You don’t have to scale mountains or scramble through brambles for your wilderness trek to qualify as a hike. As you get older your long and strenuous hikes start getting a little shorter, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy the wilderness experience.
I discovered several articles, in a recent edition of a Taste of Home magazine, about hiking your way to good health. It reminded me of what a good workout hiking is. We hike nearly every weekend and it is gratifying to know that there are trails out there that are suitable for everyone, even if you have some mobility issues. .
There are two types of hikes: day and extended. A day hike usually involves paths that don’t require equipment or any particular expertise. An extended hike or overnight hike requires more equipment and they are more likely to be off the beaten path. Unless you are quite adventuresome and totally prepared for the unexpected, a day hike is probably as much as you want to take on. Even day hikers can get into trouble if they break away from a group or leave the marked trail. Only very experienced hikers should hike alone.
Fall is a lovely time of year for hiking. The fall colors are wonderful and it feels good to be out in the cold fresh air. With a growing number of nature paths springing up all over, a lot of people are doing hiking as part of an exercise program. Hiking becomes more than just a walk as you face the physical challenges of the varied terrains. Puddles, streams, waterfalls and fallen tree branches afford a variety that you won’t find walking on a bike path or around your block.
If you are just getting started be sure that you are fit enough for this type of exercise. A local hiking club or parks department staff will recommend books and hikes that will be best for you. Most hikes are rated by degree of difficulty so that you will know what to expect. Factor in roundtrip mileage and keep in mind that coming down may be harder on your knees than going up.
You may not think you are going all that far but stiff muscles will attest to the degree of difficulty. It is always a good idea to stretch both before and after your hike. Dress appropriately. Weather can change rather quickly and you will be surprised at how fast it gets dark as you make your way through sheltering trees. Hiking burns a lot of calories so it is a good idea to take water and snacks along with you. It is a good idea to carry a backpack with a first aid kit, bug repellent, sun tan lotion, extra pairs of socks, a flashlight and your cell phone).
Your feet will take a beating. I often see people hiking in tennis shoes but you may be walking across rocky streambeds (wet or dry), slippery pine needles and steep embankments. You will soon appreciate that comfortable hiking boots are a must. Boots support your ankles and have a heavier more protected sole.
Take binoculars and enjoy the thrill of bird watching or other game in the wilds. Respect their habitat and be a quiet observer. Ask your park service staff about the possibility of encountering bear or cougars and how you should behave if this occurs. Remember that they live there, you are the visitor. Please do not litter.
Keep your first few hikes short and build up to longer distances and steeper terrain. There is a lot to see and mileage isn’t everything. As long as you stay within your capabilities you will find hiking extremely satisfying.
