The Benefits of One Day Hiking Trips

Do you like to take one day hiking trips? Do you want to take hiking trips on trails near your home? One day hiking trips have a number of advantages. They are great for the recreational hiker. Minimal hiking gear is required and you can take pleasure in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Short day hikes are also a beneficial form of exercise. You can control your speed and terrain elevation. One day you can focus on endurance over flat trails while another day can be spent sprinting and climbing up steeper terrain.

One day hikes commonly take place on easily accessible trails in your area. Therefore, you can discover hidden nature treasures that are in your backyard. You can venture out for a day of leisurely or extreme hiking. Instead of setting up camp for the night, you can return to the comforts of your own home.

What hiking gear is necessary for a one day trip? It depends on the weather, terrain, and experience level of the hikers. However, there is basic hiking equipment that you will need. When choosing a hiking backpack, opt for a smaller pack. You don't want to spend your day trip lugging around a heavy backpack. It is a good idea to bring extra clothes in case your clothes become wet or the weather gets cooler. The key is to dress in layers.

It is vital to keep well hydrated, especially in the hot summer months. Avoid the intense heat of the afternoon sun. One gallon of water per person is recommended. A sports drink such as Gatorade is also an option. Steer clear of sodas and alcohol. These drinks are diuretics and will dehydrate your body. Bring snacks that have substantial good carbohydrates and protein such as nuts and granola. Protein rich fitness bars are also a practical option. Bring extra food just in case you spend a longer time on the hiking trail then expected.

Safety should be high priority on any hiking trip. Bring a map, compass, and flashlight. Bring the following items to combat any hiking emergencies: waterproof matches, whistle, fire starter, space blanket, and emergency shelter. These items are beneficial when you are unfamiliar with the hiking trail or you expect to hike through difficult terrain. There are other safety items to consider. Consult a hiking professional in your area for more tips and advice.

The sun, wind, and bugs can become a nuisance while hiking. Make sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug repellant. Nothing can ruin a hiking adventure like bug bites and an aching sunburn. Always wear sunscreen even if the weather is overcast. Find a waterproof and sweat resistant sports sunscreen and reapply sunscreen every 4-5 hours or more frequently if you are prone to sunburn.

One day hiking trips are a great way for recreational hikers to experience trails in their area and exercise at the same time. Start a one day hiking group with your friends as a social get-together. What are you waiting for? Get your gear and get started today!

Monica Marty is an avid hiker and webmaster of http://hikingtrailfinder.com/

---

One of the Oldest Traditions of the American West; The Dude Ranch

Dude Ranches first gained popularity in the 1920s, in large... Read More

Ten Skills - A Backpacking List

Have you ever had a backpacking trip that was a... Read More

Backyard Camping Trip

Are your kids begging you to take them camping, but... Read More

Great Family Camping Trips Make Excellent Traditions

A wonderful way to invest in your families' treasure trove... Read More

Three Places to Interact with Dolphins in Hawaii

Visitors to Hawaii frequently see dolphins from shore or on... Read More

Alaska Sport Fishing Guide

WHAT TO FISH AND WHERE: Alaska offers some of the... Read More

Costa Rica: Land of Natural Wonders

Costa Rica is a small country - just 75 mi/120... Read More

Dont Forget that Camping Gear Checklist Before You Leave on that Family Camping Adventure

A camping gear checklist is an important tool to help... Read More

River Rafting: An Overview

White-water rafting can be one of the most exhilarating experiences... Read More

Bird Watching Journals ? Preserve Your Bird Watching Experiences

Bird Watching is a great way to escape the rat... Read More

Scotland - The New White Water Rafting Capital of Europe

Scotland has taken its place as the new Mecca for... Read More

South Africa Safari Top Five National Parks and Game Reserves

A South Africa safari is the ideal wildlife trip to... Read More

Be Sure to Buy the Best Discount Camping Gear Before Going on that Family Adventure

When you're on the Internet looking for discount camping gear,... Read More

How To Buy a Used RV - Part 1

If you are on a tight budget and can't afford... Read More

On Safari in Northern Tanzania ? Back to The Sixth Day of the Creation

Tanzania's natural endowment as a wildlife safari destination is unrivalled.... Read More

Planning Your Own Gorilla Safari Will Save You Money - Heres How

Going on a gorilla safari must rank as one of... Read More

Holidays in Goa

Sun, Sand and Surf ? an apt description for Goa?... Read More

The Price of Gas Really Doesnt Matter!

"The good news is that there is no reason to... Read More

My Five-Ounce Sleeping Bag

Okay, it wasn't quite a sleeping bag. However, it was... Read More

Alaska - Brief Travel Guide

WHAT TO SEE, TO DO AND WHERE: Mount McKinley is... Read More

The Pyramids of Giza

The most famous Egyptian pyramids to be built are the... Read More

Rafting on the Rogue River in Oregon

Oregon's Rogue River is one of the nation's most beautiful.... Read More

Inflatable Pontoon Boats

Bryce Whitmore designed the modern whitewater inflatable pontoon boat, and... Read More

Welcome to Bragg Creek

Welcome to Bragg Creek! Bragg Creek is located in the... Read More

PaintBall Gun Buying Tips

There are so many selections available when it comes to... Read More