A day hike is a wonderful way to connect with nature and disconnect from modern technology and the stress of your daily life.
Planning is key before any hike. Consider how far you intend to hike, how remote the location is, and what the weather forecast predicts. In general, the longer and/or more remote the hike, as well as the more inclement weather, the more clothing, gear, food, and water you'll need. If you're new to day hiking, here are some tips and steps for beginner hikers:
1. Start small: Choose an easy hike to start with. You don't want to push yourself too hard on your first hike. Remember to include the time it takes to get to and from the trailhead. Choosing the trail and the time you want to spend hiking depends on your fitness level. Keep in mind that it is more important to enjoy yourself in the company of nature than to suffer and regret the experience.
N.B. The average walking speed is about 2 to 3 kms per hour, but your hiking speed may vary depending on the terrain, elevation gain, and the weight you're carrying on your back.
2. Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for hiking. Layer your clothing so you can easily add or remove layers. Your choice of footwear will depend on the type of terrain, while your choice of clothing will depend on the weather conditions. Layering is essential and follows a simple order: base layer + mid layer + outer layer. Remember that it is better to feel a little cold as you start, because you will warm up and get hot as you walk, rather than start with maximum layers and sweat under your clothes. The base layer traps your body heat while allowing your skin to breathe at the same time.
3. Check the weather forecast: Due to snow cover, some trails will be inaccessible in early spring. In autumn, for example, the sun sets early so you need to have your return, or your stay planned before the darkness catches you off guard.
4. Stay hydrated: Make sure you bring plenty of water and take breaks to drink water throughout the hike.
5. Bring snacks: Pack some nutritious snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and fruits to keep you fueled during the hike.
6. Know the trail: Since these are tips for beginner hikers, it is recommended that you get accompanied by a local guide. Otherwise, you can get a map of the trail and familiarize yourself with it before setting out or have the trail brief on your hands at all times, and have mobile connection to access Google maps whenever you need. Stay on designated paths.
7. Sun safety: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
8. Manage the logistics: Certain hikes necessitate a little more planning. For example, if you end up doing a hike that begins and ends in different locations, you'll need to shuttle cars to your starting and ending points.
The Ten Essentials
In case of any emergency, these are the "Ten Essentials" that will save your life. True, on a typical trip, you may only use a few of them or none. When something goes wrong, however, you'll realize how important it is to have these items on hand:
- Navigation: map, compass, altimeter, GPS device.
- Headlamp: with extra batteries
- Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes, sunscreen
- First aid: including foot care and insect repellent (as needed)
- Knife: with a gear repair kit
- Fire: matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove
- Shelter: always carried (can be a light emergency bivy)
- Extra food: Beyond the minimum expectation
- Extra water: Beyond the minimum expectation
- Extra clothes: Beyond the minimum expectation