Showing your hobbies to your partner, whether you’re in the beginning stages of a relationship or more involved, makes for a fun date that can be revealing and important. For instance, if you enjoy pottery, this could be a fun and slightly unorthodox date. Both of you could take a class or you could have a more intimate setting, where you would be able to teach him techniques to make an object.

In relationships this is how interests can become shared. After all, one’s hobbies, in a meaningful relationship, can become enjoyed by both individuals. Many committed relationships find both people enjoying activities such as these. While it may not become his favorite activity, he is likely to enjoy spending time with you and learning more about a passion of yours.

Don’t forget that this goes both ways. When you are dating someone – or even when you’re married – it is a great idea to ask your partner about their interests. Making this attempt will demonstrate that you’re interested and want to know more about your partner’s interests and passions. It makes for a great date idea and something that the two of you can share, and you may just find something that is fun.

Getting involved in your partner’s hobbies, and certainly the other way around, is an important value in dating. Strive to get to know your partner and to allow him to get to know you.

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Mountain climbing can be a fun and challenging activity; it can also be dangerous.  There are rules for climbing mountains that make it safer and more enjoyable.

Choosing the proper clothing beforehand is an important first rule.  At higher altitudes the air is colder and weather needs to be considered.  Thick wool socks should be worn with boots designed for climbing.  Trousers, preferably climbing breeches, should be loose fitting and comfortable.  Top garments should be warm and designed to protect against wind and rain.  Many climbers prefer neoprene-proof anorak for protection in rain.  Trousers made from the same material will shield from run-off from the top garment.  Light weight thermal gloves offer good protection for the hands.  A safety helmet should always be worn when climbing.

The next rule is to plan the climb well in advance of the date.  Planning includes getting and becoming familiar with maps of the area, keeping close track of expected weather conditions, and planning the route to be taken.  Make sure a copy of the planned itinerary is left with a responsible person.  If the weather becomes unsafe, it is best to cancel the climb – better safe than sorry.

Safety is a prime consideration in mountain climbing.  Before starting to climb, double check to make sure that maps, a flashlight and a compass will be handy at all times.  The one piece of technology that should be carried is a fully charged cell phone.  Be sure to stay on the planned route – do not wander off into unfamiliar areas.  Bring plenty of fluids and drink periodically to stay hydrated.  Travel at a moderate pace.  Even walk-up mountain climbing can be exhausting.  Stay alert for unexpected hazards along the route.

Always be considerate of the environment and others who climb mountains.  Whatever is brought onto a mountain should be taken back down.  “Whatever” includes trash, empty containers and anything else that is not part of the natural habitat?

Finally, have a safe and enjoyable climb.

It was — and it’s one that could have been avoided with the use of a food dehydrator.

The need for sustenance while hiking is understood by all. The paths can be long and the hours can be longer. Energy is wanted and trail mixes can become ideal sources of that energy. They bolster the body, providing essential carbohydrates and monounsaturated fats (which are derived from nuts, rather than animals, and offer doses of vitamin e, fiber and more). They’re easy to store and easier to carry — claiming little space in packs and demanding nothing beyond your fingers.

When purchased from stores, however, they can instead demand dollars and high caloric counts. Shop brands can be expensive: with you wasting money on unnecessary (and unwanted) sugars, trans-fats and artificial flavors. These will steal energy, rather than provide it; and your body won’t be able to endure those afternoon treks.

A food dehydrator will make such treks easy, though.

Create your own mixes with the aid of a dehydrator. Choose the ingredients (and quantities) that you want; avoid the unhappy additives; and build layers of flavor. Consider nuts like pecans and almonds for bursts of potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron. Add fruit — that you dried yourself — like raisins, apricots, cherries and plums for natural sweetness. Blend in a scattering of sunflower seeds to create texture. Store then in an air-tight container and go on your way.

Never again rely on shops and their uncertainties. Form a mix that’s instead thoroughly your own.

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Camping outdoors, under the stars, enjoying the full moon image, and bonding with surrounding nature . . . a mountain vacation is indeed peaceful and almost spiritual to experience. There is no traffic, no interruptions, no “busyness” or other daily distractions to interfere with your vacation pursuit of solitude and perhaps even enjoying a different kind of physical fun, like hiking. Hiking is definitely a physically demanding sport, so be sure to adequately prepare for it with the proper gear, clothing, tools, fluids, and camping essentials to make your experience safe, fun, and full of wonderful memories.

Hiking and camping trips are ultra physical activities that also make for a good vacation. There are numerous places to try out your hiking instincts, and there is nothing like cooking bacon and brewing coffee over an open campfire! Imagine trekking in the mountains of the Himalayas, seeing the sights, experiencing the sounds, and inhaling that fresh mountain air as you scale that steep mountain or maneuver through those winding trails. A Himalayan adventure is just one option among many, with various other locations offering similar fun and excitement that you can’t wait to share with your family and friends!

But, even if they can’t be there with you when you stand on that mountain peak and bellow out through the valleys, you can still let them know you’re thinking about them by sending them a picture text or message. Or, for nostalgia and a more memorable keepsake, send postcards of the amazing sights and sounds that you experience in the mountains. They can keep those postcards to add to their scrapbooks, on their refrigerators, or on their desks at work. It’s a great idea to share your experience and is also a way to spark conversations as you reminisce about your visit and exciting events that occured while you were on vacation.

One of the main benefits of hiking is that it is essentially free! You don’t pay a monthly membership fee to the forest and you don’t sign a contract with a mountain. You only have to buy the appropriate hiking equipment; however, that is true with any exercise routine! No matter what you do, you have to buy the clothes and equipment for it. After you’ve made that initial investment, you are free to exercise whenever you want to.

Hiking also has lots of health benefits. Being outside and breathing in fresh air releases endorphins in your brain. Endorphins are feel-good chemicals that make you feel happy and make you more capable of dealing with stress and negative situations. There are also health benefits for your body. Hiking is an aerobic activity, so it’s good for your heart and lungs. However, it also provides strength training because of the constant weight shift that goes on. The rugged terrain that’s present in most hikes also helps you improve your balance and coordination.

Finally, hiking helps you explore your world. Even the most geographically boring areas have dozens of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. By hiking, you can see all of the wilderness around you and stimulate your mind while you are working your body.

Hiking is such a great pastime and exercise form that it has something to offer everyone. All of these benefits make hiking the right choice for your mental and physical health.

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When you pick out shoes to buy, it’s likely a quick process. Try them on, see if they’re comfortable, and buy them if they seem to fit. It’s not that easy to buy hiking boots! Since hiking boots should last you several years and many miles of rugged terrain, you need to take care while purchasing them.

If you tend to take the same type of hikes on a regular basis, take that into account as you shop for hiking boots. If you tend to hike on an incline, look for boots that have some grip to them; they will help prevent sliding. The type of terrain that you hike on is also important. Soft dirt and rock are two very different hiking grounds, and there is a huge variety of terrains between the extremes. Different types of boots are needed for different types of ground, especially if you want to prevent blisters and strained muscles.

Upon trying on hiking boots, there are some things to look for. First, do the boots fit? They should fit comfortably without being too snug. If they are snug in the store, it is almost a guarantee that they will be too tight when hiking. After several hours of hiking, your feet will swell. Swelling is even more likely to occur if you are hiking in hot weather. Make sure that your boots fit comfortably but also have room for growth.

Another option to consider is waterproof boots. Some hiking boots come already waterproofed; if you hike in moist conditions or near the water, this is an incredibly important factor. Hiking with wet or damp feet can be very uncomfortable. Decide whether you’d rather buy waterproofed boots or buy boots and then waterproof them.

Buying the right pair of boots is easy if you consider all of your hiking choices and preferences.

While you may think that using the GPS on your car or phone is alright, special GPS setups for hiking exist. A car or phone GPS system can typically track your location to an accuracy of about 30 feet. However, a hiking GPS is meant to be more specific. When you’re lost hiking, 30 feet is a fairly long distance.

Some GPS systems also have the ability to continuously update your location. If you have a handheld system, that can be very helpful! When you are lost, it is sometimes helpful to just go back to where you started rather than try to soldier through. If you have a map that shows your exact movements, you can simply track your movements on the GPS to get back to your starting point.

Another advantage of this feature is that it can help you on later hiking trips. If you love a hiking trail that you found, you can save the hike information from your GPS. In higher end models, you can even download the information to your computer. You could build a great database of hiking trails!

Some of the simpler features to look for include a long battery life and resistance to water. For long hikes, you need a GPS that can hold up to days of usage. The moistness of many forests and waterside hikes indicate a need for a waterproof GPS. These are special features that can only be found on a hiking GPS.

However, hiking with children isn’t always easy. It requires a fair bit of planning as well as some extra precautions. The first thing to consider is whether or not your children are old enough for hiking. If it’s one of your favorite hobbies, be careful to not overestimate your children’s ability to hike. If they are younger than eight, you should wait a year or two to try hiking.

If your child is younger than thirteen, you should consider your hiking locations very carefully. There are many things that could make a trip difficult for children that you wouldn’t otherwise think about. Consider the incline and other physical limitations that could wear your child out early in the trip. Failing to take these things into consideration could make a hiking trip end prematurely. Even worse, you could have a tired, whiny child for the duration of the trip. Not only would that be unpleasant for you, but it is sure to turn your child off to hiking.

Be sure to bring lots of water for children. They dehydrate fairly quickly, and it can be very dangerous for them to stay dehydrated. Bring more water than you think they will need; it is better to carry around too much water than to leave your child dehydrated after strenuous exercise.

Have a backup plan if your child gets hurt, tired, or dehydrated. You could choose a hiking location that circles back to your car or plan a shorter hiking trip. These tips can help you foster a love of hiking in your children.

If other sporting activities can raise money, then you will be able to achieve the same by hiking. Companies try to find new ways to advertise their products and they are willing to pay as much or as little as possible. Companies benefit from these types of donations, as this is a form of tax deductible for them. You too will benefit by receiving the funding you need for the charity and at the same time you may stand to have the entire trip paid for. This is a winning situation for all parties involved and you will only receive praise for your efforts while having a good time.

It is always a good feeling to give to charity and help those who are a lot less fortunate than us. If you are new to hiking, you too can take part in this, but you must train for several months so that you can endure the physical pressure. You will experience something new and raise funds while doing so. As long as you have an open mind and a passion for a new experience, you will love hiking and look forward to future trips.

It is hard to find a good time for every family member to get away, and between work, school and, other things that go on in our everyday life, holidays times are the best. Almost every person, regardless of their profession, has this time of the year off. What better way to spend it than with your family and at a place you have always wanted to visit. You can go to on a beach getaway or even a cruise and if you and your family are looking for something adventurous, try to find something new. Go on a safari or even on a hiking and excavating trip. These new adventures may involve a lot of physical activities, but maybe that’s just what you and your family needs.

Something like hiking will give the entire family something new to look forward to. Even though you will receive complaints about your trip planning, you will still be the one suggesting a change. Once everyone experiences the fun you can have together, they will forget their complaints and enjoy every minute of it. A new place with certain activities provides a new outlook on life and, hiking may do just that for you and your loved ones.

If you are going mountain climbing to a high altitude, your body and muscles will react differently as you get higher. Due to a lover level of oxygen in the atmosphere, your breathing will be affected and your brain and muscles will react differently. Some of the fittest individuals have trouble getting to the highest peak, simple because their body does not get used to the climate up there. This is a form of extreme sport that requires mental and physical strength equally. For those hiking through the dessert or hot temperatures, they too need to train accordingly. The heat can dehydrate you very fast and if you are not up to your standard active self, you will get tired easily.

These are adventures for the fit individual and those who are not up to par on their fitness should not attempt to try it. It takes years of practice so if you are planning on taking one of these trips, be sure to read up on all requirements. Find a good trainer who can help you get to your ultimate fitness level. Speaking with others who have gone on these extreme adventures before, will shed more light and help you get prepared.

The same goes for those who want to go on a Savannah hike or up Mt. Kilimanjaro. The Savannah, though beautiful, is known to show extreme temperatures and due to the dry weather, it is a must to prep your body for the trip, well in advance. You have to equally look out for bugs and dangerous wildlife and the best way to do so would be to take a knowledgeable guide with you. Hiking in Africa is never advised to be done alone as certain regions are known for tribal wars while others are known for political uproar. You have to be certain about where you choose to go and paying the additional money to a good guide will help you through your trip. Mount Kilimanjaro on the other hand is a popular tourist destination. You will be able to find guides at the base and if you are able to get the best people, they will go with you to the top. Choose your location carefully and you will love your hiking trip to Africa.

* Take New York City for an example, if you decide to hike your way around, you can go to several parks and walk around along the water. You will discover new areas of the park and get the physical exercise your body needs. The city is a large concrete jungle and by walking you will learn a lot more about the city and its way of life. Discovering new places and trying out new things on the way will provide a whole new way of entertaining your self.
* If you are alone and you want to trek around, yet be somewhere safe, the city is the best place. You can walk around among other people and you don’t have to worry about what dangers lie ahead. You will see more of the city than driving around and when you are tired, just pop into a café and get the rest you need. Set your starting and ending points and follow your route. All it takes is a little planning and a fun outlook on the whole experience.
* When it comes to packing for your hike, you only need to take the minimum required. It is low cost and when you need food or water, you can simply buy it. It will save you the hassle of carrying things around with you.

Proper Foot-ware and Clothing

Choosing hiking boots versus shoes is really the wearer’s personal preference. Regardless of what you select, comfort and fit is the most important basis for your selection.

The right clothing depends on the season and on the time of day. Dressing in layers makes the most sense when starting out early in the day in a climate where the temperatures will climb. In wintry weather, choose an under layer for warmth. A hat is always a good choice because it will keep the heat in when it’s cold and protection from the sun in hot weather. Sunglasses will help reduce eye strain. Add to your checklist a sturdy day pack.

Water and Food

Each hiker should take at least 2 quarts of fluid in a lightweight, non-breakable bottle. If the weather will be particularly hot or dry, take more.
At the minimum take something to eat that contains protein, such as chicken or cheese and supplement with some fruits or nuts. As with deciding how much fluid to take, packing an extra energy bar or two can’t hurt.

Navigational Tools

Most hikers find a GPS the most useful tool these days, either for helping them find their destination or getting themselves un-lost. Bringing a map of the area and a compass will come in handy, especially if you are not familiar with the area.

Medical Supplies and Other Odds and Ends

Take a small, stocked first aid kit. This will come in handy if you fall and get cut. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent to prevent sunburn and bites. Don’t use a combined product as sunscreen needs to be applied much more frequently than bug spray. Bring some baggies and wipes so that you can take your trash with you.

The Type of Trip

Will the hike take one day or several? What kind of terrain will you encounter? Both answers affects your selection. With that decision made, it is time to consider backpack-s individual features.

External Frame and Internal Frame Backpacks

External frame backpacks have the framework of the pack attached to the outside of the pack versus internal frames. This structure is more rigid than a pack with an internal frame and; therefore, allows for the hiker to heft heavier loads. The downside is that these packs are stiffer, limiting flexibility. These features make external frame hiking backpacks a great choice for beginner level hikers, or, a hiker that will be carrying a lot of weight, regardless of terrain or length of time.

Other Characteristics

In addition to different frames backpacks have different hip belts, stabilizers and harnesses, that not only affect comfort but also safety. Some packs are designed to accommodate different body types, such as people with shorter torsos, or women who might prefer a different configuration of straps.
A waterproof backpack with pockets on the outside is also useful. They are good for organizing and accessibility. Some packs also convert to a daypack, a reservoir for fluids and features designed to accommodate special gear.

Bigger isn’t Always Better

Large backpacks, around 6,000 cubic inches, are really best saved for long trips or special equipment. For a day trip, a 3,000 cubic inch pack should be sufficient. Going a little larger provides ample space for a day or two away, while 4,000 to 5,000 cubic inches should carry you through a three or four day trip.

The most frequented canyons in the Wasatch are Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. Only a half hour from the Salt Lake International Airport, Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons are home to some of the most famous ski resorts in the world. Alta was rated the best skier’s mountain by “Ski” magazine and holds the distinction of being one of only three ski resorts that only cater to skiers. The other standout resort is Snowbird. Along with Alta, it was rated the number one North American ski resort by “Skier” magazine.

While the winter beauty and notoriety of the canyons cannot be surpassed, many people flock to the Wasatch canyons in the summertime for the epic hiking and other summer mountain sports. On any given warm summer day, you will see people riding triathlon bikes, trudging up 45-degree angle roads, and rock climbers. When attempting either of these sports, you should make sure you are prepared. Have the proper equipment and use a guide when necessary.

With a locals-only cave that is known to run over 3,000 feet deep, make sure you have a guide and don’t try caving alone. Regardless of what sport you choose to do or the season you go, the Wasatch Range offers a multitude of outdoor recreation second to none.

Hiking is one of those activities that anyone can afford and everyone will love. In a time of economic difficulty, finding activities to share with friends and family can be a bit of a task. A hiking a trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire in the summer of fall will bring happiness to everyone involved. There are many things to draw individuals to the large number of trails in the woods and mountains of northern New Hampshire. Whether you are hiking with a family or on your own, the sites are amazing. White Mountain views and trails through the woods will surely leave memories of great times for all that participate. Or you can try hiking out of country with some Canada 411. This basic information will help you determine which hiking experience is best for you.

For individuals new to the world of hiking it is not difficult to find trials that offer excellent views and still allow slow progression up the trails. These are great opportunities for hikers to take some time for great photo opportunities, a chance to get intimate with nature and the great opportunity to increase the quality of health while taking in the basics of the world without all the technologies of today. Taking time to care for health and enjoy nature is vital to a higher quality of life.

Hikers should take a few precautions when going out onto the trails. Take plenty of water on the journey and keep health snacks like granola and trail mix handy for the journey. Be sure to dress in layers in the event you need to load on or take off some clothing for comfort while hiking. Make sure that comfortable shoes are worn and that loose clothing is worn. Also, never go hiking without telling someone where you will be going.

It is not a particularly difficult six mile climb if you are in good shape. It is strenuous and you are actually climbing to the top of a small peak which makes it interesting. There is an ancient ranger fire lookout on top as well. It is a day hike with no place to camp on top.

Partly due to the ease of access, the steepness of the trial, and the sheer cliffs at top with a shocking long way to the bottom, hikers are lost here almost every year. Lost as in dead. When you make the climb and stick to the trail, you can’t imagine why this occurs but it does. Part of the problem is the steepness of the mountain and the jagged cliffs that loom in unexpected places. The trail is steep and easy to keep to, but wander off and you may put your life at risk
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The other problem with this hike is that it is heavily used and seems deceptively simple. The peak stands at 5,300 feet which does not seem like much, but at these elevations in the Cascade Range, a storm can do you in if you are not prepared. Going up in tennis shoes and shorts with no supplies? Not a good idea. Don’t do it.

Once on top the view is incredible which is why it used to be a fire lookout. Peek over one cliff and you may see sun bathers way below stretched out on a snow field during certain parts of the year! Don’t ask how they got there and don’t lean over too far!

If you decide to do this climb, be prepared with a pack full of food, water and perhaps a change of clothes . . . and a coat! Wear good hiking boots and do it when the weather is known to be good. You can get there via the Mountain Loop Highway out of Granite Falls, Washington. There is a ranger station on the way. Stop and ask questions about the current conditions of the trail and weather. Make it a safe trip.

Many backpackers have polarized themselves into one of two camps: the light travelers and the heavy travelers. The lights think that the less you bring with you, and the lighter that stuff is, the better time you will have. After all, it can be a real irritation to have to lug what feels like a soldier’s ruck up a mountain. While it’s great to experience a challenge, there is a fine line between “a challenge” and “a death march.” The heavies are quite the opposite, though. Not only do they thrive on the challenge of carrying plenty of things with them, they can also live like trailside royalty on what they’ve brought.

Ski holidays inspire a similar divergence of thought. On the one hand, some people like to cross country ski for days at a time, as if they were a spy during the Second World War, escaping the Nazis across the Alps. Some other people prefer to travel as lightly as possible, and even go so far as to take one of those tents that weigh less than a pound as their only means of shelter. While this is very efficient, it can also cause them to be a little wanting for supplies. This may just be the difference between knowing that your car is a mile or two away, versus wanting to go off the trail for a couple of days and see where you can end up.

There is plenty of validity to the ideas of both camps. If you have anything on your back, you have a chance of getting some blisters. And after a couple of hours of skiing, wearing a piece of paper on your back would be an amount of weight that your muscles would certainly notice. It may just end up coming down to wanting two different kinds of experiences. You can always take another trip later.

Heather Lake is perhaps one of the most beautiful hikes in the Cascade Range. It is not steep with an elevation gain of just over 1,000 feet in two-mile hike. It is also accessible almost year round due to its low elevation; hence, it is a heavily traveled trial.

You will walk through a canopy during the entire trip, walking over great roots of trees. It begins as ‘second growth’ forest but about halfway into the hike it becomes stunning old growth. You will love this place and by the way, so do the biting flies and mosquitoes. Be fairly warned. Low elevation hikes in the Cascades are known to be killer bug hangouts. If you hate the bugs, this may not be for you.

Once at the lake you get a stunning view of Mount Pilchuck’s north face which is a sheer cliff. It is quite a sight so bring your camera. The lake is pristine and the growth is lush. Please be careful to stay on the trails so that this little cove of heaven can stay that way. It is not a good place to camp due to the dampness of everything there. You will see some braving the tents but they will likely be very wet by morning. Make this a day hike.

You can get information on the hike From Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Service. The local outdoor stores in the Seattle area are all very much aware of this hike so getting information about it is a breeze. Like so many of the most accessible and beautiful hikes in the North Cascades, this one is on the Mount Loop Highway out of Granite Falls, Washington. The trail head is about a thirteen mile drive out of Granite Falls and a mile from the Verlot Ranger Station which is also on that highway. You can’t miss it. Stop at Verlot and talk to the folks there. They can fill you in on all the details and give you the current situation about the local bears! Yes, they like the area too!

This is a city park! Anacortes, Washington is a small Puget Sound town that is mostly ignored but for the ferry service that resides there. Hikers do not see this as a ‘destination’ which is why it’s a destination! If you are tired of the steep trails, the blisters from tough leather hiking boots and the biting flies, this may be your choice for a gentle and beautiful hike.

This is a 220 acre park right on the Sound. The park covers all of Fidalgo Head, a rocky peninsula with a forest covered crown. It is almost totally surrounded by water so elevation gain? Ha! Relax. You can walk it or bike it. Part of the trail lands you back on the road to re-connect with other trails, but it is a slow one laner with many speed bumps so no worries. You can sit on the beach and watch the ferries come and go as well as the occasional tanker and fishing boats. Since it is pretty much a local hang-out you won’t be inundated by crowds. It’s a lazy little town so relax. The light weight day-hike boots are fine here.

Get there from I-5 out of Seattle heading north for about 64 miles. Take exit 230 at Mount Vernon and turn west (left) to go under the freeway and follow the signs for Anacortes for about 14 miles. The highway has two designations: 20 and 237. Once in Anacortes, turn left at the sign for the Victoria/San Juan Ferry which is another incredible side trip one day when you have the time to trek into Canada and into Victoria BC. That is a wonder in its own right.

One final note: if you plan this trip right, do it in the spring when the tulips are in bloom. Mount Vernon is one of the world’s largest growers of tulips and daffodils. When in bloom, fields stretch forever with purples, reds, and yellows that are a shock to the system. You can walk through the fields in some cases and of course you can buy the flowers and bulbs.

If you want maps and descriptions of the area, stop at the Verlot Ranger Station about twelve miles out of Granite Falls and they can fill you in on current trail conditions in the area. You will also need to purchase a parking permit. With economy’s ups and downs, there are years that certain trails are no longer maintained as lack of money eliminates the effort. The parking permit money is well worth it.

Walk four miles along an unkempt road into Monte Cristo. Two miles from Monte Cristo, over monstrous trail is Glacier Basin, a beauty of a place worth exploring for a few days. Like the journey to Gothic Basin, this climb is very tough with the last mile seeming to be near vertical.

The gold mines that resided there are all blasted shut. Just as well. Pack the tent and the gear and stay awhile. It is sometimes crowded with climbers readying themselves for Cadet and Monte Cristo Peaks and Wilmon Spires. It can be an enjoyable time watching the climbers and sitting in flower covered meadows surrounded by jagged mountains. To maintain the beauty, hikers are asked to stay on the trails and camp at Ray’s Knoll or Mystery Ridge. The journey is worth the stay.

As far as Continental Divide hikes goes, this one is a piece of cake. It may be the easiest Divide hike. In fact, there are tougher hikes along the Puget Sound at sea level! Riddle is in South-East Yellowstone, Wyoming. The road to the trail head is right on the Divide itself, meaning there is no mountain to climb . . . at all. As in this is a flat walk! OK, there are a few mild rises.

Now that this is clear, enjoy the walk. It is less than two miles across marsh land that tends to be wet until mid-July so even though this is a walk around the block, boots are in order in case the dampness is still there when you arrive. It is also popular with the bears in the spring and early summer so the path is normally closed until mid-July anyway. Due to the bear population it’s a good idea to do this with a larger group of four or more.

Riddle lake sits at 8,000 feet so if elevation is a problem, this is the only thing to hold you back from seeing endless lilies along the shore mixed with reeds and tall grass. This aligns with a backdrop of the Red Mountains to fill the camera lens. While you are in the marshlands, you may spot some elk or even moose. You will likely see prints, including those of your buddies, the bears. It is always a good idea to keep a sharp eye out for the wildlife. You are in their front yard, not the other way around. That being said, respect their property. Keep it clean by leaving it the way they would leave it: no Twinkie wrappers allowed.

The trial head: it lies south of West Thumb Bay along Yellowstone Lake. Drive about four miles south of there and turn into a parking area on the east side of the road marked for the trail. Maps should show the Mount Sheridan Quad.

Heart Lake in Yellowstone used to be Hart Lake. Same place in case you find an old map. It is a 16 mile roundtrip that can be done as a day hike, but if you are going to hike all that way, you might as well take the tent and the gear to stay a day or two because the place is beautiful. If you like fishing, this is the place to do it. Consequently, don’t count on being alone there. It is a popular hangout for the local fishermen.

The trail head is just over 5 miles south of Grant Village Junction. You can park at the Heart Lake Trailhead parking lot on the east side of the road. Maps are the Heart Lake and Mount Sheridan USGS Quads. That being said, if you plan to make this a three or four day trip and you like climbing, Sheridan is there for the taking.

The hike is mostly in the trees on flat and rolling grassy ground. The trail is well kept and the area is beautiful enough that the hike goes fast. You will walk through some of the 1988 burn so it will give you an eerie sense of loss in places. It’s good for the soul as this lake often comes with a description including the word pristine. The burn is a reminder of how fragile this kind of nature is.

You will drop into Witch Creek drainage and if you happen to do the hike in the winter, the steam from the Factory Hill vents will cloud the entire view. You get the bite of eerie again, this time, ghost-like nature at its best. This part of the hike was heavily hit by fire in the past, adding to the ghost nature. You will see bright yellow sulfur deposits along some of the vents, as you hear the water below hissing.

All things considered, this is a hike worth adding to your repertoire of runs to make that don’t break your back to get there but leave you with worthwhile experience.

Make this trip one week or longer. It’s a tough journey. You will be asked by Mother Nature to work hard getting there. But where is there? The Fitzpatrick Wilderness originally named the Glacier Primitive Area. Now you’re getting the picture.

It is just under 200,000 acres of rock and ice wilderness that will keep your interest enough to slough off the pain of the hike to get there. How beautiful is it? You won’t be alone as in it draws crowds, the campsites are overused and it sometimes looks like a line at the theater hiking in. But if you are one tough enough to have kick-stepped your way up Mount Rainier’s Muir Snow Field, listening to the rhythmic huffs and grunts of those behind and ahead, you will like this. It actually gives you a sense of camaraderie.

This is Wyoming’s greatest offering to the seasoned hiker. It is the highest peak and largest glacial area in the state, about 15 miles southeast of Dubois in northeast Wind River Range. You will witness some of the deepest cliff enclosed valleys and the most stunning blue-green glacier waters in the country, all for the price of a 28 mile hike one way! To some this may sound sarcastic. To the hiker, the true deeply driven in the heart climber, the trip itself is part of the greatest reward.

Make sure you are not holding onto one of the real old maps of the area. Massive rock slides obliterated the trailhead switch backs years ago and the entire first part of the run and parking lot had to be rebuilt. Get the newest map and the best equipment you can. A journey like this demands that you be prepared. Halfway there, you don’t want blisters, a wrong trial or a sudden realization you did not pack enough water. On trips like this, air drops are not unheard of on the Divide.

Contact Wind River Ranger District to find out what maps you need and just how prepared you need to be, then walk into the trip of a lifetime.

About fifty miles north of Pinedale, Wyoming, in north Bridger Wilderness, lies a sixteen mile trip into a professional photographic brochure of wilderness heaven. Be prepared to pay some campsite fees and be generally prepared for your several day journey. Spend the time at home planning well so that you can enjoy this one fully without mishap. There is reason for this last sentence. Read on.

There is an excess of trail possibilities in this area, so have your maps ready and a good idea of where you want to go. But also be ready to change your mind once into the wilderness as things may catch your eyes you hadn’t expected. Allow for some spontaneity. Most begin the trip around Lower Green River Lake along the southeaster of northeastern shore. Crossing a large bridge that crosses Green River, a three mile trek breaks you into Upper Green River Lake. This is where the terrain opens up and you begin to see the amazing possibilities. Huge will come to mind a lot.

You will wander through about 6 miles of meadows before you hit some rough stuff. Rocky trails eventually lead you to a river crossing where the bridge has been washed out countless times. You have to cross here. This is one of the reasons to call Pinedale Ranger District and let them know what you are planning. If the bridge is out, backtracking about a third of a mile will take you to a place where some wade across. WARNING: This is rough country and riverbeds change. Use your wits and some everyday common sense. Rivers don’t care about your welfare. This isn’t Disney World.

Once you clear the river, Three Forks Park is a mile and a half ahead. No camping here and they are strict about it. Twelve more miles, folks, to two more miles of steep switchbacks! Another creek and no bridge! Guess what?

Now you are getting the drift of this hike. Do your homework. If you have any seed of ‘tough’ in you, you will love this trip.

This is part of the Mount Rainier Wonderland Trail that circumvents the mountain. It’s popular so you won’t be alone. You can get a map from the Mount Rainier National Park. Map B2, grid b9. You can get directions on how to reach the trail head from the National Parks as well. By the way, this is a summer deal. The roads into Rainier close during the winter. Also be prepared to pay the National Park entry fee.

Once you are there, plan to have your mouth open a lot. If the bridge scares you to death, you can bypass with and backtrack about three tenths of a mile on the Northern Loop Trail and make a right hand turn going up the other side of the river on Mystic lake trail.

Carbon Glacier is the largest in the lower 48 states. Although all glaciers are now receding, the size is generally thought to be as much as 700 feet thick and at the lowest end it is only about 3000 feet above sea level. You will have to climb a very steep moraine to get personal but don’t get too carried away with your first date. Rock slides are numerous. Yeah, big enough, they can take you out permanently. Use your head. The mountain doesn’t care if you live or die.

Most folks stop at about three and a half miles into the hike as the next mile gets very steep and hazardous on the way to Dick Creek Camp. But if you can brave it, do so. You will find a moraine park full of wild flowers as the pay-off to an unexplainable trip.

If you desire maps, you will need Banff National Park; Hector Lake 82 N/9. You can get more information from Park Superintendent, Banff National Park. The hike itself is relatively straightforward. A set of switchbacks drop you into the lake basin with a hike of about one and half miles. There is a glacial plain at the bottom at an inlet stream. You will travel south along an old moraine covered with trees. Another two and a half miles will take you up a steep trail south over glacial rubble and to the end of the glacier.

Rock cairns are used to mark most of the trail that wanders between Mount Jimmy Simpson and Peyto Peak as you follow the waters of the Mistaya River all the way to its source at the glacier itself. The climb up the to glacier itself is quite steep and the ground is most unstable. It is not a place to take children or hikers with no experience and it demands that you use your wits. Don’t go where your gut says don’t go. You had best be prepared for this trip including the boots you wear. Light Gore-Tex day hike boots are not recommended. A full set of sturdy leather boots are needed to keep your ankles in one piece.

This is not a place to camp so you will be traveling back the same day. That being said, make sure you are in good shape because you will need the energy to climb out of the lake basin at the end of the day.

This Cascade hike is a must before you hang up the boots for good. It is one tough climb of about five miles and at times the trail is unbelievably steep. This is strictly a hikers trail. No mountain bikes or horses allowed. You can get maps from most outdoor retail outlets. Gothic Basin is a known entity. Map numbers are 111 and 143.

The trail is a bit odd to find. Park your car opposite the gate at Monte Cristo Road. Get there using the Mountain Loop Highway from Granite Falls, Washington. Once you are parked, walk up the old road just over a mile and a half and you will find the trial head to your right. Heading into trees it will seem deceptively easy until you hit the real trail. It is all up from there.

This hike is covered in snow in areas all the way into late July. Since the trail can actually be ice bridges at the time, it is recommended that you not do this hike until August. The ice bridges are dangerous. Enough said? Once you get near the destination of the basin itself and some amazing high alpine lakes, the trail mostly ends leaving you with steep walls of broken rock to traverse. Take your time. You are likely to still run into large patches of snow as well so keep your wits about you and enjoy the trip itself. You will feel like you are on another planet once you get this far.

Gothic Basin is almost totally devoid of plant life with colorful lichens on the barren rocks. The 6,610 foot Del Campo Peak sits on one side and Gothic Peak at an elevation of 6,213 on the other. The lakes are brilliant blue and crystal clear water. It is a pristine area so keep it that way. Pack out what you pack in. This is a special piece of real estate designed for wonder. Pack in to stay overnight. It can be a day hike, but it’s a waste work that hard to turn around and leave the same day.

Hiking is a fantastic way to get in some exercise and have fun at the same time. There are many reasons why hiking is such a great outdoor activity. It provides a cardio workout, overall fitness benefits and lots of fresh air. This is the main reason why hiking is referred to as a body exercise, everything is involved.

This is one of those activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family or alone. Those persons who love the outdoors can combine both loves into one. This activity can be done for an hour or longer depending on the hikers’ desires.

Many sports enthusiast are also avid hikers. They thrive on the challenges hiking can provide such as exploring mountains and forests. Few activities offer as many opportunities for exploring for the adventurous person.

If you need a chance to get away from it all for a while, this is a perfect way to do so. When it comes to stress relief, hiking is right up there with the best methods.

Tips for Hiking Comfortably

Hiking can be done safely and comfortably if done properly. Some tips to make hiking fun and safe include:

•Wearing properly fitting shoes is paramount. Close-fitting shoes, shoes with heels or too little traction on the bottom are definite not recommended.
•Bring water so as to keep hydrated. Drinking water from streams and rivers may seem like fun but it can be dangerous. Staying hydrated is especially important when hiking during summer months. Traveling with purification tablets is a good idea just in case you need to drink from a stream.
•If hiking for a long distance, learn the proper walking techniques to minimize soreness and prevent injuries.

Hiking is considered by many to be the perfect sporting activity. It is also one of a few activities that can be done year round.

Hiking is one of the most popular sports, and with good reason–fresh air, the beauty of nature, and a fun way to get exercise are just some of the things that draw people to the great outdoors to enjoy a hike.

As with any sport, safety should be your priority. These tips will help ensure you have the safest experience possible while hiking:

• Don’t hike alone. There is too much that could go wrong during a hike to go hiking alone–you could get lost, fall down and sprain an ankle or worse, lose your water and become dehydrated, and so forth. Instead, make sure you hike with at least one other person and make sure someone at home who isn’t going knows where you’ll be and when to expect you back.

• Protect yourself from the sun. Sunblock, hats, and even a lip balm with an SPF are all important for ensuring you don’t get burned while on your hike. Reapply often, even if it is cloudy outside or you are in shaded areas.

• Get a good idea of the area and weather first. Do a little research of the area you will be hiking in before you go. Find out what the terrain is like, whether the trails are paved or marked, whether there is wildlife in the area, and so forth. Knowing what to expect will also help you know what to avoid. Check the weather before you go as well. If a storm is moving in, you may want to postpone your hike.

• Stay away from restricted areas. It may sound like common sense, but each year many hikers are injured because they have gone into areas that are clearly marked as dangerous or restricted. Even if it looks harmless or beautiful, trust that park rangers know best and steer clear from areas that should be avoided.

Practicing these safety tips will help ensure your hiking experiences are enjoyable.

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, get some exercise, and explore new places. Being prepared for a hike is the best way to ensure that it is fun and comfortable for everyone involved.

Preparing for a hiking trip is easy. Make sure you have the following on hand when preparing for a hiking trip:

• Proper attire. Make sure you check the weather before you go for a hike. If it’s an all-day hike, layering is ideal since it is typically cooler in the early morning and evening than in midday. If you’re going to be hiking through water, consider wearing a bathing suit underneath or clothes that dry quickly. Proper hiking shoes are essential, as well as thick socks to prevent blisters.

• Sun protection. This is crucial even if it’s cloudy. Make sure you bring sunscreen with you as well, and reapply often. A high SPF that is waterproof and sweat-proof should be sufficient. A hat is also a good idea, as well as sunglasses.

• Water/food. It’s important to bring plenty of water. Some hikers opt for backpack-type water containers that take up less room than bulky water bottles, or you could just toss a few water bottles in your backpack. Bringing a couple of frozen bottles is a good idea too, as it will melt as the day progresses and ensure you have plenty of cool water to drink. If you’re going to be gone for awhile, a sack lunch or some granola bars, mixed nuts, or trail mix are good options for a quick snack that won’t slow you down on your hike.

• Maps or directions. If you’re hiking in a popular, well-known destination with clearly marked trails, this is not as important. But if you’re roughing it, make sure you have an updated map and a way to get help if necessary.

You always need a place to stay. Ever wanted to wake up to the smell of breakfast on a chilly morning in a small village tucked away in the mountains? Remember vacation rentals are not only for the beach.

Being properly prepared will make sure your hike is a fun experience for everyone.

Hiking is a great sport and excellent exercise. While it may seem that hiking is as simple as finding a trail and walking, there is more to it than that. These hiking basics will help beginner hikers learn hiking and nature etiquette and tips so their hiking experience will be fun and enjoyable.

1) Stay on the trail. Sometimes it’s tempting to veer off of the marked trails you’re hiking and go exploring on your own, but it’s in your own best interest if you stay on the trail. It’s easy to get lost, and even if an area looks safe at first glance, you never know why an area may be marked restricted.

2) Respect nature. Don’t pick flowers, capture or feed wildlife like frogs or lizards, or tuck articles in your backpack as souvenirs. Nature is meant to be enjoyed by everyone. In some national parks and places, it is actually illegal to remove or disturb natural artifacts and surroundings. At the same time, never litter and make sure you follow guidelines for proper trash and waste disposal.

3) Choose your hikes carefully. New hikers start slow and pick a few easy day hikes to start with. Then you will get a good idea of your actual fitness level and hiking basics, like how often you need to rest. When choosing a hike take into account such things as altitude (higher altitudes can make breathing more difficult), your fitness level, steepness of the hike, and length of the hike.

4) Be prepared. You should always be prepared for your hike. This means taking enough water and snacks or food on your hike, depending on the length, making sure you are protected from the sun with plenty of sunscreen and hats, and dressing appropriately for the climate and duration of your hike.

These hiking basics are important for anyone who is new to hiking.

different kind of challenge in hiking is acclimating yourself to high altitudes. This especially holds true if mountaineering is your hiking brand-of-choice. It can be easy to forget that the air changes as you rise. You climb higher, the air gets thinner. Just because you’re still on terra firma does not mean the atmosphere remains the same. If you’ve ever read any mountaineering books, what can be most difficult about mountain climbing – aside from ascending any steep rock faces and escarpments – is getting used to the thinning air.

As you ascend and the air becomes thinner, you can feel almost asthmatic. No matter how deeply you inhale, you just can’t seem to get enough air. This is usually a sign that you need to stop, rest, and continue to get used to the thinning air. If you don’t rest and you continue to ascend without getting used to the new, lower levels of air and atmosphere, you may develop a case of Acute Mountain Sickness, or other types of Altitude Sickness, like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or High Altitude Cerebral Edema. Though these sorts of things usually happen at over 8,000 feet, they can be fatal, and if you don’t take necessary precautions, they are almost inevitable.

When you’re high up, drink a lot of water, eat a lot of carbs, and maintain a steady pace. Don’t overexert yourself, don’t stagger your energy output, and try to avoid medications and inhalants to address the symptoms of high altitude. Everything is more potent, and has different effects, at high altitudes. Alcohol, for example. It is easier to get drunk at high altitude, and someone with a normally high tolerance becomes an everyday lightweight above 8,000 feet.

The key to high altitude is pacing. If you have a long climb in front of you, rest a day or two at logical stopping points so you can get acclimated to the new air. A little deliberation could save your life

On various trail systems, you will encounter all varieties of hikers, each with different skills sets and expectations for what the behavior should be like between one hiker and another on the trail. Despite the inherent humility and kindness endemic to the idea of hiking, there are always people who harbor certain pretensions and suppositions about what is and is not permissible on the trail.

When you’re out exploring nature, it’s best to know what is expected of you and of other hikers, though the question whether or not you should moderate the behavior of others is entirely up to you. Nobody likes a preacher, but sometimes, a sermon is what is needed.

Some basic things to know about hiking etiquette start with a respect for nature. When you’re in the woods, you should bring nothing out that you didn’t come in with. This means you shouldn’t destroy plants, trees, or even dislodge rocks when possible. Additionally, you shouldn’t leave anything behind. Bring what you need, and don’t leave yourself or the woods wont for anything.

If you’re on a longer hiking trip that involves camping, don’t make a new site if it’s not necessary. If you’re on trails already made by other park districts and hikers, most chances are that someone has already camped out there before you. Stay within the boundaries of the campsite, avoid spreading out, and be sure to bury your waste. Doing these things make life easier for the people after you and more pleasant for the surrounding forest and its intricate eco-system.

Above all, when it comes to hiking, be considerate. Nature has its own rhythm and music. Don’t interrupt it with boisterous yelling and loud music. This is disrespectful to nature as well as other hikers trying to enjoy it. And if the trails are narrow, or you and your group are moving at a more deliberate pace, don’t hold up or block the trail for the faster-paced hikers.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy yourself. Following a few basic principles of hiking etiquette can make your trip better for everyone.

First, what kind of hiker are you? Are you new to the practice, or have you been doing it a while? If you’re new to it, don’t buy the most expensive pair of shoes. Like an expensive guitar doesn’t make you a better guitar player, an expensive pair of shoes won’t make you better at hiking. Try your own shoes first, and move on from there.

Second, what are your trails like? Are they flat, paved with crushed limestone or mulch? Or are they dirt trails? Are there lots of roots and rocks? How much climbing will you have to do? Depending on the terrain, a heavier-duty shoe might serve you better. But if the trails are too light, a heavy-duty shoe might end up weighing you down. Know you trails.

Third, you need to know your feet. Going to your local hiking expert and having them help you find a good pair of shoes can make a huge difference. They might even know your feet better than you do, and because they’re the experts, they’ll know what is right for your hike. It doesn’t hurt either to go to a podiatrist, if you’re serious about the sport, and have your foot doctor recommend what kind of support you need. Walking can be hard on the joints, and having the right kind of support is necessary for enjoying a long day on the trails.

Now get out there and explore!

But there are a few important things to consider when hiking with your dog. Since not all dogs are created equal, you want to make sure your dog gets along with other dogs. Especially if you pick a trail that is populated with a lot of other hikers and their dogs, a canine tiff is never fun to get into or break up, so do your best to make sure your dog is obedient and behaved when out on the trails.

Also, despite the temptation – even if you are absolutely sure you have the trails to yourself – keep your dog on a leash. A mountain biker could whizz by or a wandering animal might be lolling in the woods, and your dog could get into a collision with the mountain biker, or run off into the woods following only his animal instincts.

You should also bring some plastic bags to pick up after your dog. The temptation might be strong – you’re in the woods, and animals go to the bathroom in the woods – but just like you’re in the city, pick up after your dog. It’s cleaner, it’s more sanitary, and it smells better. And it’s considerate to other hikers.

Finally, consideration is key. Not all trails are open to people with dogs, so don’t think that you and Rover can be the one exception. No dogs means no dogs. Respect the rules.

First, whatever spot you pick to make a fire, do it away from brush, dry trees, and other fire hazards. Your best option is an open area in a clearing where sparks won’t jump from the fire onto a tree or a pile of dry leaves. To ensure the fire stays controlled, make a perimeter around it using rocks, dirt, sand, and whatever else might be used as a retardant. Finally, when you’re done with the fire, douse it amply with water and dirt to ensure that once it’s out, it stays out.

The embers at the root of the fire have a tendency to roost and reignite, so when you’re putting out a fire, mix it around and get it as wet as possible. And if you don’t have any water you want to spare, you can always urinate on the fire site too. It doesn’t smell the best, but it’s economical.

Finally, you should avoid making new fire sites whenever possible. The whole point of trail systems and prior camping sites is that you try to leave as little of a footprint as you can when you are out exploring the wilderness. The woods are to be respected, as are all the forces of nature, and nothing is more naturally destructive than fire. Therefore, in the woods, fire only when necessary.

Over the past number of years, urban exploring has become an increasingly trendy physical activity, which isn’t such a bad thing. And in some ways the urban exploring trend is an extension of modern civilization’s self-view, that we can see ourselves in such a curious and alien way. Urban hiking and exploring is therefore much more than simply walking down suburban sidewalks and downtown malls, but it is actually discovering the complexities of the world’s greatest cities.

For example, some cities have long neglected tunnel systems, abandoned buildings, and long-reaching industrial parks with now useless, monolithic machinery. As nature recaptures these items, or as the dregs of the city slink down into them, they start to look otherworldly and ugly, though beautiful in their own neglected way.

Urban exploring therefore necessitates accessing some of these archaic systems and forgotten monuments, in some forms more legal than others, but if you are seeking not to vandalize, but to simply document and explore the city’s degrading architecture. Some movies have also managed to further romanticize what the world would be like without people, and what would happen to the cities and industrial parks, but for hikers looking for a different kind of adventure, urban hiking and exploring offers just that.

There are websites online that have urban explorers for their own cities, and sometimes they will post new destinations or urban exploring ideas. Sometimes it’s best to explore with someone who has done it before, and there are often communities of people looking for new experience, so it’s a good way to make new friends, too.

As humanity has had its historical impact on the world and the whistle-blowers of environmentalism started to sound their voices as early as the late-19th century, ‘Green’ philosophy has finally started to be accepted by the culture’s consciousness, and people are making great efforts to preserve an increasingly fragile world. We are well aware of endangered animal populations, but there are older, nearly extinct creatures on this earth who receive even less attention than their hot-or-cold-blooded counterparts – endangered trees and plants.

There are the “Araucaria araucana,” or monkey puzzle trees of Chile, some as old as fossils. Or “Quercus suber,” cork oak, native to parts of Europe and Africa. The cork from these trees can be shaved from the trees without damaging them, but their population is dwindling. More immediately, there is the North American green pitcher plant, a carnivorous plant which behaves much like the venus fly trap, and is just as endangered. These are just a few of the hundreds of endangered and disappearing plants.

If you’re hiking through the woods and catch sight of something off the trail, it’s okay to look, but watch where you tread. You don’t want to step on something fragile, and you should never touch. You might be near a piece of history hanging on by a thread, and as an environmentally conscious hiker, it’s your responsibility to protect and preserve it.

Even if this is not true, this is the opinion of many, and the great debate between the ‘modern’ hiker and the ‘old school’ hiker. Do you need a cell phone on a hike? Do you need a Global Positioning System on a hike? Do you need an mp3 player with audio-dock on a hike? The old-school hiker says no, and the modern hiker says, why not?

Obviously, people survived for tens of thousands of years in nature without batteries and electronics. They were more connected with the world around them, and more knowledgeable about the earth’s natural positioning systems and time-keeping devices: the stars and the sun. These things still exist, and will outlast any human-made device, but without the knowledge of the sun and the stars communicated to us every-day like it used to be in thousands of years past, the information is difficult to truly internalize.

Alternately, lives have been saved by technology. No longer do people have to wear their voices thin and raspy by yelling for help in the woods. They are one phone call away from assistance. And if someone becomes lost, they don’t have to wander in circles all day – they can merely access the GPS on their phone or GPS-unit.

If you’re looking for authenticity in a wooded experience, true authenticity is hard to come by these days. Making your fire without matches, finding your way with the stars and a compass. But the question remains, to technologize, or to not technologize?

Rogaining is a hiking trip directed by direction and orientation. You face yourself in a certain direction, and utilizing systems of maps, compasses, and perhaps even global-positioning systems, you set out across a given country or land plot to your ultimate destination. Some people will have certain landmarks they wish to find on their rogaining trip, and orient themselves that way.

Rogaining gets its name from the first names of the principle men and women who invented the sport, Rod Phillips, Gail Davis and Neil Phillips, an Australian ‘rover’ crew who set out to explore their country in a 24-hour cross-country excursion. ROGAINE can also mean ‘Rugged Outdoor Group Activity Involving Navigation and Endurance,’ and either use is correct.

The sport as a whole involves a lot of endurance, agility, speed, and know-how for navigating the complexities of any country’s geography and geology. You may happen upon a river, a canyon, a gorge, or an impasse, and know how to navigate those obstacles quickly, without losing track of your eventual destination. The sport is a good way to learn the countryside and implement endurance and survival skills. And if you’re good enough, you can join the annual Rogaine championships, usually held in Australia or New Zealand.

But the true attraction to the sport is its versatility. Pick your own checkpoints, make your own competition. Have fun.

Of course, most people aren’t born with the knowledge which allows them to differentiate between poisonous and non-poisonous. History has taught us, so we must learn from history. For the conscientious hiker, a weekly lesson or a helpful handbook is always good to keep on hand, especially if you run across a plant you’ve never seen. While new specimens may be beautiful and unique, they can also be toxic and cause violent harm, or even death.

For example, monkshood, a colorful, purple flower is as picaresque and sensual as any violet. However, the flower, also called wolfsbane, was once used by farmers to pick off the wolves who were plundering their cattle counts. In heavy doses, it can be fatal to humans as well. The same goes for wintersweet, which is a small, bush-like plant with leathery leaves that grows little clusters of cute white flowers. Seemingly harmless, wintersweet is also called Bushman’s Poison, as South African hunters dipped the tips of their arrows in the plant’s sap to expedite the deaths of their pierced enemies.

In fact, there are very few truly synthetic poisons. Most are found in nature, some directly drawn from the sap or berries of the plants, like the North American water hemlock or moonseeds from the Eastern North American drupe. And while the toxins of most plants are effective when extracted, it’s still best to follow the rule of thumb. Look, but don’t touch.