How to Get Started with Hiking: Beginner Tips

Hiking can seem intimidating if you are like me and don’t exercise regularly or spend most of your time sitting in a 9-5 job with not much activity. If you are looking for a new hobby and are interested in hiking, you may find yourself wondering where to start. I know I did. When I started doing my research, I noticed a lot of articles were geared to intermediate or seasoned hikers. They didn’t really touch into things a newbie would need to know. So to help all hiking newcomers, I want to dive into how to get started hiking with some beginner tips.

Where to Hike

Depending on where you live, you may be surprised on how many trails are around you. You can start off close to home or if you have specific landscape interests, you can google trails with those features. I, personally, am a fan of waterfalls, however, there are trails for mountain overlooks, historical areas and landmarks. You can also find trails that are rich in flora and fauna. National Parks are also a great place to find trails. Examples are Shenandoah National Park, Yellowstone National Park or Yosemite.

As a hiking newbie, there are a few things that need to be taken in to consideration when you are doing your research and picking your first hiking trail(s).

When to Hike

Trails are going to hit you differently depending on the season and climate of the area. In the summer, it may be best to go earlier in the morning so you can beat the heat and hike while it is a little cooler. Spring may be rainy so make sure to account for potential issues like muddy trails, higher water levels on trails that require going through creeks or brooks, or slippery rocks. Fall is a great time for hiking due to the cooler weather and is definitely one of my favorite times. Finally, winter, if your in a climate that is true to it’s seasons, it is just going to be cold. There may be snow or ice on the ground that will require extra caution.

Things to Know About the Hiking Trail

Are you ready to start researching trails? Here are things to note when planning your first hike.

1. Where: Are you hiking locally or traveling? Will you need accommodation? How far is the closest hotels/towns from the trail? Most likely as a newbie, you are going to be day hiking. If you are traveling to a new area, you want to make sure you know where you are staying, how long to get there and get back. Be familiar with the local resources for help should something happen requiring emergency assistance. Make sure to check travel time to your trail. Trails could be 10 miles from your hotel but take 45 minutes to get to, and trust me, it’s a bummer if you didn’t know beforehand.
2. When: I mentioned earlier the different seasons can bring different considerations when hiking. Make sure you are dressed appropriately. In cooler/cold weather, you may want to dress in layers so you have the opportunity to remove articles of clothing if you do get hot.
3. Distance: How long is the trail? Where does the trail start and stop? If you are just starting out, an eight-mile trail probably isn’t ideal, especially if it is in mountainous terrain, the trail quality is poor or it is considered a difficult trail. It is also important to note if the trail circles in a loop or if it is there and back. There are trails that start in one location and do not end where you started. If this is the case, you may need to figure out how you are getting back to your vehicle/transportation. I can vouch for how disappointing it is to go on a trail and realize your car is another half mile -mile away when you get to the end. The trail was already a bit longer than I expected and I had been counting down mile markers to the end. Remember I am a newbie too, so although I was proud and happy to complete the trail, my legs protested walking to my car. 🙂
4. Trail Quality & Difficulty: Check to see what the terrain or trail quality is, i.e. is it paved, dirt path, rocky. Is your trail on flatland, mountain, sand? You want to make sure your footwear accommodates the trail. Also, be prepared for the difficulty. Keep in mind that distance and difficulty both should be considered when researching a trail. A three and a half mile hike on a paved, or well packed dirt path, that is considered easy will be a lot different from a one and a half mile hike on rocky terrain with exposed roots with a moderate difficulty rating. Even though one trail is shorter, there is a good chance it is going to take much more effort to complete than the longer one. One last thing, check to see if your trail requires you to cross through or over water. These can be some really fun trails but it is nice to know what to expect when you are first starting out.
5. Admissions/Donations: Check your trail for admission costs. Costs can vary by person or vehicle. Note if they take cash only or have additional payment methods. Some trails, especially state parks, will have an area when you enter the park to pay admission on the honor system. Please be mindful that these parks are available for your enjoyment and don’t try to skip out on paying the fee. It generally is not much, between $3-$5 a car or person. There are usually envelopes with a stub you can tear off. Put your fee in the envelope and place it in the box/receptacle provided. Check out the state park’s website to get more information on the fees for their trails. Finally, some trails may not charge a fee but ask for a donation. Please consider giving a small donation, especially if you have enjoyed the trail.

Essential Items To Bring on the Trail

Before going on my first couple hikes, I did research on what to bring. I googled recommendations and advice and than went on to ignore at least half of it. I am here to tell you, don’t ignore the advice.

1. Bring a back pack: I started out with a drawstring bag. For short, easy hikes, this was great because I could carry some snacks, my keys/identification, small first aid kit and my water bottle. For longer or more difficult hikes though, this was just not comfortable. Having a good backpack that can distribute weight and has a strap to secure it to your waist/chest is ideal. Especially if you may have to climb over rocks. You want the backpack to be secure and not cause move side to side causing unbalance.
2. Water/Snacks: First and foremost, always bring water. Many trails will not have drinkable water. Get yourself a nice water bottle that is lightweight and can hold plenty of water for your hike. I do want to mention to stay hydrated PRIOR to hiking. Also, when hiking, take sips throughout your hike and try to avoid chugging. REMEMBER the snacks! Bring items like protein bars, jerky, trail mix or granola or any snacks that you would enjoy and that will weather the trip in your backpack. As always – any trash you bring on the trail with you, comes back with you. Please do not litter.
3. First Aid Kit: Believe it or not, this is essential. I used my first aid kit on my second hike. I was making my way over rock steps and got to the top and realized I had scraped and cut my leg. Nothing that an alcoholic wipe, antiseptic and a band aid couldn’t fix which I happily had on hand!
4. Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Always have both with you. Bug Spray is definitely the first thing I’m thinking about when I’m about to head into the woods.  Bug Spray with Deet will help against ticks.
5. Knife/Swiss Army Knife/Multi-tool: It is always good to be prepared. I haven’t had to use my knife yet but I’m definitely not leaving it behind.

Happy Hiking

I hope you find these tips useful in preparing for your first hike. I am excited for you and would love to hear about your adventures. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below!

See you on the Trail,

Michelle Louise

hikingnewbies.com