Learning to Hike
by Nadia Eshott
Under our fancy clothing, human beings are just animals. So, it's only natural that we have an underlying need to connect with the water, wind and earth. If you're one of those people who just can't wait to get in touch with nature whenever you can, learning to hike is perfect for you.
Hiking is considered by some to be a recreational pastime. To others, however, it's much more than that. Some people begin a lifelong love of hiking as very small children. They remember spending family vacations as endless hours spent tackling the trails with mom and dad. A child's newfound love of hiking will blossom into skills and memories that he or she will carry throughout their lives.
Other hikers discover the joys of the sport a little later in life. Older kids often begin their journeys with scout troops. Packs of teenagers roam the woods in search of the perfect hangout spot. Professionals driven to distraction by the 9 to 5 grind can find peace and solace in the beauty of nature.
If you've discovered the love of hiking for any reason, you can't deny that there's no better way to shake off our contemporary hassles and enjoy the peace and solitude that only nature can offer.
It can be a little tricky when you first begin hiking. You may struggle with bulky packs loaded with too much gear, too much food and too many pairs of shoes. You'll set off on a two-day trek, but pack for a week. Seasoned hikers can always spot the rookies as they struggle along the trail.
Seasoned hikers can snicker at the rookies, but let's face it; every one of us has painted this same picture at one time. Newbies take heart: it won't take long for you to shake the excess pounds from your back, and clock enough miles on your boots to have you traveling lean. As time goes, you'll find yourself learning the ropes and fine-tuning your art along the way, until your pack decreases in size as quickly as your appetite for bagels.
While you're honing your craft, here are some helpful tips that can help to clear the trail:
Prepare Before You Pack
Hiking is fun and makes you feel free as a bird. Remember, though, that there are basic safety rules that you've got to follow. This is the outdoors, and anything can happen. Failing to prepare for your anything-goes journey can be the cause of backcountry disasters and near misses. Inadequate clothing, bad judgment calls and the inability to read a map have all led to life-threatening hiking situations. The first step in hiking for beginners is to know what you need to bring, understand what you need to do, and then follow through. Know the conditions. Check the weather forecast, dress in layers and bring a lightweight rain jacket -- just in case. Be aware of the trail and surroundings. If you're hiking in a national park or conservation area, check with park management for advice on local conditions and permitting procedures. Check your bookstore or look online for hiking guides and maps. Use them.
Know Your Equipment
Vanity has no place on the beginners' hiking trail. No one will care what you look like, or whether you seem like a "newbie" on the trail. After the sun sets the temperature will drop quickly, so be prepared to stay warm. Make sure that your sleeping bag is properly insulated. Looking cool means nothing if you're not able to stay warm. A coordinating ensemble has nothing to do with hiking. Remember, this is a sport. Get the right equipment to stay safe and out of harm's way.
Have Fun
In the end, hiking is all about having fun. Otherwise, no one would do it. To a hiker, lacing up a pair of boots and stomping for miles through remote wilderness is a luxury vacation. Mosquito bites and scratches are five-star amenities. If you're hardcore about your love of nature, all the trouble pays off in fun and freedom.
Remember, there's no stress in hiking. Take your time and enjoy your journey. Watch the clouds drift by. Breathe in the fresh air and drink in the sunshine. Catch a butterfly, and then let it go. Hiking for beginners isn't difficult -- it's the start of a beautiful friendship.
Nadia Eshott enjoys writing for some of today's best known online magazines, on recreation and parks and recreation issues. Click here for other unique 'hiking' articles.
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