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The Benefits of One Day Hiking Trips


Do you like to take one day hiking trips? Do you want to takehiking trips on trails near your home? One day hiking tripshave a number of advantages. They are great for therecreational hiker. Minimal hiking gear is required and you cantake pleasure in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Short day hikes are also a beneficial form of exercise. You cancontrol your speed and terrain elevation. One day you can focuson endurance over flat trails while another day can be spentsprinting and climbing up steeper terrain.

One day hikes commonly take place on easily accessible trails inyour area. Therefore, you can discover hidden nature treasuresthat are in your backyard. You can venture out for a day ofleisurely or extreme hiking. Instead of setting up camp for thenight, you can return to the comforts of your own home.

What hiking gear is necessary for a one day trip? It depends onthe 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. Youdon't want to spend your day trip lugging around a heavybackpack. It is a good idea to bring extra clothes in case yourclothes become wet or the weather gets cooler. The key is todress in layers.

It is vital to keep well hydrated, especially in the hot summermonths. Avoid the intense heat of the afternoon sun. Onegallon of water per person is recommended. A sports drink suchas Gatorade is also an option. Steer clear of sodas andalcohol. These drinks are diuretics and will dehydrate yourbody. Bring snacks that have substantial good carbohydrates andprotein such as nuts and granola. Protein rich fitness bars arealso a practical option. Bring extra food just in case youspend 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 combatany hiking emergencies: waterproof matches, whistle, firestarter, space blanket, and emergency shelter. These items arebeneficial when you are unfamiliar with the hiking trail or youexpect to hike through difficult terrain. There are othersafety items to consider. Consult a hiking professional in yourarea 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 achingsunburn. Always wear sunscreen even if the weather is overcast.Find a waterproof and sweat resistant sports sunscreen andreapply sunscreen every 4-5 hours or more frequently if you areprone to sunburn.

One day hiking trips are a great way for recreational hikers toexperience trails in their area and exercise at the same time. Start a one day hiking group with your friends as a socialget-together. What are you waiting for? Get your gear and getstarted today!

Monica Marty is an avid hiker and webmaster of http://hikingtrailfinder.com/

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