Yes, beginners can hike in the mountains; but don’t just get out the door with a backpack and good intentions! Make sure your body, gear, and mind are good to go. Don’t take chances.
Before we even discuss the trail!
Lets be clear this is not a motivational poster, but a realistic assessment. Yes, the mountains are calling. But if you’re not physically, mentally, and gear ready—then let them go to voicemail for now.
Rahman, the Chair at APGI, summarized it simply: “We don’t prevent beginners from hiking. We prevent unprepared individuals from making decisions that can result in danger.”
What Every Beginner Gets Wrong About Hiking
To be completely candid, hiking is not like a casual picnic outing. It’s doubly complicated when you’re heading into the mountains that are 2000 meters above sea level or more.
The biggest mistake? Dressing like you are out for a casual stroll on sunday. From head to toe everything should be safe and functional.”
Hiking Equipment Checklist You Can’t Forget
You can’t just throw snacks and a hoodie in your bag. Here are the critical hiking equipment essentials for beginners:
- Layers (base layer, insulation, waterproof outer layer)
- A headlamp (because it gets dark way too fast out there)
- A trekking pole (not just for old people; it helps with balance)
- Adequate water & portable high-calorie snacks
- A map or GPS, even if you’re on a guided tour
These items are not “nice-to-haves.” They are “must-haves.”
Physical training is not optional
Let’s be honest: If climbing two flights of stairs leaves you breathless, it’s best you don’t choose a mountain trail with an elevation change. It depends on your physical endurance. Rahman believes in training before his adventure and insists it’s part of your trip too.
And hiring a porter doesn’t mean you get to skip out on preparation. “Even if a local is carrying your stuff, your legs still have to carry you,” he says.
Know the Trail Before You Go
Don’t just Google the view and stop there. You need to know:
- How long the trail takes
- What kind of terrain you’re going to face
- Where the checkpoints are
- What weather you might have to contend with
This is where experienced friends or certified guides play an important role. And especially for first-timers, Rahman recommends hiking with someone who’s done it before.
Mental Game: The Thing Nobody Talks About
When you’re 3 hours into the climb, cold, tired and questioning all your life choices – mental resilience is what will help you push through. It is not always about strength in the legs and lungs. It is more about keeping calm, staying focused and disciplined, when Mother Nature throws hurdles.
Final Words from the Trail
So, sure, go on and chase that mountain view. But do it smart. Know your limitations. Respect the mountain. And keep in mind that hiking is meant to challenge you, not to break you.