Nature has so much to offer. Not only does it offer some of the most beautiful landscapes we can enjoy, it is also imperative for our health and happiness. Getting out into wildlife and away from the city is the best medicine for everyone, which is why hiking trips can be so beneficial to our physical and mental health. Planning a successful hiking trip, however, requires planning. The last thing you want to do is go out into the wilderness without adequate preparation, which is why you need to follow these four steps to ensure your next trip is a huge success:
Choose the Best People to Go With
The first thing to planning a successful hiking trip is to go with the right people. The last thing you want is to bring an inexperienced hiker with you, for example, on a multi-day long hike. There are two ways you can choose people to go with you. One, by choosing the hike or hikes you want to do. That way you can go with people who are experienced enough and interested enough to go with you. The other way is to choose the hike based on who is going, so that everyone can enjoy it. Communication is key here, so everyone knows that they are getting into before they go.
Choose The Best Trail for You
Choosing the best trail will depend on many different factors, including:
- How long you want to hike for
- Your experience level
- Where you are hiking
If you are hiking in a national park like Bryce Canyon, for example, it is wise to find the closest lodging in Bryce Canyon to use as your base camp. That way you can enjoy several different routes and enjoy the park as much as you can. If you are hiking in a local area near you, however, choosing one hike can be more than enough.
Know Where and How to Get a Hiking Permit or to Pay Admission
Depending on the type of park there may or may not be an admission fee or permit you will need to pay for. What this fee does is it pays for the maintenance for the paths you use, and is therefore very important. Sometimes you will need to pay for this pass at the park entrance, other times you will need to pick it up from elsewhere and display it on your vehicle dashboard. Know in advance, so you don’t end up being fined.
Get Your Hiking Gear
Next, all that is left is to bring the right gear and equipment. Good shoes you have broken in are a great place to start. If you don’t have specific hiking clothes, wear layers so you can adjust to the temperature, and bring other necessities like sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water and protein snacks to keep you going.
Hiking is a great way to get exercise, experience the most beautiful sights in nature, and bond with your friends or family. By preparing in advance and ensuring everyone going knows what to expect, you can minimize issues and enjoy a successful hiking trip.
Tammie~