Pick the Hike That Best Suits Your Style

If you’re new to hiking, you might be wondering which hike is best for you. There are many factors to consider, including your level of fitness and the terrain.

Hiking is a physical activity that involves walking for pleasure, usually on trails through the woods or mountains. It can be an enjoyable and challenging workout that can give you a great sense of serenity and peace of mind.

1. You’re a beginner

Hiking is a fantastic way to get outside and explore your local area. But it can also be a challenge for beginners.

If you’re new to hiking, it’s important to find a hike that will suit your style and fitness level. Start with a short out-and-back route not too far from home and work your way up to longer hikes.

Choose trails that have established, well-marked trailheads and carry a map each time you go. This will help you navigate your way safely and prevent you from getting lost or stuck in a remote part of the trail.

2. You’re looking for a challenge

If you’re looking to challenge yourself, there are many ways to go about it. These may include joining a local hiking challenge (for example, the Colorado Six-Pack challenges that require you to hike 6 of the state’s 14,000-foot peaks), or tracking your own progress using a digital journal.

If you’re still a beginner, a few short hikes in the mountains can be just the thing to get you out of your shell. If you’re ready for the big time, take your hiking skills to the next level by signing up for a longer, more challenging trail. You might just find that you love this activity more than you thought! You’ll also meet some great people along the way! Then there’s that feeling of accomplishment when you reach your goal.

3. You’re looking for a day hike

When you’re looking for a day hike, there are many options out there. But before you start hunting for the perfect trail, it’s important to think about what you want from a hike.

Hiking is a great way to get outdoors and explore new places. It’s also a fantastic exercise that helps you improve your overall health and fitness.

But you’ll also need to pack clothing and gear that is appropriate for the weather and conditions of the hike you’re going on. This includes extra layers, sun protection and water. It’s also a good idea to carry a compass and a map of the trail you’re on so that you can make sure you’re on the right path. You don’t want to end up getting lost on a day hike!

4. You’re looking for a weekend hike

Whether you’re looking for a challenging day hike, a weekend camping trip or something in between, we can help you pick the hike that best suits your style. Start by thinking about what you’re looking for in a trail: is it the scenery, the challenge or something in between?

For the best chance of a successful and enjoyable hiking experience, we recommend choosing the right gear. Check out our top picks for everything from breathable sun protection to the latest hiking apparel innovations. From there, it’s a matter of deciding how much weight you want to carry. Bringing too much adds to your overall load and could negatively impact your speed or endurance. Lastly, pack the right hydration system. It’s a no-brainer that water is important, but it’s still a good idea to know what you’re drinking and how much you need.

5. You’re looking for a long hike

Hiking is a great way to get some much-needed exercise. However, it is important to know your limits before you go on a long hike.

A long-distance hike is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, so you want to make sure it fits your personal style. Whether you’re looking to take lakeside naps, photograph wildflowers or enjoy an epic meal at a quaint cafe, plan your itinerary around the activities you hope to get out of it.

Also consider your total weight you’re carrying, as it can make a big difference in the overall strenuousness of a long hike. For example, if you’re carrying a backpack that’s heavier than your body weight, it may be better to start with shorter hikes to gradually build up your endurance.