We’ve all seen a point in our lives where hiking sounds like a great idea. Whether you’re a die-hard outdoorsman or just a casual lover of scenery, there are 4 necessary things that everyone must know before embarking on the hike of their life!
Who doesn’t love to go for adventures? Probably no one. Most people today love to go out and try exciting new things. Hiking is one of the most interesting things to do when you are outside.
Hiking allows you to spend time with family and friends. It is also a great way to take a break from work. Through hiking, you get a chance to refresh and recharge to get rid of stress and anxiety.
Those who are afraid of heights can hike to face their fears. If you plan on going for a hike, here are some important things you should consider.
Important Things To Consider Before Hiking
Find Hiking Buddies
Of course, going for a hike alone is so boring. This makes it necessary for you to find hiking buddies. They make the moment more magical and fun.
They also help give you the psyche to keep going if you feel like giving up. Another reason you should go hiking with your friends is to ensure that you stay safe.
When you are hurt, your friends will be there to help you, unlike when you go alone. Also, going hiking with your family and friends can be a way to spend more time with them and make new memories.
If you’re looking for ideal hiking buddies, we’d recommend joining a Facebook group dedicated to hiking! Or, you can try something like the Pacific Crest Trail Association. These associations are found throughout the United States, and hold informational sessions!
They can help set you up with a group of fellow hikers, as well as load you up with plenty of information for the trail! That way, you won’t be completely on your own.
Hiking with friends is definitely super important. Not only can they give you company while you’re out on the trail, they can also signal for emergency help if needed. It’s also another chance at making fun memories!
Do Your Research
If you are not someone who goes hiking often, it may not be easy to know which trails are safe and those that are not. This makes it necessary to do thorough research on a trail before picking a trail.
Note that doing research does not mean scrolling on Instagram. You need to do more than just that. Go out of your way and gather some key information about the hike.
This helps to ensure that the trail you pick is safe and within your group’s abilities. There are many dangerous things out on the trails, from hazardous paths and angry animals to avoid! Not only that, you don’t want to risk getting lost.
One of the easiest ways to prepare for your hike is to simply google hiking trails near you and then take a look at the map. This will give you at least a little bit of an idea as to what you’re walking into before you step foot on the trail!
It might seem old-fashioned, but don’t be afraid to bring a physical map with you. On a physical map, you can mark places like where to stop and grab a picture, drink water, or rest.
Additionally, most nature parks have welcome centers where they offer maps and additional information. When you get to the park, don’t skip out on these valuable locations.
Hiking can be a great stress reliever. But don’t forget to do your research in order to keep yourself and others safe, no matter how experienced you think you are!
Put Everything Together
Before going for a hike, you need to ensure that you have everything you need. For example, you need to pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
You also need to ensure that you bring extra insulation clothing with you if the weather changes. You may need plenty of food, water, and a first aid kit, among other things.
For your hiking footwear, you should ensure that you have hiking boots. Ensure that your hiking boots fit you well to enhance comfortability.
It’s completely necessary to be proactive and make sure you have everything you need before you step foot in the park! Research the weather and figure out what type of clothing you need the night before.
Pack a backpack with healthy, protein-filled snacks like nuts and dried fruit. Bring more water than you think you need, especially if the weather is going to be exceptionally hot. Dehydration is a silent killer!
Bring a simple first aid kit, a change of clothes, a poncho, a pocket knife, and a flashlight. It’s a good rule of thumb to bring everything, even if you might not need it. It’s much better to show up well-prepared than to be stuck without.
Check On Time
Another thing you should consider is the amount of time your hike will take. This will ensure that you are not caught out after dark.
Research how long it takes to drive to the trail and add more time as a buffer. This will ensure that you have a successful hike.
Also, before you start hiking, check on the time the sun will set that day. This way, you will know how to time yourself.
Additionally, be honest with yourself! If you’re not an avid hiker, start small. If you research and see that the trail takes 6 hours to complete, perhaps look on your map and plan for only doing half of the trail at a time. Pace yourself, and pay attention to how your body feels.
Listen to your body. The last thing you need is to be out hiking and risk exhaustion, dehydration, or injury! No matter your experience level, it’s always a good idea to be over-prepared!
Conclusion
Before going for a hike, you need to ensure that you are well prepared. This will save you from many inconveniences that may follow if you do not do so.
Most importantly, you must ensure that you have everything needed to ensure that you are safe.
Hiking, no matter the skill level, is inherently a risk, with dangerous animals and the risk of getting lost. You need to make sure you’ve done your research and pack everything you might need. Be sure to pace yourself and be honest with your skill level.
It’s always a good idea to bring a buddy with you! With friends, the experience is safer and more fun. Hiking can be thrilling! Don’t let the worries overwhelm you. If you just follow these 4 simple tasks, you’ll feel a lot more prepared when you go out there.
If you’re in the United States and looking for a place to start, definitely check out the Appalachian mountains. They have many friendly trails ranging from beginner to expert levels, and pack a camera because the sights are gorgeous! You can make a whole road trip out of it.
As always, err on the side of caution when hiking, and if you think that you don’t need to bring it, you probably do. The more you “do your homework”, the better you’ll feel when the time actually comes! Happy hiking!
