Hiking is one of the few exercises that just about anyone can participate in. It is such a great way to not only stay in shape, but also get outside to reflect, recharge and simply enjoy nature’s wonders. Though it can be physically challenging, if you properly prepare, you will be ready to embark on your first hike in no time. Check out a few of the following hiking skills and techniques to help make your first hike an enjoyable one.
Build Endurance
Endurance is key to making sure you are able to complete your first hike. Before stepping on the trail go for a walk in your neighborhood. Find a hill or stairs and practice going up and down keeping a consistent pace.
This is a good way to find out your current endurance level and work on building it up. Each time you go on your walks you will notice you are able to go a little further. This will build muscle memory making your hike easier.
Pick the Right Hiking Shoes
Wearing the wrong shoes can ruin your hiking experience. Nobody wants to get half-way through their first hike and have to turn around to head back because their feet hurt. Additionally, wearing the wrong shoes can put you at risk of an injury.
Make sure they are the correct size. No borrowing your friends hiking shoes that are a half size too big.
They should fit snug but not tight. Your heel ought to stay in place and your toes should have wiggle room (make sure to try them on with the socks you plan to wear).
Lightweight! For your first pair as you won’t likely be scaling a mountain or trekking through a river. As you progress to longer and steeper hikes over rougher terrain, you may want to consider a hiking boot instead of a shoe. Boots provide more support for your ankles and feet. However, they are more likely to be heavier.
Most of all make sure the hiking footwear you choose is comfortable! Some hiking shoes may need to be broken in before they become truly the perfect fit.
Pack Water and Nutrient Rich Snacks
While hiking you more than likely will sweat so you will have to drink water periodically to stay hydrated. You should also try to keep your water bottle accessible. Putting your water bottle in the bottom of your backpack would cause you to have to stop and take off your bag each time you need water. This will cause you to become tired much quicker.
Snacks such as nuts, fruit and granola bars are all great options to bring along because they will give you a boost if you work up an appetite or begin to feel lightheaded. Also, these types of snacks are compact so they will not take up much space. On your first hike you may not need a backpack and can make due with a fanny pack where a granola bar would fit perfectly.
Check Weather and Pick your Hiking Route
During the days leading up to your hike make sure to check the weather. This is crucial as you don’t want to get caught in a storm nor a heat wave. During warmer months it is best to start your hike in the morning while it is relatively cool. Of course this depends on your location.
So you have picked the area where you will embark on your first hike but have you chosen a route to take? Many hiking parks and trails have multiple entry points meaning multiple trails. Each trail requires a certain level of skill to complete.
Most parks have information online about their trails and the level of difficulty. Usually trails are categorized as easy, moderate, or strenuous. These categories are based on distance, incline, and terrain. For your first hike start with easy or moderate.
Safety and Leave No Trace
No matter your skill level it is crucial to practice safety each time you go for a hike.
Find someone to join you for you first hike. Hiking with a friend will make you experience more enjoyable and safe. If you can’t find someone to come along and you are going to be hiking alone, make sure to tell a friend or family member where you are going and how long you plan on hiking. Choose a popular trail where there will be plenty of people.
Charge your phone. If you plan on going on a longer hike (3+ hrs) take along a portable charger. If you get injured or lost you will need your phone. Also, you’re going to want to capture the perfect shot when you reach the top to document your achievement.
Leave no trace. While hiking you want to leave as little of an impact on the natural conditions along your path.
- Leave what you find. Plants, rocks, and any other natural things you find along your route.
- Stay on trails as much as possible
- Take all trash out with you.
- Make sure to use the restroom before you begin your hike.
- Avoid making loud noises or playing music through speakers.
- If hiking with your dog, pack enough poop bags to clean up after your furry friend.
- Don’t feed the wildlife.
Message to Leave With
Now that you got a few skills, techniques, and tips down, you are ready to head out on your very first hike. Though there is plenty more to learn I wanted to just cover some basics to get you going. No matter your skill level hiking is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences you will undertake. Remember to take time to prep, build your endurance, map out your route, practice safety and be courteous to your fellow hikers and mother nature.
Check back for more tips, info, and product reviews that will get you hiking to higher heights!
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Happy Hiking!
Thank you for the insider for beginners just like me that would love to have the experience of hiking for the first time, and luckily, make it a habit. I am terrified of heights so going on really high-risky hikes it’s definitely not for me, but starting out with something small can easily help me balance my goal.
I’m glad you found some helpful information here. Fortunately, there are plenty of hiking trails that are at a lower elevation so you wouldn’t have to worry about your fear.
This would have been nice to know the first time I went hiking. I kind of just went and never thought about being prepared. I definitely jumped off the deep in feet first without any thought to what should I be ready for and what do I need before I leave. This is something that’s going to help a lot of people who want to start but need a push.
Same! I definitely did not prepare the first time I went for a hike as well. I just treated like I was going for a regular walk, big mistake huge! Then again I was just a kid. I hope these tips help many people just starting out.