Learning to Hike
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.
For some, hiking is more than a recreational pastime; it's been a way of life as long as they can remember. The love of hiking is often developed from family vacations, when youngsters barely old enough to scale a riverbank are strapping on hiking boots and traversing the wild outdoors with their earthy Mom and Dad. From these cross-country outings came skills -- and memories -- to last a lifetime.
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.
A newfound love of hiking can happen at any age and for any reason. The one thing that's constant is that hiking is the perfect way to shake off modern worries and enjoy all of nature's wondrous gifts.
When beginners start hiking they can find the sport a little tricky. Seasoned pros can always spot rookie hikers. They struggle with packs, loaded with fifty pounds of gear for a two-night trek. These overzealous hikers load their backcountry packs with heavy tents, fancy foods, two pairs of shoes and a bounty of "just in case" gizmos.
The truth is every professional hiker was a beginner at one time. We all need to make mistakes and learn from them. Don't worry about making the same mistakes. You'll soon be confident enough to pack a little lighter and in no time at all you'll be traveling a little easier. As you lose bulk from your pack, you'll log miles on your hiking boots. Your skills and experiences will grow with time, and soon you'll be the experienced hiker on the trail.
Meantime, here are some hiking tips and some helpful advice for you live by as you work toward earning your Experienced Hiker badge:
Be Prepared
Hiking is all about freedom, but that doesn't mean that there are no rules. Safety always comes first, and safety guidelines should always be followed. The most important rule to remember is that you need to be prepared for anything. Consider all of the mishaps that can occur in the wild, and assume that they will happen. Prepare for every situation and you'll be able to handle any potential accidents. Packing inadequate clothing, ignoring your map and making a bad judgment call are all invitations for disaster. There are potentially life-threatening situations waiting around every corner, so you need to know what to pack, understand how to handle dangerous situations and be able to keep a clear head as you deal with any difficulties. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you leave on your hiking excursion. Knowing the conditions of the trails will also help you to pack the right gear. Weather can turn without warning, so bring along a lightweight rain jacket at all times. Know the trails and stay in tune with your surroundings at all times. If you plan to hike in a conservation area or national park, speak with the park managers about necessary permits and local conditions. You can find maps online and at the book store. Bring the maps along, and make sure that you know how to read them.
Know Your Equipment
Forget the coordinating hiking outfit. No one cares what you look like on the trail, so leave your ego at home. It's more important to be safe and comfortable than to simply look good. Temperatures can plummet after the sun sets, so pack accordingly with warm clothing and an insulated sleeping bag. This is a sport that requires proper equipment, and nature is a force that must be respected. Buy and bring equipment that will help you to stay safe on the trail. No one will care if you seem like a "newbie" on the trail, so don't be afraid to ask questions.
Relax and 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.
Your newfound love of hiking will really sink in when you realize that you can leave all of your stresses at home. As you breathe in the air and feel the sun's warmth you'll realize that, at that perfect moment, you haven't a care in the world. With all that nature has to offer, what's not to love?
Author Nadia Eshott enjoys writing for several online magazines, on outdoor recreation and recreation camping subjects.
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