Tips For Your First Hike

Whether you’re active or just looking for an outdoor stroll, hiking is perfect for Illinoisans looking for a summer activity. It’s great for getting a breath of fresh air and stretching your legs! However, in our area hiking isn’t as simple as going outside and walking. Check out this pre-hike checklist before you head out on your first or next hike!

Pre-Hike:

1. Let someone know about your plans including: where you’ll be, how long you plan to be out on your hike, who else might be with you, and any other important information. If something goes wrong, this information may be essential.

2. Familiarize yourself with the area you plan to hike in. Check for things like: is it heavily wooded, are there a lot of hills, is there hunting going on?

3. Check the expected weather. There’s nothing worse than expecting a refreshing walk in the woods, through a field, or around a lake; only for it to start pouring rain!

4. Make sure you dress lightly. If you’re wearing too much clothing, it can cause you to sweat more which will dehydrate you. In the same vein, it’s best to wear synthetic fabrics since cotton will absorb all the sweat and make you feel damp and unclean.

5. Pack the essentials, but not too much. Make sure you bring a compass or map, sunscreen, headlamp or flashlight, first aid, snack food, and plenty of water. You can find all of the above at your local Rural King Supply!

6. On the other hand, don’t bring TOO much! The heavier your load, the harder the hike will be. Try to only bring things you absolutely need.

7. Wear the right shoes. Rural King Supply has a wide variety of hiking shoes and moisture-wicking socks that will provide a comfortable hike for you.

8. If you are prone to pain in your hips, knees, or back after extended walking, you may want to consider purchasing a hiking stick. Rural King Supply sells sturdy, well-constructed hiking sticks that should last for many, many hikes.

9. You may want to consider bringing a predator deterrent like bear spray, or else look up some tips for what to do if you run into a wild animal during your hike.

Hiking is a fun hobby that can keep you healthy and in shape! Let Rural King Supply get you stocked up for what you need for your first hike with things like snacks, flashlights, bottled water, and more.