9 Tips for Planning the Perfect Hiking Trip
Ray Cogan
Whether you’re looking to take a break from the stress of everyday life, or just immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, taking a hike could be the solution.
If you’ve never hiked before, don’t let that deter you. One of the best things about hiking is there’s no experience or expensive gear required to get started. All you need is some time, a sense of adventure and a little bit of preparation.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, make sure to follow CDC guidelines for outdoor recreation such as avoiding crowded parks and maintaining at least 6 feet of social distance between others. That said, a hike in the fresh air could be just the thing to lift your spirits when you get stir crazy.
Ready to hit the trail? Here are 9 tips to help:
- Know your route. The first step of a great hiking trip is choosing your trail. Chances are you can find a trail nearby that will make for a great day hike. But if you’re looking for a multi-day trip or impressive scenery, you may want to travel to a state or national park. (Some parks might be closed due to coronavirus restrictions, so make sure to check before you go.) Websites like REI’s Hiking Project let you search nearby trails and read reviews too, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
- Choose the right shoes.
Footwear can make the difference between an enjoyable hike and hours of pain. For relatively flat and easy trails, a pair of running shoes should do. But if you’re tackling rough and rocky terrain, you’ll appreciate the ankle support offered by a high-top hiking boot. Whatever you choose, prevent blisters by making sure your shoes fit right and are well broken in.
- Play it Safe. When going for a hike, safety should be a top priority. Hike with a partner from your household if you can, keeping social distancing guidelines in mind. Be sure to let someone else know of your hiking plans. It’s a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary in the car, too – just in case a search and rescue crew would need to find you. There are also plenty of outdoor apps available that can provide everything from first aid tips to GPS tracking.
- Dress in layers. Weather can be unpredictable when you’re hiking – especially at higher elevations. Always check the forecast right before you leave, and dress accordingly. Wearing multiple layers can help keep you comfortable throughout the day by adding and removing clothing.
- Be prepared. Just like the weather, nature can be unpredictable. So even if you’re only planning a short day hike, it’s good to be prepared. Carry some essentials like water, snacks, matches, a flashlight, a pocket knife and a small first aid kit. Hopefully you won’t need these items. But if anything unexpected happens, you’ll be glad you brought them along.
- Get in shape. Preparing for a hike takes more than packing a bag. You’ll also want to prepare yourself physically. Before your trip, step up your cardio by walking or running to get in shape. Exercises like squats and steps can prepare your legs, while planks and situps help strengthen your core.
- Know your limits. When you’re choosing a hiking trail, it’s best to start small. Pay close attention to the difficulty rating of your chosen trail and be realistic about your limits. An average hiking pace is about 3 miles per hour, but you’ll need to add an hour for every 1,000 feet of increased elevation. Remember, choosing a hike with too much distance or elevation can leave you sore – or worse, stranded.
- Pack light. It’s important to be prepared, but a heavy backpack can make hiking feel like a chore. Avoid overpacking by sticking to the essentials and saving weight where possible. For example, a travel-size tube of sunscreen is a better choice than its full-size counterpart. And if you’re hiking alongside a clean water source like a creek or river, you can filter water instead of carrying it all on your back. Read tips for filtering water from the American Hiking Society.
- Know the rules. Every park and trail has its own set of rules. Do your homework before your hike so you know what’s allowed. All hiking areas will ask you to follow “leave no trace” principles. This means leaving the hiking area as you found it and packing out all of your trash. Most parks prohibit feeding wildlife, and there will be additional rules on camping, straying from marked trails and building campfires.
Hiking offers amazing opportunities to experience nature while spending some quality time with friends and family. Follow these tips, and you’ll be all set to plan a perfect hike with the people you love.
At Erie Insurance, we know planning is smart... but life is rarely predictable. That’s why we’re with you on the journey, for whatever’s in store. Your local ERIE agent is flexible when circumstances change, steady when the unexpected happens, capable when help is needed and optimistic about what the future holds. Contact us today to ensure your home – and everything it stands for – is protected .
The post 9 Tips for Planning the Perfect Hiking Trip appeared first on Lindquist Insurance.
At Lindquist Insurance, we’re here to help you with your car insurance now and in the future. If you're thinking about switching your car insurance and live in Frederick, Annapolis, or Washington, DC, now is the perfect time to reach out. At Lindquist Insurance, our friendly local agents make the process simple, fast, and tailored to you. We’ll compare top providers, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way.
Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote.
We serve the Frederick, MD, Annapolis, MD, and Washington, D.C. areas.
At Lindquist Insurance, we’ll work to find a policy that fits your needs and your budget — without sacrificing the coverage you need to drive confidently. If you're a first-time driver in Frederick, Annapolis, or anywhere around the Washington, DC, Beltway, the right car insurance is your first step toward confident driving. At Lindquist Insurance, we know the roads, the risks, and how to protect what matters most to you.
Let us help you navigate your options, answer your questions, and find a policy that fits you perfectly. Whether you're commuting to school, work, or just exploring Maryland’s scenic backroads, we’ve got your back. Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote today. Let’s make your first car insurance experience smooth, simple, and stress-free — the way it should be.
We serve the Frederick, MD; Annapolis, MD; and Washington, D.C. areas.
Let Lindquist Insurance help you lower your insurance costs while maintaining the protection you need. We understand the unique driving challenges in the DMV, and we’re here to help you find coverage that fits your lifestyle, no matter what your age. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you to the best car insurance policy for your needs.
We serve the Annapolis, MD, Fredrick, MD, and Washington, D.C. area.
Can you get car insurance in Frederick and surrounding areas with a poor driving record? Learn what you need to know about getting insurance with a less-than-perfect driving record.
Your insurance agent in Frederick plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your valuables and ensuring that your cherished possessions and loved ones are well-protected.
Our insurance agency located in Frederick can help couples safeguard their assets, protect their loved ones, and ensure financial stability. Contact Lindquist Insurance today!
Our insurance agent based in Frederick can help you achieve financial stability and peace of mind. Protect what you have, prepare for the unexpected, and build a plan for the future.
As an insurance agency in Frederick, we think January is a perfect time to review your policies. Make sure that you have the right insurance coverage for the year ahead.
Check with your insurance agent, in Frederick, about coverage for the holiday season. From theft to accidental damages, the holidays can bring surprises that aren’t always pleasant.
Share On: