How to Plan Your Next Big Hike

Hiking is one of those universal activities that anyone can participate in no matter your age or level of fitness which is one of the things that makes it so amazing. But if you're like me, you're always on the hunt for the next big adventure and trail to conquer which requires a lot of planning in order to be successful. So no matter if you're doing your first or thousandth big hike, there are some basic principles to help you prepare.

Here's how to plan your next big hike:

1. Pick the Right Trail

Start by being honest about your current level of fitness and if you need to train for the hike. I'm all about pushing myself to the limit and challenging myself but you also need to be realistic about your capabilities and have respect for the trail. If you need to train, no problem, just make sure you have the margin in your life to actually put in the work. Biting off more than you can chew can put you in dangerous situations. For example, in 2014 I hiked Half Dome after I graduated 5 years of partying, I mean college, and I almost killed myself hiking to the summit and back as I was in terrible shape at the time.

2. Research the Route

Make sure that you know the route from start to finish so you know how and what to prepare for on the trail. I suggest downloading All Trails as it's the best resource to find and research trails. You should have an idea of the length, elevation climb, if there are places to refill water, and if the trail is paved to name just a few. Another great aspect of All Trails is that you can get a breakdown of the trail so you know when and where you can rest or expect sections of elevation climb. The more you know about the trail, the more likely you'll be to not just complete it but complete it safely. When I hiked Mt. Shasta there were parts on the trail that if you got lost then you risk falling off the side of the mountain. Plus knowing what to expect will help you push past the tough sections.

3. Check for Permits

Many of the most popular hikes in the nation require a permit to complete; Half Dome, Angels Landing, Kalalau Trail, and Mt Whitney are some examples of hikes that you need to get a permit in advance. I missed out on hiking both Angels Landing in Zion National Park and Kalalau Trail in Kauai because I didn't do my research in advance and wasn't able to get a permit when I visited both places.

4. Check the Weather

If you choose to only listen to one piece of advice on this list, it's definitely to check the weather as it can save your life. Checking the weather conditions the week, day, and morning before you do any hike should always be in your hiking routine. If there is even a chance of stormy weather then don't even go to the trailhead. The risks associated with being caught in bad weather at higher elevations can be a life or death situation as once you're in it there is nothing you can do about it but weather the storm as they say. Thank the Lord I've never ran into a weather emergency!

5. Plan Your Timeline

Being strategic on your timeline is another key element that can make or break your success on your next big hike. First, choosing the right time of year will help mitigate the risk of bad weather & ensure trail access. Also, being strategic on your start/stop time will ensure that you have the right equipment to safely hike the trail. I climbed Upper Yosemite Falls for the first time in 2018 with a couple buddies from college and we made the mistake of starting far too late which resulted in us having to rush down the mountain to beat the sun going down. Being in a secluded national park with only an iPhone flashlight is a very dangerous situation as you're virtually blind!

6. Prep Enough Fuel

I highly suggest you bring more water, food, and electrolytes than you think you need as it's better to bring too much than too little. I've ran out of water and food on both Shasta and Tallac, and it's not an experience I'd wish on my worst enemy.

Bonus: Tell Someone Your Plan

Before any big hike, let someone know which trail you're doing and when you expect to be back. Telling someone about your adventure can save your life if God forbid an emergency happens and they don't hear from you. Also make sure to download the offline map on All Trails just in case there is no cell service!

Now Go #EarnYourView

Planning might not be the fun part of hiking, but many times it's the difference between success & failure. Pick your next trail, be strategic in your planning, and go conquer your next adventure.

Want more trail tips like these? Join us on the trail.