I am an experienced hiker and just watched this out of interest, it's about the best I've seen for beginners. Some great advice, especially the orange marker tape and the stop and listen advice.
What is your typical day hike in terms of length, duration, and elevation change? Most of what I do is 4-7 miles total, about 1.5-2.5 hours, and maybe 100 ft of elevation change and I've never gone with any of what this video suggests, even the extra water.
@@AlumniQuad Hi. My hikes vary from say 1.5 hrs to a full day of 8 hrs. What gear you take also depends on the weather. Here in England it changes a lot so its necessary to take rain jacket and warm clothes in case. Water depends on the individual and the temperature, but I always seem to use about 1.5 litres or more, unless hike is really short. Some safety gear should be carried in case of injury, even on a short hike. Hope this helps
Also, if you’re lost and you stop and listen, you might hear running water like a creek or river. You can follow the water line and possibly get to help, or at the very least, you’ll be near water and can survive.
I’ve started hiking this past month (bluffs of western Wisconsin) and followed many tips like these (building my supplies bit by bit). I’ve gotten up to a nine mile hike. I start to feel over prepared as I pass so many folks just walking with no gear at all. Sometimes not even water! Videos like this help remind my that I’m doing the right thing even if the folks around me aren’t.
Awesome! I do see a lot of folks out there with nothing. I have many times let people use my tape, take a look at a map, and even some ibuprofen. The tape saved a few folks that had busted there shoes.
I've rescued underprepared hikers on a few occasions because I'm "overprepared." ❤🙏 I always pack like I'm going to break my ankle and have to spend the night.
This video saved me today from probably a potentially dangerous situation. Was hiking mt. Killington in Vermont in 6 degree weather and didn’t get up to just below the summit (there is an abandoned cabin as a marker there) until sunset. Had to hike down in the dark with an almost frozen water bladder. It was a very scary Situation to be honest. Luckily as soon as i realized how potentially dangerous of a situation I was in i went straight into survival mode and was able to go through my pack to assemble everything I’d need to prepare for the trip down. Knowing I had enough with me to survive if god forbid I got hurt on the way down gave me the confidence to do it. Headlamp was the biggest game changer. I didn’t think I’d ever need it yet it allowed me to see everything pretty clearly. Thanks for the great content!
Wow!! Thanks for sharing!! I’m definitely glad that the video helped. Sounds like you did a great job preparing and then an excellent job keep your wits once you realized your situation.
Congratulations on the weight loss I too am making life long decisions to keep losing weight myself and I love nature and thought about doing some day hiking to help with weight loss myself... 9/12/21
One of the tips I've learned from hiking in East Tennenssee is that almost all of our trails are near some kind of water like a river or stream that flows along a mountain. So generally speaking for most trails it's nearly impossible to get lost if you stay along the river because the river is literally where the trails are. (Although, the water can take multiple different paths, and Y intersections), but generally speaking just try to stay ON the trail, if you have to go off the trail for any reason, just try to at least stay near the water, don't let it leave your sight. Oh and that brings me to another good point, try not to cross through a stream or a river by putting your feet or body directly into the water. It doesn't take a lot of high water to wash you away, if you have to walk through water, try to do it in a calm, slow moving water area. You'd be surprised how much pulling force that water has, especially during high tides.
You are so right. I was very confident because I grew up on a mountain and had swam in creeks, lakes, and ponds. So, as an adult, I tried to walk across a very shallow part of a creek (4 inches) and it immediately washed me downstream, like a tidal wave.
My husband just died at 36 in a ATV accident. My family and I were very active in the outdoors, but he did everything. I’m not starting from scratch, but I’m pretty new to everything! Thank you for your videos.
My friends and I used to hike a lot when we were younger but never prepared like this, just brought a water bottle and some snacks. We did get lost once but managed to find our way back. Thank goodness nothing ever happened to us! I will definitely prepare like this when I go with kid and hubby. Awesome video! 👍👍👍
Thanks! Same here. When I was high school age, I would go out with an old canteen that I had and pretty much nothing else. Now it seems that I use something that’s in my pack at some point or another.
Thanks! So true about learning!! I have done a lot of hiking but last year I sit down at Len Foote Hike Inn and listened to a presentation on day hiking. I learned some new ideas.
I've been day hiking for years and you shared some awesome new tips for me! Stepping over the fallen tree and the orange marking tape are awesome! Thanks so much!
This is great! My only addition would be sun protection. Long sleeves and hat or proper sunscreen. I have had two close family members get sun cancer, it is no joke. Even when it is cloudy or you have some tree coverage there is still UV rays.
I am a complete newbie and this advice is 100% great. Its makes so much sense, the tape, the log. Cant wait for my 1st hike at the end of the month. I am ready!
Don’t forget sunscreen. My transparent white self got sunburned a cloudy autumn day, and I am not even exaggerating. Actual sunburn when there was no sun.
Stepping on the down tree vs putting your leg over it, WOW! Never thought of that. Can't tell you how many times I've arrived at a lake or reservoir to fish, when I run into snakes basking in the sun. I'll not forget this vid. Thanks for sharing :)
so bring my bugout bag, got it!! lol i always foolishly do dry hikes and bring my body only but im going to start bring a daypack bcuz its the smart thing to do!! thanks for the video.
This is good advice. Another map option is to take a photo of the map if there is one on the trailhead or if online, you can take a screenshot of map. It is also good to have a pocket charger for your phone. If the terrain is challenging and several trails branch off of main trail, a physical map is probably your best option. Happy Trails!
I am an experienced hiker of 40 years. I started out at the age of 9. For beginners, I think this is one of the best videos I have seen. I carry a Leatherman Wave as well as a fixed-bladed knife. Love the orange tape but I never use trekking poles. I use a 6' walking staff. I have always felt using trekking poles was over working the arms and my 6' hiking stick will allow me scare a snake off, gauge the depth of water and as a ridge pole if you have to build an emergency shelter. Great advice about stepping over a log. The boy scout book I had in the 80's showed that and also talked about the multiple uses of a walking staff.
I went hiking yesterday and it rained and people were slipping and falling in the mud and our running shoes were messed up and I ended up picking up a firm stick to balance for the steep hills.Thank you for the tips i could've used them before i went but I'll definitely use them in future.
Thanks for the kind comments. Those running shoes will definitely get messed up on the trail. I have many times let folks use some of my tape to wrap blown out shoes. Have fun on the next trip! Maybe it will be better weather for you.
This is great for beginners. What would be nice is a video for people like me who have been day hiking my entire life. I'm wanting to take my hiking to the next level. Like 3 of 4 day hikes. Mountain hikes. How to go to the next level as an intermediate hiker
There are a bunch of great UA-cam channels for new backpackers/weekend warriors. A couple that come to mind, back country forward, Jeremiah stringer, John Kelly, and older stuff from Dan Becker. Also, homemade wanderlust put together a fantastic video for newbies. I can’t remember the exact name of the video, but it’s like “everything you need to know to start backpacking”. It’s like 3 hrs long but she timestamped everything so you can jump to the parts you want to know more about. Hope this helps.
@@TheNypenfan it actually doesn't help at all. That was my point. There are tons of channels and videos for beginners. I was looking for video and advice to take the next step. When you are way past beginner but not quiet to the place of a seasoned hiker. That middle of the road person who isn't a beginner but isn't a profession. Taking the step from 3 day and over night hiker to doing a full length trail that takes weeks is a huge jump.
@@xORLOCKx yeah that’s what I was talking about. Especially those first few guys…they are all about making the jump into doing those three and four day trips. Tips on how to get started as a weekend warrior. The last person I mentioned is definitely a “through hiker”. But that one video I mentioned is all about the gear, and what to look for, for any length trip. Just an in depth look at all the gear you may need for any length trip.
I follow Dixie on YT at "Homemade Wandeelust" and Tammy from the YT Channel "Spirit Forest". Both have exceptional content on the subject and much experience.
Thank you sir, I live in Colorado and I have never hiked before, but this year I am planning to change that as I got healthier. This video is so helpful
This was really helpful, I’m just getting into hiking of my own accord, and I need all the tips and tricks I can get. Definitely adding these to my shopping list
Safety pins are blunt ended so what you want is an injection needle. They're really sharp ended and you can do a precise and tiny cut next to splinter to dig it out causing minimal damage and less chance for infection.
Great advice! I would add one thing: take a Photo of you and sending to the person you give your info to, that way they know what you look like on that exact day (just in case they have to search for you). And always assume you might be there over night. If you have a lot of new stuff, it might be a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before you hike.
I used to work at Mt Saint Helens a couple years ago, I only worked retail at the Ape Cave but we were right alongside the rangers and had lots of opportunities to enjoy the trails. Been preparing to get back into hiking and these tips are super helpful!
Awesome content! Thanks for breaking it down. My teenage son just had his first experience and absolutely enjoyed it. We're gearing up for the next one.
Hi. Thanks for the kind comments. That’s great about your son enjoying hiking. One of our favorite hikes is up to Len Foote Hike Inn in north Georgia. It’s a five mile hike to a back country inn with great food, awesome views, and a comfy nights sleep.
Great tips! I hadn't thought about the trail marking tape, but that's awesome. Plus, God forbid you get hurt while you're off trail and can't hike out, it can lead SAR right to you.
Hi. There was a lady that past away because she got off the Appalachian trail to use the bathroom. She could not find her way back to the trail and died of starvation and exposure. It was about 8 years ago. That’s when I started taking the tape.
The average hiker can hike 4 mph so you can do a 3 mile hike less than a hour. So you don't need a pack but if you're going on a 10 mile hike I say take everything he says. If you hike with dogs be sure to bring water and food for them also.
Depending on the conditions of a trail those 3 miles can take longer than you might assume based on the mileage though. This is why it's often a good idea to read a bit about where you're going first, understand the terrain, incline, temperature, etc. Though I do often find it fun to show up to a trail I know nothing about and just go for it lol
The average hiker cannot hike 4 mph in actual wooded terrain especially with incline. 2 miles an hour would be an average human hiking up a mountain. 3-4 mph is an athlete.
Good video and information. I carry a couple ways to make fire, Bic in an Exotac Fire Sleeve for one and a "ferro rod". A tea candle also can be carried in a fire kit and has some usefulness. The Hug-A-Tree program is free now and offers some useful tips for those who hike with youth. As for some of your commenters, in the years since their comments I wonder if we have read articles about recovery operations or them drinking water from their boots? Appreciate you getting the word out. SAR's job is easier when people have knowledge, skills, and the correct gear.
Thanks for the comment. Good information!! The commenters do keep me entertained and I have wondered about folks. The lady that got off the Appalachian Trail to relieve herself and later died because she couldn’t find her way back to the trail has always bothered me.
Fire starter. ✔️ This is in the top 10 essential survival items. I've tried everything for lighting fires. I came to the same conclusion as he recommends: use a lighter. Just keep it in a dry place, maybe a sandwich baggie with the starter material. 🌲
Thank you. As a newbie a lot of the sites mean well but can be over whelming. I learned to carry reflective tape to mark my spot as well as a easier way to carry gorilla tape. Much appreciated!
Hi. I was just talking to a guy that said one of his friends stepped over a log and got popped by a copperhead. He didn’t die but recovering from a snakebite does not look like fun.
Can't help but chuckle a little while listening to all the different nonsensical verbal idioms of the local spoken word & varied dialects throughout North America (especially the southern half of the USA) "Get you some". "Gonna get me some". "Carry you some". "Carry me some". "Carry you a (insert item)" "Carry me a (insert item)" etc. All in all, some good advice for the uninitiated hiker. Nicely done. Cheers.
im thinkkng about going on some light day hikes in the polish mountains this year and this video so far has been one of the best ones ive found! to the point, no weird sponsorships, no „buy this extremely expensive gear” but very informative! also, i love your accent, sir! 🤝🏻❤️
I am planning on hiking saw 100s videos for begginers but this one is the best best everrr . Please do another one about hiking tips, cautions and more
Learned some things last night. First one being that when you have a lot of time to kill by yourself, just watching fireflies doing firefly stuff can be pretty entertaining when you appreciate it for what it is. Second is that it's exactly 33 paces around the perimeter of a particular planter box that btw is no where near as comfortable a bench as it might look. The point being that things right in front of you that you might take for granted often have a deeper meaning and purpose if you stop to think about it. Third is that if the measure of a man and what sets him apart from others is the distance he's prepared to go in relation to that, that the journey between A and B will teach you things you never imagined. Like what it feels like to condition yourself to it to the point that you consciously start to enjoy the pain in your feet when every step hurts but doesn't break your stride or slow you down. When you can walk like a man undeterred by it because you decide for yourself what your threshold is and how you want to deal with that. Maybe most importantly that things aren't always going to go the way you wished they would have. It's ok to be vexed about that but choose your moments and control it. Maybe there are reasons the thing that happened did so that you're not aware of at the time. Lashing out at the wrong people isn't fair to them. The process of conditioning yourself toward pushing how far you can go is a surprisingly good teacher of how to control your anger and gain the ability to choose how to respond to it rather than just react in the moment. Everything that happens happens for good in the long run if you can find the good in the experience. My thanks to everyone who's been a part of teaching me these things.
I just watched this as I would lie to get into over night hiking, here was me thinking that I was going to need to start doing more exercise…. I now feel quite up to the task doing 6km walks every day before work while carrying 3l of water and wearing steal caps and jeans…. I’m going on a hike this weekend now
Great video. I plan on doing some day hiking soon. Thanks for sharing, I never thought about telling someone where I would be hiking and to have them call me.
Hi. Thanks!! I took a wilderness first aid course several years ago and that was one of the first things they drilled into our minds. They taught us to check expected location of injured or lost hikers. Telling folks where you are going is the easiest thing about going hiking. Have fun hiking!!
Great video! Loved all the useful tips; sending this to my city-raised greenhorn fiance who has the itch to go hiking. I grew up in the woods and I've never gotten lost, but this is good information for anyone. Considering all the equipment presented and the potential things that can go wrong, it's a wonder anyone is brave enough to attempt it. And let's not even talk about meeting up with a bear or a wildcat...😜
Hi. Thanks!! We actually hated to put the potential things that could go wrong in the video but thought it was important. I’d say 99% of the time, nothing bad ever happens. I’m usually offering the items that I packed to folks on the trail that didn’t prepare. I’ve given out tape, ibuprofen, a cell phone charge( for 15 min), bandaids, etc. Honestly I never knew that so many people got lost every year until we started looking into doing this video. I know last year my wife and I got off a trial to check out a waterfall and walked right over the trail when we came back. I’m like you and grew up in the woods so I immediately thought we had went too far and said “wait we passed the trail”. Most of the equipment can be purchased at Walmart to get into hiking. There is nothing wrong with those Ozark Trail hiking backpacks. About bears, we hiked right by a black bear last week in TN. It didn’t care at all that we were there. We just kept our distance. Have fun hiking!
@@useful.knowledge Your information could be lifesaving for someone new to hiking, so it's right that you present possible dangers. I've had close encounters with wild boar and a huge 14 foot alligator (sound asleep on the bank, thank goodness! Covered in green slime, blended in with the grass and I didn't see him until I was ten feet close. I just backed away slowly....park rangers eventually captured him and relocated him. He was just a potential disaster, waiting to happen. It made all the local newspapers when he was moved, in Pinellas County, Florida). I once jumped, running, over a 6 ft diamondback rattlesnake asleep in the sun; I was 5 years old and never saw him. My mom yelled at me to stop and stand still...lots of close encounters with snakes. My fiance and I went hiking in the woods near our house a month ago and found a huge, shed diamondback rattlesnake skin nearly 7 feet long WITHOUT the rattle. THAT was scary; it was only a two minute walk from our house. But yes, with the exception of very aggressive cottonmouth moccasins, most wild animals just want to scurry away. I have a pretty good sense of direction, but even so, ANYONE can still get lost, especially if the woods are vast and unfamiliar. Thanks for a great video!
Lori Bragg. Oh those diamondbacks. I live in north Alabama now. We have timber rattlers but no big diamondbacks. I grew up in deep south Alabama and worked the Conecuh National Forest. We had alligators and those diamondbacks. The part of the video about step on a log and then off was something that was drilled into our heads to stay safe from diamondbacks. We maintained 33 miles of hiking trails with only a couple close calls. If you and your fiancé want to hike to a backwoods Inn, check the Len Foote Hike Inn at Amicolola State Park in GA. We go there about two times a year.
@@useful.knowledge Thanks for the tip! We live with six parrots, so I'm afraid we don't travel much, but if I ever make some money, I'll hire a babysitter, 😆 When I first saw that 7 foot rattlesnake skin I almost had a heart attack! I don't have great eyesight and at first I thought it was a living snake. I've had a number of close encounters with snakes, both poisonous and non-poisonous, but that's life in Florida. About two months ago we had a huge Coachwhip snake decide to relax in our front courtyard, near the fountain. He was absolutely stunning! I learned a lot about Coachwhips that day, because I did so much reading. He hung around for about five hours and then moved on. It was a nice experience, but I get a little nervous that one day I'm going to find that seven foot diamondback deciding to rest in the same spot. Eeeeesh. 😜
Lol sounds like mine... he rarely ventured out of NYC. now he wants to marry this country bumpkin from back woods western NC & not willing to move away from these forests 😂... his expression was priceless seeing the bear sanctuary signs posted on our 2nd hike. I had to challenge him a bit... break ‘em in good
You mentioned about snakes hiding under logs. Once I was hiking and came across a tree over the trail. As I was going over a turkey jumped up squawking and took off. I do not know who startled who the most but it goes to show that just about anything can be laying next to that tree. May be best to make noise if you cannot see the other side.
Oh wow!! I’ve never thought about that but turkeys and quail will absolutely scare a person senseless. I just started laughing because you made me remember all the times they’ve scared the daylight out of me.
I like to wrap my tape on my poles. I have worn trail running shoes in summer as they are more durable than normal running shoes. Otherwise I wear hiking shoes or boots. You provided a lot of great info.
Hi. Thanks for the kind words. That tape has proven to be important many times when I’m on the trail. I have helped many folks with my tape. One lady had shoes that were completely blown out.
I agree fell/trail running shoes are the best to walk in, they have a better grip, therefore you can feel more agile and confident on the muddy terrain. Also they are lighter so they dry quicker.
Me and my boyfriend went on our first official hike a few days ago. We had a lot of the right ideas, and some fails. 😂 The trail selected was moderate to hard, we had way too much stuff in our backpacks so they were heavy. I had too much clothing and wound up hot, but all in all it was a good learning experience. I love your video and wish I would have watched it first.
Thanks for sharing your experience and your kind comments. Usually after the first hike or two, you will have a really good idea of what you need. Some folks say that they just go without anything but water. However, there are too many stories of people getting lost on even short hikes. Thanks!
Another good thing is before you start your hike, at your car or any landmark take a safety bearing on your compass. Write that in a small notebook and if lost dial that bearing into the compass and walk back to where your started.
Great idea. Nothing wrong with this idea at all. In fact this happened to me when I was hunting about 10 years ago. I had marked the coordinates of my truck in my garmin. I basically bushwhacked back to the truck on a bearing because the garmin signal would come and go but it was enough to get a bearing when I basically got turned around.
Just a small good to know about insect repellent. The most common chemical used in repellent is called DEET, it’s super effective and a lot of peoples popular choice. It has been known to degrade materials though, it can wear out things like rain gear, tents, and sleeping bags. I personally always look for brands that use Picaridin instead for the sake of taking care of that gear you love and spent all that money on. Some love it, some don’t but thought I’d share for anyone new to outdoors who may wanna try both!
I am an experienced hiker and just watched this out of interest, it's about the best I've seen for beginners. Some great advice, especially the orange marker tape and the stop and listen advice.
Thanks!
What is your typical day hike in terms of length, duration, and elevation change? Most of what I do is 4-7 miles total, about 1.5-2.5 hours, and maybe 100 ft of elevation change and I've never gone with any of what this video suggests, even the extra water.
@@AlumniQuad Hi. My hikes vary from say 1.5 hrs to a full day of 8 hrs. What gear you take also depends on the weather. Here in England it changes a lot so its necessary to take rain jacket and warm clothes in case. Water depends on the individual and the temperature, but I always seem to use about 1.5 litres or more, unless hike is really short. Some safety gear should be carried in case of injury, even on a short hike. Hope this helps
Oo
Stop and listen. Not just great hiking advise, also great life advise.
Hydrate well the day before a day hike also..
Also, if you’re lost and you stop and listen, you might hear running water like a creek or river. You can follow the water line and possibly get to help, or at the very least, you’ll be near water and can survive.
Good stuff here! Thanks for sharing.
And follow downhill
and the time when you get to see a tiger at the river😂😂
👀
@@prasad2716 i have no problem hiking with bears and wolves around, tigers on the other hand...oghhh, thank god i'm not living in Asia :))
I’ve started hiking this past month (bluffs of western Wisconsin) and followed many tips like these (building my supplies bit by bit). I’ve gotten up to a nine mile hike. I start to feel over prepared as I pass so many folks just walking with no gear at all. Sometimes not even water! Videos like this help remind my that I’m doing the right thing even if the folks around me aren’t.
Awesome! I do see a lot of folks out there with nothing. I have many times let people use my tape, take a look at a map, and even some ibuprofen. The tape saved a few folks that had busted there shoes.
I've rescued underprepared hikers on a few occasions because I'm "overprepared." ❤🙏 I always pack like I'm going to break my ankle and have to spend the night.
Excellent job!! Nothing wrong with being over prepared! Even when I really didn’t think I would need an item, I took it and then needed it.
This video saved me today from probably a potentially dangerous situation. Was hiking mt. Killington in Vermont in 6 degree weather and didn’t get up to just below the summit (there is an abandoned cabin as a marker there) until sunset. Had to hike down in the dark with an almost frozen water bladder. It was a very scary Situation to be honest. Luckily as soon as i realized how potentially dangerous of a situation I was in i went straight into survival mode and was able to go through my pack to assemble everything I’d need to prepare for the trip down. Knowing I had enough with me to survive if god forbid I got hurt on the way down gave me the confidence to do it. Headlamp was the biggest game changer. I didn’t think I’d ever need it yet it allowed me to see everything pretty clearly. Thanks for the great content!
Wow!! Thanks for sharing!! I’m definitely glad that the video helped. Sounds like you did a great job preparing and then an excellent job keep your wits once you realized your situation.
@@useful.knowledge thanks again! On the 27th I tried again and summited!
I’m so grateful for this simple and thorough video! I have recently lost 150 pounds and this is exactly how I’m going to keep it off!!! ❤️🏕🦮
Wow!! That’s awesome!! Thanks for sharing and we wish you all the best hiking.
Way to go Tara...I plan on doing the same thing!
👏🌮🎶🌲💯
That is very good! Congratulations! Hiking is a great way to keep fit indeed
Congratulations on the weight loss I too am making life long decisions to keep losing weight myself and I love nature and thought about doing some day hiking to help with weight loss myself... 9/12/21
One of the tips I've learned from hiking in East Tennenssee is that almost all of our trails are near some kind of water like a river or stream that flows along a mountain. So generally speaking for most trails it's nearly impossible to get lost if you stay along the river because the river is literally where the trails are. (Although, the water can take multiple different paths, and Y intersections), but generally speaking just try to stay ON the trail, if you have to go off the trail for any reason, just try to at least stay near the water, don't let it leave your sight.
Oh and that brings me to another good point, try not to cross through a stream or a river by putting your feet or body directly into the water. It doesn't take a lot of high water to wash you away, if you have to walk through water, try to do it in a calm, slow moving water area. You'd be surprised how much pulling force that water has, especially during high tides.
You are so right. I was very confident because I grew up on a mountain and had swam in creeks, lakes, and ponds. So, as an adult, I tried to walk across a very shallow part of a creek (4 inches) and it immediately washed me downstream, like a tidal wave.
My husband just died at 36 in a ATV accident. My family and I were very active in the outdoors, but he did everything. I’m not starting from scratch, but I’m pretty new to everything! Thank you for your videos.
Hi. I honestly didn’t know how to respond to your comment. I will say that it’s an honor to help folks like you and your family. Thank you very much!!
Please accept my condolences. I cannot imagine. I send all my love.
I hope you know you're not hiking alone. He is with you on every hike you take. Stay safe. Take care.
🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
My friends and I used to hike a lot when we were younger but never prepared like this, just brought a water bottle and some snacks. We did get lost once but managed to find our way back. Thank goodness nothing ever happened to us! I will definitely prepare like this when I go with kid and hubby. Awesome video! 👍👍👍
Thanks! Same here. When I was high school age, I would go out with an old canteen that I had and pretty much nothing else. Now it seems that I use something that’s in my pack at some point or another.
Nicely done. I’m an experienced hiker, I learned a few things from this video. Thank you. A day that we don’t learn anything new is a wasted day.
Thanks! So true about learning!! I have done a lot of hiking but last year I sit down at Len Foote Hike Inn and listened to a presentation on day hiking. I learned some new ideas.
I've been day hiking for years and you shared some awesome new tips for me! Stepping over the fallen tree and the orange marking tape are awesome! Thanks so much!
Thanks for the kind comments! Enjoy hiking!
This is great! My only addition would be sun protection. Long sleeves and hat or proper sunscreen. I have had two close family members get sun cancer, it is no joke. Even when it is cloudy or you have some tree coverage there is still UV rays.
I am a complete newbie and this advice is 100% great. Its makes so much sense, the tape, the log. Cant wait for my 1st hike at the end of the month. I am ready!
Have fun hiking!! Enjoy it!
How'd it go? Also planning for my first hike
Don’t forget sunscreen. My transparent white self got sunburned a cloudy autumn day, and I am not even exaggerating. Actual sunburn when there was no sun.
True!!
Stepping on the down tree vs putting your leg over it, WOW! Never thought of that. Can't tell you how many times I've arrived at a lake or reservoir to fish, when I run into snakes basking in the sun. I'll not forget this vid. Thanks for sharing :)
Thanks!! I completely understand. I walked up on a water moccasin at a lake like that.
so bring my bugout bag, got it!! lol i always foolishly do dry hikes and bring my body only but im going to start bring a daypack bcuz its the smart thing to do!! thanks for the video.
This is good advice. Another map option is to take a photo of the map if there is one on the trailhead or if online, you can take a screenshot of map. It is also good to have a pocket charger for your phone. If the terrain is challenging and several trails branch off of main trail, a physical map is probably your best option. Happy Trails!
Thanks!
Finally a well thought out kit that's not expensive 👍👍👍🏕👍👍👍
Thanks!!
I am an experienced hiker of 40 years. I started out at the age of 9. For beginners, I think this is one of the best videos I have seen. I carry a Leatherman Wave as well as a fixed-bladed knife. Love the orange tape but I never use trekking poles. I use a 6' walking staff. I have always felt using trekking poles was over working the arms and my 6' hiking stick will allow me scare a snake off, gauge the depth of water and as a ridge pole if you have to build an emergency shelter. Great advice about stepping over a log. The boy scout book I had in the 80's showed that and also talked about the multiple uses of a walking staff.
Thanks for the kind comments and thanks for sharing your insight and experience.
I went hiking yesterday and it rained and people were slipping and falling in the mud and our running shoes were messed up and I ended up picking up a firm stick to balance for the steep hills.Thank you for the tips i could've used them before i went but I'll definitely use them in future.
Thanks for the kind comments. Those running shoes will definitely get messed up on the trail. I have many times let folks use some of my tape to wrap blown out shoes. Have fun on the next trip! Maybe it will be better weather for you.
Those fig bars are fireee! Great tips. The basics are what keep you alive.
They are good!
I always take a pic with my phone of the map at the trail head showing where I’m going
This is great for beginners. What would be nice is a video for people like me who have been day hiking my entire life. I'm wanting to take my hiking to the next level. Like 3 of 4 day hikes. Mountain hikes. How to go to the next level as an intermediate hiker
There are a bunch of great UA-cam channels for new backpackers/weekend warriors. A couple that come to mind, back country forward, Jeremiah stringer, John Kelly, and older stuff from Dan Becker. Also, homemade wanderlust put together a fantastic video for newbies. I can’t remember the exact name of the video, but it’s like “everything you need to know to start backpacking”. It’s like 3 hrs long but she timestamped everything so you can jump to the parts you want to know more about. Hope this helps.
@@TheNypenfan it actually doesn't help at all. That was my point. There are tons of channels and videos for beginners. I was looking for video and advice to take the next step. When you are way past beginner but not quiet to the place of a seasoned hiker. That middle of the road person who isn't a beginner but isn't a profession. Taking the step from 3 day and over night hiker to doing a full length trail that takes weeks is a huge jump.
@@xORLOCKx yeah that’s what I was talking about. Especially those first few guys…they are all about making the jump into doing those three and four day trips. Tips on how to get started as a weekend warrior. The last person I mentioned is definitely a “through hiker”. But that one video I mentioned is all about the gear, and what to look for, for any length trip. Just an in depth look at all the gear you may need for any length trip.
I follow Dixie on YT at "Homemade Wandeelust" and Tammy from the YT Channel "Spirit Forest". Both have exceptional content on the subject and much experience.
I'm terrified but excited. I'm ready I think
Thank you sir, I live in Colorado and I have never hiked before, but this year I am planning to change that as I got healthier. This video is so helpful
Im on contract in Colorado and want to go hiking tomorrow! Hopefully its not as intimidating as it seems!
Just go as far as you are comfortable. Any hiking is better that no hiking.
This was really helpful, I’m just getting into hiking of my own accord, and I need all the tips and tricks I can get.
Definitely adding these to my shopping list
Thanks and have fun hiking!!
For basic hiking a normal bag, a water bottle,energy food and first aid kit works perfectly...i guess
You did a GREAT job on the video! After watching I scouted around the house and found a few of the items.
Thanks!!
Safety pins are blunt ended so what you want is an injection needle. They're really sharp ended and you can do a precise and tiny cut next to splinter to dig it out causing minimal damage and less chance for infection.
Perfect video for beginners, thank you!
Thanks!!
Great advice! I would add one thing: take a Photo of you and sending to the person you give your info to, that way they know what you look like on that exact day (just in case they have to search for you). And always assume you might be there over night. If you have a lot of new stuff, it might be a good idea to familiarize yourself with them before you hike.
Excellent tips!
That is what I'm going to do today. I have all my brand new gear with me on a very simple trek to test and learn how to use.
You're living up to your user name, thank you!
Thanks very much!
i personally ditched the hiking boots and use a solid pair of trail runners. lighter and comfy. make sure they have good tread on the bottom
Thanks. I may try those at some point.
Yes really appreciate this video
Thanks!!
I used to work at Mt Saint Helens a couple years ago, I only worked retail at the Ape Cave but we were right alongside the rangers and had lots of opportunities to enjoy the trails. Been preparing to get back into hiking and these tips are super helpful!
Wow that sounds awesome! I’ll bet that was a great experience!!
I love day hikes. Thanks, man!
Awesome video. Great info thanks.
Thanks!
Wool socks are the best I’ve started hiking recently and got some trekking poles arriving today :3
So true! I love my wool socks!
Awesome content! Thanks for breaking it down. My teenage son just had his first experience and absolutely enjoyed it. We're gearing up for the next one.
Hi. Thanks for the kind comments. That’s great about your son enjoying hiking. One of our favorite hikes is up to Len Foote Hike Inn in north Georgia. It’s a five mile hike to a back country inn with great food, awesome views, and a comfy nights sleep.
@@useful.knowledge What another awesome share. I'll definitely put it on our list. Best to you always.
Good 👍, I've got the same trowel, Wrapped in paracord, tape, toilet paper in the hollow handle, with a compass on the handle. And a lanyard.
Awesome!! Sounds like you have it loaded up.
Great tips! I hadn't thought about the trail marking tape, but that's awesome. Plus, God forbid you get hurt while you're off trail and can't hike out, it can lead SAR right to you.
Hi. There was a lady that past away because she got off the Appalachian trail to use the bathroom. She could not find her way back to the trail and died of starvation and exposure. It was about 8 years ago. That’s when I started taking the tape.
Thank you for not only telling but showing us these important tips!
Thanks for the kind comment!!!
The red marker tape is an awesome tip!
Thanks!
The average hiker can hike 4 mph so you can do a 3 mile hike less than a hour. So you don't need a pack but if you're going on a 10 mile hike I say take everything he says. If you hike with dogs be sure to bring water and food for them also.
Depending on the conditions of a trail those 3 miles can take longer than you might assume based on the mileage though. This is why it's often a good idea to read a bit about where you're going first, understand the terrain, incline, temperature, etc. Though I do often find it fun to show up to a trail I know nothing about and just go for it lol
The average hiker cannot hike 4 mph in actual wooded terrain especially with incline. 2 miles an hour would be an average human hiking up a mountain. 3-4 mph is an athlete.
Very informative. Thank you.
Thanks!
Never been backpacking, but its on my bucket list. Very good advice. thanks
Thanks!!
I plan on hiking soon & I didn’t know it was so much that goes into hiking so thank you for this very informative video!
Have fun!
@@useful.knowledge thank you !
So helpful and informative-thank you!
Thanks!!
Good video and information. I carry a couple ways to make fire, Bic in an Exotac Fire Sleeve for one and a "ferro rod". A tea candle also can be carried in a fire kit and has some usefulness.
The Hug-A-Tree program is free now and offers some useful tips for those who hike with youth.
As for some of your commenters, in the years since their comments I wonder if we have read articles about recovery operations or them drinking water from their boots?
Appreciate you getting the word out. SAR's job is easier when people have knowledge, skills, and the correct gear.
Thanks for the comment. Good information!! The commenters do keep me entertained and I have wondered about folks. The lady that got off the Appalachian Trail to relieve herself and later died because she couldn’t find her way back to the trail has always bothered me.
Fire starter. ✔️ This is in the top 10 essential survival items. I've tried everything for lighting fires. I came to the same conclusion as he recommends: use a lighter. Just keep it in a dry place, maybe a sandwich baggie with the starter material. 🌲
Hi Jamie, I just found your channel and subscribed, I like your content 😃
Thanks!! Welcome to the channel!
Thank you. As a newbie a lot of the sites mean well but can be over whelming. I learned to carry reflective tape to mark my spot as well as a easier way to carry gorilla tape. Much appreciated!
Thanks!! We appreciate it!
Great info, clearly explained! Thx you so much!
Thanks!!
This was a great video! Thank you for tip 4, I would have absolutely stepped right over that log.
Hi. I was just talking to a guy that said one of his friends stepped over a log and got popped by a copperhead. He didn’t die but recovering from a snakebite does not look like fun.
Can't help but chuckle a little while listening to all the different nonsensical verbal idioms of the local spoken word & varied dialects throughout North America (especially the southern half of the USA) "Get you some". "Gonna get me some". "Carry you some". "Carry me some". "Carry you a (insert item)" "Carry me a (insert item)" etc. All in all, some good advice for the uninitiated hiker. Nicely done. Cheers.
😂🤣😂. True!!
im thinkkng about going on some light day hikes in the polish mountains this year and this video so far has been one of the best ones ive found! to the point, no weird sponsorships, no „buy this extremely expensive gear” but very informative! also, i love your accent, sir! 🤝🏻❤️
Thanks and enjoys those hikes!!
Wow that hiking video is great. I am a Korean elementary school student UA-camr. I will come to play often. Please upload a lot of good videos.
Thanks!
Perfect guide for all beginners
This will help many people get on trail
Thanks!!
I am planning on hiking saw 100s videos for begginers but this one is the best best everrr . Please do another one about hiking tips, cautions and more
Thanks for the kind comments! Have fun on your hike!
Great orange tape tip
Thanks!!
Learned some things last night. First one being that when you have a lot of time to kill by yourself, just watching fireflies doing firefly stuff can be pretty entertaining when you appreciate it for what it is. Second is that it's exactly 33 paces around the perimeter of a particular planter box that btw is no where near as comfortable a bench as it might look. The point being that things right in front of you that you might take for granted often have a deeper meaning and purpose if you stop to think about it. Third is that if the measure of a man and what sets him apart from others is the distance he's prepared to go in relation to that, that the journey between A and B will teach you things you never imagined. Like what it feels like to condition yourself to it to the point that you consciously start to enjoy the pain in your feet when every step hurts but doesn't break your stride or slow you down. When you can walk like a man undeterred by it because you decide for yourself what your threshold is and how you want to deal with that. Maybe most importantly that things aren't always going to go the way you wished they would have. It's ok to be vexed about that but choose your moments and control it. Maybe there are reasons the thing that happened did so that you're not aware of at the time. Lashing out at the wrong people isn't fair to them. The process of conditioning yourself toward pushing how far you can go is a surprisingly good teacher of how to control your anger and gain the ability to choose how to respond to it rather than just react in the moment.
Everything that happens happens for good in the long run if you can find the good in the experience. My thanks to everyone who's been a part of teaching me these things.
Hi. Just saw your comments. Thanks for sharing!! Enjoyed your comments!!
I have to say this is one of the best hiking tips for beginners video. Lots of good information.
Thanks very much for your kind comment!!
Very helpful and straight forward videos. Thank you!!
Thanks and have fun hiking!
Thank you for your helpful insight. Even experienced hikers can learn from your hard work.
Thanks very much for your kind comments!
I like the orange tap idea.
Thanks
Well done. Knowing the basics is essential. Thanks for this video
Thanks!!
Hiking tip #1 is a must. Just think 127 hours and Aaron Ralston..
I just watched this as I would lie to get into over night hiking, here was me thinking that I was going to need to start doing more exercise…. I now feel quite up to the task doing 6km walks every day before work while carrying 3l of water and wearing steal caps and jeans…. I’m going on a hike this weekend now
Awesome!! Enjoy it!
Those fig bars are so good.
Yes, they really are!
Somthing else i take hiking with me is my 380 . A good equelizer for lots of dangers along the trail .
Good advice. Love the hiking poles. Got mine at Costco for about $35.
Thanks! They really do make the hike easier.
Very helpful video!!🙂🙂
Thanks!!
Great Advice!🥾
Thank you for your comment!
Great video. I plan on doing some day hiking soon. Thanks for sharing, I never thought about telling someone where I would be hiking and to have them call me.
Hi. Thanks!! I took a wilderness first aid course several years ago and that was one of the first things they drilled into our minds. They taught us to check expected location of injured or lost hikers. Telling folks where you are going is the easiest thing about going hiking. Have fun hiking!!
@@useful.knowledge, thanks.
I always like to establish a turn around time, so I make sure I have enough time to get back before it gets dark.
Definitely a great idea!!! It’s amazing how many folks get caught by darkness on a day hike
This was awesome! Thank you!
Thanks!!
Great video! Loved all the useful tips; sending this to my city-raised greenhorn fiance who has the itch to go hiking. I grew up in the woods and I've never gotten lost, but this is good information for anyone. Considering all the equipment presented and the potential things that can go wrong, it's a wonder anyone is brave enough to attempt it. And let's not even talk about meeting up with a bear or a wildcat...😜
Hi. Thanks!! We actually hated to put the potential things that could go wrong in the video but thought it was important. I’d say 99% of the time, nothing bad ever happens. I’m usually offering the items that I packed to folks on the trail that didn’t prepare. I’ve given out tape, ibuprofen, a cell phone charge( for 15 min), bandaids, etc.
Honestly I never knew that so many people got lost every year until we started looking into doing this video. I know last year my wife and I got off a trial to check out a waterfall and walked right over the trail when we came back. I’m like you and grew up in the woods so I immediately thought we had went too far and said “wait we passed the trail”.
Most of the equipment can be purchased at Walmart to get into hiking. There is nothing wrong with those Ozark Trail hiking backpacks. About bears, we hiked right by a black bear last week in TN. It didn’t care at all that we were there. We just kept our distance. Have fun hiking!
@@useful.knowledge Your information could be lifesaving for someone new to hiking, so it's right that you present possible dangers. I've had close encounters with wild boar and a huge 14 foot alligator (sound asleep on the bank, thank goodness! Covered in green slime, blended in with the grass and I didn't see him until I was ten feet close. I just backed away slowly....park rangers eventually captured him and relocated him. He was just a potential disaster, waiting to happen. It made all the local newspapers when he was moved, in Pinellas County, Florida). I once jumped, running, over a 6 ft diamondback rattlesnake asleep in the sun; I was 5 years old and never saw him. My mom yelled at me to stop and stand still...lots of close encounters with snakes. My fiance and I went hiking in the woods near our house a month ago and found a huge, shed diamondback rattlesnake skin nearly 7 feet long WITHOUT the rattle. THAT was scary; it was only a two minute walk from our house. But yes, with the exception of very aggressive cottonmouth moccasins, most wild animals just want to scurry away. I have a pretty good sense of direction, but even so, ANYONE can still get lost, especially if the woods are vast and unfamiliar. Thanks for a great video!
Lori Bragg. Oh those diamondbacks. I live in north Alabama now. We have timber rattlers but no big diamondbacks. I grew up in deep south Alabama and worked the Conecuh National Forest. We had alligators and those diamondbacks. The part of the video about step on a log and then off was something that was drilled into our heads to stay safe from diamondbacks. We maintained 33 miles of hiking trails with only a couple close calls.
If you and your fiancé want to hike to a backwoods Inn, check the Len Foote Hike Inn at Amicolola State Park in GA. We go there about two times a year.
@@useful.knowledge Thanks for the tip! We live with six parrots, so I'm afraid we don't travel much, but if I ever make some money, I'll hire a babysitter, 😆 When I first saw that 7 foot rattlesnake skin I almost had a heart attack! I don't have great eyesight and at first I thought it was a living snake. I've had a number of close encounters with snakes, both poisonous and non-poisonous, but that's life in Florida. About two months ago we had a huge Coachwhip snake decide to relax in our front courtyard, near the fountain. He was absolutely stunning! I learned a lot about Coachwhips that day, because I did so much reading. He hung around for about five hours and then moved on. It was a nice experience, but I get a little nervous that one day I'm going to find that seven foot diamondback deciding to rest in the same spot. Eeeeesh. 😜
Lol sounds like mine... he rarely ventured out of NYC. now he wants to marry this country bumpkin from back woods western NC & not willing to move away from these forests 😂... his expression was priceless seeing the bear sanctuary signs posted on our 2nd hike. I had to challenge him a bit... break ‘em in good
Simple & helpful tips. Thank you.
Thanks!
Good advice...thank you!!
Thanks!! Enjoy hiking!
Thank you for the video, very helpful.
Thanks!
You mentioned about snakes hiding under logs. Once I was hiking and came across a tree over the trail. As I was going over a turkey jumped up squawking and took off. I do not know who startled who the most but it goes to show that just about anything can be laying next to that tree. May be best to make noise if you cannot see the other side.
Oh wow!! I’ve never thought about that but turkeys and quail will absolutely scare a person senseless. I just started laughing because you made me remember all the times they’ve scared the daylight out of me.
thank you... is really useful info
Thanks and enjoy hiking
Great video! There are a lot of super tips in here, not just regurgitated lists that are on some of the other hiking channels.
Thanks!
Never considered snakes, or marking my trail when detouring. Thank you.
I like to wrap my tape on my poles. I have worn trail running shoes in summer as they are more durable than normal running shoes. Otherwise I wear hiking shoes or boots. You provided a lot of great info.
Hi. Thanks for the kind words. That tape has proven to be important many times when I’m on the trail. I have helped many folks with my tape. One lady had shoes that were completely blown out.
I agree fell/trail running shoes are the best to walk in, they have a better grip, therefore you can feel more agile and confident on the muddy terrain. Also they are lighter so they dry quicker.
Good info, I am teaching my lady how and she needed some reassuring. Thanks 😊
Thanks!! Keep her first outings relatively short (1-2miles) and she will enjoy it.
Me and my boyfriend went on our first official hike a few days ago. We had a lot of the right ideas, and some fails. 😂 The trail selected was moderate to hard, we had way too much stuff in our backpacks so they were heavy. I had too much clothing and wound up hot, but all in all it was a good learning experience. I love your video and wish I would have watched it first.
Thanks for sharing your experience and your kind comments. Usually after the first hike or two, you will have a really good idea of what you need. Some folks say that they just go without anything but water. However, there are too many stories of people getting lost on even short hikes. Thanks!
@@useful.knowledgethanks for your reply! We had a lot of fun!
Another good thing is before you start your hike, at your car or any landmark take a safety bearing on your compass. Write that in a small notebook and if lost dial that bearing into the compass and walk back to where your started.
Great idea. Nothing wrong with this idea at all. In fact this happened to me when I was hunting about 10 years ago. I had marked the coordinates of my truck in my garmin. I basically bushwhacked back to the truck on a bearing because the garmin signal would come and go but it was enough to get a bearing when I basically got turned around.
How do you do that? On the Compass?
Thank you best info. Very helpful
Thanks!
Thanks for sharing this with us.
Thanks!
great tips and vid. thx
Thanks!!!
Great tips - thank you!!
Thanks!
This was really useful. Thank you.
Thank you! Very useful ❤
Thank you!!
Just a small good to know about insect repellent. The most common chemical used in repellent is called DEET, it’s super effective and a lot of peoples popular choice. It has been known to degrade materials though, it can wear out things like rain gear, tents, and sleeping bags. I personally always look for brands that use Picaridin instead for the sake of taking care of that gear you love and spent all that money on. Some love it, some don’t but thought I’d share for anyone new to outdoors who may wanna try both!
Thanks for sharing!!
Good stuff thank you
Thanks!!
Thank you for sharing....
Thanks!
Very very useful sir hats off ... Lots of love respect from Pakistan and Italy .... ❤❤❤❤
Thanks!
Very useful video. I found out some new things. Thank you! :)
Thanks!!
Good on ya dude! Planning my first hike in Colorado, this was so helpful!🤘
Thanks!
Thanks for all the helpful tips my man 🙌
Thanks for the kind comments.