Summer Season

Take a Hike – 5 Things To Bring Along

A great way to get exercise is by hiking. You can customize your hike to be as strenuous or easy as possible. Take a walk in the woods, stroll through a scenic path, or check out a hiking trail with a little more to it. Whatever you choose, there are some super important things to remember for your health and safety.   

You were going out the door with your cell phone and planning on using the GPS, weren't you?  

Yes, I have been guilty of this as well. Who does anything without their cell phone? While it is a source of music and communication, it does have its limitations.  

The National Park Service reminds us that there are a lot of things that you should remember about your cell phone, and these are the top 5: 

1. Don't rely on your phone as a flashlight  
2. Never use it as a map! 
3. It is not a survival kit  
4. Reception, reception, reception!  
5. You’re going to bring it, so make sure it is CHARGED to 100% 

Suddenly, taking a hike became much more complicated, didn't it? It's really all in how you look at it.  

So how do we do this the right way? 

Here's your plan

• Know your limitations. Pick an area that you are familiar with at first. You can always venture out to places far away when you are more experienced. Trust me; you won't have a good time if the hike you picked becomes treacherous a mile in. Many websites and apps provide details and reviews about hiking trails specific to your area.   
• Hike with a buddy. You know the old saying, "Never swim alone"? That phrase is also true when it comes to hiking. If you want to get out there and spend some alone time with yourself, make sure someone knows where you are. This is a good idea, even if you plan to hike with another person or a group.  
• Weather Up. It sounds like a no-brainer, but you wouldn't believe how many hikers have gotten into trouble, sometimes with devastating consequences, because they didn't check the weather. If you are planning a hike, looking at the forecast should be at the top of your plan.  
• Be a Fashionista. OK, well, not really! I was trying to find a clever way to say bring a hoodie or something to protect you from the elements if things become...elemental. 

What To Bring  

There's a reason for that backpack. So, make sure you stock it with some essentials. Here's a list of some things to never leave home without:  

• Water – again, another no-brainer, but you would be surprised at how many hikers have thought that carrying water was a burden...until they wished they didn't think that way. Also, make sure you bring enough! If you're planning a long hike, you'll want to make sure you don't become dehydrated as you go along.   
• Food – They don't call it "Trail Mix" for nothing! You wouldn't drive your car with an empty tank of gas. For the same reason, you won't get far. This is a big problem if you're way into your hike and need a boost. Protein bars don't take up a lot of room. Throw that bag of Trail Mix we talked about into your backpack. Whatever it is, make sure to have some healthy fuel with you.   
• Hiking shoes – Think about your hike before you head out the door and look at the shoes you will be wearing. Do they offer support? Protection? Do they fit right? Are they comfortable? You want to answer these questions before heading out the door.   
• Bug Spray – Whether you are a mosquito target or they don't really bother with you, bring along the bug spray. If you are out for a while, make sure to respray. Ticks are rampant in the woods and on hiking trails, and so are those other biting insects that are so wonderfully absent in the winter.   
• Sunscreen- Another thing we tend to forget is that even though you may be under the cover of a canopy of trees, you are still exposed to UV rays. Apply sunscreen at home and toss it in your backpack to reapply later.   

While these tips can make your hike a lot more enjoyable, there are other things you will need if you are planning a long or overnight hike. Don't take anything for granted. Make sure to plan every detail so you can be sure to be a safe and healthy hiker.  

 

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