Hiking is not only a great way to stay physically active, but it also provides an opportunity to connect with nature and experience a sense of well-being and pleasure. However, for beginners, the idea of hitting the trails can be intimidating. Where do you start? What should you bring? Where should you go?

In this blog post, we’ll provide some essential tips to help you prepare for your first hiking adventure.

Connect with other hikers

As a beginner, it’s always a good idea to hike with someone more experienced. This way, you can learn from their knowledge and expertise while also ensuring your safety. If you have a friend who loves hiking, ask them to take you along. You can also find hiking groups on social media platforms like Facebook. Remember to let someone know where you’re going if you’re hiking alone.

Our first hiking buddies

Choose the right trail

When it comes to choosing a hiking trail, it’s important to consider your fitness level and experience. You want to choose a trail that is suitable for your abilities, and that will provide a pleasant experience rather than a painful challenge. Here are some tips to help you choose the right trail:

  1. Consider the difficulty level

When selecting a hiking trail, consider the difficulty level of the trail. Opt for an easy trail to start with, and gradually work your way up to more challenging trails. Keep in mind that even easy trails can be physically demanding, especially if you are not used to hiking.

  1. Look for well-signposted trails

Make sure you choose a trail that is well signposted, so you don’t get lost in the forest or mountains. Popular trails are usually well-marked and easy to follow, making them a great choice for beginners. You can also check out online resources like AllTrails to find well-marked trails in your area.

  1. Check the distance and elevation

When choosing a hiking trail, make sure you check the distance and elevation. You want to choose a trail that is appropriate for your fitness level and experience. If you are just starting out, choose a shorter trail with a low elevation gain. As you become more experienced, you can work your way up to longer, more challenging trails.

If you’re in the Vancouver area and looking for some great trails to get started, here are a few that we recommend:

  • Deep Cove in North Vancouver This is a popular trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great choice for beginners.
  • The Lower Falls trails in Golden Ears Provincial Park

This trail takes you through a lush forest and offers breathtaking views of the Lower Falls. The trail is well-marked and suitable for beginners.

  • Lynn Canyon in North Vancouver

This is a beautiful trail that takes you through a lush forest and over a suspension bridge. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great choice for beginners.

AllTrails is a great resource for researching trails, distance, elevation, and difficulty level. You can explore information about trails near you or in the city of your choice. We highly recommend using the site to find great trails in your area.

Plan your trail in advance & Pack the essentials

One of the most important things to remember when hiking is to plan ahead. Always estimate the time it will take to complete the hike and inform someone about your route details, in case of an emergency.

Another crucial tip is to check the weather forecast beforehand. You wouldn’t want to climb a mountain in the rain and risk an accident happening. When it comes to packing for your hike, you don’t need to invest in expensive equipment. Choose light clothing, comfortable shoes, and a small backpack to carry your essentials, including water, snacks, a map of the hike, sun protection, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.

Let me share with you a crucial tip that will make your hiking adventure a success. So, the trail markings are super important, and you don’t want to miss them. They are bright orange signs that are attached to the tree trunks, guiding you on the path. As you’re hiking, keep an eagle eye out for the next marking to ensure you’re going in the right direction. Trust me; it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Leave no trace: pack in pack out

Always remember to leave no trace and pack in, pack out. Be mindful and leave the trail as you found it so that everyone can enjoy nature as it is. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Hiking is a wonderful way to connect with nature and explore the outdoors.

If you’re a beginner hiker, we hope these tips have helped you prepare for your first hike. And if you’re an experienced hiker, feel free to share your tips in the comments to help others.

Enjoy hiking!