Hiking
allows people to escape the civilized world briefly,
taking you into the wild. As you enter the trail head
, you leave behind you your car, electricity, plumbing
etc. All of the modern devices we as humans have created
to make life easier. But as we leave those things behind,
you can find yourself more in tune with nature and empowered
- for it is your legs which motors you up to the summit.
1) Leave early: While our bodies don't always want to
rise at the crack of dawn, leaving early in the morning
for your hike offers many benefits. You should plan
on leaving early, and plan to return to your camp by
3pm. This way you have a few hours leeway before the
sun sets, in case your trip is prolonged. Be aware of
when the Sun rises and when the sun sets.
2) Water: Having enough water with you, and drinking
the proper amount is paramount. Dehydration is very
common with hikers, and it not only can make your trip
uncomfortable (headaches etc.), but can be dangerous
to your health. Be aware of your surroundings and where
water is available to you along your trip. If there
isn't any water along your trip, you must prepare to
carry it with you...
3) Maps & Directions: Getting lost is something
you don't want to deal with, but it happens. Make sure
you prepare for your trip before you go, examine and
bring detailed maps of the area, and be observant to
your landmarks. While hiking picture in your mind where
you are, and estimate when & where your next landmarks
is. Bringing a GPS unit can be very helpful but don't
rely on it. Many trails have markers, learn how to read
the markers and understand what they mean. Talk with
other hikers along the way, they can give you important
information about what is ahead...
