5 Common Hiking Mistakes Beginners Make and How to Fix Them
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Hi, my fellow trailblazers! Whether you're gearing up for your first hiking adventure or dipping your boots back into the great outdoors, we've all had those "oops" moments on the trail. Trust me, even seasoned hikers like me have had a blunder or two (or ten). So, let's talk about the five most common hiking mistakes beginners make and, more importantly, how to fix them. Because mistakes are just opportunities to learn and laugh, right?
1. Underestimating the Trail and Overestimating Your Pace
The Mistake: You stumble upon a trail that appears deceptively easy—"just a quick 3 miles"—but soon find yourself struggling up a steep incline, wishing for a magical shortcut.
Why It Happens: Trail descriptions can be misleading. A "moderate" trail for one hiker might feel like climbing Mount Everest to someone else. Elevation gain, terrain type, and weather conditions are often overlooked.
The Fix:
Start small and research thoroughly. Use apps like AllTrails to check trail difficulty, reviews, and photos. Look for beginner-friendly trails with minimal elevation gain and well-marked paths.
Choose trails with good footing and gradual inclines. Avoid trails with rocky terrain or steep drop-offs, as these can be more challenging for older hikers.
Consider using trekking poles for added stability and support. Trekking poles can help reduce joint stress, especially on uneven terrain.
Pace yourself. Don't try to keep up with younger or more experienced hikers. Hiking is not a race. Choose a pace that's comfortable for you, and take breaks as needed.
Pro Tip: Give yourself extra time. A trail that says "2 hours" takes longer for slower-paced hikers when you're stopping for water, photos, and the occasional "what-was-I-thinking" moment.
2. Wearing the Wrong Gear
The Mistake: Showing up in jeans, sneakers, and a cotton t-shirt, only to end up cold, wet, or with blisters the size of Texas.
Why It Happens: New hikers often assume any old clothes and shoes will do. While that might work for a stroll in the park, it's a recipe for discomfort on the trail.
The Fix:
Footwear: Invest in proper hiking boots or trail runners that fit well and provide good ankle support. Make sure to break them in before hitting the trail to prevent blisters. Learn more about choosing the proper footwear in Happy Feet: Beginners Guide to Comfortable Footwear
Clothing: Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics and dress in layers. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can make you feel cold and clammy.
Extras: Always pack a lightweight rain jacket, even if the forecast looks clear. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and you don't want to get caught unprepared.
Backpack: Choose a backpack that fits comfortably and distributes weight evenly. Adjust the straps properly to avoid strain on your shoulders and back.
Pro Tip:
Blisters are a hiker's worst nightmare. Prevent them by wearing moisture-wicking socks and applying anti-chafing balm to areas prone to friction. Pack a small blister kit with moleskin, antiseptic wipes, and tape just in case. Check out the post How To Avoid Blister While Hiking.
3. Forgetting to Hydrate and Snack
The Mistake: Hitting the trail with a single bottle of water and no snacks, only to feel like you've been hiking through the Sahara after an hour.
Why It Happens: Beginners often underestimate how much energy hiking burns. Plus, carrying extra water and snacks might seem like overpacking.
The Fix:
Hydration is key. Carry at least 1 liter of water for short hikes, and consider a hydration bladder for longer adventures. Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty.
Pack nutrient-rich snacks to keep your energy levels up. Trail mix, granola bars, dried fruit, and jerky are all good options.
Pro Tip: Pre-hydrate before your hike and take small sips regularly. Don't wait until you're thirsty—by then, dehydration might already be setting in.
4. Overpacking or Underpacking
The Mistake: You're either lugging a backpack that feels like a bag of bricks or skimping on essentials and wishing for a hiking fairy godmother to deliver supplies.
Why It Happens: New hikers often struggle with packing. They either try to prepare for every possible scenario or downplay the importance of essentials.
The Fix:
Learn the art of packing smart. Here's a basic checklist:
Essentials: Water, snacks, navigation tools (map, compass, or GPS), sunscreen, first-aid kit, and any necessary medications.
Weather Protection: Layers appropriate for the forecast, plus a hat and sunglasses.
Emergency Items: A whistle, multitool, headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, and a fully charged cell phone.
Pro Tip: Use the "Ten Essentials" as a starting point for your packing list. You can find detailed information about the Ten Essentials here or at your local outdoor retailer. Remember, a lighter and well-fitting pack means a more comfortable hike.
5. Ignoring Trail Etiquette and Safety
The Mistake: You're charging up the trail without yielding to uphill hikers, blasting music from your phone, or wandering off-trail for a better selfie.
Why It Happens: Many new hikers are simply not aware of the unspoken (and spoken) rules of the trail.
The Fix:
Familiarize yourself with trail etiquette and safety basics:
Yield to uphill hikers or horses. They have the right of way.
Keep noise levels down. Enjoy the sounds of nature and let others do the same. If you must listen to music, use headphones.
Stay on designated trails. Protect the environment and yourself by sticking to the path. Wandering off can lead to getting lost, damaging fragile ecosystems, or encountering wildlife. Those cubs might be super cute, but Mama isn’t too far away.
Be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for wildlife (moose, elk, mountain goats, snakes sunning themselves on the path), trail hazards, and other hikers.
Leave no trace. Pack out everything you pack in, even what you think is biodegradable, and dispose of waste properly.
Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back. This is especially important if you're hiking solo.
Be prepared for emergencies. Carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it. Carry a whistle and know how to signal for help in case of an emergency.
One long blast is a check-in.
Two short blasts indicate you’re okay.
Three long blasts indicate an emergency and immediate assistance is required.
Be aware of the potential for weather changes. Check the forecast before you go, and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and conditions.
Learn how to navigate with a map and compass when heading to more remote areas. Don't rely solely on your phone for navigation, as batteries can die and signals can be lost.
Be aware of the risks of altitude sickness. If you're hiking at a high altitude, acclimate yourself slowly and drink plenty of fluids.
Pro Tip: Take a wilderness first aid course to learn how to deal with common hiking injuries and emergencies.
Additional Tips for Older Hikers
Listen to your body and pace yourself. Don't push yourself too hard, especially when starting. Take breaks when needed, and turn back if you're feeling unwell. Choose a pace that's comfortable for you, and don't feel pressured to keep up with others.
Prepare your body. Warm up by starting slow to help prepare your muscles. If you have knee problems, consider using knee braces or compression sleeves for added support. Use trekking poles for added stability. Trekking poles can help reduce joint stress, especially on uneven terrain. Adjust your pack weight to minimize stress on your knees.
Stay hydrated and fuel your body. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your hike, and pack snacks that provide sustained energy, such as trail mix, nuts, and dried fruit.
Be aware of your surroundings. Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for changes in temperature and conditions. Choose appropriate trails that match your fitness level and experience.
Wear proper gear. Choose comfortable, supportive footwear like hiking boots or trail runners with good ankle support and cushioning. Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Be informed. Learn about the wildlife you might encounter and how to avoid conflicts. Leave no trace by packing out everything you pack in, even those orange peels and apple cores, and disposing of waste properly. Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back, take a selfie so everyone knows what you're wearing especially if you're hiking solo.
Embrace the Journey
Hiking is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of nature and stay active. By following these tips and taking a few extra precautions, older hikers can enjoy the trail safely and confidently. Remember, the most important thing is to listen to your body, pace yourself, and have fun!
Bonus: My First Hike—A Spectacular Disaster
Let me tell you about my first hike, which was, without a doubt, a spectacular disaster. Picture this: I had just moved from Texas, where outdoor activities usually involve air conditioning or a shady porch. The idea of hiking through the wilderness was new to me, but the Rocky Mountains in Colorado were calling my name.
One sunny summer weekend, I decided to take a "leisurely stroll" along a paved trail to a scenic viewpoint. Mistake number one? Choosing the busiest time of year. Crowds swarmed the trailhead, and we parked so far back that it felt like another zip code. Mistake number two? Completely underestimating the reality of altitude. Just 100 yards into the hike, my lungs were staging a full-blown protest, gasping for air like a fish out of water.
Determined not to let oxygen deprivation stop me, I pressed on—for about 20 yards past the trailhead. Yep, that’s right. My first hike ended less than a football field away. Meanwhile, my 8-year-old daughter bounded ahead like a gazelle, taking in the stunning view while I sat on the asphalt, muttering, "This is supposed to be an easy trail. For whom? Mountain goats?"
But that disaster was the spark that ignited my love for hiking. I started small, with local trails and lots of wheezing, but eventually built up my endurance. My redemption hike—the 6.6-mile trail to Lake Isabelle in the Indian Peaks Wilderness—was challenging but oh-so-rewarding. Standing by the shimmering blue waters, I knew every misstep had been worth it.
So Many Places To Explore
You deserve a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience. Imagine yourself confidently setting off on your next hike, knowing you have the perfect gear thanks to our free Ultimate Hiking Gear Guide eBook. And remember to bookmark this page to have this information at your fingertips whenever you need it.
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