Hiking Tips and Resources

Need to get some exercise? Want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city to just enjoy the great outdoors? Then hiking is something that you should certainly consider. Not only does it have several health benefits, but hiking is also a fun activity that can bring people closer together. Plus, finishing a hike can also give a certain high and sense of accomplishment that you won't experience with mundane and everyday activities.

If you're thinking of going on a hiking trip, check out the tips and resources below. The following pieces of advice will allow you to stay safe and prepared during your hike and will ensure that you will be able to make the most out of the whole experience.

Be prepared

Never go on a hiking trip without doing some research on the location and weather conditions for that day. Once you select a hiking spot, be sure to look up everything you can about the destination. Know how big or wide it is and don't forget to look up the different plants and animals inhabiting in the location.

More importantly, check the weather forecasts and temperatures for that day. Look up the forecast in advance, and do it again on the day itself. If you find that the weather will make it difficult to go through the hike, then you may want to postpone it. It's better to be safe than sorry, after all.

Implement the buddy system

When it comes to hiking, it's best to assign someone who always has your back. Don't ever go on a hike without a companion. If you're travelling with a group, assign a buddy for each member so that no one has to hike alone.

Travel light

Only bring the essentials when you're hiking. Having too much stuff on you will cause your body to use up more energy, and that can really take its toll on you especially when hiking long distances. So do yourself a favor and don't pack unnecessary things. As the National Parks Service put it, "The heaviest items in your pack should be food and water."

Take regular breaks

Don't push yourself too hard when hiking. The NPS recommends that you take a ten minute break every hour to help get rid of the metabolic waste that has built up in your legs while hiking. On top of that, taking regular breaks will give you a chance to recharge and allow your body to gather energy for the next leg.

Keep track of the time

Hiking can indeed be fun, so it can be easy to lose track of time. Always keep an eye on your watch to make sure that your hike stays on schedule. The last thing you want is to still be out there when night arrives. According to NPS, hikers should allot 1/3 of the time to decent and 2/3 to ascend.

Resources:

For more hiking tips be sure to do further research and check out the following websites:

National Park Service - The official website of the US National Park Service

Hiking Lady - A great list of hiking organizations from the Hiking Lady

Hiking and Backpaking - Another massive list of hiking organization website from HikingAndBackpacking.com

American Discovery Trail - Official website of the American Discovery Trail

Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics - This organization educates people about outdoor ethics and responsibility.

The Mountaineers - This organization aims to help the community explore, conserve, and learn about the lands and waters of the Pacific Northwest.

National Parks Conservation Association - The official website of the National Parks Conservation Association.

Department of Natural Resources MD - The official site of Maryland's Department of Natural Resrouces.

Backpacking.net - A website about lightweight backpacking and hiking.

ALDHA-West - The official website of the American Long Distance Hiking Association - West

AHS - The official website of the American Hiking Society

AMC Resrouces - A great resource page from the Appalachian Mountain Club

Image credit: Moyan_Brenn on Flickr

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