Here are five tips for beginner hikers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Hiking is an activity that offers both physical and mental benefits, connecting you with nature while providing a great workout. As we step into the 2024 hiking season, more and more people are discovering the joys of hiking. If you’re new to this activity, it’s essential to start on the right foot. Read on for a handful of tips to get you started:
1. Start with the right hiking gear for beginner hikers
The right gear can make a world of difference in hiking. For beginners, the most crucial equipment is a pair of good hiking shoes or boots. Choose comfortable footwear, that offers good support, and is suited to the terrain you’ll be hiking on. Then make sure you have a stack of chocolates to hand out as a thank-you gift to all your friends you’ll be borrowing gear from. YOU DO NOT NEED THE LATEST AND GREATEST GEAR ON YOUR FIRST HIKE. You’ll build up your gear as you go on.
2. Choose the appropriate trail
As a beginner, choosing trails that match your current fitness level and hiking experience is important. Start with short, well-marked trails that have minimal elevation gain. Research the trail beforehand – read about the trail length, elevation, terrain type, and any user reviews. Websites and apps dedicated to hiking can provide valuable information and help you select a trail that’s both enjoyable and safe for your skill level. Using websites like AllTrails, MTO, CapeNature or SanParks are a great starting point.
3. Understand hiking etiquette
Being a responsible hiker means understanding and practising hiking etiquette. This includes leaving no trace (pack out everything you bring in), yielding to other hikers (especially those going uphill), and keeping noise levels down. If you’re hiking with a pet, make sure it’s allowed on the trail and keep them on a leash. Respecting nature and fellow hikers ensures that everyone can enjoy the trails.
4. Stay safe and be prepared
Safety should be your top priority. Always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Check the weather forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden weather changes, which are common in many hiking areas. Bring a basic first aid kit and know how to use it. In addition, bring enough water (a good rule of thumb is a half-litre per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures) and some extra food in case the hike takes longer than expected.
5. Invite your friends to come with you!
Hiking can be a great social activity. Invite friends or family members to join you on your hiking adventures. Not only does it make the experience more enjoyable, but it also adds an element of safety. Hiking with others means you can look out for each other, share resources, and motivate each other to push through challenging parts of the trail. Plus, sharing the beauty of nature and the sense of accomplishment at the end of a hike can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
There has never been a better time to start your hiking journey. Click here to learn more about how to get started and to find the best trails for you.
