You are here

OT - Hiking.

Willow2010's picture

So does anyone here hike? DH and I are taking a trip out west to an area that is close to the desert, mountains and rivers. It is a very popular place to hike. They have 5 and 10 mile trails. I want to do a 5 mile hike every day we are there. (They have several to choose from.)

Neither one of us has actually hiked before. Any pointers or tips? Any thing we should do? Any thing we should not do?

Comments

SM with BM from hell's picture

Make sure you wear proper fitting shoes, a hat and sun block. Also make sure to bring water and hydrate before you go. Hiking is great and there may be a lot of nice scenes so also bring a camera. I hope you guys have fun.

Willow2010's picture

THANKS! I think we will be hiking up the side of the mountain on one of them. yay!! How long would a 5 mike hike take?

Shaman29's picture

I live in the Pacific NW too and the weather can change at the drop of a hat.

A lot of people hike in shorts, but I suggest to always hike in pants. Even light weight ones to keep your legs protected from brush, bugs and elements.

Willow2010's picture

I actually have been wearing my shoes around. lol. They are actually very comfortable. Do you take any food?

Shaman29's picture

You say west, but terrain and temps can very from place to place. If you're going to be anywhere near Oregon you can PM me.

Bring snacks, fruit and water.
Bring TP and something to haul out the used TP.
Matches.
Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets.
Charged cell phones.
Emergency blanket.
First Aid Kit.
Any meds you may take on a daily basis.

If possible, see if there is a recent publication of the trails you will be hiking. Such as one like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Section-Hikes-Pacific-Crest-Trail/dp/0899976891

Shaman29's picture

My first hike in the PNW was on a trail where the main road that was washed out the prior winter (heavy rain and snow caused the river to rise and flood). The trailhead marker was moved out about 2 miles past the original point. Unless you knew the area it was incredibly confusing and easy to get lost.

The guide book we bought was the latest publishing, so as you said....anything can happen. Bears, snow, washouts.

Willow2010's picture

WOW!! Thanks everyone! A lot of things I did not even think about.

We are going in April out to West Texas. I am sure it will be pretty hot by then.