The Hiking Club

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.

Columbia Challenger Convertible Pants for Women

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.

Men's Timberland Chochorua Trail

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.

The latest hiking news:

Banks keep hiking rates as credit card law looms - The Associated Press

Reuters

Banks keep hiking rates as credit card law looms The Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) — Credit card reform may be looming in the headlines, but for now the fine print is still hitting consumers hard. Banks keep raising minimum ... Credit Card Companies Defy Congress, Not LogicAtlantic Online all 169 news articles »

Outdoor notebook: Utah officials making rattlesnake safety reminders - Salt Lake Tribune

Outdoor notebook: Utah officials making rattlesnake safety reminders Salt Lake Tribune When hiking, watch where you step; stay on paths or in clearings if possible. Avoid tall grassy areas with heavy underbrush. Do not put your hands or feet ... and more »

Southern Vermont hiking is (probably) worth the trip. - Albany Times Union

Albany Times Union

Southern Vermont hiking is (probably) worth the trip. Albany Times Union DORSET, Vt. — Whoever likes to hike on Dorset Mountain in Southern Vermont has a sense of humor. Just before the final turn-off to the summit, astute hikers ... and more »

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

Tips For Buying A Hiking Backpack. If you are new to hiking and are looking for your first hiking backpack then there are a few thinks that you should think about before you go shopping. Read More

Basic First Aid Kits For Hikers. Before you set out on a hiking trip make sure that you have a basic knowlege of first aid and always carry a first aid kit with you. 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 In Grand Canyon. Hiking in Grand Canyon is an experience which a hiker simply must not miss. It is no accident that the canyon has been referred to as the eighth wonder of the world and the memories you will take with you from your visit will last a lifetime. Read More