Hiking Tips

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Hiking Tips

Hiking in the woods and at altitude is not as easy as lacing up you sneakers and going for a walk around the block or jumping on a treadmill and walking for an hour. When hiking in the woods you will find variable terrain that you must accommodate for. Here are tips on how to pack, things we recommend that you take with you and techniques we recommend for you to use while on the trail.

Our profesional guides from The San Juan Outdoor School will help ensure that you have a comfortable outdoor experience and will help you with these tips along the way.

Before You Go

• Reduce pack weight – don’t bring it if you don’t need it. E.g. If there’s water along the way , filter water rather than carrying it. Water weight can drastically reduce pack weight.
• Tell someone where you are going and for how long.
• Mountain weather can turn on a dime—make sure you have appropriate rain gear.
• Hydrate before setting out – once you get thirsty it is too late to rehydrate.
• If it’s hot out, wear light-colored clothing, and hike in a thin, moisture-wicking base layer to absorb and dry your sweat.
• Leave a change of clothes in your car. If you're wet at the end of your trip, you can have a dry ride home.

Things to take

• Extra hip belt buckle for your pack. If your pack has a top lid that converts into a lumbar pack, often its buckle can serve as a spare for your hip-belt.
• Avoid cotton. Once it’s wet, it’ll stay that way, and you’ll freeze.
• A pocket knife or multi-tool is an absolute must.
• Hydration packs all the way. Forget water bottles!
• Take extra shoe laces for your boots—the cheap drugstore kind will do. Pop ’em in your pack and keep them there forever.
• At the very least, take a basic first-aid kit.

Technique

• When walking uphill it is important to keep your heels on the ground and take smaller steps. The most common mistake people make is to walk uphill on their toes. When using your heels it allows for you stretch out you Achilles tendon and puts you whole boot sole on the ground allowing for more traction.
• Three important tips to remember for walking down a steep slope are: slow your pace, take shorter steps, and bend your knees. By bending your knees it gives you a lower center of gravity that will prevent slippage.
• Use the Rest Step: When ascending steeper terrain, lock your back leg at the knee and pause briefly before taking your next step to reduce muscle fatigue. It works!
• Remember to pump out your water filter after each use so you’re not carrying extra weight.
• Eat before you get hungry and drink before you get thirsty. You’ll be less likely to bonk.
• Eat a series of small meals rather than a couple of large meals to keep energy levels consistent.
• During extended rests, loosen your shoes and put your feet up to reduce swelling and give them a nice rest.
• Carry a spare handkerchief to dip in cool streams and spread over your neck, forehead, etc. for a quick cool down.

While on the trail it is important to remember that you need to use your mind as well as your feet. Proper walking techniques and packing the right items while on the trail can increase endurance, reduce fatigue, and lessen the chance of injury.