The Ultimate Guide to Hiking for Beginners
Hiking for beginners
Hiking is a great way to get exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and explore new places. It's also a relatively easy activity to get started with, even if you're not in great physical shape. There's plenty of walks that are suitable for all levels to get you off the mark.
I've done plenty of hikes over the years and have always relied upon preparation to help me enjoy the day to the maximum. Especially as now-a-days a lot of my hikes involve carrying a fridge too.
1am on the side of Helvellyn
Contents:
- Introduction
- What to wear
- What to pack
- Choosing a hike
- Hiking tips
- Additional tips for beginners
- Summary
Introduction
This is the first in a series of guides we are working on, based on a beginners view of different activities. In this one we focus on the basics of hiking and what everyone should be aware of before setting off on your first adventure.
It needn't be a daunting experience and doesn't take much preparation to ensure you are ready. Starting off with the basics will mean that you can enjoy your time, knowing you should have everything you need.
The beautiful view from Haystacks
What to Wear
The most important thing to wear when hiking is comfortable shoes or boots. You'll also want to wear clothes that are appropriate for the weather and the terrain you'll be hiking on.
- Shoes or boots: Hiking shoes or boots provide support and traction on uneven terrain. They should fit snugly but not too tightly. Wear them around the house or on a few short walks to make sure they don't rub and you can get used to them before your first hike.
- Socks: Wear socks that are appropriate for the temperature and wool socks will help to prevent blisters. There are plenty of options out there and a good pair are worth the investment. You need your feet to be comfortable or you wont enjoy it at all.
- Trousers: Long ones are a good idea to protect your legs all year round from the sun, midges, brambles and other things that you may come across. However, you don't want to overheat and a pair of shorts is a great way to cool off in the hot summer months.
- Top: A long-sleeved top is ideal for sun protection and in the cooler months plenty of layers will keep you warm. Something comfortable around the shoulders if you're wearing a rucksack too.
- Hat: A hat can help keep the sun out of your eyes and face. It's great protection in the summer and can in the winter a woolly hat will do a great job at keeping you warm.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. There may not be much cover where you're going and you don't want to get burnt while you're out there.
- Be prepared: Just because the weather is fine at the start, doesn't mean that it will be all day. Many a time the clouds have rolled in on us and the water proofs have come out. Pack for all eventualities.
@welsh_scrambler well equipped in the snow
What to Pack
In addition to wearing the right clothes, you'll also need to pack a few essentials for your hike.
- Water: Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days. A good rule of thumb is to bring one litre of water for every two hours of hiking. There are plenty of ways to carry it. A simple bottle works well, or you can use a water pouch for your rucksack. These make carrying it a lot easier and slip inside most back compartments with a handy tube to drink from. It means you don't even have to stop to take your pack off if you get thirsty.
- Food: Pack snacks and/or lunch to keep your energy up. Trail mix, energy bars, flapjacks and sandwiches are all good options. We've all got some favourites that we like to pack. Just remember you have to carry it all with you until it's eaten!
- First-aid kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit in case of minor injuries. Lets hope that you never need to use it.
- Map and compass: If you're hiking in an unfamiliar area, be sure to bring a map and compass. Plan ahead and make yourself familiar with the route and surrounding areas.
- Essentials: It doesn't hurt to pack for all eventualities and some wipes or loo roll might just come in handy. Don't forget to take some small plastic bags for your rubbish too. There's not many bins out there and you need to take your rubbish with you.
- Flashlight: If you're hiking late in the day or at night, be sure to bring a flashlight or head torch. Make sure the batteries have been charged before you set off too.
@welsh_scrambler with his climbing gear
Choosing a Hike
When choosing a hike, it's important to consider your fitness level and experience. If you're a beginner, start with an easy hike that's less than 5 miles long. As you get more experience, you can gradually increase the length and difficulty of your hikes. Invest in a good book with routes of the area you will be going to, and plan ahead. Phones are great but you can't beat a map book for reliability when you're in the middle of nowhere. Ensure that you know everything from where to park, to where the route leads and how long it might take.
Books like this one are a great way to start and ones that we have used many time over the years. You can get them online and in the various shops you'll find when in places like the Lake District. Don't worry, I'm not on commission.
https://shop.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/lake-district-pathfinder-walks-guidebook
Hiking Tips
Here are a few extra tips for hiking safely and enjoyably:
- Start early: It's best to start your hike early in the morning, especially on hot days.
- Take breaks: Don't try to push yourself too hard. Take breaks as needed to rest and hydrate. Enjoy the scenery and countryside views on your route.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the trail and any potential hazards, such as loose rocks or steep cliffs. I've turned an ankle once or twice over the years!
- Leave no trace: Pack up all of your rubbish and leave the countryside as you found it.
@deas_adventures on top of another peak
Hiking is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable hike.
Additional Tips for Beginners
- Hike with a friend or family members: It's always more fun to hike with someone else. Plus, it's safer to hike with someone in case of an emergency.
- Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back: This way, someone can come looking for you if you don't return on time.
- Be aware of the weather conditions: Don't hike in extreme weather conditions, such as lightning storms or heavy rain. The hills will always be there tomorrow if the weathers too bad.
- Bring a charged mobile phone: In case of an emergency, you'll be able to call for help. Make sure that you know the emergency numbers of the local support teams or mountain rescue.
- Take a back up battery pack: In the cold batteries die quickly so always be prepared for this and take a spare battery cell/charging pack, and charging cables.
- Take pictures: You're going to see some amazing scenery while you're out but just remember to take care when you're looking through the lens or at your phone. You don't want to trip or fall while getting that picture for the scrap book or social media post.
Skiddaw trig point
Summary
I hope this guide has helped answer some of the questions you may have had, and it helps you get started with hiking. It might be the start of a great new hobby. Let us know how you get on and keep your eyes open for our next instalment.
Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions. We always love hearing from our community.
Have fun and be safe!
Matthew