Hiking is one of the most accessible, affordable, and rewarding outdoor activities. Whether you’re walking a wooded trail near home or scaling a mountain ridge in a national park, hiking offers countless physical and mental benefits: improved fitness, reduced stress, and a deep connection to nature.
But if you’re new to hiking, the idea of hitting the trail might feel a little intimidating. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to start—you just need a little preparation, a good attitude, and the right pair of shoes.
Here’s everything you need to know to start your hiking journey.
What You Need to Know Before You Hike
Before heading out, it’s important to understand the basics:
Start Small
Begin with short, easy trails to get a feel for walking on uneven ground and dealing with elevation. A 1- to 3-mile loop is ideal for beginners.
Know the Trail
Read up on the trail’s length, difficulty, terrain, and weather conditions. Apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS are great for finding and tracking hikes.
Leave No Trace
Hiking is about enjoying nature responsibly. Stick to marked trails, carry out all trash, and respect wildlife.
Listen to Your Body
Hike at your own pace. It’s okay to stop, catch your breath, or turn back early. Hiking is not a race—it’s an experience.
Where to Learn About Hiking
You don’t need formal classes to learn how to hike, but there are great resources and communities to help you feel confident:
- Local Hiking Clubs & Meetup Groups: These often offer beginner-friendly group hikes.
- REI Classes and Workshops: Outdoor retailers like REI offer free or low-cost classes on hiking basics, gear, and navigation.
- YouTube Channels & Blogs: Search for beginner hiking tips, how-to videos, and gear guides.
- Park Ranger Programs: Many state and national parks offer guided hikes or educational talks that are perfect for beginners.
What You Need to Hike
Your gear will depend on how long and how remote your hike is, but here’s a basic checklist for day hikes:
Footwear
- Essential: Comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
- Tip: Break them in before a long hike to avoid blisters.
Backpack Essentials
- Water (at least 1 liter for short hikes; more for longer hikes)
- Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, fruit)
- Map or GPS app (and a backup charger if using your phone)
- First-aid kit
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Rain jacket or layer (weather can change quickly)
- Small flashlight or headlamp (in case your hike goes longer than expected)
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking layers (avoid cotton)
- Breathable, quick-dry pants or shorts
- Lightweight jacket or fleece
Optional but Smart
- Hiking poles for balance and knee support
- Bug spray
- Emergency whistle
- Compass or backup paper map
Where to Hike: Great Beginner Trails Across the U.S.
You don’t have to head deep into the wilderness to find great trails. Here are a few beginner-friendly destinations:
Urban and Suburban Trails
- City and regional parks often have short, well-maintained trails.
- Rail trails and converted towpaths are usually flat and scenic.
State Parks
- Often overlooked, state parks offer excellent trail systems and beginner-friendly terrain.
National Parks (with Easy Trails)
- Great Smoky Mountains (TN/NC) – Laurel Falls Trail (2.6 miles round trip, paved)
- Yosemite (CA) – Mirror Lake Trail (2 miles round trip)
- Zion (UT) – Riverside Walk (2 miles, wheelchair-accessible)
- Acadia (ME) – Jordan Pond Path (3.5 miles, mostly flat)
Apps to Find Trails
- AllTrails
- Gaia GPS
- Hiking Project
- State or national park websites
Benefits of Hiking
- Fitness: Improves endurance, balance, and muscle tone
- Mental Health: Reduces anxiety, boosts mood, and clears the mind
- Connection to Nature: Encourages mindfulness and a sense of peace
- Adventure: Every trail offers something new to explore
One Step at a Time
Learning to hike isn’t about conquering mountains on day one—it’s about discovering the joy of walking in nature and building confidence with every step. As you gain experience, you’ll naturally begin exploring longer, more challenging hikes.
So grab a bottle of water, lace up your shoes, and step onto the trail. Nature is waiting, and your hiking adventure is just beginning.
Learn more at: https://americanhiking.org/hiking-for-beginners-essential-guide/
The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!