A barrier to entry for many first-time hikers is simply knowing how to choose and find the right trail. Don’t let the different options and unfamiliar terms scare you off or discourage you from choosing a good hiking trail. There are plenty of resources like, apps, websites, and Facebook groups that can provide you with a ton of information. This will help you plan out things, like where to park, whether pets are allowed, difficulty levels, and any recent updates on trail conditions.
Hiking for beginners should always be enjoyable and match your skill level. So, pick a well-maintained trail that is clearly marked and manageable for where your skill level is now, not where you think you should be. In general, and especially as a beginner hiker, remember the following when choosing a route.
- Distance
- Time
- Weather
- Elevation
- Fitness Ability
- Logistics
Ask yourself beforehand how far should you go? How much elevation is too much? 1000 feet might not sound like a lot, but in terms of hiking for beginners, 1000 feet could prove to be pretty challenging. Start small and as you build confidence, work your way up. You got this.