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"Get the Most Out of Your Hike"

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Get the Most Out of Your Hike

by Chuck Fitzgerald

Hiking is one of life's great joys. Fresh air, nature, exercise and good friends. It's difficult to imagine anything better - if you're prepared. When you're not prepared properly, it's difficult to imagine anything worse. If you hike a few hundred yards around your neighborhood or a few hundred miles around the backcountry, use these tips to get the most enjoyment out of your hiking experience.

  1. Plan your trip. You can plan too little but it's tough to plan too much.
  2. Get in Shape. Put yourself in the best possible position to enjoy your sport.
  3. Check the weather forecast. Any weather different than you expect can turn a good hike into a not-so-good hike.
  4. Dress for success. Layer your clothing and be very sure of your footwear.
  5. Have the essentials. Your planning will help with this. Take only what is essential and get the lightest gear you can afford - especially for longer hikes.
  6. Plan to be out longer than you think. If you think three hours, plan for six. Four days, plan for a week.

  7. Prepare for the worst. Know first-aid and CPR. Always have sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses with you.
  8. Use of food and water. It's okay to ration food, but don't ration water. If you are thirsty, drink. Decision making skills drop drastically when you are dehydrated.
  9. Slow down. If you are hiking only for exercise, you're missing the best part. Nature is all around, slow down and pay attention. You'll be rewarded many times over.
  10. Take a friend along. Like most things in life, sharing your hiking passion with someone you care about is awesome.

There are literally thousands of great places to hike in North America and dozens of quality websites to learn more about the sport. Check out our on-line education center or connect with a local hiking club for hikes in your area - but in any case it is up to you and only you to get the most out of your hikes. Use this information and you'll Get It Right The First Time. Get Outdoors!

Chuck Fitzgerald is the owner of Arizona based BackCountry Toys, an online specialty store with the "Best Gear Out There" and dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts to "Get It Right The First Time" with timely educational information. Please visit www.BackCountryToys.com to find great gear and to receive the Fact & Tips e-newsletter, "FreshAir." (800) 316-9055.

©2005 Chuck Fitzgerald. All rights reserved.




Other articles you may find interesting:

Why Orienteering Is Hot!

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So, you didn’t know it was hot did you? Do you even know what Orienteering is? It is one of the most thrilling activities available for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and here’s the good news – it’s inexpensive. If you enjoy spending time out of doors and you are looking to break out of your regular routine, Orienteering may be the challenge you’ve been hoping for. Thousands of men, women and children around the country are addicted to the mental and physical rush of Orienteering. Let’s find out why.

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Camping is a delightful and adventurous way to spend your vacations. Camping basically means living in tents that are pitched on specific grounds. The biggest advantage of camping is the cost saving. You can have a good vacation within your budget. For you will have to spend least on accommodation. While if you go for stay in hotels, a large chunk of your money is gone in paying for per day rent of your room. On the top of it camping is not associated with troubles like what type and class of room to take, how much will be too
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Articles about outdoor vacations:
 Camping In A RV For Fun And Pleasure
 Family Tents Or Camping With Cabins? A Question of Style and Experience
 Get the Most Out of Your Hike
 Hiking Gear: Packing Tips
 Important Factors to Consider When Purchasing a 6 Person Tent for Family Camping Trips
 Looking For a Hidden Romantic Getaway?
 My Perfect Campsite
 Navigating On The Mountain, In Water, Or In Woods There Is An Etrex Unit For You
 New Jersey Camping & You: Perfect Together
 Save Money By Camping In Europe
 Unique Backpacking Christmas Gift Ideas For Backpackers
 What You Need To Know About - Camping Vacations
 Why Orienteering Is Hot!





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