Hiking Guide

Do you like communing with nature, taking walks in the park or forest?  Do you find yourself more at peace then than at any other time?  Then perhaps you need to consider a hiking tour for your next vacation, or just when you have longer than a few hours to spare.  The only difference between a walk or trek that you usually have, and a hiking tour is that the hiking tour is more organized and is on a grander scale than the trek, or walk in the park or forest.  The hike can be done alone or with a friend or relative, but the hiking tour is when you will be part of a large group, and will be led by a guide. 

Hiking tours follow the same basic rules as in hiking. For instance, you need basically the same things you would normally need in a simple hike, such as the following: 

• Map of the area or trail
• Compass
• Matches – preferably wind-proof
• Fire starter – place them in waterproof containers
• Extra food or water – include a way to purify water found on the trail, lunch, energy bars, trail-mix, snacks, etc.
• Extra clothing – such as rain jacket, emergency blanket
• First aid kit
• Sunglasses, pocket knife, nylon cord
• Flashlight – with extra batteries
  

Other items you may also want to take on your hiking tour:

• Camera and film
• Binoculars
• Toilet paper
• Signal mirror
• Garbage bags
• Tent
• Cellphone
• Hiking stick
  

When you are on the trail in a hiking tour, the basic hiking rules and trail etiquette should be practiced to ensure that your hiking experience does not damage the natural environment or the experience of fellow hikers. 

Below is a gist of these rules:

The first thing you need to do is to determine your own physical, mental, and technical abilities. Not only that, you should also know your limitations as well. Remember that just because you are joining a hiking tour with a large group and a guide does not mean that you ought to forget your limits. Knowing things like this about yourself is essential to your safety. Adjust your plans accordingly. That way you can prevent problems that might cause personal injuries, or injuries to others, and also things that may delay the tour and interfere with the enjoyment of your fellow hikers. 

Another rule before going on a hiking tour is to make sure you are well-informed about the trails you will take. This is because some trails are really quite dangerous and require more experienced hikers. Checking hiking terrain conditions, and hiking weather conditions, is one way. Having a detailed and up to date map with you is also important. For last minute updates and firsthand information about the trail, check with local authorities.

Next, make sure that you are well-equipped for your intended hiking tour. Also, make sure that your gear is appropriate for the terrain and weather conditions. Take enough food and drinks for your intended hikes, and the items included in the list of essentials we have provided for you above. 

One of the most basic, and important items, which is often forgotten, is to be sure to inform people where you intend to hike.  Even when it is part of a tour, it is a good idea to notify someone who is not in the tour of your intended route, time of departure, and intended or expected time of return.  Most places offering hiking tours will keep records of who is on what tour, it is always better to be safe than sorry.  And in doing so, you will pacify your friends and family, and put them at ease. 

Now that you have all the tips and information on hiking tours, there is nothing to stop you from getting yourself booked on one or more and really enjoying yourself in some new areas and with others who share the joys of hiking!  So what are you waiting for?