Hiking for Beginners

Hiking for Beginners

Hiking is a fantastic way to connect with nature. Using your own two feet and carrying just what you need for the day, you can explore the beauty of the outdoors at your own pace. With some planning and preparation, hiking is an accessible activity for almost everyone.

If you’ve been wanting to hike but haven’t taken the plunge yet, it’s time to get outside! Just follow these steps:

1. Find a Hiking Partner
2. Choose a Hike
3. Gear Up

Find a Hiking Partner

If you have friends who enjoy hiking, invite them to take you along. Many experienced hikers are eager to share their knowledge, lend you gear, and introduce you to their favorite trails.

If you don’t know any hikers, consider joining local hiking clubs that frequently organize outings. You can also find hiking classes and events through organizations like REI Experiences. Online communities can be a great resource for meeting hiking buddies.

Hiking Alone: Hiking solo can offer a unique sense of freedom and adventure, but it may also feel intimidating or lonely at times. If you’re new to hiking, it’s advisable to find a companion who can help if anything goes wrong. If going solo is your only option, start with short hikes in popular areas and always inform someone about your plans and expected return time.

Choose a Hiking Route

Finding a suitable hiking trail is easier than you might think. Here are a few effective methods:

• Guidebooks and Websites: These are excellent resources for obtaining essential trail information, including difficulty level, distance, elevation gain, directions, water availability, trail features, and dog policies. Many websites feature recent trip reports that can give insights into current trail conditions.
• Word of Mouth: Ask friends who hike for their recommendations on trails.
• Local Resources: Reach out to local hiking organizations or ranger stations. Rangers typically have the latest information on trail conditions and can suggest hikes that suit your skill level.

Tips for Choosing a Hiking Route

Before searching for the ideal hike, consider the following:

• Time Availability: Determine whether you have a few hours or an entire day. Travel time to and from the trailhead is also important.
• Fitness Level: Honestly evaluate your physical condition. Choose a hike that suits your abilities to ensure an enjoyable experience rather than a grueling one. If you're not in peak shape, don't worry; there are hikes for everyone. Check out our article on How to Train for Hiking for fitness tips.
• Distance: Consider how many miles and hours you’re comfortable hiking. An average walking pace is about 3 mph, but your hiking pace may be slower depending on the terrain, elevation gain, and pack weight.
• Elevation Gain: This is a key factor in determining difficulty. With experience, you'll learn how much elevation gain you can handle comfortably. As a guideline, a trail gaining 1,000 feet over one mile is considered steep. A general rule is to add one hour to your trip for every 1,000 feet of elevation gained.
• Season and Weather: Some trails may be inaccessible in early spring due to snow. In fall, shorter daylight hours require you to plan accordingly to avoid being caught out after dark. Always check the weather forecast before heading out to dress and pack appropriately.
• Logistics: Certain hikes require more planning, such as those starting and finishing at different locations, which may necessitate arranging transportation between trailheads.

Choose Your Hiking Gear

One of the best things about hiking is that you don’t need a lot of high-tech equipment to get started. With some essential items and a sense of adventure, you’re ready to explore the wilderness.

The Ten Essentials

Start by ensuring you have the Ten Essentials. This set of gear and clothing is crucial for all hikers and includes items for navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid, fire, repairs, nutrition, hydration, and emergency shelter. Discover more in our article about the Ten Essentials.

Hiking Footwear

Choosing the right footwear is essential and very personal. Some hikers prefer sturdy over-the-ankle boots, while others opt for lightweight trail-running shoes. The terrain you’ll encounter will influence your decision. Lightweight shoes may be adequate for well-maintained trails, while robust boots are better suited for rugged paths with rocks, roots, and streams. Read about some of our top picks in Best Hiking Boots.

Regardless of your choice, ensure your footwear is well broken-in and comfortable for long distances. Opt for wool or synthetic socks instead of cotton.

• Hiking Boots: How to Choose
• Trail-Running Shoes: How to Choose
• Hiking Socks: How to Choose

What to Wear Hiking

Select clothing made from quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials like wool or polyester. Avoid cotton, as it takes longer to dry. Think of your clothing as separate systems:

• Next-to-Skin Base Layers: Essential in cool to cold temperatures, made of wool or polyester.
• Hiking Layers: Includes nylon or polyester pants, a T-shirt, sun shirt, and sun hat.
• Insulation: Depending on the weather, you may need a puffy vest, lightweight fleece, warm hat, and gloves.
• Rainwear: Always carry a waterproof jacket, regardless of the weather forecast. If rain is anticipated, bring rain pants as well.

Hiking Backpack

You’ll need a backpack to carry your Ten Essentials and any additional gear.

For short hikes close to home on pleasant days, a daypack with a capacity of 15-20 liters should suffice for water, snacks, and a lightweight clothing layer.

For longer treks, you’ll need more space for gear, clothing, water, and food. A pack with around 30 liters capacity is ideal for these outings. Check out our How to Choose Daypacks article for more information.

Food and Water

As a beginner hiker, it can be challenging to know how much food and water to bring. A good rule of thumb is to consume 200-300 calories per hour and drink about half a liter of water per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures. These amounts may vary based on the hike's intensity, weather, age, sweat rate, and body type. With experience, you’ll learn how much you need.

Always pack extra food and water in case your hike takes longer than expected.

• Hydration Basics
• Energy Food and Drinks: How to Choose
• Water Treatment: Many hikers carry enough water for a day hike, but if you’ll need more than 3 liters, it can be heavy. Consider filtering water from backcountry streams and lakes to refill your bottles or hydration reservoir and lighten your load.

Additional Hiking Considerations

Personal Health and Safety

• First Aid: You don’t need to be a medical expert to hike, but it’s wise to have basic first-aid knowledge. Always carry a first-aid kit and familiarize yourself with its contents. The more remote the area, the more critical this knowledge becomes.
• Bathroom Breaks: Many novice hikers are concerned about using the bathroom in the woods, but it’s a common practice that you can learn to manage.
• If you need to urinate, find a spot away from the trail and at least 200 feet from water sources. Women can “shake dry” or bring a few pieces of toilet paper in a small zip-top bag to dispose of at home. Alternatively, use a bandana as a "pee rag" to dry out and attach it to your pack.
• Most day hikers take care of bowel movements before leaving, but if needed during the hike, ensure you’re off the trail and 200 feet from water. Dig a hole about 4 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep to bury your waste (a camp trowel is handy for this). While experienced hikers may wipe with natural materials, you can also use toilet paper and bury it. In sensitive areas, you may need to pack out used toilet paper.
• Always use hand sanitizer afterward.

Learn more tips in our Backcountry Bathroom Basics article.

• Hiking with Your Period: If you’re hiking while on your period, bring menstrual supplies and know how to manage them efficiently. Hiking solo may require extra planning to feel confident and prepared.

Safety

Always leave a detailed itinerary with a friend or family member. Leaving a note with your route plans in your vehicle can help search-and-rescue teams if they need to locate you (just ensure the note is not visible to potential thieves).

If hiking solo or in remote locations, consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergency SOS signals.

Trail Etiquette

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newbie, understanding basic trail etiquette is beneficial.

• Right of Way: Adhering to these rules helps everyone coexist:
1. Hikers vs. Hikers: Uphill hikers have the right of way. Uphill hikers may let downhill hikers pass, but that’s their choice.
2. Hikers vs. Bikers: Mountain bikers should yield to hikers, but since they often move faster, hikers may find it easier to step aside.
3. Hikers vs. Horses: Horses always have the right of way. Step off the trail to the downhill side when passing horses and avoid sudden movements.
• Leave No Trace: While most people don’t intend to harm nature, they might not know how to minimize their impact. The Leave No Trace principles provide guidance for sustainable outdoor enjoyment. The seven principles are:
1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impacts.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

Hiking with Kids and Dogs

Kids

Introducing children to the beauty of the outdoors is rewarding but comes with challenges. Follow these tips:

• Choose short hikes that are age-appropriate.
• Bring snacks and toys to keep kids engaged.
• Allow plenty of time for breaks.
• Instill a sense of adventure in your little ones!

Dogs

Bring your furry friend along for the hike, but ensure they’re comfortable in nature. Follow these tips:

• Check trail regulations regarding dogs. Some trails may not allow them.
• Carry water for your dog, as they require hydration, especially in hot weather.
• Ensure your dog is leashed for safety and respect other hikers’ space.

Get Out and Explore!

By taking the plunge into the world of hiking, you're opening yourself up to new experiences and adventures in the great outdoors. Hiking can boost your physical and mental well-being, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Once you’ve mastered these basics, don’t hesitate to challenge yourself on more strenuous hikes. Happy hiking!