Hiking is one of my favorite ways to spend time outside, but when I first started, I made so many mistakes – from wearing the wrong socks to underestimating how much water I needed. I learned a lot the hard way.
Now, after a decade of exploring trails, I want to share twelve things I wish I had known when I first started hiking – so you can skip the trial and error and head straight to the good part: enjoying the trail.
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Learn From My Hiking Mistakes
Table of Contents
The Socks You Wear Can Make or Break Your Hike
Your feet are the MVPs of your hiking experience, and nothing ruins a hike faster than blisters.
I learned this the hard way on an 8-mile trek when I wore cotton socks, which trap moisture, cause friction, and leave you with painful, bloody blisters. Since then, I’ve only worn merino wool socks – they wick moisture, regulate temperature, and last for years.
My favorite Merino wool socks are from Darn Tough, which comes with a lifetime warranty!
You Don’t Need to Spend a Fortune on Hiking Gear
When I started hiking, I used what I had — thrifted hiking shoes and my school backpack. Over time, I upgraded piece by piece, but I didn’t (and still don’t) believe in spending a fortune on gear.
There are so many ways to get high-quality gear for less. My (now) husband and I used to wake up at 6 AM to line up for REI’s Garage Sales, hoping to score used gear at a discount. These days, shopping secondhand is easier than ever with REI Re/Supply, REI.com/Used, Patagonia Worn Wear, Facebook Marketplace, and Depop.
All this to say, don’t break the bank with hiking gear. Use what you have, upgrade when needed, and don’t let gear (or the lack of it) hold you back from getting outside.
Hiking Poles Are Cool (And Incredibly Useful!)
I used to think hiking poles were dorky… until I actually used them. They help with balance and stability and reduce the impact on your knees and ankles, especially on rocky or steep trails.
If you’re skeptical, just try them once. Your joints will thank you.
When Your Water is Half Gone, It’s Time to Turn Around
A common beginner mistake? Underestimating how much water you need. I once ran out of water mid-hike and never made that mistake again.
Now, I follow this simple rule: When your water is halfway gone, it’s time to turn back.
If you live and hike in places with water access, consider adding a water filter to your hiking backpack. I hike in the desert, so I pack more water than I think I’ll need. I love using hydration reservoirs (like the ones from Gregory) to make it easier to sip as I hike!
Always Pack A Bandana
Beyond the Ten Essentials, I always throw a cotton bandana in my backpack. Why? Because it has a dozen different uses on the trail — from a sweat or snot rag to a makeshift sling, to a way to cool down on a hot day.
Leave No Trace Is a Responsibility, Not a Choice
When I first started hiking, I didn’t know the impact of picking wildflowers. I didn’t know how to read a trail map, I never checked the weather before heading out, and I’m sure I accidentally left behind the corner of a food wrapper.
Over the years, I’ve educated myself on Leave No Trace, which has helped me stay safe and minimize my impact.
For a brief overview – Pack out everything you bring in, including food scraps, toilet paper, and trash. Stick to designated trails and campsites, and respect wildlife.
Always Check the Weather Before You Go
Yes, this technically falls under Leave No Trace, but I want to emphasize it.
Once you get caught in a life-threatening storm, you’ll never skip checking the forecast again. Trust me on this one – it’s for YOUR safety!
Dress in Layers Will Keep You Comfortable On The Trail
On the topic of weather, it can change quickly, especially if you’re hiking at higher elevations or in the shoulder seasons. The key to staying comfortable is dressing in layers!
I always start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer for warmth, and pack a lightweight, weatherproof shell in case of wind or rain.
Even in the desert, temperatures can drop fast once the sun sets, so it’s always good to be prepared!
If You’re Not Snacking, You’re Slacking
Hiking is exercise, and your body needs fuel! I used to hike without snacks… only to crash and burn halfway through. Learn from my mistakes: Eat before your hike and bring snacks to fuel your body!
Some of my favorite hiking snacks are granola bars, apple sauce, pb&j sandwiches, dried fruit, chips, fresh fruit, jerky, nuts, candy, etc.
The most important part of hiking snacks is to pack out all your trash (including your orange peels). This keeps Mother Nature, wildlife, and fellow hikers happy!
AllTrails is Great Resource For Finding Hikes
Not sure where to hike? The AllTrails app (also on desktop) is one of my favorite tools for finding new trails, checking recent conditions, and reading reviews from other hikers. You can filter hikes by difficulty, distance, elevation gain, and even see if they’re dog-friendly.
Just remember that while AllTrails is a great starting point, always cross-check the information with official park websites for the most up-to-date info on closures, permits, or trail conditions.
After using the free version of the app for years, I finally bought the AllTrails+ to be able to download maps… I wish I had done it sooner!
The Outdoors Are for Everyone
The outdoors belong to all of us because we are nature. And when more people connect with nature, they become more inclined to protect it. So instead of getting frustrated by a crowded trail, let’s encourage a welcoming, supportive community!
When you’re hiking, remember to respect and be kind to fellow hikers. Smile and say ‘hi’ on the trail, yield to uphill hikers, and pick up any litter you come across.
Want to learn more about making the outdoors inclusive? Check out this article from Outside.
You Don’t Have to Summit a Mountain for It to Be a “Hike”
Hiking isn’t about elevation gain or conquering peaks every time.
Hiking is about connecting with nature, moving your body, and taking in the sights and sounds around you. Whether you’re walking through a forest, desert, or your neighborhood greenway, it all counts!
Final Thoughts on Hiking Mistakes I've Made
(Coming from an anxious girlie) You can plan and prepare as much as you’d like, but nothing will teach you about hiking like going out and actually hiking.
I learn something new every time I hit the trail, which keeps hiking exciting after all these years. I hope these 12 beginner hiking tips help you prepare for your next adventure!
