Camelback Mountain - 2010
It’s one thing, when you’re starting out as a hiker, to imaging tackling the toughest trail you can think of. It’s another to actually try it your first time out.
Before Arizona, I lived in the Midwest, which is awesome for long bike rides, jogging or pretty much anything to do with flat land. To an aspiring hiker, Arizona will give you that ‘kid in a candy shop’ feeling.
But before hitting the trailheads, there are a few things all novices should remember:
Water, Water, Water
I can’t stress enough how important water is to a hiker/athlete/outdoor junkie, especially in the Arizona sun.
If you find yourself getting dizzy on your hike, it could be the altitude, or it could be your body’s way of grabbing your attention.
Test yourself by picking a patch of skin on the back of your hand, and pressing it. If the mark stays white for more than a few seconds, it may be time to start hydrating.
Watch your pack
This one goes against anything Mom taught you when you were younger, but pack lightly.
It’s good to be ready for any situation, but not at the cost of breaking your back.
Brownie points if you have a first aid kit, but if the thing is the size of a pharmacy, it’s time to downsize. Just take a few essentials in a plastic bag.
If you’re afraid you’ll get cold/hot, don’t bring your whole closet.
Settle on a few layers that can be easily stowed until needed.
Before you even leave the car, double-check your pack to see if you can afford to lose anything. Your back will thank you in the long run.
Have the right footwear
Take it from the girl who attempted to hike around the Grand Canyon in a pair of Gap flip-flops. Or the girl who hit the Na Pali Coast barefoot (but we won’t go into that).
Use a pair of hiking boots. They don’t skid when they get wet, and they’re not awkwardly tall for any reason. The height provides support around the ankles—no one wants to hobble back the five miles they just covered.
If you’re not planning on using the boots that often, or they’re just not in the budget, settle on a good pair of sneakers.
They’re comfy, versatile and almost anyone has them (even if they haven’t been used since gym class senior year).
Just make sure the treads aren’t too worn down, you’ll need traction for when the pavement ends.
Match your skill level
You wouldn’t try a black diamond your first time out skiing, so why would you try hiking something that is just as hard?
There’s always a draw to do what few people have done before, or tackle the seemingly impossible, but you have to start slow and work your way up.
So you have your heart set on Humphrey’s Peak?
The first step is to hit the gym to condition yourself. Weights will help you build strength, but what’s more important is stamina.
The treadmill will definitely help you out on the days where life gets in the way.
Nothing can compare to the real thing though.
Start off will trails that stay pretty flat along the way. When you’re comfortable, up the challenge and go for those steeper inclines.
