Hiking 101 March 20, 2018 Andy Captain Blue Niekamp
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What Is Hiking?
Hiking is simply walking for recreational purposes.
Hiking is the common term for a walk, usually on trails in the countryside or woods.
In hiking, the journey is more important than the destination.
Types Of Hiking
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Day Hiking Day hiking is an outdoor activity where individuals or groups walk on trails during the day without setting up camp for overnight stays.
Why Go Hiking?
Health Benefits of Hiking
Health Benefits of Hiking Raises levels of Vitamin D
Health Benefits of Hiking Raises levels of Vitamin D Stress levels fall in natural settings
Health Benefits of Hiking Raises levels of Vitamin D Stress levels fall in natural settings Dramatic anti-depressive effect
Health Benefits of Hiking Raises levels of Vitamin D Stress levels fall in natural settings Dramatic anti-depressive effect Improves the cardiovascular system
Health Benefits of Hiking Raises levels of Vitamin D Stress levels fall in natural settings Dramatic anti-depressive effect Improves the cardiovascular system Improves muscle tone
Health Benefits of Hiking Raises levels of Vitamin D Stress levels fall in natural settings Dramatic anti-depressive effect Improves the cardiovascular system Improves muscle tone Burns calories, weight control
Health Benefits of Hiking Raises levels of Vitamin D Stress levels fall in natural settings Dramatic anti-depressive effect Improves the cardiovascular system Improves muscle tone Burns calories, weight control Produces brain opioids, feels good
Group Hiking Significantly lower depression. Less perceived stress. Enhanced mental health and well-being.
Footwear
Boot
Trail Running Shoe
Low Cut Mid Cut High Top
Waterproof, Breathable, Or Both?
Shoe/Boot Fitting Length toes should wiggle easily. Width no slide, no side compression. Volume secure fit. Comfort is key! Consider a rigid insole Superfeet. Remember: Your feet can swell up to a whole size.
Socks
Socks Lightweight - Best for warm conditions and easy trails. Midweight - Cushioning and insulation in moderate to cold conditions. Liners thin, wicking socks against skin. Material Natural vs Synthetic. Merino wool, nylon, polypropylene.
Clothing
Clothing 3 W s of Layers Wicking Warmth Weather
Clothes - Wicking Base layer. Wicking fabric such as polypropylene or nylon. Carries moisture away from your body. Dries easily. Base layers come in various thicknesses. Do not choose cotton. Wet cotton = no insulation = heavy. Underpants and bras should be wicking too. Cotton Is Rotten! Cotton Kills!
Clothes - Warmth Middle layer is the insulating layer. Choose fleece, nylon or wool. Dress in layers. Layers trap air. Trapped air spaces holds body warmth. Easy to remove or add a layer. These layers also wick and breathe. Vest, jacket or pullover.
Clothes - Weather Outer layer protects from weather. Rain, snow, wind and bugs. Water resistant versus Waterproof Breathable versus non-breathable. Simple nylon rain jacket and pants will suffice. Look for taped seams and flaps over zippers. Important purchase! Compare, borrow, and talk to experienced hikers before making.
Layering Video
The Ten Essentials 1. Map and compass 2. Sunglasses and sunscreen 3. Extra clothing 4. Headlamp or flashlight 5. First-aid supplies 6. Matches, lighter, candles 7. Repair kit, knife, tools 8. Food 9. Water 10. Emergency shelter
Day Pack Size: 20-30 liters Side pockets Compartments Hydration sleeve Hip belt Sternum strap Cushioning & ventilation
Trekking Poles Helps maintain balance and center of gravity. Less stress on knees & joints on downhill. On uphill arms, shoulders and back can assist. Arms get a workout too. Burn more calories with less effort. Scare off dogs and bears. Move away snakes. Adjustable
Winter Hiking In Ohio Food and Water
Gear
Gear Review
Maps At trailhead, online or purchase.
Books
Safety Go with a friend or group. Let somebody know where you are going. Get a weather forecast in advance. Stay on the trails. Bring a cell phone. Ask for help. Avoid fatigue. If lost, stay put.
Leave No Trace
Leave No Trace 1. Know Before You Go
Leave No Trace 1. Know Before You Go 2. Stick to Trails
Leave No Trace 1. Know Before You Go 2. Stick to Trails 3. Trash Your Trash and Pick Up Poop
Leave No Trace 1. Know Before You Go 2. Stick to Trails 3. Trash Your Trash and Pick Up Poop 4. Leave It As You Find It
Leave No Trace 1. Know Before You Go 2. Stick to Trails 3. Trash Your Trash and Pick Up Poop 4. Leave It As You Find It 5. Be Careful with Fire
Leave No Trace 1. Know Before You Go 2. Stick to Trails 3. Trash Your Trash and Pick Up Poop 4. Leave It As You Find It 5. Be Careful with Fire 6. Keep Wildlife Wild
Leave No Trace 1. Know Before You Go 2. Stick to Trails 3. Trash Your Trash and Pick Up Poop 4. Leave It As You Find It 5. Be Careful with Fire 6. Keep Wildlife Wild 7. Share Your Trails and Manage Your Pet
Where To Hike?
Cox Arboretum MetroPark Location: South Near Dayton Mall Difficulty: Easy Features: Gardens, ponds, prairie, woods, tree tower
Sugarcreek MetroPark Location: South - Bellbrook Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Features: Meadows, woods, large trees, wide paths, great for night hiking and trail running.
Charleston Falls Preserve Location: North Tipp City Difficulty: Easy - Moderate Features: 37 Waterfall, prairie, forest, caves
Possum Creek MetroPark Location: West Difficulty: Easy Features: Farm, meadows, woods, ponds, history
Englewood MetroPark Location: North - Englewood Difficulty: Easy - Moderate Features: River, woods, meadows, several waterfalls
Narrows Reserve Location: West - Beavercreek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Features: Little Miami River, meadows, woods.
Grant Park Location: South - Centerville Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Features: Woods, meadows and prairies
Germantown MetroPark Location: West - Germantown Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Features: Long trails, hills, meadows woods, nature center, dam, numerous trails
John Bryan/Clifton Gorge/Glen Helen Location: East Yellow Springs Difficulty: Moderate Features: Spectacular scenery, woods, river, rock cliffs, nature center, waterfalls
Caesar Creek State Park Location: South - Waynesville Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Features: Long trails, meadows, woods, dam, visitor center, waterfalls, pioneer village
Who To Hike With? Solo Family & Friends Groups and Clubs Dayton Hikers Park Districts Outdoor Adventure Connection
Dayton Hikers Online Group No Membership Dues Fast, Free & Easy To Join Guided Hikes Get Togethers Discounts at Retailers Make New Friends! www.daytonhikers.org
www.daytonhikers.org
Just Do It!
Upcoming Programs April 4, 2018 6:30 pm Thru-Hiking the Buckeye Trail: Things That Will Change the Way You See Ohio Mary L. Cook Library - Waynesville April 15, 2018 6:30 pm Thru-Hiking the Buckeye Trail: Things That Will Change the Way You See Ohio Dayton Metro Library - Downtown
Captain Blue on the Blue Blazes $15.00 / $8.99
The End Questions? OutdoorAdventureConnection.com