Getting Start Hiking | Essential Hiking Guide For Beginners
by WILLIT Sports on Jul 23, 2024
Reading time: about 5 minutes
Embarking on your maiden voyage into the realm of hiking, you embark on a journey that's as exhilarating as it is serene. With each step, you'll discover a world of wonders that only nature can unravel – verdant forests whispering secrets, towering mountains challenging your limits, and sparkling streams leading the way to uncharted adventures.
Maybe you've been looking forward to a great hiking trip, but don't know where to start. Maybe you are eager to hiking, but you are afraid of the unknown, and you give up repeatedly because you are afraid of complexity.
This beginner’s hiking guide serves as your compass, navigating you through the thrills and trials of hiking. We will answer the most common questions asked by all hiking beginners, to ensuring your first forays into the great outdoors are nothing short of magical. So lace up your boots, pack light but wisely, and let's embark on an expedition that will forever change the way you see the world.
What hiking gears do I need?
If you are a novice, or just an amateur, there are many items that don't need to be purchased brand new at great cost. Rent them or browse second-hand websites is a good choice. Keep in mind, no one wants to burden themselves with a long trek carrying a huge package. So, we only need to bring the necessary things as follows:
- Hiking boots
- Backpack
- Water&high-energy snacks: Energy bars, instant oatmeal, sandwiches, dried fruit
- Navigation tools: map, compass, GPS device
- First aid kit: bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic, pain relievers, anti-allergic medication
- Layers of clothing
- Sun protection tool: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sun-protective clothing
- Emergency communications: cell phone (with backup battery and/or portable charger), whistle
- Rain gear: raincoat and umbrella
How should I dress for hiking?
When it comes to hiking, selecting the appropriate hiking outfit is crucial for comfort, safety, and performance. Here are some key points to consider when choosing your hiking outfits:
1. Layering
Start with a base layer made of moisture-wicking material like synthetic fibers or wool to keep you dry. Add a mid-layer for insulation in colder weather, and finish with a water-repellent outer layer to protect against rain or wind.
Hiking Base layer:
2. Comfortable and sturdy pants
Trails have twists and turns, so you need to move freely. Opt for loose-fitting hiking trousers or hiking shorts with four-way stretch that allows for full range of motion.
Hiking Joggers:
Hiking Shorts:
3. Breathable Fabrics
Choose fabrics that allow sweat to evaporate quickly, such as polyester or nylon. These materials help keep you cool and comfortable.
Hiking Shirt:
4. Sun Protection
Wear clothing that covers your skin to protect against harmful UV rays. Darker colors and fabrics with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) ratings are ideal. Especially in summer hiking, sun protection can not be ignored. By the way, you can read our previous article for more information on what to pay special attention to when hiking in summer: 7 Essential Hiking Safety Tips in Summer.
Hiking Sun protection jacket:
Hiking UPF+ Hoodie:
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Women's Sun Protection Hiking Hoodie Long Sleeve with Face Mask
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Men's Sun Protection Hiking Hoodie Long Sleeve with Face Mask
5. Durability
Select clothing that can withstand the wear and tear of hiking, including snags from tree branches and bushes. Look for reinforced seams and sturdy materials that won't tear easily.
6. Appropriate Footwear
Depending on the length and terrain of your hike, choose between trekking shoes (for long-distance or rugged terrain), backpacking boots (for shorter distances with heavy packs), or hiking shoes (for lightweight, short hikes). Ensure your shoes have good grip, support, and cushioning.
7. Hiking Accessories
Don't forget about essentials like hiking socks (to prevent blisters), a backpack (for carrying water, snacks, and other gear), and a first aid kit. Consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from scratches or cold weather.
How to choose a safe hiking trail?
Who doesn't want to find fun, safe and scenic hiking trails? However, for a novice hiker, safety is the number one factor you should consider. So it is important to research the safest hiking trail beforehand, including difficulty level, length, and any potential hazards. Assess your ability and skill level when reading the hiking trail description.
Hiking Trail Ratings
Easy: walking with no obstacles and low grades
Intermediate: 10% grade, small rocks and roots, easy scrambling
Difficult: 15% grade, large obstacles, possible scrambling or climbing
Extremely Difficult: 20% grade, 15+" obstacles, many harder sections
The Safest Hiking Trail In The United States
1.Pacific Crest Trail
2.Yosemite National Park
3.Grand Canyon National Park
4.Appalachian Trail
Get More Information
1.National Park Service
2.U.S. Forest Service
3.Outdoor adventure websites and forums: Backpackers and Youxiake
4.If the choices on the internet are too much, consider going to a local bookstore, outdoor outfitter, joining a local FB group, and finding trails for where you’re looking to go.
What should I know about hiking precautions and safety tips?
Previous Preparation
1.Fully understand the terrain, climate, difficulty and other information of the hiking route, and choose the route that suits your physical strength and experience.
2.Make a detailed trip plan, including departure time, route, estimated arrival time, rest point, set reasonable goals, do not blindly pursue speed and distance, to avoid overexertion.
3.Let someone know your hiking plans, including route, estimated time, and when to expect you back.
Precautions During The Hike
1.Replenish water and energy regularly during the hike to avoid dehydration and hypoglycemia.
2.Comply with local environmental protection regulations, do not litter, do not destroy vegetation and wildlife habitat. Respect local customs and cultural traditions.
3.Do not walk alone, try to walk with a partner, in order to look out for each other.
Post-Hike Recovery
For quick energy recovery after hiking, you can find more details in our previous article: Recharge Your Battery: A Guide to Post-Hike Recovery
Special Situations
1.If you get lost, don't be panic, stay calm and try to remember your route. Use a map and compass to locate and look for obvious landmarks or paths. If you can't find a way out, you can stay where you are and wait for help or send a distress signal.
2.If you are injured during the walking process, simple treatment should be carried out in time, such as hemostasis and bandaging. If the injury is serious or cannot be handled by yourself, contact rescuers in time and wait for help.
3.You may encounter wild animals on your hike, so stay calm and avoid disturbing them. Do not randomly feed or tease wild animals, so as to avoid potential danger.
4.More specific challenges and approaches you must to know: Safety Hints for Hiking: Useful Approaches to Overcome Potential Hiking Challenges.
