HIKING
Casual hikes, backpacking, orienteering, and mountaineering can
all be considered forms of hiking. Hiking is an enjoyable form
of exercise and recreation. Hikes can last for a few hours or
for several weeks (like at Philmont, or touring Europe by its
walking trails). Many experienced hikers find special pleasure
in wilderness areas in national parks and national forests, and
foreign places. However, some people prefer to hike in local
parks or forest preserves--or even on city sidewalks.
Walking for pleasure is the most basic form of hiking,
and ranks among the most popular "everyone" recreational activities.
Hiking, if not over really rough terrain, can be enjoyed by all
ages and conditions of health (such as asthma, which I know about personally).
For most hiking, people need only clothing suitable for the weather,
including comfortable shoes or lightweight boots, and a bottle
or canteen of water. Important note:::have extra socks,
which should be changed frequently to avoid problems from overly
sweaty feet. Beginning hikers should start with walks that
last no longer than a day. As their endurance increases, they
may take overnight hikes. Eventually, they may go on camping/hiking
trips that last for several days or weeks. If your hiking will
last for many hours, you should take along some trail snacks in
addition to your container of water.
A hiker can provide for safety by always having at least one companion.
Hikers should also be prepared for sudden changes in the weather,
and should know basic first-aid skills to treat blisters, frostbite,
and other conditions which may be encountered on the hike. Skill
using a map and compass can also be
very important when hiking in unfamiliar areas.
In backpacking, one of the most popular types of hiking,
people carry food, clothing, and other items on their backs.
Backpackers can spend many days in remote areas where supplies
are unavailable, so need to find an efficient way to transport
necessary items in backpacks.
A hiking sport called orienteering involves map reading
and using a compass. Hikers travel over an established cross-country
course, for fun or competition. With a map and a compass, they
must locate checkpoints scattered along the course. The person
who finds all the checkpoints first and successfully completes
the course is the winner.
Mountain climbing, also called mountaineering, is a special
type of hiking that can be both difficult and dangerous. Hikers
should take a course in mountaineering before attempting a climb,
and they should always be accompanied by an experienced climber.
Many organizations, including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and local
hiking clubs, provide useful information for hikers. Rangers
at national parks and national forests are sources for maps and
other aids in your hiking fun. Plan out some hikes and enjoy
the Great Outdoors!
Backpacking is more rigorous, but very enjoyable.
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