Hiking, Trail Heads
Backpack Snacks, SafetyŠ

Written by American Author Sky Taylor

HIKING TIPS

Hiking opens up a brand new world of discovery and comes with great health benefits while allowing you to get in touch with nature.

Getting into the wild is actually a very natural thing for man - we were born to be wild! However, over the years someone - probably an idiot - decided that we needed to be domesticated. You see, that's the entire problem in today's world. We were meant for wilder things - not to be primed as social animals.

So, if you've never Hiked the Wild - get out there and into the action. You'll benefit not only from the exercise but also from some of Mother Nature's miracles that you'll see along the way.

Such things as spider webs drizzled with the mist of rain, possums slowly galloping into the brush after misjudging the power of light still left in the sky, and let's not forget the glorious night - all those stars sifted across the jet-black colored sky.  

If you're fortunate enough to root yourself in a secluded area, perhaps you'll get a glimpse of the Milky Way or a meteorite. They don't call it High Adventure for nothing.

Let's get started by providing the basics of hiking.  What you need to know before striking out into the wild blue yonder - and the very basic rules of the woods include:

DON'T GO ALONE

Unless you're hiking a well used trail, never strike out alone and when you do go alone, always let someone know that you're hiking the wild. A Forest Ranger or Park Ranger are your best friends - outside of Smoky the Bear, of course.

If you're packing kids, keep them under control. Munchkins can find the most alarming things - rattlesnake holes, rabid animals, giant spiders, even used sex objects along the way.

Study the Terrain Before Striking Out

Be aware of the terrain, when are out and about. Many people have died hiking - walking off into deep gullies, falling down cliffs, and into deep roaring streams.

And if you're hiking with a sexy blond in extra-tight, extra-short cutoffs, keep your eyes glued on the trail rather than those alluring buttocks and shapely legs.

If you're taking out a troop of kids, put the slowest one that's nicknamed Snail, in front of your herd. And of course, as mentioned above, be certain of the terrain before nominating Snail as your leader. It's a good way to 'pace' your troop without over tiring your slowest participant.

Take time to rest along your journey.

We've been locked into a fashion craze since the Roaring Twenties. In the 70's, the hippies tried painfully hard to break that mold, but going from furs and diamonds, to wearing something that your dog slept on, was expanding the issue a bit too far.

So you may be asking yourself, "What to wear? What to wear?"

The first time I struck out hiking, I wore velvet. Yes; that's a true story. And my future husband, a way-experienced hiker, was far too kind to let me know my mistake.

For months, he patiently trained me. I lost the velvet, reverting to jeans and layered clothing. And sunshades. The shades not only protect my eyes, they look ultra cool. I feel like a movie star. Sharon Stone even.

Protect thy head with thy hat. Those blinding sun rays love fresh skin. This is the sun's way for those stinging rays: "Come here lily, I want to singe you!"

Invest in a waterproof pair of hiking boots, polarized sunshades, clothing that can be layered, and sunscreen. Get the weather facts before striking out and add or remove articles of clothing, accordingly.

For hot, melting, miserable, torturous temperatures, be sure and wear leg, arm, nose, neck and ear protection.  If you plan to hike in high altitudes, you'll be nearer to those blinding devil rays, so again, take on some protection.

Sunscreen Note: If you're dealing with that horrendous heat mentioned above, unless you're perfect, you're going to sweat. Choose your sunscreen wisely and apply as recommended.  

Note that you'll have to apply the sunscreen at closer intervals as the sweat tends to defeat the purpose of the lotion.  Follow directions carefully.

Altitude Note: When hiking the trails located in high altitude areas, you may need to acclimatize yourself a couple of days before the trip.  

Altitude sickness can be serious. If you develop dizziness, nausea, breathing difficulties or a severe headache then begin descending immediately.

Altitude sickness is generally accompanied with dehydration, so drink at least 3 quarts per day of fluids to hydrate your body.

If your hike exceeds 10,000 feet, stop and rest. The following day, climb only up to 1,000 feet. Next day, same thing - 1,000 feet. Next day, same thing again - 1,000 feet. The next day, which is your third day, rest! Do not hike. Rest and adjust to the altitude.

Experienced climbers use a method where they climb farther than 1,000 feet (in altitudes exceeding 10,000 feet) and then they backtrack to sleep 'low'.

BATTLE GEAR

If you're striking out to tackle a mountain, a walking stick can prove invaluable - and doubly so if you're packing unruly kids.

Always pack a canteen full of fresh water. Most of our streams - including the clear looking ones, are infested with microbes that can be hazardous to your health. In other words, one sip and you may spend the rest of your weekend anchored on a portable potty. Not only that, you just never know when an innocent alligator may be sunbathing in the water. Snakes also like to den up by the bank, so exercise extreme caution to ensure extreme fun.

Investing in a few guide books can just about guarantee an interesting journey. A book detailing plants, insects, and small animals is perfect for beginners. Try to find something concise; not the Jack Handley version.

Grab a pack or box of matches to take along; seal them in a small plastic bag so that when you fall into the rushing stream they won't get wet.

If you feel a need to start a campfire along the way, be very sure that it's in a designated fire ring. If you're facing an emergency-type situation after falling into the stream, create a fire ring from small rocks located on the bank.

Make it a practice to only use dead or downed wood, or you may be robbing a critter of its abode.

The first thing that you should do when starting a campfire is to spit. If nothing flies back into your face, or is carried to the adjacent, faraway mountain, that's very good because 'no wind' ensures a safer fire. And make your fire small. It doesn't take a 30-foot bonfire to roast 2 winnies. Check the depth of the pit as well. 

THE BACKPACK

When you strike out, if you look like Quasi Moda, then you've packed too much. One hundred feet down the trail, and you'll collapse. And there's a stream nearby.

Your checklist should include that canteen of water, trail munchies, a handkerchief, an abbreviated first aid kit, a compass, and your trail map.

Take along your razor if you plan to be gone for a while. Just because you feel like a chest-inflated Grizzly Adams doesn't mean you need to look like him, too. A straight-edge is not recommended. One loose bear and it's your neck. On the other hand, the scruff of a beard can be very rugged looking and romantic to your female companion. So exercise your good judgment.

If you must have music, take along a harmonica rather than that cumbersome classical guitar and bongo drums.

SAFETY FIRST

1.  Don't overlook a rattlesnake while searching for a rose.

2.  If you're hiking with a buddy, ditch the thought of gassy foods before striking out - especially if you're in the lead. The blazing heat is enough to contend with. No need to add additional Face Flare.

3.  Touch nothing until you are certain of the species. Plants are beautiful, but some have a very poisonous bite - a bit like some women. A finger can literally melt to the bone if first aid is miles away - or at least feel like it is.

4.  Leave the complaints at home.  A cranky hike isn't fun for anyone.

5. If Mother Nature calls while you're out on the trail, do your deed at least 100 feet from any water source and bury it at least 6 inches into the ground.  Unless you're ancient and constipated, there's no need to advertise and you'll do the world a favor by keeping the environment clean.

WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND ON THE HIKING TRIAL

Absolutely nothing.

In fact, you're such a great environmentalist that you're going to take along a bag to pick up debris along the trail.

Be safe, be happy!

In closing, in the spirit of the Great Roy Rogers, may all your trails be happy trails!

Let's take a deeper gander of the types of trails you might encounter....

TRAILHEADS, ADVENTURE

You'll start your hiking adventure at the trailhead but before striking out, it's a good idea to drop by the closest agency affiliated with the hiking areas that you intend to explore. Maps - oh boy, will they have maps!

In addition, ask their opinion on the best trails to hike. Do any have waterfalls? Springs? Creeks? Special markers? Interest rock formations? Benches or resting spots on the trail? Restrooms? Dangerous spots, cliffs? Poisonous snakes?  Poisonous plants? Dangerous animals? What are the forecasted weather conditions for the area?

You'll start your hiking adventure at the trailhead but before striking out, it's a good idea to drop by the closest agency affiliated with the hiking areas that you intend to explore. Maps - oh boy, will they have maps! Free maps at that!

In addition, ask their opinion on the best trails to hike. Do any have waterfalls? Springs? Creeks? Special markers? Cliffs - and so forth.  What about potential dangers? Animal encounters?

Practice all the 'hiking safety measures' that include essential items that you'll need to take with you, such as: water, compass, watch, flashlight and so forth.

TRAILHEADS - LOOPING TRAILS

Looping trails start and end at the trailhead.  They are my favorite type of trail to hike. If a trail doesn't loop, the hiker simply backtracks to the trailhead, revisiting the area they hiked in.

A looping trail allows twice the amount of hiking experience, with new things to explore along the journey back to the trailhead.

Many times, the hiker will have the option of exploring several trails that spiral off the main trailhead.

Generally, the trails consist of painted markers that are stamped on trees or posts that let the hiker know that they are a) on the right trail and b) that they are still on the trail, as overgrowth often makes it difficult for the hiker to discern the walking path on the trail. Just look at what happened to Hiker Ken....

Ken had been traveling on Dead Doll's Trail for three hours now, his water running dangerously low. He was frustrated and almost as confused as the map he'd collected from the convenience store in town, on his way to his hiking adventure.

Lucky for Ken, a smart lady named Barbie appeared on the trail in front of him, walking an oversized winner dog. After she carried Ken back to safety, together they figured out what had went wrong on Ken's hike.

1. The map was extremely outdated.

2. Ken had missed several fingering trails that would have traced back to the main trailhead.

3. Ken failed to let anyone else know that he was hiking the wilderness trail.

4. Ken hadn't brought along sufficient supplies.

After their analysis, Barbie asked Ken what he did for a living. "I'm a Skipper," he replied with a twitch to his lips.

TRAILHEADS - NATURAL RECREATION AREAS (NRA's)

The first time that I saw the Buffalo National Recreation Area, I cried because it was so beautiful. Magnificent, majestic, pristine - the words that would do justice to this NRA simply do not exist. Therefore, I'll attempt to share what I saw and encourage you and your family to visit.

The section that we visited along the water contained the clearest water with canyon walls that stretched to God. Those walls had character - and were the color of a burnt golden sand.

Many businesses in the area offered canoe rental, so there were plenty 'taker-uppers'.

Keep in mind that NRA's tend to be closer to a 'back to nature adventure' than the State Parks, as terrain is rougher and facilities and modern amenities are basic at best - but the privacy factor is priceless.

That's my short capsule on the National Buffalo Recreation Area. If you plan to visit, I would advise that you incorporate an overnight camping trip into the mix.

There were several great camping spots in the area and SO MUCH to explore.

NATURE TRAILS

One of the prettiest nature trails that I've been on is the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Oklahoma where a babbling stream runs parallel to the nature trail.

Another wonderfun hiking trail is actually one to which there is no map - but it's nature at its best, that being a fish hatchery in Tishomingo - again in Oklahoma, where tiny waterfall after waterfall line the side-trail.

Most waterfalls require a hike-back; elk generally will not greet a nature enthusiastic at their car unless it's a drive-through zoo; wild fruits, nuts & berries won't fly off trees into woven containers for roadside viewing - and frankly, they just don't look the same off the tree, as on.

Some nature trails are naturally mined with natural beauties. Some require exhausting searches and topo maps. Some will render breathtaking beauty by asking the nature lover to sacrifice a mere handful of steps to meet them. Such is the case for Natural Falls State Park in the Northeastern part of Oklahoma - I daresay the prettiest state park within Oklahoma.

For a small entry fee into the park, you'll get the gift of lifetime memories that include: a striking 77 foot waterfall with both above and below observation points (the bridge spanning the falls is quite a work of art in itself!), and serene nature trails (Tom and I actually caught site of beaver) (YES, in the stream).

The waterfall has spurned several baby falls that are also quite impressive and they've worked to create a grotto below that will choke out an, "Ooooohhhhhh," from every visitor at first sight.

So whether you take the long road or the high road, hiking back or walking to - it's worth your journey!  One can set locked in front of a television set for hours at a time, days at a time, months at a time and years at a time - until they've got a mere lifetime of electronic interaction, a surreal form of vicarious existence.

We hope that you will get out and mingle with nature. Get kissed by the sun, roped by the wind, and be-dazzled by what Mother Nature delivers rather than what man delivers. And have fun on your journey because that's rule #1~

Let's talk more about that all-important backpack....

BACKPACK TAC - HIKING GOODIES

Fill your backpack with scrumptious goodies that will energize and revive!  

While hiking, precious electrolytes are lost through exertion and need to be replenished. Hydrating is also essential.  Bear in mind that it's important to replenish water, but not to the point to where you are inputting a good deal of pure water into your system without replacing  precious minerals.  

Drinking large volumes of water creates a disturbance in the electrolytes of the body and can cause serious health damage, including death - so if you're hiking, risks will be greater.

Many sports drinks replenish both lost fluids and minerals and make a good choice for hydrating. Take note however that studies indicate that popular sport's drinks can contribute to dental decay.

Potassium is one of the precious minerals that will need to be replaced. The banana - a golden goddess - is virtually fat free, contains vitamin B-6, vitamin C, a fair amount of fiber, is low in sodium and rich in potassium and should fit the Potassium Bill nicely..

Potassium may also assist in quelling leg cramps in some individuals, so if you are experiencing these, check with your doctor about incorporating more of this golden beauty into your diet. You may also experience less leg aches after that brisk hike, particularly so if your body is dehydrated.

Potatoes and orange juice are also excellent potassium food choices and will work to energize you.

Salt is another lost mineral that will need to be replaced.

Other good backpack entries include: jerky, Fruit Roll Ups, nuts, granola bars, hard candy, chewing gum (helps keep the mouth from drying out) and raw veggies.

We have addressed safety, but let's look at situations which a hiker might encounter - and what might save their lives in certain situations...

HIKING SAFETY 

Before you set out on your hike, we've got a few unique inside tips to help make your adventure special.

Take care NOT to eat a large meal before setting out. Big eats before Hiking Embarkment makes the hiker apt to get tummy upset, particularly in the heat. Always allow your meal to settle for about one hour before striking out - and that includes light meals as well as heavy feasts.

DO take a few hard candies for quick energy along your hike.

It's easy to get caught up in the fascinating beauty and awe of Mother Nature, but keep your wits sharp and your eyes keen for sudden drop-offs, hidden cliffs, spider webs and yes, even quicksand.  

Avoid touching any form of nature that you are unable to positively identify. Nettles sting, ivy itches and mushrooms poison. Never take more than you can comfortably carry.

Hiking Story: George and Rowena were hiking one beautiful spring morning amid the cliffs, Rowena leading them along. She was a shapely little thing and as George wandered behind her, he slowly became hypnotized by that shapely behind.

To make a long love story short, George fell and ended up lodged inside a baby eaglet's nest. Two fire departments and a rockface climber were required to retrieve him. Moral of the hiking story: Wanderlust equals wanderdust.

 Here are a few real-good (yes, that's a word) (maybe) that will help keep your hiking adventure safe:

Pay attention to the terrain and avoid getting detracted by plants, wildlife and Rowenas.

Take a buddy (sometimes the uglier, the better), a canteen filled with water, a bit of nourishment, a map of the area, a flashlight, a compass, bug repellent, a small first aid kit, and a mobile phone if possible, although rural areas may prohibit connections.

Take a small plastic sack to stash trash in. Keep the trail pristine.

Night hikers should take a cross, a wooden stake, garlic bread and Susquatch repellent.  Stay away from Deep Lagoons and wolves wearing red capes.  Best choice for night hiking bud: A woodcutter.

Hiking with Bears, Alligators & Snakes

A hiker's odds of getting attacked by a bear, alligator or snake is less than having an accident on the highway. In most instances, a close encounter with a bear, alligator or snake is enhanced into a Super Story by the media.  

But yes, there are circumstances that warrant extra caution when hiking in areas that are the homeland to certain aggressive wildlife. Although it is rare that animals seek out humans like attack dogs, accidents do occur. Here are a few hiking tips that might help keep you safe:

Hike with a buddy;

Hike during daylight hours;

Don't eat while on your hike or if you do such (as well as take a potty break), do such down wind.

TRAILHEADS - HIKING - ROCKY TRAILS

Pitch a pebble off a mountain and it will bounce.  And bounce. And yes, bounce - all the way to the bottom.  Intriguing, but a bit deceptive because one would think that bouncing down the mountain is easier than bouncing up the mountain.

Only for a rock!  Climbing up is much easier than coming down, and the experience may be deceptive to the inexperienced curious hiker and adventure seeker.  Of course, that's not realized until one is high up with the eaglets and is trying to make their way back down again!

Here are a few tips that might help keep your adventure safe:

Avoid high areas that contain loose rock.

Rocky areas make good homes for some species of snakes, so watch where you poke your hands and feet.

Always let the park ranger or manager know if you plan to climb so they can call out the troops if you don't make it back.

Exercise sun tips and hydrating tips.

Don special climbing gear to minimize injury in the event of an accident.

Hiking the rocky trail can hurt your 'wittle' head when you fall down and go boom! What you put on your feet could save your life. What you wear on your head could save your life. Knowing the terrain could save your life.  And if you climb too far and the rocks give way, a forest ranger could save your life...

Keep in mind that climbing natural rocky terrain is much easier than easing back down the rock belly.  Tom and I, on more occasions that I care to remember, have climbed up to where the eagles fly, and a time or two, we almost didn't make it back down.

Lucky for us, he's part goat and we had the forethought to go prepared.  Even so, as Eastwood once stated, "A man's gotta know his limitations."

HIKING  - DANGERS OF PICKING FORBIDDEN FRUITS

Mushrooms are a good example of Nature's Forbidden Fruit. Unless you're an expert in plant identification, walk on by...

While many types of mushrooms are totally divine to pick and gather along the hiking trail, others can be deadly - even in minute amounts. For example, simply touching the Death Cap mushroom, then touching the face, lips or eyes could translate to a lethal dose.  A violent reaction could result in death in as little as ten minutes.

Symptoms of mushroom poisoning may include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, intense thirst and hallucinations which may lead to coma.  Medical help should be sought immediately.

The caps of the Death Cap mushroom are an olive yellow hue; gills are white; the mushrooms contain a ring on the stems with a swollen base. They may appear shiny and smooth and hold an unpleasant smell.  They like the shade of oaks in woodland areas.

If you're a hiker, you already know about those standard 'hiking musts' such as safe sturdy, non-slippery-soled shoes, canteens of water, energizer bars, compass, flashlight in case you get stranded in the dark and The Buddy Plan.  Here are a few more suggestions that will add a bit more fun to your hiking adventure:

A loop.  A loop is a tiny looking glass that magnifies a piece of nature. A loop is about the size of a sewing thimble and generally flips out and in, so that the glass is protected from potential scratching.

You'll be amazed at how plants look under a loop, as well as anything you choose to observe. We've even honed in on tiny bugs walking about that can barely be seen with the naked eye. These little buggers have eyes when viewed with a loop! You can attach the loop on a string so that you can wear it around your neck for convenience - because you never know when you're going to need it asap.

Visit your local bookshop and pick up a plant, animal, mushroom,  wildlife,  insect, fossil or mineral index book that has lots of pictures. These are great for identifying nature and generally run $5-$10.

A first aid kit doesn't need to be as large as a doctor bag. I've come across more snakes and spiders than I care to count while hiking. Tom walked right next to a timber rattler in Oklahoma while we were walking the canyons there - but it was too slow.....

HIKING WITH POISON IVY IN SIGHT

Poison ivy is one of the more beautiful plants, trimmed out with red berries and three leaves. I've seen it harbored in rock faces, in woodlands, in sandy loam and in thick forests. Hardy and drought tolerant, sometimes irresistibly touchable!  

And if ' the one who touches' is allergic to poison ivy, they'll be stuck in a world of misery a few weeks, at minimum. Just ask a former friend of mine....

Many years ago, I worked with a lady who had went on a camping trip. I noticed that she was walking bow-legged through the office, and so I asked if she were okay. "Yep. Just went campin' and had to take a whiz. I'm allergic to poison ivy and unfortunately, it was dark, and I whizzed in the wrong area."

The unfortunate lady was so miserable that she went on to inform me that she had foregone her undergear until her rash cleared.  It was a bit more information than I wanted to know, and just getting that off my chest makes me feel so much better now....

HIKING  - ROCKFACE CLIMBING GEAR

Scaling rockfaces is intended for the extreme adventurer and is a sports that is made for admiration of respect.  In some aspects, it's an artform.  The basic equipment that the rockface climber will need include:

Harness - the cornerstone of rockface gear! Look for a comfortable fit that allows freedom of movement yet conforms to a snug fit; an adjustable harness. The harness should also be well padded for those 'long hangs'.

Climbing shoes OR rock shoes that fit very snug for precise grip control on the rockface.

Other rockface gear includes: hexes, nuts, cams, climbing rope, belay devices, slings, quickdraws, carabineers, helmets and chalk balls and bags.

HIKING HORROR OR HIKING HAVEN?

Most of us have experienced a friend or family member recommending a 'hot hiking spot' to us, only to find that their Hiking Haven is our Hiking Horror.

Climate, current sky and wind conditions, the time of the year, the natural things that may be currently affecting the area, and the hiker's current state of mind all play into the big hiking picture.

In most areas in the great USA, spring and fall are very generous to the hiker.

Fall foliage, spring wildflowers - these are natural beauties that the  hiker will generally run across.

However, depending on the area of the country, summer can be blazing-hot and akin to a Journey to Hades.

Winter presents slippery trails, blocked trails and basically bare trails (the real bears are generally hibernating....).

Therefore, plan your hiking adventure well and do a bit of research beforehand. State parks are one of your best sources of free information.

HIKING  - SLIP SLIDING AWAY

Most all seasons present conditions that make hiking trails treacherous.  Although a well-crafted pair of hiking boots may help prevent slip-sliding away, accidents are never planned.

During such weather conditions, always exercise The Buddy Plan and the 'I think I'll take along my cell phone along' plan - although in some rural areas, Mr. Cell Phone may not work. Even so, it just might!

If you find that you just can't wait until the slippery conditions subside, be certain to put on the following safety gear: teeth guard, knee pads, a soft pillow tied around buttocks, neck brace, leather gloves, sunglasses, earmuffs and a steel breastplate.

And yes, those are available in size 32 D's but I have no idea how I know this.  One more thing before heading out: slip on your 'I'm an idiot' hiking shirt. You'll look ultra cool in the new's rescue photo.

HIKING IN HAIL

Hail hurts. Even pea size hail can knock all the bark and acorns off a strong tree. If you're out hiking and caught in hail, seek shelter immediately.

If you're reading this article, you are one lucky dog! How so? Because should you find yourself in this situation, you'll immediately think, "It's hailing!  I must seek shelter!!  I read it somewhere, but who cares where!  I just know that I need to seek shelter asap!!"  See?  We've saved you those few seconds that may just save your life.

Yes, this article may even save your life. And I can assure you once again that hail hurts. Just take a look at any vehicle that's been damaged by hail.

Long ago, there was a little car that I had that was fairly new and a big hail storm moved through. I grabbed a thick blanket and tried to race to the car so that I could move it under a protective awning. In the process, I almost got my brains beat out. And no, I didn't make it that short distance to the car. That's how bad hail hurts.  It hurts like hail.

HIKING WHEN THE STORM LOOMS

Twelve noon and the sky was as black as midnight with the still hot air pulsating about us like an invisible shroud. Lightening suddenly split the air and a heavy pelting of rain spawned from the sky like fledgings released from the nest.

Storms hit fast and hard, so hiker beware. Dry creek beds may swell swiftly, from lamb to lion in a matter of minutes. Lightening is also a formable foe to hikers and campers alike.

Most outdoorsman know to take cover when storms loom overhead, but if one is out in the wild without a radio or other such modes of media, how can storms be predicted? The answer lies in nature itself.

1. Winds - Generally, before a change in the weather, strong winds may suddenly kick up OR the atmosphere may become as still as death.

2. Wildlife - When violent weather threatens, wildlife usually becomes very active. Possums may appear in daylight; if you're near cattle, they may turn their backs against the storm, even before it arrives. Animals may also mull together.

3. Clouds - know the types of cloud formations and the type of weather they deliver for they may spell danger.

HIKING - MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE POND

Have you ever visited a pond so clear and so clean that you can see a beautiful image staring back at you?  'Yes you, handsome' - as Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder would say.

Ponds come in many shades, and all are not so lovely or clear. However, that doesn't mean that something is wrong with the pond or water. Of course, you should never drink from a 'wild' source of water.

On top of those dangerous little bugs in the water, what if a rabid animal just wandered by and slobbered all in the water and so forth and then someone tasted the water and..... Oh my, it's too terrible to continue....

Tannin is one mineral that can be found in ponds and tends to turn the pond a very rusty, harmless color. Other ponds may have a green slime floating on top or it may have white scum at the edges.

The type of ponds that tend to be ones to avoid are those that have the dead fish floating on top.

HIKING TO NESTING GROUNDS

While some birds will protect their nest until death, others will abandon it even if mildly disturbed.  Therefore, whenever one mingles with mama bird and hatched OR unhatched baby bird, the first rule of nature is to know about the species before attempting a visit.

Many birds are protected species, such as eagles. Nesting eagles are a magnificent experience, though viewing should be done (as with all bird species) from afar.

When hiking, if you happen upon a nest situated either on the ground or above, walk on by. If you come across a baby bird who has fallen from its nest in the wild, stand clear and examine before rushing to aid the fallen feathered fowl. It may be learning to fly.

Keep in mind that birds can transmit disease, so if for some reason you must handle one, be certain to thoroughly wash afterwards.

GEAR & EQUIPMENT

If you're a hiker, you already know about those standard 'hiking musts' such as safe sturdy, non-slippery-soled shoes, canteens of water, energizer bars, compass, flashlight in case you get stranded in the dark and The Buddy Plan.  Here are a few more suggestions that will add a bit more fun to your hiking adventure:

A loop.  A loop is a tiny looking glass that magnifies a piece of nature. A loop is about the size of a sewing thimble and generally flips out and in, so that the glass is protected from potential scratching. You'll be amazed at how plants look under a loop, as well as anything you choose to observe. We've even honed in on tiny bugs walking about that can barely be seen with the naked eye. These little buggers have eyes when viewed with a loop!

Visit your local bookshop and pick up a plant, animal, mushroom,  wildlife,  insect, fossil or mineral index book that has lots of pictures. These are great for identifying nature and generally run $5-$10.

A first aid kit doesn't need to be as large as a doctor bag. I've come across more snakes and spiders than I care to count while hiking. Tom walked right next to a timber rattler in Oklahoma while we were walking the canyons there - but it was too slow.....

PROPER HIKING ATTIRE

Going hiking for the first time?  What to wear?  The following tips may be of help:

Cold Weather - Dress in layers so you can add or remove clothing as the weather climbs and falls. Basic hiking attire includes waterproof gloves, scarf, hiking boots, jeans, wool shirt, wool socks, sunscreen (yes, even in the winter), sunshades and lip balm.

Warm or Hot Weather - Brief isn't always best with the sun biting at the sensitive areas on your body. Those 'behind the knees' and 'back of the neck' sunburns hurt like the devil.

Basic hiking attire includes hiking boots, cotton socks, cotton shorts, cotton shirt, sunshades and sunscreen.  A tube of lip balm is also savvy. As a note, cotton tends to breathe and is therefore cooler on the skin. Be sure that the garment is 100% cotton.

FINALLY.....THE VELVET HIKER

Going hiking for the first time?  What to wear?  This greenhorn hiker wore velvet....

Yes, although it's quite embarrassing, it's true. Several years back, I had never experienced hiking - and boy oh boy, I'd missed a lot in life!

At the time, Tom didn't know me well enough to advise on proper outdoor hiking attire, so I came prepared to impress him rather than to impress nature. What an idiot!  (ME - not him!) Nonetheless, I fell totally in love with both hiking and of course, with Tom.

Since that first hiking excursion in The Wichita National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, we have traveled so many wonderful trails together - from high mountaintops to dense forests. During that time, I've learned a lot about hiking - primarily, proper hiking attire.

 

Related Content, Free Love Stories

Complete Table of Contents of Love Stories

Site Map | About the Author

Trinity Moon | Copyright, Disclaimers