10 Tips for Hiking Like a Rock Star

Mother Nature offers the most exciting playgrounds for hikers. Hiking is possible at any time of year in many different places. Hiking in places such as the Grand Canyon National Park requires serious planning and preparation. You need to prepare for dehydration and heat exhaustion. Safety is important whether you are hiking in a nearby park or in the wilderness.  Be creative like a rock star when it comes to proper planning and preparation.

1. Prepare

Opt for hiking areas that are not already heavily burdened by tourism. If you plan carefully, the hike will be a success. Hiking has nothing to do with sporting excellence. If you don’t have enough time to prepare, move the hike up for a couple of days.

2. Bring your fans

Hiking alone carries great risks. When hiking farther away from towns, you can have an encounter with poisonous snakes or other wild animals. In case of an emergency, cell phones don’t always get a signal in wilderness areas, and it could be days or even weeks before another hiker happens to come by. So partner up with another hiker—it’s safer this way.

3. Dress to impress

To go hiking without the proper equipment is more than just uncomfortable. Accordingly select the proper equipment of shoes, sweaters, sun screen, rainwear – all in a backpack in the correct size, so that the hands remain free. Winter equipment and waterproof clothing are imperative in the winter months.

4. Bring snacks

Bring nutritious, easily digestible snacks in small portions, especially fruit. Always bring more water than you think you’ll need.

5. Remain on the path of success

Do not deviate from the path. Taking a wrong turn could be a disaster if you step onto unstable ground or you get lost. Not only is going off-trail dangerous, it’s also illegal in many national parks.

6. Protect nature

Avoid areas of protected and endangered plants or animals.  Don’t dig out any plants, and don’t touch wild animals. Leave both to the habitat to which it belongs.

7. Tell someone

Tell someone about your destination and schedule. In order to locate you in an emergency leave word at home or with a friend as to where you are going and when you intend to return. You may even consider packing or placing in your pocket a GPS personal tracking device.

8. Know when to stop

If you rarely work out and get winded walking to the mailbox, then maybe you shouldn’t commit to a six-mile hike. Stay on the side of caution and remember that fatigue can creep up on you.

9. Follow the weather report

If you’re hiking and the weather turns bad, chances are you won’t have enough time to get back to your vehicle without getting soaked. It’s wise to check the weather report before your hike, and pay close attention to the sky.

10. Avoid waste

Take all packaging – cans and bottles, bags and bags – back home.  Remember the slogan: “Take with you the memory – and the waste!”