A Hiking Blog…

While going out on hiking trips to far off places, it is best if you are accompanied with a good hiking map. A hiking map does not only indicate the right track but ensures that you don’t get lost under disastrous circumstances like thunder, lightning, storm or accidents leading to trail damage.

Since there are a wide variety of maps available, choosing the right map suited to your individualized purpose is essential. Apart from the usual tourist and road maps, Google maps provide a great option for easy navigation of different parts of the world free of cost.

Plotting places through a topographic map

While locating places using a map find your present position on the map and tally the landmarks, road names and other important features indicated on the map with those around your actual surroundings. Having done so, locate the desired destination on the map from your present position and proceed according to the route indicated.

In case you have a list of places on your list, select a route that takes you to the nearest places first and then head towards the farthest. A map index is beneficial in depicting the exact locations on places through grids comprising of latitudes and longitudes. The intersection of a latitude and longitude gives the actual position of a place.

On reaching the desired location, crosscheck the landmarks stated with the actual surroundings to be assured that you are on track.

Important considerations for using a topographic map

A topographic map is a graphic representation of the rise and fall of land on the surface of the earth. It uses contour lines to show elevation above sea level. Widely spaced contours depict flat terrain as compared to close contours that indicate steep slopes. Usually a number stating the elevation level accompanies every fifth dark contour line. While reading a topographic map, following points must be ensured.

•    Since the details of places keep on changing, so it’s important to look for the date when the map was printed to avail the most updated data. The map number should also be taken into account.

•    Orientation is yet another vital factor that deserves mention. While aligning the compass helps in locating the direction, the key assists figuring out the features of the map. A Magnetic Declination provides the difference between the actual and magnetic north.

•    The conversion scale indicates the measure of the distance on the ground to that on the map. An Altitude and Aspect Ratio Diagram gives a more appropriate estimation of the actual distance since the calculated distance between two points intends to vary greatly for mountainous regions.

•    Contour lines running at the same altitude with fixed difference between intervals indicate elevation of locations.

•    Trail durations are suggestive of the time required for hiking between different points. Trails may also be accompanied by a list of obstacles to be encountered.

•    Legend is an explanative of the colors, styles and symbols used in a map.

Having known the necessary features of map reading, you can now be your own hiking guide.

Hiking calls for enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. Therefore, choosing the perfect hiking spot and an apt campsite deserves equal thought. While safe campsites minimize the impact of danger, it should not necessarily account for selection of a boring and non-thrilling spot.

Though apparently it seems that a campsite affects the success of a hiking trip, the contrary is equally true. Our actions also affect our surroundings and perhaps more. While a good campsite selection ensures a peaceful night’s sleep, uninterrupted moments of relaxation and wholesome enjoyment for the hikers, safe cooking and proper disposal of wastes guarantees a cleaner camp spot.

Assuming that you are setting base at various spots during your hiking trip, here are ideas applicable for setting base at public campgrounds and moving on day trips from the base.

Essentials for selecting a good campsite

•    It is essential to undertake a thorough research prior to selecting a campsite, in order to avail the best option available.

•    Planning of the trip is equally essential to fix upon vital issues like arrival and departure timings.

•    While opting for a camping spot it is always better to go for an established one situated at some high use area instead of selecting a campsite in some new and unexplored zone.

•    When camping around desert canyons make sure to stay above the high-water mark to escape the agony of flash floods.

•    Similarly, set up your camp at least 200 feet away from streams and lakes in order to protect them.

•    Since dead branches of huge trees may disastrously break down in the darkness of the night, ensure that your camp is not set beneath such shades.

•    To avoid flooding due to stagnation of rainwater, choose a site, which drains really well.

•    Select a place where you can receive the benefits of both the morning sunlight as well as be shadowed from the extremes of the afternoon sun.

•    Potential windbreaks are also an important consideration.

•    Since people go out on hiking in order to get a feel of experiencing the thrills of nature in seclusion, choose a calm and quiet spot away from the humdrum of lively souls.

•    A bare ridge away from lakes helps in keeping away bugs while offering a perfect unhindered view of the natural settings.

•    Keep away from fruit laden trees and food sources to avoid attracting animals to your camp during the night.

•    Fix the tent on a ground that is not too hard, nor too soft for a good night’s sleep.

Being responsible, it is your duty to protect the surroundings as well. Make sure to arrange for a safe cooking, keeping in water handy to avoid the break of a fire. Ensure that you leave the spot in a much better condition than you first saw it. Make considerations of the little seedlings, flowers and even small animals, so as not to injure them.

So, camping in the wild is fun, with just a bit of added responsibility.

Hiking boots are one of the most essential things you need for a trek. These are especially designed footwear for hiking that provide the comfort you need for long miles of hiking. Hiking boots protect a hiker’s feet from water, rocks, mud and other wild obstacles. A properly fitted hiking boot even protects your ankles from twisting on rugged surfaces without restricting the movement.

Types of hiking boots

Hiking boots are really essential whether you are on a short walk or on a serious hiking route as it makes your demanding walk comfortable. There are various types of hiking boots, the most popular ones are:

Mountaineering Boots - These boots are especially used for mountain climbing. Mountaineering boots are very strong and tough and have hard soles to protect the ankle and give support.

Trail Shoes - Trail shoes are for hiking in dry climate on less rough terrain. These are best for a one-day or an hour trip.

Trail Hikers - These types of shoes are best for muddy paths and vertical inclines.

Know the basics of boots

Before purchasing a pair of hiking boots, it is better that you understand some facets about hiking boots because these boots are completely different from general footwear. Some of the important aspects you need to know are:

Longitudinal Rigidity – Hiking boots should have longitudinal flexibility that helps to maintain your arches’ natural spring action. They must support your feet from over bending.

Water Resistance – Good watertight materials that allow moisture from boots to leave but don’t allow water to get into are best for hiking boots. This is advantageous because moisture inside boots can lead to blisters.

Arch Support - Arch support is often provided in boots between midsole and insole that protects your feet from flattening up under heavy pressure.

Boot Weight – Hiking boots should be lighter so that it is easy to walk long stretches.

Lateral Rigidity - Boots with solid ankle support protects the ankles and feet from twisting on irregular surfaces.

Advantages of using boots

Hiking boots are very beneficial when you are on a trail that is uneven and you need to do a lot of up and down on rugged terrain. Below are some reasons why you need boots during a hike:

•    Hiking boots provides hold up the sides to keep the legs straight.
•    The boots are especially made to be tough at the bottom that protects the feet from the rocks, thorns or sharp pebbles.
•    Hiking boots also support the ankles and prevent it from twisting without restricting walking movement.
•    These boots are especially made to be fitting and softening for the feet and help to avoid swellings.

Great Selection of Keen Footwear at Altrec Outdoors

Hiking itself is an adventurous activity that excites people of almost all ages. It is not at all dangerous if you follow some much needed safety precautions. Taking safety measures can make your trip all the more exciting. This article will help you to know about some safety tips for hiking.

Whether you are going out for a long trip or just a short adventurous walk, you need to follow some guidelines that will keep you, your family or hiking partners safe.

Plan your destination: This is simple but very important; you should know where you are heading to. First decide where to go and then start with the other preparations. Once you are done with your planning, now find out the perfect time for visit and hike. Always stay updated about the weather before you head out.

Know the right direction: Be clear about the right paths that you need to take without which you may get lost. For this, you can use a compass or a GPS unit if you are going for a long and serious hiking. Maps and guides if available should be carried.

Try not to go alone: When you are planning for a hike on a serious note, avoid going alone as it sometimes involves a lot of risks. If you travel alone there is every chance to get lost or get hurt. If you are with someone or in a group, you will get assistance in every step. Most importantly, you will receive help if you need it.

Drink lots of water: Water is the most essential thing that can keep you healthy throughout the hiking. You need to sip water often while you are on the way. As carrying water is quite difficult, calculate how much you will need till the next refilling and just carry that volume. Never drink from streams or lakes as these natural sources are often contaminated with parasites and bacteria. If required, collect the water from the natural source and boil it or use a liquid purifier before consumption.

Take the right equipments: A pair of hiking boots is a must in your hiking gear. Next is a first aid kit that acts as a life saver. Bandages, gauze, anti-bacterial cream, sunburn pain reliever are great in times of emergencies. These are just basics that you need to have with you in the journey. Lighter or matches and a knife can genuinely be of lot of help. View our article on the Ten Essentials for a more complete list.

Respect wildlife: Sometimes you may encounter wildlife on your trail. It is better to stay away than to play fool and get attacked. Most wildlife avoids humans as soon as they sense you are coming. The best idea to ward them off is to make sound to alert them you are coming.

Therefore, following these basic steps can avoid unwanted hazards and make your trip more special.

Wish you a nice safe hike!