Learn Good Hiking Skills

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Learn Good Hiking Skills

Last Sunday we were hiking with a bigger group of friends with an experienced hiker. Since Basia kept up with the leader she got a very unique opportunity to observe and ask him questions. He patiently and almost enthusiastically shared his knowledge and gradually engaged her in looking for signs and predictions for the next step. She absorbed it all like a sponge. To my surprise she has memorized lots of hiking hints.

We had remarkable hiking and family time. Check the photos and video:

https://goo.gl/photos/SAgepyfF96FYkWL78

https://goo.gl/photos/eAahu13kCwhavfmp7

Since navigation skills are extremely important for hikers and backpackers we are going to study them thoroughly at home. Check how to navigatewith map and compass.

Hiking Hints:

Hike in a group before you learn enough to be independent.
Leave your hike plan with someone back home.
Take a photo ID, insurance card, and credit card on the trail.
Have a good map and read it scrupulously.
Dress in layers; wear comfy clothing and shoes.
Use sunscreen and a hat to prevent sunburn, even on cloudy or cold days.
Pack lightly.
Always carry first aid kit, water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, flashlight, supplies to start a fire, jackknife, and string.
Replace consumed items after each hike.
Keep your pack organized and put items back where you expect to find them.
Keep yourself and your gear dry. Put items in zip-loc baggies, sleeping bag in heavy-duty plastic garbage bag, clothes in waterproof bags.
Drink often to stay hydrated.
Snack often to keep your energy level up rather than waiting for a big lunch meal.
Follow the leader but always stay alert.
Let the slower person set the pace.
Keep pace. Learn the basic pacing, resting, and rhythm skills for an enjoyable hike. Tortoise rather than hare.
It helps to focus on positive thoughts, rather than how exhausted you feel. Repeat a mantra or positive expression to yourself over and over.
To decrease the gradient on very steep ascents, consider zigzagging rather than going straight up.
Try to keep your breaks short and regular rather than long and occasional. This allows less time for the muscles to stiffen up, thus making it easier to get going again.
Regularly make small adjustments to your pack’s harness, hip belt, shoulder and stabilizer straps.
If your hands swell while hiking, raise them. Hold onto your pack shoulder strap for a while and see how that helps.
You can hold onto long sticks to support your steps.
Follow – “Leave No Trace” ethics.
Don't create cairns, tree blazes, or any other sign to mark the trail. Pay special attention to the impact you have on the environment. You may be surprised how a little care can make a big difference for many years to come. Learn how to minimize the effects of your passing through the land.