Hiking Basics
As the weather warms up, many people start planning outdoor activities. What better way to enjoy the outdoors and get exercise at the same time than to go hiking? Whether you hike for an hour or a day, here are a few tips to get you started on the right foot!
Gear
For a short hike, you can probably get away with wearing comfortable shoes and clothes and taking a bottle of water and a small snack. For longer hikes (over an hour) or hikes in inclement weather (including high heat and/or humidity), though, you’ll probably want to invest in some hiking gear. Look for clothes made from technical fabrics intended to dry quickly and wick moisture away from your skin, and boots made specifically for hiking. Hiking boots provide grip and support that tennis shoes do not have. You’ll also want to be certain to have enough water and snacks – many hikers prefer to wear a backpack water bladder with a flexible straw. Last, pack some common-sense gear such as a map, compass, small first aid kit, and signal whistle or mirror.
Trail
Hiking trails are everywhere! Even most metro areas have a few trails snaking through them. To find a good hiking trail, check with your city, county, or state conservation department or with your local hiking club. Some states and metro areas even have whole books published describing the many trails in the area, so don’t overlook your local bookstore as a source of information.
Different hikers have different preferences in trail surfaces. Some hikers prefer paved surfaces – if this is you, you may choose to hike along paved bike trails. Be sure to check first to make sure that the trail is open to hikers, and be on the alert for approaching bikers. If you prefer dirt or grassy trails, you may need to look a little harder, but try to resist the urge to strike your own path.
Technique
Hiking is just walking without a sidewalk. Keep your stride natural. Find a comfortable pace. Look at where you’re going, not at your feet. Be sure to drink plenty of water and keep a close eye on the time so you don’t find yourself miles from your car as the sun is setting.
Leave No Trace
The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics encourages all users of the outdoors to practice their seven Leave No Trace principles. (for more, please see www.lnt.org) These principles include:
- Travel on Durable Surfaces. Use existing trails and walk in the middle of the trail, even when muddy. Walking around muddy puddles results in a widening of the trail at that point, which is often an unnecessary encroachment on the natural areas surrounding a trail.
- Dispose of Waste Properly. Pack out your garbage. If you need to make a “pit stop” while hiking, walk a short distance away from the trail, dig a hole, and cover the hole back up when you are finished. Pack out your toilet paper.
- Leave What You Find. Don’t pick flowers, remove historical artifacts, or damage trees or other growth.
- Respect Wildlife. Don’t follow or feed wild animals, and keep your pets restrained.
