By IZ on May 8

Hike Smart

Pack Light for a More Enjoyable Hike

Packing light can greatly enhance your hiking experience. Prioritize carrying food and water as they are essential and tend to be the heaviest items. Utilize hiking poles to alleviate pressure on your legs and ensure your hiking boots are comfortable and well-worn.

Pack essentials like a compact flashlight, extra batteries and bulb, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Also, include navigation aids like a map and compass, a signal mirror or whistle, a first aid kit, and water purification tablets. Remember, all types of trash must be carried out no matter weather you are backpacking or doing a day hike.

Maintain a Manageable Pace

The ideal hiking pace is one where you can have a conversation while walking, indicating that you have a good oxygen supply to your muscles. This controlled pace reduces the buildup of metabolic waste, making the hike more pleasant and helping you feel better afterwards. Even if it feels slow, maintaining an aerobic pace, especially on steeper inclines, helps conserve energy and improves your condition by evening and the following day.

Regular Breaks are Crucial

Taking a ten-minute break every hour can significantly improve your hiking endurance. These breaks help clear metabolic waste from your legs, allowing you to enjoy the scenery, refuel with some food, and hydrate. This practice of taking frequent, short breaks will help sustain your energy and overall pace without significantly delaying your progress.

Nutrition and Hydration are Key

Eating frequently is essential as hiking in the canyon is as demanding as shoveling wet sand. Increase your food intake and hydrate regularly to meet the heightened energy and water demands. Starting with a substantial breakfast and continuing to eat regularly throughout your hike is crucial for preventing fatigue and illness.

For hikes longer than 30 minutes, salty snacks and either water or a sports drink are advisable. If you are backpacking the best choice is to opt for a Freeze Dried food that is nutritious yet lightweight.

Be Mindful of Time

Anticipate that ascending will take about twice as long as descending. Allocate one-third of your time for going down and two-thirds for coming back up. Always yield to uphill hikers and carry a lightweight flashlight for any unforeseen delays that might extend your hike into the evening.

Interacting with Mules on the Trail

Mules have the right of way on the trails. For safety, step to the uphill side of the trail and away from the edge when mules pass. Follow the wrangler’s instructions, remain still and quiet, and only return to the trail once the last mule is at least 50 feet away.

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