HikingHQ

Hiking with Children

There is nothing quite like hiking with small children. The thrill of introducing these young ones to the wonder of nature is matched only by their eyes as they take it all in. If you follow a few simple rules when hiking with children, things go extremely well. Forget these simple rules and your treks with the young can be a recipe for disaster.

The first thing to remember is that young ones don’t understand or know the dangers of a trail that might seem the most basic of realities to anyone else. Poison oak, snakes and wild animals seem fun to the youngest of hikers. You know better and need to make sure that your partners do as well. You’ll need to be the eyes and ears of those who eyes and ears aren’t yet up to the task. You’d be surprised how quickly they can get themselves into trouble so you’ll need to keep on your toes.

Secondly, you’ll want to bring lots of snacks. Little legs burn a lot of energy when they’re hiking and their little stomachs require that you feed them often. Obviously, go without quick fixes of candy and the like. Nuts, whole grains and dried fruit all taste great and work well for all ages. Make sure to bring lots of water as well.

With so many snacks, trash will be a big issue. Teach these young ones about the power of packing out their trash and keep the environment as clean and pristine as possible.

Know that a good first aid kit with Band-Aids, ointment and insect repellant is always a good idea. There is no reason to let an entire hike go bad, just because someone fell down and went “boom.” If your crew is young enough, diapers and a change or two of clothing is also well worth the effort.

If one or more of the children are brought on the trek in some form of backpack, make sure that the pack is fit for you before you take off on your trip. Adjustments, for some reason, are always easier to make at home than they are in the middle of your trek. If you are purchasing a new pack for your adventure, consider shying away from the cheapest option – they are the cheapest option for a reason. A good resale shop or a trip to ebay.com can find you high quality at a price you are willing to spend.

No matter where you are hiking, waterproofing is a must. A couple of ponchos have been know to save the day more times than not. They weigh next to nothing but are life savers when needed. Umbrellas are more awkward than anything else.

Finally, take lots of pictures – these are memories that you’ll want to look back on for a long time.

When you do take small children on a hike, the rewards are plentiful: an early respect for nature, good exercise, family memories and the like. Keep these simple thoughts in mind and you’ll find that this is an activity enjoyed by everyone that you’ll want to do again and again.

About The Author - Linda Jones is the Webmaster of FirstHiking.com. She’s loved hiking since her parents took her on her first hike at just 14 months.

A Newfound Love of Hiking

Have you ever felt an urge to bask in the sun, feel the wind in your hair and get a little dirt under your fingernails? It's natural to want to spend a little time in the wilderness, because human beings are just animals, after all. That's why learning to hike is the perfect sport for our stressed-out society.

Hiking is considered by some to be a recreational pastime. To others, however, it's much more than that. Some people begin a lifelong love of hiking as very small children. They remember spending family vacations as endless hours spent tackling the trails with mom and dad. A child's newfound love of hiking will blossom into skills and memories that he or she will carry throughout their lives.

Many hikers develop their love of the sport much later in life, sometimes well into the senior years. Older kids in scout troops embark on weekend journeys. Teenagers traipse through the woods to find a secluded spot to hang out with their friends. Stressed-out executives can't wait until five o'clock, so they can kick off their wingtips and strap on a pair of hiking boots.

Whatever the reason, one thing is certain: People go hiking to shake off our contemporary hassles, and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

It can be a little tricky when you first begin hiking. You may struggle with bulky packs loaded with too much gear, too much food and too many pairs of shoes. You'll set off on a two-day trek, but pack for a week. Seasoned hikers can always spot the rookies as they struggle along the trail.

Seasoned hikers can snicker at the rookies, but let's face it; every one of us has painted this same picture at one time. Newbies take heart: it won't take long for you to shake the excess pounds from your back, and clock enough miles on your boots to have you traveling lean. As time goes, you'll find yourself learning the ropes and fine-tuning your art along the way, until your pack decreases in size as quickly as your appetite for bagels.

While you're honing your craft, here are some helpful tips that can help to clear the trail:

Know What's Ahead

There is nothing like the freedom of hiking, but there are basic safety rules that you must always follow. Remember, anything can and will happen in the great outdoors. If you don't prepare for your "anything-goes" journey, you can find yourself at the centre of backcountry disasters and near- misses. Bad judgment calls, inadequate clothing and a poor sense of direction can all contribute to potentially life-threatening hiking situations. Knowing what to bring, understanding what you need to do, and following through are all important first lessons for beginning hikers. Check the weather forecast before you plan your trip. You'll need to know the conditions and pack appropriately. Bring a lightweight rain jacket in case the weather turns unexpectedly. Be aware of the trail and remain in tune with your surroundings. When hiking a national park or conservation area, ask park management for advice on the local conditions and any permitting procedures. Research online or check your bookstore for hiking guides and maps. Learn how to read them properly, and use them during your hike.

Get in Gear With the Right Equipment

Forget the coordinating hiking outfit. No one cares what you look like on the trail, so leave your ego at home. It's more important to be safe and comfortable than to simply look good. Temperatures can plummet after the sun sets, so pack accordingly with warm clothing and an insulated sleeping bag. This is a sport that requires proper equipment, and nature is a force that must be respected. Buy and bring equipment that will help you to stay safe on the trail. No one will care if you seem like a "newbie" on the trail, so don't be afraid to ask questions.

Get Ready to Have Fun

In the end, hiking is all about having fun. Otherwise, no one would do it. To a hiker, lacing up a pair of boots and stomping for miles through remote wilderness is a luxury vacation. Mosquito bites and scratches are five-star amenities. If you're hardcore about your love of nature, all the trouble pays off in fun and freedom.

While trying to remember everything you'll need to bring on your hike, you must remember to leave your stress behind. Take your time. Enjoy the journey. Relax and watch the clouds drift by. Feel the sunshine and breathe in the fresh air. Take a picture, smell a flower, catch a butterfly, and then let it go. Appreciate your hidden animal and enjoy your time with nature.

Writer Nadia Eshott writes for several online magazines, on hiking and recreation and creative recreation topics.

Boots! Boots! Boots!

Nothing feels the same as slipping into a pair of leather boots for a night on the town. The exact opposite is the feeling you get sliding on boots for the winter snow and slush mess outside. Boots come in many shapes and sizes. They are made for stylish events as well as a way to tame the outdoors. Are you thinking about purchasing a pair of boots? You could even check the online retailers to find some great deals!

First, what type of boot are you looking for? Do you want a stylish addition to your shoe wear collection? Then choose from the many designer labels. Perhaps leather is what you are thinking with a nice high heel? Or, are you looking for a nice, durable pair of hiking boots? Planning that hiking trip and need a quality pair of boots that will protect you ankles and toes? Is the winter snow creeping up and you just know you're going to have to head on out there to shovel it up? You need a pair of durable, but waterproofed and warm boots then. Kids need the proper boots as well. They need boots that will tighten at the top to keep the snow out and the warmth in. There are so many more types of boots you might be considering.

Consider this though. If you are looking to purchase a quality pair of boots, you may as well head on out to that busy mall to the shoe store. But, you don't have to! In fact, your favorite shoe store or shoe brand may have a website to offer you. You can purchase your boots at home, online! Think of that convenience! As long as you know your size, there is no stopping you from finding the best boots for you online from the convenience of your living room computer! Picking the perfect pair to fit your tastes and needs is easy if you are doing it online! Think of all those pushy salespeople you will avoid as well!

Written by David Kunstek

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Take a Hiking Pole on Your Next Hike

It is the downhill ski racing competition of the winter Olympics. You watch a ski racer zoom down the slope manoeuvring through the ski gates. However, you notice that something is missing. The skier has on skis, boots, and a giant slalom skin tight racing suit. You realize what’s missing when their arms flail about causing them to lose their balance on a patch of ice. They are missing their ski poles.

It is the cross country skiing competition of the winter Olympics. You cheer from the crowd as the skiers fly down the trail. Each skier pushes hard with their ski poles. However, one skier is left far behind the pack because he does not have any ski poles. His graceful cross country rhythm has been interrupted due to a lack of balance.

In both cases, the skiers lost the race because they were missing their ski poles. Ski poles are vital because they help maintain balance, provide support, and relieve some of the pressure off your body. If the use of a ski pole is so crucial, then why is it that many hikers do not use a hiking pole during their hikes?

You might not think of a hiking or trekking pole as a necessity until you compare hiking to cross country skiing. In hiking you traverse across a terrain of varying degrees and obstacles. There is constant stress and strain on your muscles and joints as you navigate through rocks, sandy areas, and elevated terrain. Your knees and lower back are constantly adjusting to the pressure placed on them. This can lead to soreness and pain. This is comparable to the demands of cross country skiing.

Hiking pain can be reduced by investing in a hiking or trekking pole. Hiking poles have a wide range of benefits including: improved balance, endurance, and ward off knee injuries. Hiking poles can enable you to successfully cross streams and work through steeper terrain. A mental side effect is that they can boost your confidence allowing you tackle the hiking trail with vigor.

There are different types of hiking and trekking poles available. There are long wooden poles, shorter aluminum poles, snow poles, and ice axes. Want to beef up your regular hiking pole? Hiking poles have various accessories to choose from including: hand grips, shock absorbers, and camera mounts. If you are going on a winter hike you can add a basket to your pole. Another important aspect of your hiking pole is its tip. The common tip is made of carbide. However, rubber tips are also available. Each tip has pros and cons which should be considered when purchasing a pole. Consult a hiking professional to assess which pole is best for you.

If you want more stability and less stress on your body consider investing in a hiking or trekking pole. The ability to navigate through difficult terrain will become a reality. Hiking poles can cost money, but they are worth every penny.

About The Author - Monica Marty is an avid hiker and webmaster of http://hikingtrailfinder.com/

Gambling Isn't the Only Thing to do in Las Vegas

Do you think the only thing to do in Las Vegas is gamble? Would you believe that there are a multitude of great hiking trails in a place where all-you-can-eat casino buffets are par for the course? Southern Nevada is chock full of great hiking trails ready to be discovered. Hiking areas near Las Vegas include: Red Rock, Mt.Charleston, Lake Mead, and the Eastern Sierra. These hiking trails are interspersed between canyons, mountains, chutes, and gullies.

Red Rock: Red Rock is located 20 miles west of Las Vegas. The hiking trails range between 1-12 miles and can accommodate hikers of any skill level. Camping is available. Currently, it costs $5 per car and $20 for a yearly pass.

Mt.Charleston: Mt.Charleston is 35 miles northwest of Las Vegas. It is filled with mountainous terrain. Mt.Charleston has summer temperatures that are nearly 30 degrees cooler then Las Vegas. The hiking trails range from 1-20 miles and will bode well for beginning to advanced hikers. Currently, it costs $6 per car.

Lake Mead: Lake Mead is 20 miles east of Las Vegas. Lake Mead is an easy hike. It is generally 10 degrees warmer than Las Vegas. Therefore, consider hiking Lake Mead during the winter months. There are hot springs and eye-catching rock formations to admire while hiking around Lake Mead. The hiking trails are 1-15 miles long. Currently, it costs $5 for certain hikes.

Eastern Sierra: The Eastern Sierra mountain range is a 3.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. It is worth the drive when you experience the many peaks it has to offer. The highest peak is Mt. Whitney which stands at 14,494 feet. There are numerous trails to choose from that explore the peaks that make up the Eastern Sierra mountain range. The trails range from 1-20 miles long. There is no entrance fee. However, some of the trails require permits while others do not. Also, be aware that the Eastern Sierra mountain range is home to a bear population so take precautions when hiking and camping.

So turn in your poker chips and skip the slot machines when you head to Las Vegas. The area has many spectacular hiking trails to offer. Try hiking in fall, winter, or spring because Las Vegas has sweltering heat in the summer. Take in the fresh air and rocky scenery of Las Vegas area hiking trails. They are a little known secret waiting for you to discover them.

About The Author - Monica Marty is an avid hiker and webmaster of http://hikingtrailfinder.com/

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!

About The Author - Monica Marty is an avid hiker and webmaster of http://hikingtrailfinder.com/

What's In Your Hiking Pack?

Every time I leave the pavement, I take along my trusty hiking pack – even if I have no intention of hiking. Doing this has become a habit rather than a conscious decision. My pack goes with me when a hike, camp, hunt, fish, bird watch and even when I drive out of town. I’ve been a boy scout and a United States Marine so I suppose I have learned to be prepared for almost anything. My pack is full of items I hope I will never need.

What’s in Your Hiking Pack? As an outdoor enthusiast, you have complete control over what you carry or what stays in the car – such as a cell phone, do you carry one? I wouldn’t dare go in the backcountry without all of the items listed below as “Highly Recommend.” What’s in My Hiking Pack? Here is my list split into two categories with the weight of each item in ounces:

Highly Recommend: Cell Phone (5 ounces), First-Aid Kit (9), Flashlight (4), Food - Beef Jerky (4), Insect Repellent (3), Map & Compass (4), Multi-Tool (9), Pack (24), Signal Mirror (1), Spare Vehicle Key (1), Sunglasses & Sunscreen (2), Water, Waterproof matches (1), Waterproof windbreaker (24), Whistle (1). Total weight: 5 pounds 12 ounces, not including water.

Nice to Have: Bandana (1), Binoculars (12), Cash & ID (1), Disposable Camera (4), Emergency Blanket (1), Extra Batteries (4), GPS Unit (10), Hand warmers (1), Hunting knife (8), Lighter (1), Lip Balm (1), Mini-Umbrella (10), Paper & Pen (1), Rangefinder (8), Road Flare (4), 12 feet of rope (2), Saw (7), Toilet Paper (1), Two-Way Radio (7), Work Gloves (2). Total weight: 5 pounds 2 ounces.

The total weight of my hiking pack not counting water, is 10 pounds 14 ounces. My pack has a shoulder harness system that takes the weight off of my lower back and distributes it evenly across my shoulders and upper back. I hardly notice my pack when I’m wearing it. One last point, if you carry something – make sure you know how to use it.

We’ve all heard quotes about being prepared, such as “Chance favors the prepared mind.” – Louis Pasteur and “The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.” – Joe Paterno and “Chance fights ever on the side of the prudent.” – Euripides. I suggest carrying a well thought out pack is a good habit and a good outdoor life-skill. One day it may save a family member, an outdoor companion or even you.

Plan ahead before you venture into our backcountry, even if you plan to be gone only an hour or two. It makes good sense. With just this small amount of planning you’ll get the most out of your backcountry experiences. Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time.

Get Outdoors!

About The Author - Chuck Fitzgerald is the President of Arizona based BackCountry Toys, an online store providing backcountry specialty gear and educational information for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit www.BackCountryToys.com to receive the free newsletter "FreshAir”.

Post-Hiking Pain

Calves are burning, knees hurt and legs feel like Jello. After a major hike, the body is asking, “why the torture?” How to deal with post-hiking pain and recovery is something every hiker faces as they advance to more strenuous levels.

For day-hikers, backpackers and trail runners, after-care for pain is a very real part of the sport. Injuries and lactic acid build-up can keep a hiker sidelined for days and make the simple act of going down stairs excruciating. Many precautions can be taken to ensure less stress to legs, knees and feet during a hike, but as every seasoned hiker knows, it’s not going uphill that’s the problem it’s coming down!

Hiking down a steep descent places additional stress on knees and muscles that have not been conditioned for downhill activity. Joints and tendons become painfully inflamed. And pushing past ones level of ability and distance, increases the production of lactic acid, resulting in a burning feeling in leg muscles. Don't let pain be a discouraging factor in pursuing higher achievements on the trail. The sense of loftiness felt when reaching the pinnacle of a climb is worth conquering post-hiking pain.

Pre-hiking suggestions to minimize pain:

Get fitted with sturdy, stable boots or trail running shoes.

Buy shoes/boots that are at ½ to 1 full size larger than your regular shoe size. After several hours of hiking, feet will swell and need room to expand.

Wear socks made of Coolmax® for moisture control and to minimize blisters.

Pre-condition legs weeks before a strenuous hike by doing short hill hikes and strengthening exercises (squats, lunges, step-ups and step-downs). You can also increase your lactic acid threshold and level of fatigue (thereby lowering the occurrence of sore muscles) by increasing your activity level and training at 85%-90% of your maximum heart rate for at least 20 minutes daily.

Use stretching exercises for problem areas such as hamstring, IT band, etc. to increase flexibility.

If needed, wear leg braces to stabilize knees and help reduce stress. Neoprene braces can be purchased over the counter at any drug store.

Stay hydrated and eat carbohydrates and protein during and after the hike. This can help minimize lactic acid build-up.

Use a hiking pole(s) to redistribute weight, help with balance and reduce stress on the knees.

Learn the technique of heel-to-toe walking so as to make full contact with heel to the ground.

Try to control uphill and downhill progression so as not to bound, go too fast, or “pound” the trail. Slightly bend knees when descending. Make a conscious effort to keep weight centered with the knee tracking directly over the toe (no twisting in or out). An automatic response to descending a hill is to lean backwards, rather than stay centered. This can result in injury, such as IT Band Friction Syndrome.

Post-hiking suggestions for dealing with pain:

Ice painful or swollen joints and muscles immediately after a hike. If pain persists, continue at intervals for up to 48 hours. Icing will decrease inflammation, reduce swelling and numb pain.

Rest after the hike, but don't become immobile. Walking or light exercise will keep blood flowing and increase recovery.

Gentle stretches will help stiff, tight muscles.

Massage painful muscles with long, smooth movements.

If needed, use a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation.

Some hikers benefit from alternating ice packs and heat therapy. This should only be done after 48 hours and inflammation has subsided. Applying heat immediately after a hike will increase swelling and prolong recovery time.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical treatment or consultation. Always consult with your physician in the event of a serious injury.

About The Author - Louise Roach is the editor of on-line health and fitness newsletter, NewsFlash*SnowPack. She has been instrumental in the development of SnowPack, a patented cold therapy that exhibits the same qualities as ice. Her injury prevention and treatment articles have been published on numerous health and fitness websites. Louise is also an avid hiker. For more information visit: http://www.snowpackusa.com

The Thrill of Appalachian Trail

Hiking the Apalachian Trail

More than four million hikers venture out on the Appalachian Trail every year. This long stretch of 2,168 miles going through 14 states is an excellent opportunity for hiking on the East Coast. The Appalachian Trail excites hikers from all parts of the world because it runs from Katahdin mountain in Maine to Springer mountain in Georgia. Only one tenth of the hikers go right up to the end. Appalachian Trail appeals to a day hiker as much as it appeals to a seasoned hiker because of its steep climbs and huge distance. Its natural beauty is the main attraction.

With the majority of the trail being within a day's drive of many major cities on the East Coast, the trail's proximity is a main draw for many hikers. Whether you decide to spend a weekend or the entire summer on the trail, getting there is the easy part. Approximately 99 percent of the trail is public land, therefore the hike will be free of charge and permission is not necessary for hiking. Several places along the trail require registration for overnight camping and some fees may apply. Shelters and lean-tos dot the trail and are generally places approximately a day's walking distance apart. Additionally, the trail passes through several small towns that may have accommodations. If you plan on tackling the trail, you are strongly suggested to invest in a guide that marks the trail and the rest stops along the way.

You should not fear about getting lost in the trail, as you will be finding white rectangles on you trail. These rectangles can be seen painted on trees, fence posts, buildings, etc. When you go on to hike Appalachian Trail, plan your hiking schedule carefully. If you wish to go for a day then figure out when will you have to start your return hike. If you wish to stay overnight then also make you calculations right. Do not forget to carry the right amount of food with you. Carry nutritious food, food rich in protein, health drinks and water. If you plan to stay overnight, decide beforehand where you would like to set the camp. This is important, as the buildings are a fair distance apart on the trail. Also check out if you need to register yourself or make payments beforehand. Contact your friends or colleagues who may have gone hiking before.

For those interested in tackling the entire length of this magnificent trail let it be known it will be a great deal of work. The trail can be difficult in certain places and may involve more climbing than hiking. Contact organizations such as the Appalachian Trail Conference to learn more about the details of the trail. Speak with other hikers who have hiked the trail to learn about their experiences. The internet is an excellent tool for meeting other hikers who may have great tips for hiking the trail. Finally, know your limits. The trail is 2,160 miles long and you will not be able to complete it within a week. Plan how far you plan to hike each day and make changes as situations arise. If you push yourself to the point of exhaustion, you will only open the door for injury or illness. Remember, the trail is secluded so certain arrangements should be made. Never hike the trail alone. Always notify someone of your plans to hike the trail and your expected return time. Checking in with a friend or family member periodically will protect you in the case of unforeseeable events. Stay hydrated and carry plenty of water, especially in the warm summer months. Taking precautions before and while you hike will ensure your safety and enjoyment. The Appalachian Trail is an integral piece of America's natural beauty and serves as the perfect hiking opportunity for hikers of all skill levels. Regardless of your goals, hiking the Appalachian Trail will certainly prove to be an enjoyable and memorable experience.

The Appalachian Trail is an ideal opportunity for hikers of all skill levels. Whatever your reason for hiking, you will certainly enjoy your experience of hiking the Appalachian Trail, and will carry its memeory for the rest of your life.

About The Author - Abel Wanderner hikingadventure.com