Dan Valentine's

Top 6 Hiking Tips

Heading into the wilderness to explore nature can be an exhilarating experience where you can get away from the daily hustle and bustle of the world. If you are going to take a trip to the mountaintops or simply hike a beginners trail, check out the top six tips from hiking enthusiast Dan Valentine!

1. Comfortable GearHiking through uneven terrain can be brutal if you don’t have the right hiking gear making it important to have the proper essentials. Dan Valentine suggests that you have a backpack specifically for hiking, all-terrain boots, extra padded socks and clothing not made of cotton. Wear synthetics that can wick away sweat and water from your skin.

2. Water FilterStaying hydrated with plenty of H2O on the adventure is one of the most important things. This means you must carry a water filter that is capable of turning various water sources like streams and lakes into clean, drinkable water. You can find water bottles with a built in filters or attachments that may require hand-pumping action.

3. NutritionIt should come to no surprise that Dan Valentine suggests packing enough food for the duration of the hike. Whether it will only be for a few ours or a few days, keeping your body fueled is essential. Pack things like nuts, granola and protein bars.

4. Compass & MapSince we live in a time surrounded by technology, Dan Valentine reminds hikers to always bring paper maps and a compass because electronics like smart phones may not be within cell towers.

5. ElectronicsDan Valentine says that a camera is one of the two electronics he carries while hiking. Cameras can capture your journey and typically can last the duration of the trip. The second electronic is of course a cellphone but keep it powered off to conserve battery and only use it during emergencies.

6. Take Your TimeThe last hiking tip Dan Valentine offers is that you take your time during the trip! Enjoy everything that Mother Nature has to offer and take advantage of the time away from regular life.