Every year more and more people head into the great outdoors to enjoy the beauty of the countryside with the help of their local hiking club.
Hikers come from every corner of the world and there are literally thousands of local hiking clubs to choose from, although searching for "hiking" will not always bring up the results you are looking for. For example, in England you are more likely to come across "hill walking" or simply "walking" clubs, while Australians tend to use the term "bush walking" and New Zealanders "tramping".
More strenuous forms of hiking, perhaps in mountainous regions, is often referred to as "trekking" and longer outings including overnight camping stops on the trail is usually called "backpacking".
No matter what terminology is used hiking is one of those activities that you can enjoy entirely alone, getting away from the trials and tribulations of everyday life, or with other family members or a group of friends and fellow enthusiasts of all ages and ability levels.
If you've never tried hiking then now is an excellent time to start. It's a very inexpensive pastime for the beginner and all you really need to get started is some basic equipment, including such things as a good pair of shoes or boots. Just how much gear you decide to kit yourself out with very much up to you but today you will find a huge range of equipment available from backpacks and tents to specialist men's and women's clothing and footwear in all the colors of the rainbow and at every price range.
For the beginner though a map, compass, simple backpack, windproof jacket and a comfortable pair of waterproof boots is really all you need to get started.
Our aim here at The Hiking Club is provide you with all the basic information you need to get you ready for that first hike covering everything from how to use a map and compass, getting yourself fit and basic first aid to finding the right shoes or boots so that you can get out and about and enjoy some of the world's most beautiful countryside.
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Selecting The Right Hiking Socks. In hiking probably your most important item of kit is a good pair of boots and, perhaps surprisingly, a decent pair of hiking socks will come in in second place. Read More
Etiquette On The Hiking Trail. The wilderness is a wonderful place and with a little thought and care hikers can ensure that it stays that way. Read More
Basic Safety Tips For Hikers. No matter how comfortable you feel, hiking can have its dangers if you're not prepared and a few basic safety tips will ensure your safety. Read More
An Introduction To Using Maps When Hiking. For both experienced and novice hikers a basic understanding of maps and the ability to read a map is essential for safety. Read More
Hiking To Divisadero In Mexico. Hiking around Divisadero in the Copper Canyon region of the Sierra Tarahumara in Mexico provides the hiker with both a challenging hike and some spectacular views. Read More
