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Don’t let a fun hiking trip turn into a disappointment or even a disaster by failing to take some common sense safety steps. Here are six tips to help you plan and enjoy a safe hiking adventure the next time you lace up those boots and trek off into the great outdoors:

1. Pick a specific hiking trail. Choose your hiking trail as far in advance as possible. This will give you time to familiarize yourself with the terrain, the difficulty level of the trip, and to learn about any unique features of the location where you’ll be hiking — especially important if your trip is extensive and involves overnight camping. When selecting your hiking route, be realistic about the time you have for the trip, the distance you can reasonably cover, and the degree of difficulty, i.e., is it a trail for beginners or for more advanced trekkers? Don’t endanger yourself or overdo things physically and destroy the fun of the trip!

2. Learn all you can about the trail and area. For anything more extensive than a walk in a public park, you really need to be sure you get a good map of the trail. (You might even want to use an online tool such as Goggle Maps and print out the details of your hike.) Are there public rest areas? Eating areas? How about the availability of water, or even food? Of course, you’ll need to bring much of this if you’re in any sort of wilderness trail — but make sure you know as much as you can about local resources. Know the trail well enough to know where you are and where you’ll be at all times. That’s an important approach to a good hiking experience.

3. Get emergency contact information, share your contact information. Most national parks and trails are administered locally, i.e., there is some sort of visitor center or trail head center with people supervising it. That means there is contact information you can get, should you have safety or emergency issues and need to get help. Make sure you get that contact information, i.e., a telephone number or other means to get help. Take along a good cell phone. Unless you are well out in wilderness territory or in the mountains, you can probably find usable phone service. Likewise, make sure you leave YOUR contact information with someone at the trail head, and give them contact information for the people you want contacted if an emergency does arise.

4. Bring emergency/first aid kits, extra supplies. Even if you’re hiking adventure is only a few hours and a few miles long, don’t forget to bring an emergency kit/first aid kit. You can find really great, really cheap kits that fit comfortably into a daypack or other bag. Likewise, bring along something nutritious and “portable” to snack on — or perhaps full blown cooking chow if your trip is very long — just to be safe. Think about the news stories you’ve heard in recent years of people starting on a short hike who found themselves lost or stranded without food and water for days. Don’t let something like that ruin your hike. And don’t forget extra water!

5. Dress and equip yourself properly for the trip. You wouldn’t wear slippers or flip-flops for a hike, would you? Hiking boots or sturdy all-terrain running shoes are the obvious choice for a hiking trip. What about a jacket? Perhaps even a solid, warm coat or parka? Proper dress and equipment (walking stick or trekking pole, too, perhaps) are vital to your fun, your comfort, and your safety. Which is why you need to plan ahead of time and scout out the terrain, degree of course difficulty, and the weather forecast for your trip.

6. Make a schedule, share that schedule, stick to the schedule. You needn’t turn your hiking adventure into a lock-step, forced march. By “schedule,” keep it simple — when you’ll get to the trail head, when you’ll actually start, approximately when you expect to be where on the trial, and when you anticipate finishing or returning home. Once you map that out, try to stick to the schedule. Make sure you share that schedule with officials and rangers and along the route. Be sure your family and friends know what your plan is and how they can reach you. Write down the details of the trip and contact information to leave at home before you start your hike. If nothing else, such planning and information sharing will reassure family and friends that you’re going to be safe!

Get out and enjoy hiking and outdoor living. Don’t ruin the fun of your hike by obsessing with rigid planning. Just take these six easy steps to keep it safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Today more and more people, especially in Europe and America, are adopting hiking and trekking as a major outdoor event. Not only in these countries, but the trend of hiking and trekking is also increasing in many other parts of the world. But have you ever thought, what are the health benefits of hiking and trekking? Are these outdoor events really beneficial for health? Is hiking or trekking for everyone or has some age bar? Does hiking only has health benefits or are there any psychological benefits too?

These are some questions which quite often strike in our mind. If someone seeks answer to these questions, although most of them are subjective in nature as far as the degree of benefits is concerned, but certainly the response would be positive. Most of the people would immediately say, “Yes there are countless benefits.” No doubt, there are many benefits of hiking and trekking ranging from controlling obesity to preventing heart disease to improving the quality of air we breathe.

While many sports activities and games require special equipment or training to get started, the hiking is relatively much simpler and more beneficial than any other exercise. Literally, anyone can put on a pair of shoes along with few necessary gears and equipments and start moving into the woods for a little fresh air—this is called hiking. The scenery, accessibility and diverse nature of hiking trails make this heart-healthy pastime attractive for people of all ages, fitness levels and income brackets. Moreover, except few points, hiking and trekking don’t require any special expertise and skills.

Hiking or trekking allows us to maintain our body in good working condition by walking which is really a good exercise. It improves our physical as well as mental health and the list of benefits from hiking and trekking is infinite. Hiking is essentially walking that is considered to be one of the most perfect forms of exercise for your body. You can get a chance to spend some quality time together with the Mother Nature, so it also provides a mental health antidote. Everyone can find trails to suit their physical strengths. And unlike other activities or sports, it is a pursuit that allows people to determine their own limitations.

Many research findings and studies show that hiking is an excellent way to lose extra pounds and improve overall health. To improve overall health, we don’t necessarily need to do heavy and painful workouts, but just a short brisk walk of few minutes can be more than sufficient. According to the American Heart Association, it’s best to walk vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes 3-4 times per week. But even low- to moderate intensity walking can have both short- and long-term benefits . Similarly, According to Walking for Health, people “won’t find a better way to lose weight than walking.” The results will be more permanent and pleasurable than any diet or weight loss scheme.

For example, in December, 2001, the US surgeon general called the increased rate of obesity in the United States an epidemic. The report states that 2/3 of Americans are overweight or obese, and the number is increasing year after year. In addition, thirteen percent of children are overweight. The report recommends that communities create safe sidewalks or walking trails to encourage physical activity . Not only these, but there are many more research findings that clearly show multiple health benefits of hiking and trekking.

When it comes to enlist the health benefits, then the list may go endless consisting of several mental as well as physical health benefits, such as losing excess pounds, preventing heart disease, decreasing hypertension or high blood pressure, improving and maintaining mental health, slowing the aging process, preventing osteoporosis, improving the quality of the air we breathe, preventing and controlling diabetes, improving arthritis, relieving back pain (which has become an epidemic in the modern contemporary world along with healthy habits for a healthy life i.e. team building skills, positive attitude, kindness, empathy,

At last but not the least, hiking has countless health benefits and the beauty is that it doesn’t cost you much. Moreover, while at hiking you can take other family members and your young children along with you without much difficulty. Indeed, it is a good idea to spend more time with your family and children. For young children, it helps improve their physical stamina and team building skills.

Friends, just go for a hike, and see what we mean. Happy hiking!

Exploring the River Valley Wonderland and “feeling good” about it

Newaygo County was named after Chippewa Indian Chief: Naw-wa-goo, one of the signers of the Treaty of Saginaw in 1812. The county has over 230 natural lakes and over 350 miles of rivers and streams. Three huge dams were built after the turn of the century: Croton, Hardy and Newaygo. Croton and Hardy Dams remain today, with Hardy the largest earthen dam east of the Mississippi.

The Muskegon River continues to be the main attraction for summer cottage residents and fishermen, who find it nearly the best source for steelhead in the spring and salmon in the fall anywhere in Michigan. Hiking is excellent, as over half the county is contained in the Manistee National Forest.

Hiking is becoming a desired activity for Newaygo tourists. The ultimate reason to hike is for personal enjoyment, but there are other goals that can be achieved when hitting a trail. Most people enjoy hiking because it makes them feel good to exercise and enjoy nature. Here are three reasons why hiking is becoming so popular.

Getting outdoors – Most of us live and work indoors the majority of our everyday lives. To be outdoors and just enjoy being outside and experiencing all that entails can be the ultimate reason people like to hike. Fresh air, the sounds of birds and other animals, tall trees, blue sky, majestic creeks, flowing rivers and deep valleys all contribute to a sense of contentment and even inner connection to nature and the earth.

Physical Health – Hiking is a very physically healthy activity. It helps improve your circulation, strengthen muscles, build stronger bones, and contribute to overall as opposed to simple walking for exercise, work a variety of different muscles due to the uneven terrain that is found on hiking trails. Climbing, even if it is just up a steep embankment, will increase your strength and improve your sense of balance.

Emotional Health – Leaving the hustle and bustle of our daily routine to hike through trails and into valleys inevitably has a calming effect. Hiking is a great way to ease your mind. There is something that happens after your first few steps on the trail, all the heavy burdens you were carrying around in your mind become a little lighter and sometimes disappear. It becomes easy to open up your mind and think about issues and people. You may very well find your mind opening up to ideas or answers to problems that you had before. It is a great opportunity to contemplate subjects you may have consciously forgotten as well as some that may be fresh in your mind. Hiking simply “feels good”.

Here are a few recommended hiking trails in Newaygo County to explore and experience the great outdoors in Michigan. The following rails ranges from one to five miles long :

The Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary found its beginnings in 1938 when the US Forestry Service invited the Federated Garden Club of Michigan to participate in creating a sanctuary for native Michigan plants. The area consists of a small lake, a marsh and wooded area. There are over 150 different species of plants, wildflowers, trees and vegetation marked with posts that correspond to the trail guide available. The trail is about 1.5 miles long. A picnic area with grills and an outhouse is available for use by the trailhead. The sanctuary is located about 7 miles north of White Cloud. Head north out of White Cloud on M-37 and turn west at 5 Mile Road, then turn north onto Felch Ave and drive until you see the sign below. The entrance is right in front of the sign.

The Hardy Dam Rustic Nature Trail is a cooperative project of the Boy Scouts of America and Consumers Energy Employees. The trail is a three mile round trip, along the Muskegon River. The trail is unpaved and and winds over various types of terrain. Be sure to bring a good pair of tightly tied hiking boots as the trail in some places winds along the sides of some very steep hills. Also 26 species of trees are identified along the trail, identified with posts so be sure to pick up your trail guide by the trailhead. Parking is available right by the Hardy Dam at its northwest end.

The

Wetland Trail is a 1.25 mile boardwalk through a sphagnum bog. The project cost over 30,000 dollars and was financed by the Fremont Area Foundation. In some area’s the sphagnum is as much as 40 feet deep, highly unusual. The area is full of wildlife such as great blue heron’s, kingfishers, owl’s, turtles, and muskrats. The Trail is located on the east side of Pickerel Lake at Camp Newaygo. The trail is free and open to the public.

The Coolbough Natural Areas is a 400-acre preserve owned by Brooks Township and managed jointly with The Nature Conservancy. The diversity of habitats is one of the features of the Coolbough Natural Areas that makes any visit an exciting trip. Visitors have the chance to explore ponds and wetlands, hike through white pine and white oak forest, search for butterflies and wildflowers on prairie and barrens remnants, and listen to the bubbling waters of Bigelow and Coolbough Creeks. Hunting is allowed for white-tail deer on this preserve to reduce an unnaturally high deer population in the area and reduce threats too many deer pose to our conservation targets. The preserve features an extensive trail system with horseback riding permitted on designated trails. Bring your binoculars for spectacular views of wildlife. Location from Newaygo, take M-37 to Croton Drive (at the intersection immediately north of the Muskegon River). Turn east on Croton and go 3.7 miles to Barberry Avenue. Turn north and go one mile; Barberry will end at 58th Street. Turn east (right) on 58th, which will curve to the north to become Hazelwood. The parking lot is on the corner of 58th and Hazelwood.

We encourage you to start to hike in Newaygo County Mi and begin “feel good” today. Visit HessLakeRentals.com for accommodations.

Taking your dog on a hike with you can be an enjoyable experience, provided you have the right hiking gear to accommodate the both of you. Taking your best friend along shouldn’t bog you down with extra gear but you will need to consider where you are going and how long you plan to hike in order to ensure you have what you need for a safe trip.

Whether hiking for an afternoon or taking an overnight trek, you should make sure to stock your backpack with the following items to help Fido, Lassie or whom ever you take with you have as much fun as you do.

? Adequate water for both you and your dog. If you know that there will be water sources along the route, carry a water bottle with you that you can refill if needed. If you are unsure about water availability, pack 1-2 quarts of water for your dog for a day hike plus enough for yourself. Collapsible dog bowls are good for dogs that may not drink from a stream or from a water bottle.

? A leash. Most trail ways require that your dog be on a leash or harness while hiking. A leash will also help keep order should there be a lot of dogs on the trail with you.

? First aid kit items. Most pet injuries while hiking occur on the pads of their feet. The pads can easily be cut on sticks, stones and roots in the ground. You should stop hiking intermittently to check your dogs paw pads for cuts or blisters. Have the appropriate bandages and disinfectants with you in case this happens.

? Proper ID tags for your pet. The dog tags should include information on your pet’s vaccination as well as your home address and phone number. Make sure the rabies tag that you received from your veterinarian is attached to your dog’s collar.

? Clean-Up Items. Zip-lock bags are great for hiking trips to reduce the odor of the feces while on your hike. Be sure to pick up all your dog’s feces while hiking using paper towels or your bag and dispose of it in a garbage container. Also carry a towel to clean off your dog should he or she get into dirt or water. ? Snacks or Treats. Your dog will get tired just as you will. Make sure to pack a few treats to keep him energized until you get back home. However, you don’t want to over-feed your dog while hiking or they may get sick. Treats can also be helpful in getting your dog’s attention should they run off unexpectedly.

Above all, make sure your dog is up to the challenge of an afternoon hike. Make sure they are healthy and well-nourished before setting out on the hike. Older dogs should be treated to a trail way with a level terrain and with little to no incline. Small dogs should be taken on well groomed trails that won’t have a lot of low hanging brush or leaves that may cause eye or skin irritation.

Pay attention to the signs your dog may give while on a hike that there is something wrong. If they avoid the sunshine or lay underneath leaves they may be dehydrated and need to stop for a long drink of water. If their stride becomes labored or if they favor one paw over another, they may have gotten a sliver or cut on their pad. Your dog will tell you what they need while outdoors so long as you listen.

~Ben Anton, 2008

There is nothing I love more than to hike through the woods or up a mountain. However, I certainly don’t like the blisters on my feet that can be caused by cheap or old hiking boots.

If you are planning on a long hike on rocky trails, you are going to need a decent pair of hiking boots. Hold on a second. Let’s amend that statement slightly. If you are going on a hike of any duration on any type of trail, you are going to need a decent pair of hiking boots.

The reason for this is a combination of safety and stability. For example, if you are walking along a trail that is narrow, rocky, rough and on the side of a steep mountain, you are going to need footwear that can provide solid traction.

A pair of sneakers may be somewhat more comfortable, but the lack of traction makes them very unsafe to play around with. After all, would you really want to be slipping and sliding around on the side of a steep mountain? Probably not!

Now that you know that you are definitely going to need a solid pair of hiking boots; it might be time to go out and buy a pair. However, for some, the cost of the shoes may be prohibitive unless you find a venue for closeout hiking boots on sale.

Closeout Hiking Boots Can Be Found At Overstock Sales in Stores

The tried and true method of finding low cost hiking boots on sale would be to head to a shoe store or a retail store and shop around for overstock shoes that have been heavily discounted. Often, this is a great way to locate closeout hiking boots on sale. After all, why pay full price for totally new boots when boots that have been around on the shelves for a few weeks but didn’t sell would serve the same purpose.

If there was one problem associated with these types of sales is that the selection will be limited to the specific shoes in the store. So, what happens if you are not interested in those particular shoes? Well, you could shift your shopping to an online venue.

Online Closeout Hiking Boots Sales

If you are looking for the widest selection of closeout hiking boots sales then it would be best to search online. There are a number of overstock sites, auction sites and retail distributors that can provide tremendous selections for those needing reliable and sturdy hiking boots.

Online distributors are definitely worth checking into for hiking boots needs as they have lower overhead costs and can pass on the savings to you. A good outdoor online site will be able to ship for free and waive taxes! Yes, waive taxes.

One thing I suggest is that if you find a pair of hiking boots online you think you might like at a great price, go to your local outdoor shop and try them on. If you like them go home and get them online, that way you will always order something that you like. Good luck in finding the right closeout hiking boots, and above all else, enjoy the wilderness!

Hiking is one of Pacific Northwest outdoor enthusiast’s favorite activities. Oregon and SW Washington offer an incredible variety of forests, parks and national monuments ready for exploration and appreciation. Hikers should not be taken by surprise in this incredible area of the country however. Forest, coastal lands and cave hiking all present unique challenges to any hiker. The Pacific Northwest can prove to be dangerous if hikers are unprepared.

Forest Trail Hiking

The Northwest’s forest trails are ideal hiking destinations because the scenery and beauty are unmatched by any other location. These trails wind through lush pine and fir tree wooded areas, tranquil open meadows, and creek and river crossed landscapes. The native wildlife – beavers, foxes, deer, elk, songbirds, squirrels – make it an ideal place for nature watchers. Oregon and Washington have very well maintained trailways and they take pride in their stewardship of the forests here. However, hikers should still be prepared for the unexpected in these areas.

The most important item to pack on any hiking trip, especially in the summer months, is water. Food is a close second. Emergency lights and signals are also essential for any recreational hiker. Traditional roadside flares or signal lights are not an option in the Northwest wilderness as likelihood of starting an unintentional fire is very high. A LED emergency light is small, lightweight, affordable, and offers powerful, high-quality light that can be used as a distress signal as well as a flashlight.

A multi-purpose pocket knife is also essential to safe hiking in the Northwest. These tools often include miniature scissors and pliers, tweezers and a compass which can all be useful to a hiker. The basic knife blade in these tools can be helpful to scratch trees and branches in order to mark an unfamiliar trail should you get lost. Consider packing mosquito repellent and sun block when hiking these forest trails as well.

Coastal Hiking

The Pacific Northwest is known for its unpredictable and sometimes treacherous coastal weather. Hikers are advised to dress for the elements when hiking along coast range trails. A rain jacket and sturdy, waterproof boots are essential. The Oregon or SW Washington coast is are often overtaken by dense, heavy fog coverage. These fogs can come in without warning, stranding and disorientating hikers who are unprepared. It is important to bring a powerful LED flashlight or lantern when hiking this area to illuminate the trail or campsite as well as alert help should you need it.

Cave Hiking

Cave hiking is one of the more dangerous forms of recreational hiking. This activity requires specific safety equipment and long-term planning. Along with multiple light sources, appropriate clothing and plenty of food and water, one must also make sure to bring protective head gear, rope, and climbing gloves. Experts recommend headlamps when cave hiking to allow for hands-free hiking. If considering cave hiking in the Northwest, contact a professional in the area who can provide specific equipment needs and precautions.

Hiking the Pacific Northwest trails is an incredible outdoor experience. A summer can be spent enjoying several trails, all with their own unique landscapes and beauties. Whether hiking through the Umpqua or Deschutes National Forests or exploring the Coast’s Oregon Sand Dunes, hikers will not be disappointed so long as they come prepared.

~Ben Anton, 2008