How to Plan Your Hike

Hiking is a relatively simple activity to plan. First, it is important to define your budget, as well as the desired location. You should also consult with a physician to determine the level of exertion your body will handle. Finally, choose a destination, trail, and a companion. For safety reasons it's best to hike in pairs.

Hikers must recognize hiking goals in order to guide the decision-making process. Determine how much time you will have for the hike. Always build in extra time for an unexpectedly slow pace or for sudden bad weather. Use a map and compass (or GPS unit) to navigate the path, inclusive of rest stops.

Hiking and the Environment

Unfortunately, hiking can take a toll on the environment. Too much foot traffic will damage the terrain and desensitize animals to human contact. To respect the environment, be cautious of starting fires or disrupting natural patterns. Also, be mindful of waste production and disposal. Never leave trash on the trail. It's both unsightly and environmentally harmful. Carry a small plastic sack in your backpack for temporary storage of waste, such as food wrappers and water bottles.

Respect Others

When hiking, respect other groups of hikers. Be polite, avoid excessive noise, and do not trespass. Adjust the speed of the hike to the slowest member of your party. As an alternative, a strong hiker may stay in the rear to decrease the likelihood of losing a group member. When two separate groups meet on a trail, it is wise for the larger group to concede to the smaller group. It is also polite to allow the group traveling uphill to have the right-of-way.

Benefits of Hiking

Hiking will increase cardiovascular fitness and stamina. Studies demonstrate that regular hiking reduces blood pressure, relieves back pain and induces natural wieght loss. All of these benefit combined represent significant stress reduction from the pressures of our fast-paced modern life.

Common Hiking Injuries

Many hikers suffer from sprained ankles, shin splits, and back pain. (Back pain can be traced especially to hiking backpacks of inferior quality.) Hikers may also endure discomfort caused by dry eyes, blisters, sore knees and hips, and corns. Don't forget protective eye gear for bright, sunny days and treks through heavy brush.

Self-protection Guidelines

Never hike alone. Always wear proper hiking boots and protective gear. Stretch and get warmed up before you take off down the trail. Avoid overexertion and carefully navigate uphill or downhill maneuvers on hilly terrain. Trekking poles are useful to provide stability, increased speed and decreased fatigue.

Do not leave your trash on the trail and do not smoke. Always bring plenty of water and carry adequate food in your backpack. When adventure hiking, be prepared for minor emergencies. Carry a first aid kit and any emergency medications such as asthma inhalants and anti-venom for bee stings.

Popular Destinations

Many trails are desirable for adventure hikes. The Tuscarora Trail, which splits off from the famous Appalachian Trail, is quite popular. Both trails are strenuous, yet offer breathtaking views of the Northeastern countryside in the United States. The Rocky Mountains, Mt. Mansfield and the Olympic Mountains also appeal to a variety of hikers.

Clearly, hiking adventure vacations are attractive for many reasons as a leisure and physical activity. All that is needed is sincere interest in the sport and a pair of sturdy hiking boots prior to taking off on hiking trails. With planning, time, and implementation of safety rules, hikers will be able to experience all that nature offers.