Moving on: Hiking for Beginner's
Whenever I think about hiking the first thing that comes out of my head is that it will be hard and it will be very tiring. And yes, these are my mindset before when I haven't tried it even once.
If you are a beginner like I am, this guide will be a good start for you. Learning to hike safely can make sure you can have the most out of your time without the risk of having a bad day.
Here's what you need to do:
Pick the right hike - if you are a beginner, you need to start with what your body is capable of. Most mistakes made by beginners is going on a trail with very long distance and steep inclines. If you are a newb and haven't tried hiking yet, sending yourself to 8 or more hours of hiking is a suicide. Before the hike, you can always check online or read some guides about the trail. If possible, be prepared and research in advance and be familiar with what you are going to expect on the trail.
Wear proper attire - whenever I go out on hikes in some common hiking spots in my place, I always see these people wearing improper clothes and shoes on the trail. You know that is a beginner when he/she goes on a hike and wears jeans and regular sneakers or even slippers. You as a beginner should know what environment you are going and dress properly according to it. Wear clothes that are not too thin that can cause hypothermia when cold weather but not too warm to full of sweat under the blazing sun. In most of my hikes, a wear long sleeves which can protect me from the elements but can be rolled up when it is too hot. I also wear trekking pants which can be unzipped to turn into shorts. Lastly is I wear comfortable shoes with large spikes for tractions.
Hiking gear - First things first, bring plenty of water. You need to be hydrated as you hike a distance. Also, bring snacks such as protein bar or chocolates. It can help in boosting energy as you hike. Bring extra shirt or shorts. Also, bring some shade of protection such as a hat or a raincoat in case it rains. A phone can also be a useful tool for directions but its power will not last forever, so I recommend you to bring ample power banks, and it might break if you drop it. If you are not familiar with your trail, it is always better to bring a map and a compass. Having a digital and hard copy will give you options. Bringing first aid is a must in hikes. You wouldn't know what will happen to you. In case of emergency, you know you are ready.
Let somebody else know – if you are hiking alone, take the time to email or call somebody and let him know where you will be and that you’ll be hiking and when you expect to be back. In case of emergency, people will know where to start to look for you.
Be respectful of the place - "Leave Nothing but Footprints. Take Nothing but Pictures. Kill Nothing but Time" - as a beginner, you should know these lines. If ever you have trash don't just loiter it anywhere. You bring it on the trail, you throw it in a trashcan. Also most beginners I saw don't use stoves when they are cooking on the trail. They rather put up a fire which is very bad. You may start wildfires with it. So as a beginner be mindful of that. As Leonardo De Caprio's Oscar's speech said, "Let us not take this planet for granted".
I think this guide is a great way to start a hike. Hopeful as an aspiring hiker, these will help you. I am also a beginner and I want to learn as I travel. So if any of you have comments, and suggestions, feel free to write it below.