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Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities loved by kids and adults alike. It not only lets you spend time with nature and your family but also serves as a great exercise for those who need it. But there’s a common misconception about hiking that it’s only about walking outside. Like a mere walk in the park. And that is not true at all.
People can make mistakes and find themselves in a problematic situation. Sometimes hikers don’t bring enough water and emergency gear with them. They get lost and are ill-prepared for the weather. That is why it doesn’t take long for a short fun hike to take a turn for the worse. But these common mistakes are preventable. Planning ahead and doing some research can help you better prepare yourself. Plus, knowing your stuff before you begin hiking will always ensure a successful trip.
Let’s take a look at 10 common hiking mistakes that you’re making without even realizing it.
1) Choosing a trail beyond your physical ability
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Know your body and your limitation. Most of us think of hiking as a way to get our workout, which is fine for the most part. But hiking on trails that are beyond your physical ability is not something any hiker should do. You’ll only make way for a disaster to take place especially if it’s your first time hiking.
Make sure to set a time limit. Pay attention to the degree of difficulty of the trail you choose. You don’t want to put your body under too much stress by trying to cover the entire distance for a limited time. Take it slow. Increase the length of time of your hike and intensity of your chosen trail only after your body is ready. This way you won’t compromise your safety.
Do not rush into doing strenuous trails right away. If you’re not prepared to cope with the physical and mental stress, it can be disastrous. And it might even put your life in danger.
2) Forgetting the essentials
You can read this “The Modern Hiking Essentials” article if you want to learn more about must-have hiking essentials.
3) Wearing the wrong shoes
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Good quality hiking boots are an investment. What you wear on your feet can make or break a hiking trip. Your feet support your entire body so it’s crucial to have the proper footwear when you go on a hike. Hiking in flip flops, open toe shoes, high heels are a definite no-no. This type of footwear is not designed for hiking. It can cause blisters, twisted ankles, discomfort, pain, and even injury.
You should instead choose hiking boots that are sturdy and well-fitted. The right hiking footwear must also have built-in quality material that can last long. Also, don’t use a new pair for your hike the very next day after you buy them. Make sure that you break it in before you set off as it can lead to blistering and scarring.
4) Ignoring Weather Forecasts
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Weather can significantly impact your hiking experience, and failing to check the forecast can lead to unexpected challenges. Conditions in the mountains can change rapidly, with sudden rain, snow, or temperature drops. Ignoring the forecast might leave you unprepared for adverse weather, making your hike less enjoyable or even dangerous.
To avoid this mistake, always check the weather forecast for your hike’s location before setting out. Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, such as rain gear and layers for warmth. Be prepared to turn back if weather conditions deteriorate unexpectedly, and stay informed about any weather warnings or changes during your hike.
5) Starting Too Late
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Starting your hike too late in the day can be risky, especially if you underestimate how long it will take to complete. This mistake can lead to hiking in the dark, which increases the risk of accidents and makes navigation difficult. Additionally, starting late may cause you to rush, detracting from the enjoyment of your hike.
To avoid this mistake, plan your hike to start early in the day, giving yourself ample daylight to complete the trail comfortably. Calculate the time needed based on the trail’s length and difficulty, and factor in extra time for breaks and unexpected delays. Early starts also allow you to enjoy the hike at a more leisurely pace.
6) Not Staying on the Trail
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Straying from marked trails can lead to dangerous situations, including getting lost or causing environmental damage. Following designated paths helps protect the natural habitat and reduces the risk of accidents. Additionally, venturing off-trail can lead to erosion and other negative impacts on the ecosystem.
To avoid this mistake, always stick to marked trails and respect trail signs. If you need to deviate from the path, do so only in emergencies and make sure you can navigate safely. By staying on established routes, you’ll protect the environment and ensure your own safety.
7) Forgetting to Hydrate
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Dehydration can quickly become a serious issue during a hike, especially if you’re exerting yourself or hiking in hot weather. Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, fatigue, and confusion, which can impair your ability to hike safely. Ensuring you have enough water is essential for maintaining energy and overall health.
To avoid this mistake, carry sufficient water for the duration of your hike, and drink regularly to stay hydrated. Consider bringing a water filter or purification tablets if you’re hiking in areas with natural water sources. Pay attention to your body’s signals and hydrate proactively, rather than waiting until you’re thirsty.
8) Forgetting to let people know your whereabouts
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Whether you’re hiking solo or not, it is very important to let someone know your hiking itinerary. Make sure your phone has its battery charged up to 100%. Don’t forget to leave a copy of the trail map in your car. And make sure to send a message once you get back from your hike to let people know that you’ve returned.
It’s always a good idea to have a hiking buddy with you for practical safety reasons. It can save you a lot of trouble especially if you’re new and inexperienced. That way, if one of you gets injured, there’s always somebody else to help.
9) Feeding wild animals
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Sometimes we get carried away and feed wild animals we encounter on the trail. But this habit might be doing them more harm than good as it changes their foraging habits. They might associate people with food and cause them to be more aggressive in the long run.
Always make sure to store your food in sealed containers and avoid sharing your food. Also, don’t leave leftovers or food scraps along the trail. Make sure you take them back with you along with your trash. Leave nothing on the trail.
10) Leaving Trash Behind
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Leaving trash behind not only impacts the environment but also detracts from the enjoyment of others who visit the same trails. Many hikers underestimate the importance of packing out all their waste, including food scraps and personal items. This can lead to pollution and harm to wildlife.
To avoid this mistake, adhere to the “Leave No Trace” principles by packing out all of your trash. Bring extra bags to carry out any waste you generate and consider picking up litter you find along the way. By leaving the trail as you found it, you help preserve its beauty and ensure it remains enjoyable for future hikers.
Conclusion:
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There are many important things to consider especially when you’re a newbie on the trail. Sometimes no matter how hard you try, there’s still always a chance you’ll make a mistake. But with time and experience, you’ll be able to discern the good from the bad. And you’ll learn that most of these mistakes are preventable and will figure out ways on how to avoid them.
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