5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Hiking Location

Hiking can be a fantastic activity and adventure for solo hikers, hiking groups, and even for families with kids of all ages. However, a hiking adventure can quickly turn into a hiking disaster if some details aren't considered ahead of time. Check out these tips as you search for your next hiking trail!

1. Evaluate the Type of Hiking Trail

It is important to think about the type of trail when you are choosing a hiking location. There are various types of trails, each offering a different experience.

• Loop trails, for instance, bring you back to the starting point without retracing your steps, making them ideal for those who enjoy variety and a change of scenery. These trails can provide a well-rounded adventure, offering new sights throughout the hike. There is no retracing your steps.

• Out-and-back trails are a straightforward option, allowing hikers to travel to a specific point and then return the same way. These trails, along with loop trails, make it easy to park in one location, hike, and end up back in at your car.

• Point-to-point trails, on the other hand, require more logistical planning as they often require you to arrange transportation back to the starting point. However, these trails can be great if you are looking to hike all segments of a long trail over a spread out period of time.

2. Consider the Length of the Trail

When selecting a hiking location, the length and duration of the hike are important factors to keep in mind.

• For beginners or those seeking a quick outdoor activity, shorter hikes, typically under ten miles, are a great choice. These hikes are generally less demanding and can often be completed within a few hours.

• On the other hand, longer hikes, ranging from ten to twenty miles or more, require a higher level of stamina and preparation. These extended treks may take an entire day. It is crucial to assess your fitness level and the amount of time you have available.

• If you are planning a multi-day hike, additional considerations come into play. Availability of campsites, water sources, and required permits are critical factors to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Researching these aspects in advance can help to prevent challenges and make the hike more enjoyable.

Whether you are planning a short hike, a long hike, or a multi-day hike, it is important to consider the time of year and amount of daylight hours available to you. Some trails may be more challenging or even inaccessible during certain seasons due to weather conditions. Some times of year have less daylight available. Be sure to think about these things ahead of time. It is a terrible feeling to be stuck out on a trail in the dark, or as a storm approaches.

3. Think About What You May Encounter

It is always a good idea to think about what you may encounter as you choose a hiking location. Think about crowds. Do you prefer solitude and quiet when you hike? If so, choosing a busy state park on a summer weekend may not be the best choice. You may want to consider a lesser-known trailhead for your adventure. Think about terrain. Has it been wet and rainy in your area? That can lead to insect swarms in wet areas, or even flooded trails in lowland areas. You may want to consider higher elevations in these situations. It is better to consider all factors before beginning, rather than face uncomfortable surprises on the trail.

4. Plan for the Necessary Hiking Gear

Another thing to think about is the amount of gear that will be required for your adventure. Are you hiking all day? If so, are you prepared to carry the necessary food and water along with you? A good rule of thumb is to bring one liter of water along for every five miles that you plan to hike. Thinking about this ahead of time will keep you comfortable and help you to avoid dehydration.

Consider the amenities available along the trail. If you are hiking in a state park, it may be easy to find water fountains or restrooms. If you are hiking along a backwoods trail...not so much. Consider this as you plan. Choose a trail that matches your comfort level in regards to "roughing it."

One other thing to consider before heading out is whether or not there will be fees. Hiking in a state park or on a state trail may require a park sticker or a trail pass. Find this out ahead of time. Many locations require you to secure necessary permits ahead of time, before you reach the trailhead.

5. Consider Your Hiking Companions

When choosing a hiking trail, it's essential to consider the difficulty and terrain to ensure it aligns with your skill level and physical condition. However, it is a good idea to not only consider this for yourself, but consider it for all who will be hiking with you. Are you hiking with kids? Keep their abilities in mind. It is hard to enjoy the sound of the wind in the trees when all you can hear is, "Are we almost done?" for the fifteenth time. It is challenging to soak in the sunshine and fresh air when you are hauling a toddler on your back because their legs are tired. Choose a trail that matches the abilities of your least-experienced or most-challenged hiker. This is not only kind to that person, it will make it more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

You may be interested in these posts as well:

• Essential Gear to Bring on Your Next Hiking Trip

• Going Backpacking? Essential Items to Pack

Do you feel a strong connection to your faith when in nature? Check out our faith page!

• Faith posts

Join our community for updates, recommendations, and offers.

We'll give you access to our downloadable Adventure Bucket List planner as a thank you!

We will send regular emails (typically weekly) with outdoor info you can use. You can unsubscribe from those emails at any time.