Hiking is a great past-time with the added advantage that it's a good physical workout to boot. But it's always best to be prepared! There are a few things for you to consider when you're getting ready to hike in the wilderness. With some basic knowledge, you'll be ready to hit the trail in no time flat. After all, the most important thing to take into the wilderness with you is knowledge!

Some of the basic things to know are simple and seem like common sense: pack as light as possible, invest in a good backpack, hiking socks, and hiking shoes or boots. Pack at least a simple first-aid kit, always let someone know where you're going, and never hike alone.

But some of the information is best learned the easy way- by learning about other hikers' difficult experiences!

Planning ahead and learning what you're getting yourself into are the most important aspects of hiking. There are quite a few different ways to prepare yourself for your outdoor adventures. Be prepared before you start, and you'll be more than ready to have a great time on your outdoor adventures.

Some of the necessary safety issues often overlooked by beginner hikers:

• Obtaining a map of your destination and studying it ahead of time: each of our events has a hike guide available to members that often includes a topographic map.
• Ensuring that someone outside of the event knows where you are going and when you are expected to return.
• Checking the weather forecast for our destination; plan your clothing, equipment, gear and supplies accordingly.
• Carrying a compass or a GPS unit (or both!) and knowing how to use them.
• Carrying water and food supplies even on a short trip.
• Dressing in layers, and always carrying a jacket; weather conditions can change unexpectedly, especially in Western Washington.
• Ensuring that your pack does not exceed one-third of your body weight.

Now, choose a topic from the left-hand column and let's get started!

Please note: Hiking, camping and backpacking are potentially dangerous activities. The web mistress of these pages is not an instructor or an authority in any of these areas. You are responsible for your own health, welfare and actions. This document is the web mistress’s attempt to pass on information she has researched in order to keep herself, not all of which she has experienced first hand. The web mistress assumes no responsibility for the use of information contained within this website.

This website & its contents including photographs © Alecia J. Rivas, Gryph, and PNWLH except where otherwise indicated.

Please note: Hiking, camping and backpacking are potentially dangerous activities. The web mistress of these pages is not an instructor or an authority in any of these areas. You are responsible for your child's, your canine's and your own health, welfare and actions. The web mistress assumes no responsibility for the use of information contained within this web site.

PNW Leisure Hiking does not tolerate or condone harassment in any form including racial intolerance, unwelcome advances, verbal abuse, sexual harassment, etc. We do not support or represent any political causes or religious causes. Please notify the Organizer if you feel that you are being harassed so that appropriate steps may be taken. PNW Leisure Hiking is NOT a singles club. If you are looking for a date, we strongly recommend you look elsewhere.