I didn’t realize that my first hiking trip in high school would change my life. My friends invited me to a local trail and I went because I was bored. The afternoon transformed how I care for myself, so I recommend it to anyone who asks. Here are a few tips I wish I’d known before my first experience that you can use on any outdoor adventure.

Why is Hiking So Great?

Walking along nature trails can do so much more than potentially inspire a birding hobby. I fell in love with the gentle exercise for numerous reasons.

1. Nature Benefits Your Mental Health

Spending time outside for 20 minutes or longer can improve your mental health. Whether you're stressing about applying for college or working your first job, hitting the trails could reduce your anxiety. I always return home with a calmer, more focused state of mind, especially after walking beautiful and beginner-friendly hikes like any part of The New England Trail.

2. You Could Get Better Balance

I’ll admit that paved hiking trails have their advantage, but exposed earth challenges your balance. If you’re navigating over roots and rocks, you’ll get better on your feet. I’m especially talking to anyone in balance-focused extracurriculars like marching band, theater or dance.

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3. Walking Strengthens Your Muscles

I’m not a huge fan of weight-lifting workouts. I’d much rather go hiking, which could make you stronger because it requires using your legs and abs for long periods. Remember to check in with your body, like during a typical exercise routine. Standing for long periods can decrease blood flow to your muscles, so take breaks in the shade when you feel tired.

4. Exercising Outdoors Changes Your Routine

We can’t always take days off, especially during the school year. You could feel equally recharged by changing your routine with something like hiking. Getting outside at stunning places like Taggart Lake Loop reminds me that the world is bigger than my class schedule, which makes anything feel manageable.

5. Hiking May Improve Your Glucose Tolerance

Blood sugar spikes happen after we eat things like oatmeal, sugary treats and fruit. If we don’t take care of our health, those sudden increases in blood sugar can lead to diabetes. Let’s do what we can to protect ourselves with activities like hiking. You don’t even have to break a sweat — walking downhill improves glucose tolerance if it’s a recurring part of your routine.

6. You Could Develop More Self-Confidence

There’s nothing like finishing a trail. I always leave filled with accomplishment, motivating me to tackle school and work responsibilities when I return home. We all deserve extra self-confidence. Cultivate it by conquering local hiking spots like North Vista Trail and its awe-inspiring canyons.

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How to Find Trails Near You

You don’t have to move to the mountains to discover hiking trails. Research where people love to walk in your hometown with apps like AllTrails or Seek. You could check local social media groups or forums to get the insider scoop on all things hiking. If you’re near a state park, it should have a website with every trail mapped for your convenience.

6 Ways to Make Hiking More Fun

When you’re ready to spend more time in nature, I highly recommend preparing for your excursion. There are a few simple ways your hiking trips can be even more enjoyable.

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1. Bring More Water Than You Might Need

I was so dehydrated after my first hiking adventure at Lighthouse Loop in Discovery Park. I thought I wouldn’t need water because I was only hiking a mile and a half. When I got back to my car, I felt so exhausted and dizzy that I worried I might be unable to drive home. Bring a full water bottle and keep extras in your vehicle or backpack to avoid experiencing the same thing.

2. Wear a Portable Speaker

Music got me through my roughest days between high school and college. Jam to your typical playlists while you hike to get more of your favorite songs into your week. I personally liked that listening without headphones helped me stay aware of my surroundings, but I’d definitely turn your music down if you’re walking near campsites to maintain your trail manners.

3. Get Comfy Shoes

Take it from me — do not go hiking in Converses. I wouldn't even start a trail in flip-flops. You’ll need arch support for long walks to avoid pain in your feet and lower back.

Wear your comfiest and most supportive shoes whenever you hit the trails. You’ll especially want soles designed for traction if you’re walking through places like Frozen Niagara Cave Hike, which is great for beginners.

4. Use Plenty of Sunscreen

You can still get sunburned while walking under leaf canopies. Check the ultraviolet (UV) light index for your town before leaving home. The ratings will tell you how much sun damage you might experience, which always helps me choose the right SPF rating from my sunscreen collection. If you’re sweating during your hike, don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen every few hours for maximum protection.

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5. Invite Your Friends

Friends make everything more fun, so invite them on your next hike. Walking is also a great way to bond with your roommates if you’re a freshman in college. Getting out of the apartment helped me laugh with my first-year roommates while we were still in those awkward initial few weeks of the fall semester. There’s something about not having to face each other over a dining hall table that makes conversations flow so much more easily.

6. Plan for Allergies

If you’re hiking during allergy season, you may have a better experience after taking preventive, over-the-counter medicine. Allergens can get intense during the spring, summer or fall. My worst hikes are always the ones where I’m sneezing through the entire thing.

If you’re unsure what your local pollen count is like, check a ZIP code-specific allergen forecast. They’re usually part of meteorology reports, but I also find mine through weather apps.

Plan an Outdoor Adventure Soon

Locate some beginner-friendly trails close to where you live and craft the ultimate adventure this week. If you’re in college, you might even have an on-campus hiking club you can join. No matter where you go, I know you’ll have the best time if you arrive prepared. Remember to invite your friends and charge your phone before leaving home.