Hike Safely and Responsibly: Important Reminders for Newbies
Many people are hungry for adventure and are always looking for exhilarating experiences. The excitement and thrill give them the adrenaline rush, which makes them want to do similar things again and again.
Hiking and trekking are among the best examples of activities that satisfy the adventurous. If you are a thrill-seeker and nature lover, you should try any of these outdoor excursions. But before you pack your bag and leave home, take note of the following reminders:
Never Leave Unprepared
Packing all the essentials such as food, water, toiletries, and personal hygiene kits is a no-brainer. It’s among the most basic steps you should take before you go to the wild outdoors. You will also need to buy a parachute cord and other safety equipment. While many people know and follow this basic rule, some tend to forget one thing: preparing themselves for whatever is waiting for them in the wild.
Hiking, for example, is a physically-demanding activity. You need to prepare your body for the long walk and hike, especially if it’s your first time. As much as possible, so some light to moderate exercises several days or weeks before the hike. This will help your body adjust to the level of strain and fatigue associated with hiking. If your muscles are well trained, climbing a hill or mountain won’t be very difficult for you.
Beware of the Weather
Mother Nature can be unpredictable and, sometimes, cruel. We don’t know how the weather will behave or what will happen while we are out in the wild. All we know is that bad weather spells danger, and a disaster might occur if we are not careful.
When a tour guide says it’s dangerous, do not be stubborn. Your safety is their priority. How can you enjoy the trip if the weather is bad anyway? It’s better to postpone your hike and wait for another chance than to push through and get lost in the middle of nowhere, waiting for the rescue team to arrive, or worse, get injured or pass away.
Mind Your Actions
Nature welcomes its guests with a cool and calming breeze that soothes the senses, as well as picturesque views that never fail to put a smile on their faces. You are like a VIP guest, so why not return the favor by respecting everyone and everything you see.
Do your part in preserving the beauty of the place. Behave appropriately and follow all the existing rules and regulations. You don’t want to get in trouble, whether you violate the laws intentionally or accidentally.
Take Only Pictures; Leave Only Footsteps
You might have heard this already, but it’s good to be reminded again. Take all the photos you can take while you are on the site, but never bring home anything that belongs to the place. These include even the smallest and simplest things such as flowers, rocks and pebbles, plant cuttings, and other naturally occurring things. It’s illegal and punishable by law in most hiking spots. Just enjoy the view and take all the good memories with you when you go home.
Nature is generous enough to give us beautiful spots for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Follow these reminders to make sure you’ll have a great experience.
