Tips from a hiking pro

Putting a hiking itinerary together yourself is the best way to make it unforgettable. To help you achieve this, there’s nothing better than learning how to read a map. Contour lines can help you get an idea of the topography of the area and of the hike itself.

Explore places away from the beaten track

90 percent of hikers use only 10 percent of trails. But there are also beautiful hiking trails away from the beaten track. Again, knowing how to read a map is very useful for discovering new or unknown places in your vicinity.

Adapt your hike to your fitness level

Don’t forget to adapt your hike to your own fitness level, or if you’re planning a trip with your family or friends, to the person with the lowest level of fitness. Overestimating yourself can have unpleasant consequences.

Good planning is half the battle

Start with the toughest part! Steep inclines, areas where there may still be snow, rough terrain or places exposed to the elements should be tackled at the start of the hike, when you still have the energy and when the weather is good.

Pack your backpack properly

To pack your backpack properly, you need to take into account the difficulty and length of the trail, the weather and the supplies you’ll need. You should be sure to bring a fully charged phone, water, a snack and a windproof coat.

Bear everyone’s preferences in mind

If you’re hiking with your loved ones, you can enjoy amazing moments together. It’s important that everyone is happy. Children like games and are motivated to hike when they are given intellectual stimulation. Teenagers prefer a challenge, a reward or a landmark of some kind along the way.