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Do you ever feel the need to get outdoors and have an adventure, but don't know how to start? Here are some ways to keep your adventure fun and safe!
Plan Your Route
Guidebooks, websites and apps all have great suggestions for routes near you. You can also ask friends or local hiking organizations about their favorite trails.
Things you should consider when you plan your route...
How much time do you have?
How far do you want to go?
Is the trail a loop (circle) or will you hike out and back?
How fit are you?
How much elevation gain is there?
What will the weather be?
How will you get to and from the start of the trail?
Quiz
James hasn't worked out for several years, and he only feels comfortable walking for about an hour. James should...
Hiking is NOT a competitive sport. You don't need to be the fastest or the strongest, you just need to find a trail suitable for your ability.
Did you know?
Find A Buddy
If you have an outdoorsy friend, ask them to take you hiking. If you don't know anyone who hikes, you can join a group.
Look for hikes organized by...
Local hiking groups
Outdoor gear stores
Social sites like Meetup or Facebook
If you decide to hike alone, start on a popular and well-marked trail that is within your ability.
Always tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back!
Pack Your Gear
Even if you are hiking with experienced hikers, you should be prepared with your own supplies.
At minimum, you should bring...
A day pack
Layers appropriate for the weather
Comfortable shoes
Plenty of water (at least 1 liter)
Plenty of food
GPS or map & compass
Pocket knife or multi-tool
First aid supplies
Quiz
Tom will be hiking about 7 miles in warm weather on a moderate trail. Which shoes should he wear?
Steel-toed boots will be heavy and not necessary for most trails. If he does have hiking boots, he should break them in first to prevent blisters. Most sandals do not have thick enough soles for hiking.
Did you know?
Be A Good Citizen On The Trail
By being respectful on the trail, everyone can enjoy the area for years to come. When out on the trails, remember...
Keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Downhill hikers should (usually) yield to uphill hikers.
Stay on the trail — cutting across or making new trails damages the soil.
Other trail users get outside to be away from noise — shouting and playing music is considered rude when there are others around.
Don't litter. This includes toilet paper, apple cores/banana peels, and gum.
Quiz
Jaime loves to hike with their dog. What should they do with the poo?
Dog poo should NOT be left in a bag beside the trail, and even 'natural' garbage like banana peels or apple cores, or 'gross' garbage like toilet paper, should be thrown away in a trash can.
Take Action
You're ready to hike! Make sure to...
This Byte has been authored by
D'Jeane Peters
Creative, Cross Cultural ID and HPT Practitioner
This Byte has been reviewed by
Dila Kavame
MD, MSc