Hiking Tips

These are some of the most important hints and tips I can offer to help you have a better time hiking. Some are discussed on other pages of the site, while others are miscellaneous items just listed here. Have a great hike!

• Hike in a group. Always have at least one other person with you if you are going on low-traffic trails or be accepting of the risk you take in having no one able to aid you. Some of the benefits of hiking in a group:
  • Learn from more experienced hikers or pass on your knowledge.
  • Aid for injuries
  • Distributing loads for common group gear
  • Meet new people or deepen relationships
• Pack items inside zip-loc bags inside your pack for extra water protection and prevent smells from attracting animals.
• Drink often to stay hydrated. Carry enough water for the day and your pack will get lighter as the day wears on.
• Small snacks often will keep your energy level up rather than waiting for a big lunch meal after you've emptied your body's reserves.
• Keep surplus food ready, just in case.
• Embrace Leave No Trace ethics - using the open spaces is not a right, its a privilege we need to keep available to others years from now.
• Leave your hike plan with someone back home and call them when you get off the trail.
• Bring and use sunscreen and a hat to prevent sunburn, even on cloudy or cold days.
• Plan a hike that is suitable for everyone in your party and let the slower person set the pace.
• Keep your pack organized and put items back where you expect to find them.
• Repackage to reduce weight. No need to take an 8 ounce bottle of insect spray if you can pour some into a 1 ounce spray bottle you can pick up at Wal-Mart. Don't bring the whole plastic-wrapped box of 12 energy bars when you'll only eat 2 and need one more just in case.
• Leave all your cotton clothes at home.
• Keep a bandanna tied to your pack strap for a quick wipe of your brow as needed.
• Inspect your emergency and first aid kits before each hike. Replace consumed items. Especially be able to start a fire.