Hiking has always been popular for outdoor enthusiasts because it’s a great way to get exercise, socialize with friends, and it’s super cheap. For all these same reasons, hiking is becoming the new trend for college students. Now is the best time to explore Virginia’s National Parks and get away from the everyday stresses of academics and careers. HerCampus William and Mary has put together your ultimate hiking guide- including places to hike, a portable snack list and safety tips.
Places to Hike (categorized by distance from campus):
New Quarter Park– A moderate 7 mile trail that is available for use all year round. A very scenic trail that offers a great chance to see some Virginia wildlife.
Marl Ravine Trail– For those who like a challenge! Give this 6 mile loop trail a run for it’s money. Available year round
York River State Park– Easy and light trails, this park is available all year round and features access to Fossil Beach. You can bring your canine companions, dogs are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash.
Hiking Safety Tips:
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Larger groups have the right of way-smaller groups should step off the path to let them through
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Take only pictures and leave only footprints
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Keep your voices low so as not to disturb campers or the surrounding wildlife
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Let someone know where you are going, always try to go with a friend
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Keep an eye on the sky (don’t feel defeated if you need to turn back because of an approaching storm. It’s just an excuse to plan another hiking trip!)
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Acquire a map of the area (and bring it with you. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve printed out a map and forgot to bring it with me…)
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Stay on the path, and stay visible so rescuers can find you in case of an emergency
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When bringing food, try to bring snacks that have little waste after consumption. Whatever bags, containers or pits that are left will have to be carried on the journey back. Avoid throwing food waste such as apple cores onto the ground. Use can reuse your bag of trail mix as a bag for trash.
Portable Hiking Snacks:
- Beef jerky
- granola bars
- dried fruit (my favorites are dried pineapple and mango)
- pumpkin seeds
- cheese sticks or Babybell cheese rounds
- pretzels
- GORP (good old fashioned raisins and peanuts)
- M&M’s (Did you know?: this candy was invented by soldiers of the Spanish Civil War who wanted something sweet to carry with them that wouldn’t melt in the hot sun)
Sources:
http://alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/colonial-williamsburg
http://news.discovery.com/adventure/survival/top-10-survival-tips-every-hiker-should-know-131107.htm
http://www.thekitchn.com/best-snacks-for-hiking-121277
http://inventors.about.com/od/mstartinventors/a/ForrestMars.htm