Learning to Enjoy the Outdoors

Enjoy the Outdoors

Warmer weather is enticing and makes me want to go outside. I can open my mind, eyes, and ears to all that nature has to offer. The traveler that I am is forgoing some international travel for now. Once more countries open up for tourists, I will begin to take overseas trips. Currently, my focus is domestic travel and discovering nearby state parks and forest preserves. I am learning to enjoy the outdoors and loving it. Have you thought about hiking and walking through the woods? If so, we will explore a few tips for beginners like myself.

During the pandemic, the world shut down, travel was a no-go, and many of us were stuck inside. The one thing that brought me joy was going outside for a walk. Living in the midwest means the weather doesn’t always permit going outside, so get it in when you can. Although I was born in the winter, snow does not bring me joy. Spring, Summer, and Fall bring perfect opportunities to learn to enjoy the outdoors.

Learn the Basics of Hiking

As I began to explore more outdoor opportunities, I realized that I didn’t really know the basics of hiking. What I do know is that it clears my head and is good for my mental health. I was used to putting on my walking shoes, exercise clothes, and sunglasses. I was ready to go. Then something told me to get more information from friends with experience, do some research, and homework. Let’s take a look at some things that I learned about hiking. 

Research the Trail

Here are some things to consider when you choose a hiking route. First, determine how much time you have. Do you have one hour or two hours? Research how long it takes you to get from Point A (the start) to Point B. If the trail is 4 miles long and you have one hour, you’re walking a 15-minute mile. Your pacing also depends on how fast or slow you want to walk the trail. Don’t forget the difficulty of the route and your fitness level. A couple of trails were more difficult than I expected. Both times I probably perceived that I was in better shape than in actuality. At almost 60 years old, my pace is not as fast as a few years ago. Let’s not talk about the old knees, too. It’s not a race, though!

What to Wear

Learn to enjoy the outdoors by knowing what to wear. You want to be comfortable and safe. If you are a runner, then trail running shoes may be the right fit. Others like hiking shoes or hiking boots. Depending on the terrain, you can decide which one is more appropriate. When choosing the clothes, moisture wick fabrics are suitable because you will sweat. Also, wool and polyester fabrics are good options. Wool socks will keep your feet warm and protected. Don’t forget to wear a hat to protect your head from the hot sun. 

Other things to consider about the clothes you wear during a hike is to layer your clothes. Sometimes the weather may change from warm to cold or vice versa. You can always take off or put on layers to adjust to the temperature. Be prepared for rain by bringing some type of rainwear to put in your backpack. 

What’s in the Backpack

Speaking of a backpack, what’s in it? I have snacks like energy bars, trail mix, and some type of candy bar or peppermints. To drink, I carry water, coconut water, and/or Gatorade. Sunscreen and insect repellant are also in the backpack. I cannot enjoy the outdoors if I’m sunburned or eaten by mosquitos. A small first-aid kit is in my bag. You never know if you may need a bandaid or an antibiotic cream. My camera is also in my backpack. Yes, I use an actual camera to take photos, too. 

Safety First

When you enjoy the outdoors, make your safety a PRIORITY! Earlier in the post, I suggested that you research everything you need to know about the trail, weather, and closing hours for the state parks or national forests. More importantly, inform family and friends about your itinerary. Leave the details of where you’re going, what time you are leaving, and when you plan to return home. Another suggestion that I’ve been told is to leave your itinerary information in your car just in case a search team needs to find you. 

Additional Information

To learn more about hiking and how to enjoy the outdoors, you can take online and in-person classes. Check out REI.com for classes they offer throughout the year. Here is a link to all of their hiking articles https://www.rei.com/learn/c/hiking. Another good source for courses and articles is Sierra, https://www.sierra.com/blog/hiking/hiking-classes-defined/. 

These are a few things that I am learning as a beginner. I still have much to experience as I continue to enjoy the outdoors. You can find hiking groups in your area on social media and Meet Up. I am seeing more women and women of color forming groups and more posts on IG. Now, I follow a few fascinating accounts on Instagram. There’s a wealth of information out there if you are seriously interested in learning and participating in hiking.