Seven Top Tips for novice hikers
Hiking is a great way to experience the benefits of nature, get fit and have fun. But if you’ve never got out in the hills on your own before where do you start? Pete from Nature Escapes gives his seven top tips for novice hikers.
Start small - If you’re starting hiking for the first time then try 3km to start with. When you become more comfortable and fitter choose longer walks.
Know where you’re going - Start local in areas that you know. Parks are a great place to start so you don’t get lost while you build your fitness. When comfortable get out into the countryside and start walking on well marked paths and forest roads. Use a map from Ordinance Survey and a compass, not only are there no batteries that can run out, you get a much better appreciation of your surroundings using a map, rather than a phone to navigate. Learn how to read a map here.
Calculate how long it will take - Allow 15 mins per kilometer and you’ll need to add some time for going uphill (add 1 minute per 10 meters of altitude increase). You should add an extra 10 minutes per hour for breaks. Check the sunset time and always give yourself some extra time just in case. Tell someone exactly where you’re going and what time you expect to be back.
Take the right kit - No.1 on the kit list is water, a good guide is to take 1/2 litre for every hour you expect to be walking, plus some spare. You don’t need to spend a fortune on kit, but two items that it pays to invest in are good boots and a good waterproof. Don’t forget to take water with you. Take layers of clothing, artificial fibres are best, and don’t forget food, water and a first aid kit. Did I mention water?
Check the weather - The Met Office App is great for general weather conditions. Their website also has specialist forecasts for mountains here. Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) have a great app that gives detailed weather information, trusted by Mountain Leaders. Remember that the weather can be unpredictable so be prepared.
Respect, Protect, Enjoy - It’s really important to look after the beautiful countryside and leave it as you find it. Leave gates as you find them (open or closed), pick up litter and take your own litter home. Don’t disturb animals or pick flowers and take care not to damage hedges, fences and stiles.
Get social - It can be a beautiful experience walking on your own, but it’s almost always better with a friend or small group. Walking clears the mind and encourages discussions that would never happen in busy urban environments. There are rambler clubs and local walking clubs and these can be the source of great knowledge and guidance. Nature Escapes weekends are great way to get outside and get to know people. Click here for details.