Hiking tips for beginners: What you need to know before hitting the trail
Hiking and backpacking offer the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, having a set of basic tips and tricks can greatly enhance your hiking and backpacking adventures. Here, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide, offering tips on gear selection, navigation, safety precautions, and more to ensure a successful and enjoyable adventure on the trail.
Plan and Prepare
Planning and preparation are an essential part of any hike.
Research and choose a suitable trail based on your skill level and the timeframe you have to hike.
Check the weather and plan accordingly. Even if there is no inclement weather in the forecast, nature can be very unpredictable so it is always a good idea to carry quality rain gear and an extra layer, and a headlamp just in case.
Always tell someone about your hiking plans. This should include what trail/route you plan to hike, and your estimated return time. This ensures that if you get lost, hurt, or have any unforeseen emergencies on the trail, this person will be able to notify the proper authorities and send help to your location.
Make sure you pack plenty of water and food for your hike. This will vary depending on the length and difficulty of the trail, but a good rule of thumb is to carry 0.5-1 liter of water per hour, and 200-300 calories per hour in snacks. If you are hiking in an area with reliable water sources, you can also carry a water purification device such as a Steripen, Sawyer filter, or other water filtration system to safely refill your bottles on the trail.
Gear Selection
Selecting proper gear for your hike can make a big difference in the comfort and quality of your experience.
Invest in a comfortable and durable backpack that fits your body well. This is incredibly important especially when you are on a multi-day trip where you will need to carry extra weight. The best way to do this is to go to your local outdoor retailer and have one of their experts fit you with the right pack for your adventure.
Choose appropriate footwear for your hike. Comfort is one of the most important factors when choosing a hiking boot/shoe. Many hikers prefer a durable, lightweight trail running shoe over the more bulky boot options, but the most important thing here is that it fits your feet well. Make sure to break in your shoes before going out on any major hikes, wear them on some smaller adventures or simply around your house to ensure that you won't get blisters when you're out on bigger adventures.
Trekking poles are another helpful piece of gear to take on the trail. Trekking poles provide stability, reduce joint impact, and improve your balance and stability, making them invaluable tools for hikers, particularly on challenging terrain or when carrying a heavy backpack.
Pack lightweight and moisture-wicking clothing layers for temperature regulation. Synthetic and wool clothing is best. Cotton may be comfortable, but it takes a long time to dry and will not continue to insulate well when it gets wet.
When preparing for an overnight trip, opt for a reliable and lightweight tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. There are a lot of good options out there so it can be hard to choose but as with the pack, going to your local gear shop where you can try out different sleep systems is often the best way to get started.
Navigation
Familiarize yourself with the trail map and route before setting out. Even if you are relying on your phone for navigation, be sure to learn basic navigation skills and carry a hard copy map and compass as a backup.
Use a GPS device, or mapping app such as Gaia GPS, or AllTrails to track your progress and stay on course. These apps allow you to download your route map before you hit the trail which is especially helpful for areas where cell service may not be available.
Mark important landmarks and intersections along the trail.
Pay attention to trail markers, signs, and natural features for guidance. It is also a good idea to periodically check your map to make sure you know where you are at any given time.
Safety Precautions
Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and know how to use it. Taking a basic Wilderness First Aid class is an easy way to increase your confidence and give you the necessary skills to handle emergency situations on the trail.
Always carry sufficient water and stay hydrated throughout your hike. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can pose significant risks while hiking. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and learn to recognize early signs of overheating. Bringing electrolyte packs to add to your water is another great tool to mitigate dehydration.
Be mindful of wildlife encounters and respect their habitats. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance. You are a guest in their habitat, so be respectful and do your best not to disturb them. When traveling in bear country, be sure to follow all local regulations around food storage, and carry bear spray.
Watch your step! Pay attention to where you put your feet, and be extra mindful on challenging terrain. Your body is your biggest asset. Rolling an ankle or slipping on a steep section of trail can lead to injuries that can make it very hard, or even unsafe to continue with your hike.
Hiking Etiquette
When you encounter others on the trail, be respectful, yield to uphill hikers, and allow faster-moving groups to pass.
Stay on designated trails to protect the local ecosystem and integrity of the trail. Avoid cutting corners on the trail even if it looks like other people have done the same. This can cause major erosion problems and make it hard for trail crews to maintain.
Leave No Trace. Pack out all trash (including toilet paper!) and leave the trail as you found it.
Learn and follow local regulations. Make sure to read and respect all posted signage and trail closures.
Hiking and backpacking are incredible ways to connect with nature and challenge yourself physically and mentally. By following these tips and tricks, you can enhance your hiking and backpacking experiences, stay safe, and fully immerse yourself in the wonders of the outdoors. Remember, being well-prepared, respecting the environment, and embracing the adventure will contribute to memorable and rewarding time on the trails. So, lace up your boots and pack your backpack because it's time to hit the trail!
