27+ Hiking Tips and Tricks: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

Going on your next (or even first!) hiking adventure can be both exhilarating and daunting. As you prepare to explore the great outdoors, you’ll want to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling experience. We’ve got you covered with our ultimate guide of hiking tips perfect for beginners and experienced hikers alike. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share essential advice to help you master the basics of hiking, from choosing the right gear and planning your route to understanding trail etiquette and staying safe in the wilderness. 

One of my goals with this site is to help new people get outside and spend time doing the things I’ve fallen in love with. I already wrote a complete list of over 100+ camping tips and tricks, so I wanted to cover something similar for hiking so that Outdoor Andrew can be your one-stop-shop for all things outdoors!

With these tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident and responsible hiker, ready to conquer any trail that comes your way.

Essential Hiking Tips & Tricks for Beginners

If you’re just starting your hiking journey, these tips and tricks are the perfect way to get going. Most of these tips come straight from my own experience, having hiked hundreds (if not thousands) of trails over the years, and spending lots of time on hikes by myself, with my friends, and even with family.

When I first started hiking, I didn’t know anything more about it than you do right now. But by becoming an avid hiker myself, I’ve picked up a thing or two (or 27) along the way that I think will help you take on the trails. 

While I suggest reading through all the tips — I promise it won’t take too long! — you can also just click on whichever category below that’s most relevant to you:

Tips for Hiking Alone

Any time you’re out in nature by yourself, you have to take extra precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. Here are the best hiking tips for solo hikers:

• Choose well-marked trails: Opt for popular and clearly marked trails, as they are easier to navigate and provide a safer experience for solo hikers.
  
  
• Inform someone of your plans: Always tell a friend or family member about your hiking route and expected return time to ensure someone knows your whereabouts.
  
  
• Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or sense danger, trust your gut and take the necessary steps to stay safe.
  
  
• Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB): Invest in a PLB, which can send out a distress signal with your GPS location in case of an emergency. You can also opt for a high-quality hiking watch that can do the same thing and much more.
  
  
• Improve navigation skills: Enhance your ability to navigate through the wilderness by learning how to use a map and compass, as well as familiarizing yourself with GPS devices and smartphone navigation apps. This will boost your confidence and self-reliance while hiking alone.

Tips for Hiking with Family

Hiking by yourself can be one of the most peaceful, serene experiences on earth. But nothing is better than getting out there with loved ones and enjoying the trails with your family. Check out these family hiking tips:

• Pick family-friendly trails: Choose trails with manageable distances and terrains to ensure an enjoyable experience for hikers of all ages.
  
  
• Pack kid-friendly snacks: Bring healthy, energy-boosting snacks that kids will love to keep them fueled throughout the hike. Check out our complete list of the top healthy hiking snacks and drinks here.
  
  
• Encourage frequent breaks: Regular breaks help prevent fatigue and provide opportunities to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery.
  
  
• Teach kids trail etiquette: Educate your children about responsible hiking practices, such as staying on the trail and respecting wildlife.

Essential Hiking Gear Tips

We already suggested that you consider investing in a hiking watch with GPS above — you can find the best hiking watches on the market here — but that’s not the only thing you should bring along. When it comes to gear, you always want to start with a versatile hiking backpack. In addition to that, keep these hiking tips in mind:

• Invest in quality footwear: Choose comfortable, sturdy, and well-fitting hiking boots or shoes that provide proper support and traction.
  
  
• Dress in layers: Opt for moisture-wicking clothing and dress in layers to easily adapt to changing temperatures and weather conditions.
  
  
• Carry a map and compass: Even with a GPS device, having a physical map and compass as a backup can be crucial in case of technical issues or dead batteries.
  
  
• Bring a first-aid kit: Pack a lightweight, well-stocked first-aid kit to address any minor injuries or health issues that may arise.

Safety Hiking Tips

You probably expected to see this section, but we can’t talk about hiking (or really anything outdoors) without mentioning safety. So keep these safety hiking tips in mind next time you hit the trails:

• Check weather forecasts: Always check weather conditions before setting out to avoid getting caught in dangerous situations, such as storms or extreme temperatures.
  
  
• Stay on marked trails: Venturing off-trail can lead to injury or getting lost; stick to marked trails to minimize risks.
  
  
• Carry enough water: Hydration is essential; bring enough water for your entire hike and consider using a water filter or purifier if relying on natural sources.
  
  
• Know your limits: Be realistic about your physical capabilities and choose a trail that matches your fitness level and experience to prevent injuries or exhaustion.

Tips for Hiking Etiquette

As with all things outdoors, it’s vital that you respect your surroundings, other people, and more. Use these hiking tips on proper etiquette to make sure you do:

• Follow Leave No Trace principles: Preserve nature by adhering to Leave No Trace guidelines, such as packing out all trash, avoiding disturbing wildlife, and leaving rocks, plants, and other natural features undisturbed.
  
  
• Yield to other trail users: Be considerate and follow the established right-of-way rules, yielding to hikers traveling uphill and giving space to cyclists or horseback riders as needed.
  
  
• Keep noise levels down: Respect the tranquility of the outdoors and other hikers by maintaining low noise levels and avoiding loud music or disruptive behavior.
  
  
• Camp in designated areas: If your hike includes overnight stays and primitive camping, set up camp only in established campgrounds or designated backcountry sites to minimize your impact on the environment.
  
  
• Respect trail signs and closures: Obey all posted signs, regulations, and trail closures to help maintain trail integrity and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all hikers.

Hiking Tips for Various Terrains

Knowing how to handle different types of terrain is vital depending on where you’ll be hiking and what time of year. Here are some hiking tips for various types of terrain:

• Navigate rocky terrain with caution: When traversing rocky areas, maintain a slow and steady pace, and use your hands for balance to prevent slips or falls.
  
  
• Cross rivers and streams safely: Assess the water’s depth and current before crossing; use a sturdy stick for support, and always unbuckle your backpack’s hip belt in case you need to quickly remove it.
  
  
• Tackle steep inclines efficiently: Conserve energy on steep inclines by using a zigzag pattern, leaning into the hill, and taking smaller steps to maintain a steady pace.
  
  
• Descend hills with care: When going downhill, bend your knees slightly to absorb the impact, and avoid locking your knees to prevent strain or injury.
  
  
• Adapt to snowy or icy conditions: Use appropriate gear, such as trekking poles, microspikes, or snowshoes, to enhance stability and traction in snowy or icy conditions. Practice proper techniques for walking on slippery surfaces to minimize the risk of falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right trail for my skill level?

Consider factors such as distance, elevation gain, and trail difficulty ratings when selecting a hike. Start with easier, well-marked trails and gradually progress to more challenging routes as you gain experience and confidence.

What should I bring on a day hike?

Pack essentials such as water, snacks, a map and compass, a first-aid kit, a multi-tool, a headlamp, sun protection, and extra clothing layers. Always carry a fully charged phone and consider bringing a portable charger.

How much water should I carry while hiking?

A general recommendation is to consume about 1 liter of water every 2 hours of hiking in moderate conditions and temperatures. Adjust this amount based on weather conditions, your exertion level, and individual needs.

What is the best way to prevent blisters while hiking?

Choose well-fitting, broken-in hiking footwear and moisture-wicking socks. Prevent friction by using blister prevention products such as moleskin, athletic tape, duct tape, or specialized blister plasters.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Hiking alone can be safe with proper preparation and precautions. Choose well-traveled and well-marked trails, inform someone of your plans, carry a personal locator beacon, and trust your instincts in case of danger.

How can I improve my hiking fitness?

Incorporate regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises into your routine, focusing on building endurance, leg strength, and core stability. Practice hiking with a loaded backpack and gradually increase your trail difficulty and distance.

How Can These Tips Prepare You For Your Next Hike?

These tips are designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on your next hiking adventure, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker looking to refine your skills. 

By following the guidelines provided, you can enhance your overall hiking experience in several ways:

Safety: Understanding essential safety measures, such as checking weather forecasts, carrying enough water, and staying on marked trails, can significantly reduce the risks associated with hiking and ensure a secure and enjoyable outing.

Comfort: Investing in proper gear, dressing in layers, and preventing blisters can significantly improve your comfort on the trail. These factors are crucial in maintaining a positive mindset and allowing you to focus on the natural beauty surrounding you.

Trail Etiquette: Familiarity with trail etiquette and Leave No Trace principles helps preserve the environment and ensures a pleasant experience for all trail users. Being a responsible hiker contributes to the sustainability and enjoyment of our natural spaces.

Adaptability: Learning how to navigate various terrains and conditions, such as rocky trails, steep inclines, and slippery surfaces, enhances your versatility as a hiker. You’ll be better prepared to tackle a wide range of trails and challenges, which opens up new opportunities for exploration.

Planning: Acquiring the skills to plan your hike, from selecting appropriate trails to packing the right gear, can greatly impact the success of your outing. Proper planning allows you to anticipate potential issues and address them effectively.

Fitness and Endurance: Following the tips to improve your hiking fitness not only prepares you for more challenging trails but also promotes overall health and well-being. A strong foundation of physical fitness can translate to increased enjoyment and reduced fatigue on the trail.

By taking these tips to heart and putting them into practice, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your next hike with confidence and enthusiasm. So go ahead, lace up those hiking boots, and embark on your next outdoor adventure!