How to Plan a Day Hike

1. Destination: The first step to going on a day hike is finding a good location to go. National and state parks and forests are always great places to go if their nearby. If not, there are still lots of trails around most towns and cities. Websites like alltrails.com and traillink.com can be used to find hiking trails nearby.

2. Route: A crucial step to planning a day hike is planning out the route you are going to take on the trails. It is important to look at maps of the trails and determine what trail or trails you will hike, how far it will be, and how long it will take. Getting an accurate estimate for how strenuous a hike will be and how long it will take will help when planning what to bring with you and when to go hiking.

3. Transportation: After planning where you will be going you need to figure out how you will get there, where you will park, and how you will get back to your car. When planning your route you must take into account how you will get back to your car, whether you will walk in a loop, turn around at a certain point, or have someone pick you up down the trail. Before you go to a trail make sure to check if there is parking available and if so if it is allowed.

4. Packing: For a day hike it is necessary to bring a good amount of water and some snacks. The general rule is that you should have about a half liter of water for every hour you spend hiking. Snacks are personal preference but it is usually a good idea to bring some fruit, or something salty to keep electrolyte levels up. Other items to consider packing are, an extra jacket, a rain coat, a camera, sunglasses, a first aid kit and survival items.

5. Navigation: One of the most important items to bring with you while hiking is a navigation device. A map and compass is always the best choice because it is the most reliable. A GPS is a good tool to have with you as well but it should not be relied upon. If you're going somewhere where there is cell phone reception, most smartphones can be used as a GPS. It is incredibly important to have a means of navigation so that you know where you are hiking, and so you do not get lost.

6. Get out there and Hike!