Do you want to start hiking but have not taken the first step yet? Heading out on the trails has many health benefits, but it should not be improvised. Good route planning, suitable equipment and thoughtful preparation are essential for staying safe. Cimalp explains how to get started with hiking.
Key takeaways:
- Start hiking on a waymarked trail with a reasonable distance and elevation gain.
- Take a lightweight backpack with water, snacks, a first-aid kit and good weather protection.
- Follow the three-layer principle and wear footwear suited to the terrain.
- Check the weather before setting off and avoid dangerous conditions.
- Avoid going alone and tell someone close to you about your planned route.
Route planning
Choosing a suitable route
The first step to getting started with hiking is choosing a suitable route. If you do not yet have experience, we recommend starting with a short waymarked trail in your area. To stay motivated, set yourself a goal, such as reaching a lake, waterfall or scenic viewpoint.
There are two route options: a loop route or a linear hike. If you choose the second option, remember to factor in the time and distance needed to return. Alternatively, arrange for someone to pick you up at the end of the route.
The duration and distance of the hike
When planning your route, the duration and distance of the hike are the first factors to consider. Your first outings should not be too long or too intense.
In general, choose a loop or out-and-back route of no more than four hours. The distance of a hike for a beginner is between 5 and 15 km. If you usually do low-intensity activities, set yourself a target of between 5 and 10 km. If you are used to intense exercise, you can increase the distance up to 15 km.
Elevation gain and terrain type for beginners
Elevation gain is a fundamental criterion when planning a hike, especially in the mountains. It is the difference in altitude between the lowest and highest points of the route. The greater the elevation gain, the greater the effort required. When starting out, choose a route with less than 500 metres of elevation gain.
Finally, terrain type should not be overlooked. For your first outings, avoid overly technical trails with steep slopes or exposed sections. Instead, choose waymarked, well-maintained paths (GR, PR, nature trails, etc.). After a few successful outings, you can prepare for a multi-day hike by gradually increasing route difficulty.
Gear to take when starting hiking
Gear for a day hike
To ensure comfort and safety when hiking, choose suitable gear. We recommend not overloading yourself while taking everything you need for a day of walking. For your backpack, choose a model with padded shoulder straps, a hip belt and a breathable back panel. Remember to pack snacks to restore energy and enough water to avoid dehydration.
Hiking gear:
- Hiking backpacks: 10 to 30 litres.
- Hiking poles
- Water bottle or hydration bladder: at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water.
- Snacks and picnic: dried fruit, cereal bars, sandwiches…
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, cap or hat
- Cold-weather protection: gloves, beanie, neck gaiter
- First-aid kit
- Whistle
- Map or GPS
- Mobile phone with a charged battery
- Head torch
- Rubbish bag
- Identity documents
Clothing for starting hiking
Your hiking clothing should allow you to walk comfortably, without getting too hot or too cold. To adapt to temperature changes, it is recommended to follow the three-layer principle. This involves layering a breathable first layer, an insulating second layer and a protective third layer.
Hiking clothing:
- Breathable hiking T-shirts: synthetic fabric or merino wool
- Men's fleece jacket or women's fleece jacket
- Hiking jacket, windproof and waterproof
- Hiking trousers
- Hiking shorts in summer
- Thermal base layer in winter
- Hiking socks
Footwear
If you are starting hiking, you may be tempted to wear regular trainers. However, this is a bad idea because they do not offer enough grip or protection. We therefore recommend choosing a model suited to your outing.
Low-cut shoes are ideal for easy hikes on dry, flat terrain. Mid- or high-cut shoes provide better support for outings with elevation gain or uneven terrain. In this case, choose soles with good grip. They are also useful on wet or slippery ground. Finally, choose a pair with a Gore-tex membrane or similar for good waterproofing.
Essential precautions for safe hiking
The weather
As a beginner, you should get into the habit of checking the weather forecast when planning your hike and just before setting off. Conditions can change quickly, especially in the mountains. This allows you to plan ahead and dress accordingly. In the event of a thunderstorm, we recommend postponing your hike for safety reasons. Finally, avoid exposed sections or ridgelines in strong winds.
The first-aid kit
Whether you are heading out for a few hours or a full day of hiking, there is a risk of injury. In this case, a first-aid kit can make all the difference. Prepare one with basic supplies: plasters, dressings, disinfectant, strapping tape, Swiss Army knife, medication (painkillers, antihistamines), emergency blanket…
For added safety, it is also recommended to take an emergency blanket, head torch and whistle. The latter is very useful for signalling your presence if there is a problem. Simply blow six short blasts, ten seconds apart, to signal that you are in distress.
The importance of informing those close to you
For safety reasons, hiking alone is not recommended, especially if you are a beginner. If possible, it is best to go with others. A group outing is also an excellent source of motivation.
If you still decide to go alone, remember to tell someone you trust. Give them your exact route and planned return date and time. If there is a problem, they can raise the alarm.
As you can see, getting started with hiking means following a few key tips. Throughout your outing, remember to respect the environment. Stay on waymarked trails, respect wildlife and leave no trace. Follow these recommendations and you should be ready to take your first steps on the trails. Enjoy your walk!
