Hiking can be very exciting. I have prepared these hiking tips to ensure you can have the best hiking experience.
Make sure you follow all parks warning signs. Ensure you don’t feed any animals or leave any food behind to ensure you and/or the animal life is not at risk. It is recommended that you read Keep the Wild in Wildlife to learn the risk you can pose from feeding animals. There may be some trails that dogs are not allowed. Learn about these regulations if you’re planning to bring your dog with you.
When planning your hiking trip, always allow for a 1 to 2 hour window in case you get lost. It is advised to complete your journey before sunset. Ensure you get the weather conditions prior to starting your hiking trip. Ensure you have appropriate clothing and foot gear for all trails your planning to explore as each trail may require different gear to wear.
Learning about trail closures from the park staff is recommended as sometimes a trail may be non accessible due to weather conditions or construction. It is recommended that you stay on the path of the trail as it can be very easy to get lost. If you felt that you have walked off the trail and it’s been more than 5 to 10 minutes, turn back and find your way back on the trail.
Below is a list of items that is recommended for you to have for your hiking trips. All the items that are listed in bold I recommend as the minimum to have:
- Water
- First aid kit
- Food
- A paper map of the trial
- Tissue paper
- Flashlight
- Spare batteries
- A fully charged cell phone
- Rain coat
- Swiss army knife
- Compass
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Hand held GPS with maps or mobile app with offline maps and GPS tracks logging
Although having technology for map navigation can be convenient, it is always recommended to have a paper map as you never know when technology will fail or when you will run out of batteries.
If you’re doing hiking trips alone, it is recommended to have an emergency contact. Share with them the details you’re planning to do for each trip. Let them know about plan changes. I would also consider letting the park staff know about your plans if possible. I hope you find these tips helpful and happy safe hiking 
