Hitting the Trails
Exploring local trails is a fantastic way of forging a connection with nature, maintaining an active lifestyle, and uncovering the inherent beauty of your surroundings. And your options for how to do so are plentiful, including hiking, running, and mountain biking. To help you embrace the great outdoors, here’s a closer look at three exhilarating methods, including essential tips and safety measures to ensure that you maximize the benefits of your excursions.
Hiking how-tos
Hiking is a simple yet invigorating activity that’s ideal for novices and experts alike. These types of trails vary in difficulty, so it’s important to do some research before setting out on your first trek; this can give you a better idea of which options may be best suited for your physical abilities. Check out the AllTrails website or app for more information about your local trails and their difficulties.
The right gear can make all the difference when hiking, so if it’s something you plan on doing often, it’s worth investing in a good pair of hiking boots or trail shoes that provide proper support. You may also want to dress in layers to better accommodate any changing weather conditions, and don’t forget to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to help keep you protected in unshaded areas.
Additionally, pack hiking essentials in a small backpack, including a simple first aid kit, a headlamp or flashlight for low-light conditions, a multipurpose tool, and a navigational device such as a map, compass, or GPS. Most importantly, bring enough water and energy-rich snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and dried fruit to keep you hydrated and fueled throughout your hike since dehydration and low blood sugar can lead to fatigue and discomfort.
When hiking, make sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles, which are guidelines to help minimize your environmental impact. Don’t take anything from the trail and surrounding areas, properly dispose of your trash, and keep your distance from any wildlife you may encounter. Also practice good etiquette by yielding the trail to uphill hikers, talking in a quiet voice if with a companion, and keeping your cell phone silenced. And always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. These practices can help create a positive experience that energizes you, gets your heart rate up, and keeps you coming back for more.
Trail-running tactics
If you’re looking to jazz up your exercise routine, trail running may be just the thing you need. This activity combines cardio and the beauty of nature for a unique workout, but it does require some specific equipment and strategies for a safe and enjoyable experience. Since it typically involves running on dirt, single-track, or forest trails, footwear plays an essential part in keeping you secure. While you can use your road shoes, they won’t have the same amount of traction as ones designed specifically for trail running. Trail-running shoes provide additional grip, protection, and support, thereby reducing the risk of injury on any uneven surfaces you may encounter.
For newbies, REI Co-op, a recreation services corporation, recommends starting with a dirt or gravel trail at a city or state park since such places are typically low-commitment areas, which can help you adjust to the different terrain. The uneven landscape can be challenging to maneuver, so be sure to pace yourself, perhaps even running slower than you otherwise would. You may even want to pick a trail that’s a shorter distance than you typically run since the rougher surface can make it take longer to traverse. To find information about trails near you, visit the American Trail Running Association’s website.
While running, always be mindful of your surroundings, keeping your eyes on the trail rather than on your feet so you can adjust your footing and avoid any rocks, roots, or other obstacles that could appear. If you’re running in the wilderness, stay alert for potential animal encounters. And make sure to keep hydrated by carrying a water pack, especially if you plan on running for an extended period. Much like hiking, you may also want to bring energy-boosting snacks to help maintain your stamina throughout your run.
Mountain-biking basics
Mountain biking may seem like an extreme sport, but that’s not always the case. “It can be whatever you want it to be,” says Becky Timbers, also known as the Two Wheeled Wanderer. “When some people think of mountain biking, they think of riders going Mach 10 down the side of a mountain, but that’s just one style of mountain biking.” If you’re new to riding, Timbers recommends using an app like Trailforks or MTB Project to find trails that suit your skill level, or you can stop by your local bike shop for recommendations. It’s also a good idea to opt for a shorter trail for your first ride so you don’t exhaust yourself and lose interest in the activity before giving it a real shot.
Apart from a bike to ride, you’ll want to invest in a helmet with a multidirectional impact protection system (MIPS), which helps protect your head from the impact of twists and rotations. Bring a hydration backpack or hip pack to make sure you’re adequately hydrating throughout the entirety of your ride and a plug kit for tubeless tires, tire levers, and a hand pump in case you should have any issues while out riding.
To learn how to use these bike-repair items as well as basic bike-handling techniques, consider attending a beginner’s clinic with a coach or business. Timbers also recommends finding a local biking group to ride with. “One of the things that made me a better rider was riding with people better than me,” she says. By watching someone more experienced, you can learn how to maneuver trails and build more confidence in yourself and your abilities. Your local bike shop may have a group you can join, but you can also find one by visiting the MTB Project website or searching on Facebook.
Exploring local trails can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience, whether you’re hiking, trail running, or mountain biking. So don your hiking gear, lace up your shoes, or hop on your bike and start exploring the beauty that awaits in the great outdoors.