Important Hiking Tips

What is Hiking?

Hiking is merely walking on a foot path, whether on a neighborhood trail that runs along the river or a more adventurous trail to a mountain ridge.

Benefits of Hiking

The most common benefits are:

• Weight loss.
• Decrease in blood pressure.
• Helps prevent osteoporosis by improving bone density.
• Relieves back pain.
• It is free!

Hiking Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes and socks to prevent your feet from blistering.
• Be careful when hiking up and down hills. Hiking up and down hills and mountains requires care, especially on slopes covered with loose gravel or loose dirt.
• Keep your knees bent and use side-stepping maneuvers when hiking on steep parts.
• Use a hiking stick or hiking poles for extra stability.
• Take your time. When you ascend to higher elevations, the air is thinner and has less oxygen.
• Be careful when crossing streams. Rocks and debris in the streams can be very slippery and hazardous.
• Bring your own water. Water running over rocks is not safe in most areas. The water may be contaminated with parasites or bacteria. If you plan to drink water from a stream, use a water filter or water purification tablets.
• Dress in layers. The weather can change dramatically. Dressing in layers will help ensure you maintain the proper body temperture.
• Do not leave your trash behind.
• Join a hiking group.

Where can I find it in Scottsdale?  Click here!