Day Hikes
There are plenty of day hiking opportunities within an hour or two or most cities
There are some advantages to day hiking:
- You are more likely to meet fellow hikers along the trail making it a very social outdoor activity
- the opportunity for exercise and fresh air
- seeing some great scenery close to home
- maybe also see some wildlife such as deer, rabbits and various birds
- if the weather is not cooperating you can change your plans at a moments notice
A day hike is generally 10 to 25 km in length depending on the trail chosen and your experience. If doing two day hikes back to back you can go for a short distance one day and a longer distance or take a hike with steeper hills the next day.
What you carry during a day hike can be kept to a minimum so your pack should not be too heavy. Although it depends a lot on the weather and the terrain these are a few items to consider planning your day hike.
First, you require a packsack (rucksack) and cover, although day packs tend to be smaller as you have fewer things to carry. Inside you will need to pack your lunch and lots of healthy snacks. It is always a good idea to carry extra food should you be delayed for any reason. Water or sports drinks are is essential, particularly in the summer, so a hydration pack or water bottles must be carried. Sports drinks are better than water as studies have shown you are more likely you will consume more if you bring sports drinks.
Additional items to pack may wish to include are a first aid kit, sunscreen, sun glasses, insect repellent and a whistle. For navigation take a compass, guidebook (with map) or GPS.
If your day hike takes you along a wilderness trail or into a remote area consider taking a survival kit which might contain items such as matches, emergency blanket. Today many day hikers also carry a mobile phone for emergency purposes.
As with hiking wear your clothing in layers. Start with those hiking boots you have broken in well prior to the hiking and good socks to avoid blisters. Whether you wear long pants or shorts, a long or short sleeve shirt or gaiters depends on personal preference, the trail and the weather but any outdoor wear is generally suitable. Also you will need a lightweight wind jacket, rain gear and top it off with a wide brim hat.
I always take seat cushion to sit on during lunch; a camera to record the day hike and a set of hiking poles for balance.
When your day hike is finished sit down in a bar or coffee shop and enjoy a well earned drink with the rest of your group. Have an enjoyable day hike using these tips!
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