelter. Hikers may get stranded on the path overnight, which is very rare. Carry a lightweight emergency bivvy in case you need to sleep outside. A bivvy is a small sleeping bag/shelter.
Extra food. Take more than one granola bar with you in your backpack. Pack enough food to keep you satiated on the path, plus a little extra in case you get trapped overnight.
Water in excess. Always carry more water than you think you need. Pack 0.5L (16.9 oz) of water for every hour of trekking. If you're hiking on a particularly challenging or hot path, pack twice as much water as usual. Invest in a hydration reservoir for longer hikes. This allows you to carry more water while carrying less weight.
Additional clothing. The weather may be fickle. You never know when it may rain or get chilly. Ensure you have the right gear and heavy warm clothes.
A strong hiking backpack. You'll need a method to transport your hiking essentials. You may use any old backpack as a start (but avoid drawstring backpacks). Adjust the backpack to fit properly and equally distribute the weight.
Embarking on a hiking journey is a captivating experience that will open your eyes to the wonders of nature. Thanks to our comprehensive guide, you're now armed with all the information and essential tips needed to make your hike stress-free and enjoyable. So, grab your gear and get ready for an exploration like no other! From picking out the right equipment to ensuring your safety, keep our recommendations in mind to make the most of your adventure. Bask in the beauty of nature, be mindful of every step, and take a break to appreciate the surroundings. With knowledge comes confidence, so let's begin this exciting journey together. Happy trails!
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