Hiking is a popular outdoor recreational activity and one of the best ways to explore nature. It is typically done on man made trails or in open wilderness. You may enjoy a simple morning hike, or a more lengthly excursion. Either way, taking safety precautions will make hiking more pleasant and less dangerous. If you will be going into wilderness, it is a good idea to bring rain gear, matches, knife, flashlight, a loud whistle, map, compass and first aid kit.

1. Do observe trail etiquette: greet fellow hikers, allow faster hikers to pass you, stay on the trail and observe no trespassing signs
2. Do bring water, snacks, protection from the sun, and a compass
3. Do tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
4. Do learn basic first aid
5. Don't hike alone
6. Don't litter
7. Don't talk on your cell phone on a trail, unless it is an emergency
8. When hiking in a group, don't allow the fastest hikers and the slowest hikers to get too far apart