Hiking is a popular outdoor recreational activity and one of the best ways to explore nature. It is typically done on man made trails or in open wilderness. You may enjoy a simple morning hike, or a more lengthly excursion. Either way, taking safety precautions will make hiking more pleasant and less dangerous. If you will be going into wilderness, it is a good idea to bring rain gear, matches, knife, flashlight, a loud whistle, map, compass and first aid kit.
Hiking Dos and Don'ts
- Do observe trail etiquette: greet fellow hikers, allow faster hikers to pass you, stay on the trail and observe no trespassing signs
- Do bring water, snacks, protection from the sun, and a compass
- Do tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
- Do learn basic first aid
- Don't hike alone
- Don't litter
- Don't talk on your cell phone on a trail, unless it is an emergency
- When hiking in a group, don't allow the fastest hikers and the slowest hikers to get too far apart