As we explore all that Mother Nature has to offer, we must take the time to be appreciative and humbled by her beauty. From the soft breeze that tickles the back of your neck, to the sweet song played by the rustle of leaves in the trees, nature is pretty darn cool, and even cooler to hike in. But like anything, there are some things you must know before you strap on your boots and sling your pack over your shoulder.
**Disclaimer: In no way am I an expert in the art of hiking, as you can see by the title of this piece. Compared to advanced trail blazers, I am a newbie. All I know is that I enjoy the outdoors, exploring nature, and hiking totally rocks. So without further ado, here are 10 things you need to know as a hiking newbie:
1. No Cellphones Allowed
Some of you may have cringed as you read this and proceeded to protectively grip your cellphone a little tighter. If so, stop being so dramatic. Put down that expensive piece of glass and plastic and really immerse yourself in nature. Be in the moment. The only exception to this rule is bringing your cellphone to take pictures. But after you captured the shot, put it away!
2. Hike With An Experienced Hiker
Hiking is no walk in the park (literally), so plan a trip with someone that knows a thing or two about setting up camp and where to put the food so a bear doesn't creep up on you at night. You'll learn a thing or two, and you'll have a buddy to adventure with. What can get better than that?
3. Bring A Roll Of Toilet Paper (or two)
Trust me on this, you're going to need it. And no, leaves do not suffice as tee-pee.
4. Dress For Nature, Not To Impress
You're not in a Lulu Lemon commercial, so who cares what you look like? All you should really care about is if you brought the correct clothing to keep you warm at night, protect you from the rain, and/or keep you comfortable as you hike. Also, always check the weather before your next adventure so you can plan accordingly.
5. No Products, No Problem
All natural is the way to go! There's definitely no plugs to blow dry your hair or mirrors to perfect your look when out in the woods, so embrace that wild hair and rock no make up. Truly let yourself to be free.
6. Fire Is Your Friend, As Long As You Tend To It
Fire is awesome. So awesome it triggered human civilization. It provides warmth, a way to cook your meals, and nothing beats a great bonfire. But with that being said, you must tend to your heap of flames at all times. Let your inner Smokey the Bear shine through and make sure you're not letting the fire get too out of control. We both know that never ends well.
7. Bug Spray Rules
Okay, I sound like my mom, but put your bug spray on! Unless you want to contract Zika (half kidding) or have little itchy red bumps all over your body, take two minutes to lather on the repellant. You'll thank me later.
8. Respect Mother Nature
This means pick up your trash and appreciate the wilderness around you. Whether your mid-hike or setting up camp, no one likes a litterbug, so don't be that guy that leaves his garbage for the next hikers to clean up.
9. Embrace Your Wild Side
Revel in the outdoors and be free in nature. As Cheryl Strayed once said, “How wild it was, to let it be.” So let it be, and simply enjoy the wilderness around you. It truly is a gift.
