Skip to content
  • HOME
  • Meet Me!
  • On Etsy
  • Sunrises2Sunsets Planners
sunrises2sunsets logo arkansas adventures

Sunrises2Sunsets

Nature. Animals. Photography. ADVENTURE.

  • Hiking
    • Hiking in Arkansas
    • Hiking Info
  • Kayaking
    • Kayaking in Arkansas
    • Kayaking Info
  • Other Adventures
    • Nature
    • Outdoor Exploration
    • Road Trips
  • Arkansas Adventure
    • Arkansas State Parks
    • Arkansas Hiking Trails
    • Arkansas Kayaking
  • Toggle search form

Sunrises2sunsets

wander.

explore nature.

create

memories.

live life.

Hiking Basics For Beginners (The How To Guide)

Posted on January 14, 2024December 10, 2024 By ~Brandi~ 16 Comments on Hiking Basics For Beginners (The How To Guide)
Share this page!
71
Shares

Hiking is a great exercise. Walking is one of the most universal forms of exercise that almost anyone can participate in. Throw in the benefits of being in nature, and it makes hiking the perfect activity!

how to start hiking

Hiking just takes walking one step further by subtracting the level sidewalk and adding unlevel terrain. And with the beauty of nature to keep you occupied, hiking never gets boring. I started hiking more seriously a couple of years ago and have never looked back!

Are you new to hiking? You have found the right place!

Ready to get started? Let’s do it!

Live the best adventures!

Sign up for year-round adventure ideas + tips!

Join the Mailing list!

By joining, you`re consenting to emails. You may unsubscribe at any time.

(Some of the product links on this website are affiliate links of which Sunrises2Sunsets receives a small commission from sales, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

Table of Contents

  • Let’s Go!
  • But first… you gotta walk
  • Then on to HIKING
  • The Benefits
  • Hiking Tips for Beginners
  • How do you find a hiking trail?
  • Hiking Levels
  • What should you take hiking?
  • Hiking DONT’S

Let’s Go!

If you are currently on a walking program, skip to the hiking section! If you don’t walk much, check out the following tips. And per the usual advice you find online, always check with your doctor first to clear any physical activity.

“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”

John Muir

But first… you gotta walk

Here are some tips for starting and sticking to a walking program:

  • Set realistic goals. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with a goal of walking for 20 minutes, 2-4 times per week. Once you are comfortable with that, you can gradually increase the duration and/or frequency of your walks.
  • Find a walking partner. Having someone to walk with can help you stay motivated and accountable.
  • Choose a route that you enjoy. This will make your walks more enjoyable and less likely to feel like a chore.

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”

john muir
  • Track your progress. Keeping track of how far you’ve walked and how much time you’ve spent walking can help you stay motivated and see your progress over time.
  • Take breaks. If you need to take a break, take one. It’s okay to rest.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. This will help you avoid blisters and other injuries.
  • Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re walking in hot weather.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take safety precautions. Walk in well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone at night.
best women's hiking boots

My go-to hiking boots?

Columbia Women’s Facet 75 Mid Outdry Hiking Shoe

Take a Peek –>

Amazon Affiliate Store

Walking programs are typically on level surfaces: tracks, roads, and sidewalks.

Then on to HIKING

Once you have mastered a walking program and are ready to kick it up a notch, move on to hiking! Hiking will incorporate more varied terrain for an added challenge.

is hiking good exercise? hiking faq with sunrises2sunsets

Hiking Essential Gear

The Essentials.

Hiking supplies to own.

Read!

The Benefits

First, let’s look at the broad scope of the benefits of hiking:

  • Cardiovascular health: Hiking gets your heart rate up and helps to strengthen your heart and lungs.
  • Muscular strength: Hiking helps to build and strengthen your muscles, especially your legs, glutes, and core.
  • Weight loss: Hiking can help you to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. It is a great way to burn calories and burn fat. The numbers can vary a lot depending on terrain, physical level, and health, but general consensus is that on average, a 150-pound person can expect to burn around 300-400 calories per hour of hiking on moderate terrain.
  • Mental health: Hiking can also improve your mental health. It can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Hiking can also help to improve your mood and boost your energy levels.
hikes in arkansas ozarks

hiking supplies

“To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles.”

mary davis

Hiking Tips for Beginners

For the beginner, here are some tips to start your hiking journey.

  • Start with easy hikes. Look for trails that are short and have little elevation gain.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. It’s important to wear shoes that provide good traction and support. Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops. You should also dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperature.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, and pack snacks such as trail mix, energy bars, and fruit.
backpack

Hiking Backpack

My backpack: Lowe Alpine AirZone Active Backpack for Day Hiking

Take a Peek –>
  • Let someone know where you’re going. Before you head out on your hike, let a friend or family member know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the trail and be careful of hazards such as uneven surfaces, loose rocks, and roots.
  • Take breaks. Don’t be afraid to take breaks as needed.
  • Be prepared for all weather conditions. Dress in layers and bring rain gear, even if the forecast is sunny.

“We live in a fast-paced society. Walking slows us down.”

Robert Sweetgall
  • Leave no trace. Pack out all of your trash and leave the trail as you found it.
  • Start early in the day. This will give you plenty of time to finish your hike before dark.
  • Bring a first-aid kit. It’s always a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand in case of minor injuries.
  • Be respectful of wildlife. Don’t approach or feed wild animals.

Leave no trace principles

Leave No Trace

7 Principles to live by when exploring the great outdoors

Learn more

How do you find a hiking trail?

Next, you need to find a hiking trail.

My go-to for finding trails is an app: AllTrails. AllTrails is a free app (with a paid upgrade option if you choose), that will search hiking trails near you. You can find a description of the trail, reviews from other hikers, and photos. AllTrails will include ALL levels of hiking but will list the mileage and difficulty level for you.

You can also visit Pinterest to search for hiking trails. Or find sites that explore local hiking trails. For instance, I hike alllll over Arkansas and explore the individual hikes on my website in a dedicated Arkansas Hiking section.

“Walking is a man’s best medicine”

Hippocrates

Hiking Levels

Hiking levels are typically classified as easy, moderate, strenuous, and very strenuous. The difficulty level of a hike is determined by a few things, including:

  • Elevation gain: The amount of elevation gain, or the total vertical distance climbed, is a major factor in determining the difficulty of a hike.
  • Distance: The length of the hike is also a factor in determining the difficulty level. Longer hikes are typically more difficult than shorter hikes.
  • Terrain: The type of terrain, such as whether the trail is smooth and level or rough and rocky, can also affect the difficulty level of a hike.
  • Weather conditions: Extreme weather conditions, such as heat, cold, or rain, can also make a hike more difficult.
hiking

These factors are taken into account and will classify a hike as easy, moderate, strenuous, or very strenuous.

  • Easy: Easy hikes are typically short and have little to no elevation gain. The terrain is smooth and level, and the trail is well-maintained. Easy hikes are a good option for beginners or people who are looking for a relaxing hike.
  • Moderate: Moderate hikes are typically longer than easy hikes and have more elevation gain. The terrain may be more rugged, and the trail may not be as well-maintained. Moderate hikes are a good option for people who are in reasonably good physical condition and are looking for a bit of a challenge.
  • Strenuous: Strenuous hikes are typically long and have a lot of elevation gain. The terrain may be very rugged, and the trail may not be well-maintained. Strenuous hikes are a good option for experienced hikers who are in good physical condition and are looking for a challenge.
  • Very strenuous: Very strenuous hikes are typically very long and have a lot of elevation gain. The terrain may be extremely rugged, and the trail may not be well-maintained. Very strenuous hikes are a good option for very experienced hikers who are in excellent physical condition and are looking for a challenge.
one of the best hiking views in arkansas at a state park with sunrises2sunsets

In the beginning, my hikes were typically somewhat level with gentle inclines and declines that were 1-2 miles long. My hikes have slowly progressed over the past 2 years and I now look forward to conquering a hike this fall that is a 6-mile round trip with a steep climb up a mountainside that has been described as “brutal.” And I can’t wait!

What should you take hiking?


Hiking Essential Gear

The Essentials.

Hiking supplies to own.

Read!

You’ll need to take a few things with you on your hike. The items you will need vary depending on the hike and your physical abilities.

knockaround sunglasses

My go-to sunglasses?

Knockaround Deja Views Polarized Sunglasses for Women

Take a Peek –>

For a short hike, a good list to begin with is-

  • Water: Bring at least 2 liters of water per person.
  • Snacks: Bring snacks such as trail mix, energy bars, and fruit.
  • Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, and ears.
  • Hat: Wear a hat to protect your face from the sun.
  • Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.

 “The moment my legs begin to move, my thoughts begin to flow.”

Henry David Thoreau
  • First-aid kit: Pack a first-aid kit in case of minor injuries.
  • Headlamp or flashlight: If you’re hiking in the evening or at night, bring a headlamp or flashlight.
  • Insect repellent: Apply insect repellent to all exposed skin to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other biting insects.
  • Knife or multi-tool: A knife or multi-tool can be useful for a variety of tasks, such as opening food packages or repairing gear.
  • Trash bag: Pack out all of your trash and leave the trail as you found it.
  • Navigation Assistance: A pre-downloaded map (in case of poor cell service), or a map and compass.

This list will cover the basics. After a hike or 2, you may find other items you wish you had that would be useful, and add them to your list.


hiking skills hiking safety hiking handbook hiking tips how to hike beginners hiking for beginners

Hiking Handbook

the Guidelines + Unspoken rules

Read!

Hiking DONT’S

A few important “hiking don’ts” to remember…

  • Don’t hike alone
  • Don’t go off-trail
  • Don’t litter
  • Don’t eat things you can’t positively identify
  • Don’t overestimate your ability
  • Don’t start a hike too late in the evening

The next step is to just get out there and do it! Start small and enjoy the journey.


getting lost hiking

Hiking Survival

Prepare. prevent. survive.

Read!

“We don’t stop hiking because we grow old. We grow old because we stop hiking.”

Finis Mitchell

1000 Hours Outside

1000 Hours Outside Challenge

Read about the challenge and download your free tracker!

Learn more

nature photography bephotography

Sunrises2Sunsets

Outdoor Adventures: Information, Inspiration, Ideas

✓Hiking ✓Kayaking ✓Arkansas State Parks ✓Camping ✓Road Trips

Follow on FB!

Arkansas Hikes Checklist (Instagram Post)

Arkansas HIkes

checklist

get it free!


a happier you guide 2

Your Guide to

A Happier You!

The 3 keys to happiness (challenge + tracker included)

click here

link tree linktree sunrises2sunsets

goal planner goal setting

Goal Planning

Your Ultimate Guide to Life goals

click here

Send a Tip!

Hiking

Post navigation

Previous Post: Explore The Best Hikes of Arkansas: 20 Hiking Trails
Next Post: Pedestal Rock + Kings Bluff: 2 in 1 Amazing Arkansas Trails

More Related Articles

benefits of hiking The Benefits Of Hiking- 8 Powerful Perks. Hiking
hiking in sandals teva sandals with sunrises2sunsets Can You Hike in Tevas? Sunrises2Sunsets Best Hiking Adventures Hiking
best hiking boots for women cute hiking boots aesthetic hiking outfit The Best Hiking Boots for Women. The Winner? Hiking

Comments (16) on “Hiking Basics For Beginners (The How To Guide)”

  1. Stephanie says:
    September 28, 2023 at 8:03 am

    The family hikes every weekend we can – the best exercise!

    Reply
  2. Tiffany says:
    September 28, 2023 at 8:28 am

    Great article. My husband and I love to hike but it’s been a while since we had our little one. We’ve been able to walk some steep hills while on vacation. It’s was the best because my husband was able to join us for walks during the day.

    Reply
  3. Cindy Bowden says:
    September 28, 2023 at 10:43 am

    When I do go hiking, I love it. I hate exercising. When you hike, it doesn’t feel like you’re exercising! Great post!

    Reply
    1. ~Brandi~ says:
      September 28, 2023 at 5:00 pm

      Exactly! The best exercises don’t really feel like exercises!

      Reply
  4. Mandy says:
    September 28, 2023 at 5:02 pm

    These tips were all great reminders. I did the 52 hike challenge in 2021 and haven’t hiked much since. The past few months I have been getting out hiking more and it’s important to remember to not over estimate your ability.

    Reply
  5. Debbie says:
    September 28, 2023 at 5:15 pm

    I love hiking. It’s amazing exercise and I love being in nature. Great tips on comfortable shoes and bug repellent.

    Reply
  6. Maryanne says:
    September 29, 2023 at 9:17 am

    I like the practical ideas to get you started. The benefits are good to know and the tips for beginners are very helpful. Thanks for the useful list of things you should take on a hike too.

    Reply
  7. yufimukut says:
    September 29, 2023 at 11:59 am

    My husband has always loved hiking, but I’m a bit less adventurous. Thanks for the tips in this great article. Very helpful to me.

    Reply
  8. Christine says:
    September 30, 2023 at 9:59 am

    So many great tips here! I’m an avid hiker (and a little paranoid :)) and I always bring a first aid kit but it’s totally something people forget to bring! I very much agree with all the benefits of hiking as well.

    Reply
  9. tmac5384 says:
    September 30, 2023 at 12:55 pm

    I love this! I wish I was more of a hiker. I will occasional go for an easier hike but haven’t gotten into it as much as I want.

    Reply
  10. Kevin Foodie says:
    January 10, 2024 at 6:16 pm

    Wish I could hike every week. Hiking is not only a good workout but it a great mental health booster.

    Reply
  11. carolphipps says:
    January 15, 2024 at 8:22 am

    Great post! Another added benefit- if you use hiking sticks you get arm and spine weight bearing, which is great for people with bone health problems!

    Reply
    1. ~Brandi~ says:
      January 15, 2024 at 7:20 pm

      Thanks for that additional information! Good to know!

      Reply
  12. Hari says:
    January 15, 2024 at 9:41 am

    Love the tips! I particularly agree that overestimating your ability to hike and starting very late in the evening are not the ideal things to do.

    Reply
  13. Eva P. says:
    January 20, 2024 at 8:08 am

    I love hiking, especially in the winter on snowy paths!

    Reply
  14. Borealis Mom says:
    January 20, 2024 at 10:39 am

    Love that you added quotes into this article! Particularly the first quote by John Muir. He is my favorite naturalist and his quotes are always inspiring. Great article on getting started hiking!

    Reply

Your Thoughts?Cancel reply

Let’s Connect!
  • https://www
  • Amazon
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • TikTok

Privacy Policy - Terms of Use - Cookies Policy - Terms + Conditions - Disclaimers - Affiliate Disclosures

Copyright © 2025 Sunrises2Sunsets

Powered by PressBook Green WordPress theme

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.OkPrivacy policy