Your Guide to Spring Break Hiking

Ever feel like disconnecting from the world? Want to post something other than beach pics on Instagram this spring break? Do you want to be more adventurous?

With Spring Break 2k18 just around the corner, students will be hitting the beaches and relaxing by the water. What’s better than putting the thought of school behind you while laying out in the sun and snapping pics for the ‘gram’? Well, for some people, adventure is calling.

Hiking has so many benefits from being a great way to go sightseeing, while simultaneously being a killer workout. Traveling to hike up a mountain, or even finding a destination to walk through natures wonders, is a great way to spend time focusing on yourself. Sometimes disconnecting from our phones and the world is necessary.

Last year I took a spontaneous trip to Zion National Park in Utah and hiked up Angel’s Landing, a 1,488-foot tall mountain, where I personally thought I was going to die. But, it ended up being one of the most riveting experiences of my life; nothing has ever made me feel so alive. So, if you’re in, here’s your guide:

1. WATER!

This might be obvious, but no matter what kind of hike you go on, drinking plenty of water is essential. Investing in a hydration pack is crucial for long hikes, especially if you don’t want to carry a big jug of water around the whole time.  Hydration packs can hold up 2 liters of water that can be easily drunk from a tube that extends out the backpack easily. This backpack is also a great way to carry other things around like flashlights, first aid kits, etc.. Water is your best friend during hikes—so drink up!

2. Snacks!

This is one of the best perks of going on a hike—the abundance of snacks you get to eat. Trails can take hours to finish and it’s important that you fuel your body with nutrients so you have the energy to keep on going! Beef Jerky, granola bars, nuts, and even chocolate are great snacks to give your body the fuel it needs. It’s okay to take short breaks along your journey and eat up some grub!

3. Wear the right shoes.

WHAT ARE THOSE? These are hiking shoes. And yes, they’re not the most attractive thing. Wearing the right shoes is vital, especially for safety reasons. From my experience, I almost slipped off the edge of a mountain because I decided to wear Nikes, which have no grip. Don’t do it. You never know what kind of terrain you’ll come across, so it’s always good to be prepared. At the end of the day, your feet are what’s moving you places, don’t risk it.

4. Sun Protection

Whether it’s a hat or sunscreen, protecting your skin is something that should be taken very seriously. Sun exposure can be really extreme even if you’re on the ground or up in the mountains. Long amounts of heat exposure can end up causing heat exhaustion, along with headaches and feelings of weakness if not protected. Not to mention, some serious sunburns!

5. Know where you’re going.

Do your research on where you’re going and how long trails are. It’s good to know how steep some trails are so you can mentally prepare yourself and bring supplies as necessary. Also, it’s best not to get lost! From experience, I went on a 6-hour hike unknowingly and didn’t bring enough water (do not attempt). You want to make sure that you can finish the hike before the sun goes down unless walking in the middle of the night is your thing.

6. Bring a friend!

What better way to bond with someone than being stuck on a hike for hours? Plus, you’ll have your own personal photographer. Having a buddy with you will make you feel safer and give you someone to talk to! And of course, make memories for life.

If you feel like taking a risk and going on an adventure, do it! No matter what kind of hike or trail, grab a friend and make some memories. The ‘I did it’ moment, in the end, is the best feeling of accomplishment. It makes you feel strong—ready to take on the world. So, go ahead, be fearless!

• 2018
• adventure
• FSU
• hiking
• spring break