#hiking 101

[netbros]

Now is good time to offer Intro to Hiking 101

So how do you get started? What’s preventing you from getting outside and taking that first hike: Time, money, gear, skills? Even if you’re a complete outdoor newbie, or someone who has trekked for a while, perhaps this will help.

One of the first issues to tackle is where to go. Start with easy trails. A mile or two at first; maybe just some walks around town, graduating to woodsy trails when…

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[netbros]

Hiking 101: The Complete Guide to Hiking for Beginners

Hiking 101: The Complete Guide to Hiking for Beginners

You’ve got your hiking boots on, your worries left at home and a trail in front of you. You’re surrounded by dense nature, no sounds of buses or chatter, just the calming sounds of birds singing and a breeze whistling through the trees. You can feel the sun on your skin, you fill your lungs with perfectly fresh air and can smell the environment around you. All the while you feel warm and alive…

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[keysersoza]

If you want to start hiking than you should definitely watch this video. Great tips for begginers.

[unicorntrousers]

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Today I saw sheep, but they weren't just regular sheep. They looked like they had their fur done with a hair straightner and were just too fabulous for the fields. 

[trekeffectapp]

Hiking 101 manual

[whatishouldhavelearned]

Take a Hike!

The days are getting shorter and the leaves are starting to turn. It's fall! Pack the trail mix, and take a hike. Here's some safe and awesome trekking tips 

Stay comfortable. This may seem simple in itself but it comes down to two words, "wear layers." The morning chill can give way to bright sun and pleasant temperatures. That heavy jacket you're wearing in the morning can become a liability in the afternoon. Three to four layers and convertible pants will add flexibility to your trek. As you get warmer you can open and shed layers. If the wind picks up but the sun is shining, you can wear your shell while removing the insulation. If things get really warm convertible pants allow you to zip off the legs, instantly turning them into shorts. What ever you do don't forget to wear a hat. It can help keep you warm in the morning and cool in the afternoon.

Hike with the weather. In the fall this goes further than the logic of don't hike during the first icestorm of the year. Some of the finest hiking can be done in the morning after a sharp, dry cold front brings in a Canadian high. The air is clean, crisp and clear. If you live in mountainous regions the haze of the summer will be gone and the visibility will be incredible.

Get an early start. Shorter days means you need to maximize every minute on the trail. Start off early, before the first light so you can start your trek in the first hour of the morning. You will be rewarded with a symphony of songbirds and bustle of wildlife activity. Remember the sun will set earlier, so don't get caught out in the dark on the trail.

Be prepared. With the fall there is change, and the change is in the weather. Make sure you are ready for the elements. Raingear as well as clothing that will protect you from the wind is essential. If you are going on an extended day hike, especially into higher altitude know the weather forecast and carry a weather radio.

Bring a Camera or art supplies to remember the amazing moments.

Don't forget a map or GPS. STICK TO THE TRAIL!! Don't be a Columbus.

Bring your cell for Emergency Only. 

Move quietly. As the leaves turn and start to fall off the thickets and tangles that hid wildlife in theforest disappear. Your stealthy movements will be rewarded with opportunities to see many animals closer than you normally would. If you live in an area where there are bears or cougars, then don't follow this advice. As a matter of fact if you are hiking in bear country during the fall you should make extra noise.

Leave the insect repellant at home. Unless you're hiking in a southern climate, most of the flying, biting, nasty insects have died off or have gone into hibernation. One could easily argue that the lack of biting insects is the single biggest benefit to hiking in the fall.

Remember a First Aid Kit

Don't forget tee pee (toilet paper)

Be spontaneous. There are many advantages to having flexible plans in the fall. During the warm dry fall of 1999 enjoyable hiking could be found in many regions in the United States all the way into early December. It is quite possible to have vast sections of a park all to yourself. If the weatherman says Saturday is going to be sunny and 75, its time to grab your boots and pack. Those leaves on the lawn can wait for another day.

Don't forget the sunscreen and the sunglasses. Just because it is cooler out doesn't mean you still can't get a sunburn. Drier air and wind also batters your skin during the fall months. Clearer, cleaner air also means brighter sunlight. Lip balm is also helpful if your lips get chapped easily.

Eat some food. Nibbling food as your hiking is like slowly putting coal into a fire, it keeps the internal furnace running nice and hot. Avoid having a heavy meal before or while on the trail. If you eat a lot the blood will pool in your digestive system robbing you of body warmth. I.e. TRAIL MIX!!

DON'T forget to bring water it may be cooler but you don't want to get dehydrated. 

Research your trail before.

Take a friend on their first hike. Have a friend that has been asking to go on their first hike? The fall is the perfect time to do it! No insects, tepid temperatures, no crowds, greater chance of seeing wildlife, and clear skies all add up to a great first time experience. If you are bringing someone on his or her first trek try and keep it easy with an exciting destination at the end of the trail. Have a friend you want to encourage to go on a trek with you? Why not send them a copy of this story! Or bring a pet. Make sure you pack food and water for them.

After the hike DO a tick check & spider bite check.