Tips for aspiring hikers as Portland heats up

AS THE WEATHER gets nicer, Lewis & Clark students are on the lookout for outdoor activities that are COVID safe. One popular option is hiking. While the outdoor community in Portland can seem extreme, that should not stop new hikers from exploring the outdoors. If you are looking to get into hiking, here are some tips that can help you get started.

1. Do your research

When you are looking for a trail to hike, you can check a variety of websites that will provide you with some basic information. I would recommend checking out oregonhikers.org, alltrails.com or gorgefriends.org/hike or any local blogs. Websites will list how difficult the hike is, but you can also measure the difficulty by considering how long the hike is and how much elevation gain there is. Even if a hike is short a lot of elevation gain can wreck any hiker.

2. Get the correct passes and permits

Take note if you need a parking pass or a permit to go hiking. It is a good idea to pay for the pass because you can get an expensive ticket if you risk parking for free. The “Washington State Discover Pass” and the “North West Discover Pass” are the most common parking passes for hikes around campus and you can buy them at most grocery stores.

3. Dress for success

Expensive hiking gear is not necessary, especially for a day hike. Do not hike in flip-flops but tennis shoes will do fine on trails with low elevation gain. Make sure to take note of what the terrain looks like when you are researching the hike. If it is a well-maintained trail you will need to dress differently than you would for a hike where you have to walk through a river. Also, take note of how exposed the trail is. If the hike does not have a lot of shade, make sure to bring multiple layers, one to protect from the sun, and one to protect from the rain.

4. What to pack

Make sure to bring the 10 essentials in your backpack. These are some form of navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination devices, first aid supplies, fire starters, nutrition, hydration and emergency shelter. It does make your bag a little heavier but it is worth it. I would also recommend bringing snacks that you actually like to eat, as long as you make sure to clean up your garbage. Also, packing lots of water is essential. You can also keep an extra water bottle in the car for a refreshing treat when you are done hiking. Also, always remember to tell someone where you will be hiking and when to expect you back.

5. Take your time

As a general guide, the average hiker can cover 3 miles an hour and one extra hour for every 2,000 feet climbing upwards. That being said, walking faster than your normal pace can be exhausting and not very fun. It is not a race, so I recommend taking your time so you can enjoy the hike and appreciate the scenery. Do not feel bad about stopping to take lots of photos!

Hiking is also a fun thing to do with a friend, partner, pet or anyone else. If you are looking to get into hiking, I wholeheartedly recommend trying to get out this summer. Remember that the outdoors are for everyone, leave no trace and good luck!