Hikers

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A hiker is describes on the internet as a foot traveler; someone who goes on an extended walk (for pleasure). When travelling by foot a large backpack is used to carry belongings. A hiker isn't however the same as a backpacker. Hikers travel with a backpack because they love to be active on their feet outdoors. Backpackers use the same bag because of it's convenience but mostly use public transport to get around. A specific group of hikers who walk hike trail that have religious roots, also know as pelgrim routes, are called "pelgrims". There are several world famous long distance hiking trails and each country has multiple shorter local hike trails. Most trails use coloured stripes and small signs to mark their route. The longest hiking trail currently is "The Great Trail of Canada". It's 23998.54km long and just opened in 2017. The trail traverses across the entire country from coast to coast and also travels north along the Rocky Mountains to the Beaufort Sea and back down following Mackenzie River. It crosses land and water with some portions accessed via ferry[1].

Essentials for (longer) hiking

Good footwear

It might sound obvious but good footwear can make the difference between enjoying your hike or being in pain a lot of the time. Make sure before you do a long trip you have worn your shoes for some hiking hours already. When buying new hiking shoes be sure they don't hurt, pinch, are to big, are the right kind for the hike you're going to do (countryside or crossing mountains is a big difference), you try them with proper hiking socks and that you try different models to see which fits your feet the best. For the most comfort wear hiking socks (the materials used are best to keep your feet dry/warm and seams are very important when walking longer distances).

Water

Never leave your home without water. Reusable bottles (stainless steel ones are the most sustainable) are convenient to refill but for more serious hikes you could consider a hydration pack. For long distances it might be wise to bring something along to purify water in case you need to fill up with untreated water. Be sure you know the difference between treatments for bacteria or viruses.

Food

Another obvious. Biscuits, dried fruit and (salted) nuts are the most common foods brought on hikes. When going for a long or intense hike and it could also be wise to bring some fructose with you as a quick fix when suddenly feeling weak.

Hiking clothes

When hiking it's best to dress in "layers". When you start it might be chilly but when moving for some time, you can feel warm. Be sure the layer that is on your skin absorbs moist, so no cotton (this stays wet). Then add something for warmth and finish with a wind/rainproof layer. Most warmth is lost from the head so in colder environments or evening, always take a beanie with you. In warmer areas a hat is good to keep your head protected from the sun. Be sure you wear clothes that are weather appropriate. So light and quick drying fabrics for warm weather and warmer, more wind repellent clothes for cold.

First aid kit

The bare minimum is some bandages in case of blasters and some painkillers. When going for longer hikes it might also be convenient to know how to tread more serious injuries.

(Pocket)knife or multitool

Multiple options to use to multiple reasons to take it.

Map (and compass) or GPS

In case of longer trips it's always good to know how to navigate when you don't have phone reception. Be sure you upload the right maps in your GPS and know how to use it. When taking a map it can't hurt to buy a waterproof pouch so your backup will survive moist.

Sun protection

Not only sun screen is helpful for protecting you from the sun, also take good (with the right filters) sunglasses and sun protecting clothes with you. Regular clothes aren't sunproof due to the way the fabrics are woven.

Safety items

Sometimes the trail takes longer then expected, always be prepared for darkness. Take a headlight with you and a lighter in case you need to make a fire. A safety whistle/bell and/or an ultrasonic dog repellent could be useful in some areas.

Shelter

In case you need to spend the night outdoors and haven't prepared for that, a space blanket could keep you at least warm. They aren't expensive, light weight and easy to use. A tent can be much weight so a lightweight tarp could be useful too.

Populair long distance trails

  • The Pacific Crest Trail, USA.

The Pacific Crest Trail is a hiking trail located in the western United States that stretches 4,286 km bordering the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Famously trekked by Cheryl Strayed in her memoir, Wild, the trail is known for its rigor and stark natural beauty. It starts on the USA/Mexico border and spans all the way to Canada, passing through 25 national forests and 7 national parks. There is also a corresponding bike trail that runs parallel to the Pacific Crest Trail for 4,000 km.[2]

  • The Appalachian Trail, USA

Running through the eastern United States is the Appalachian Trail, a historic walking path that spans approximately 3,500 km and runs through 14 states. This scenic route is home to the famous Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. Home to striking bridges, rural towns and over 2,000 species of plant and animal life, this trail offers hikers a diverse set of experiences. The Appalachian Trail, along with the Pacific Crest Trail and the Continental Divide Trail, comprise the “Triple Crown” of famous walking trails in the United States.[3]

  • Shikoku Pilgrimage, Japan

With 1,200 years of history, the Shikoku Pilgrimage (or Shikoku O-Henro) runs through 88 temples and 200 bangais along the coast of Shikoku. The trail not only puts your determination to the test, but also gives a peek into Japan’s history and tradition. As one of the longest and most famous walking trails in the world, it runs for over 1,400km and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days to complete. There are a number of shorter imitative trails in Japan, such as the 150km circuit on the island of Shōdoshima, a 3km course in Ninna-ji, Kyoto and a route on the Chita Peninsula.[4]

  • Bruce Trail, Canada

As the oldest and longest trail in Canada, the Bruce Trail follows the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. It runs for 850km from Niagara to Tobermory, with side trails extending out to 250km. There are many waterfalls, streams and rivers along the Bruce trail, expect to see a myriad of plant and wildlife. Niagara Falls, by far the most famous watercourse in the area, can be reached by a side trail of the Bruce Trail.[5]

  • Camino de Santiago, Spain

The Camino de Santiago, or St James Way, is the pilgrimage route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Northwestern Spain, where tradition has it that the remains of the apostle Saint James are buried. With over a thousand years of history, this is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage routes in the world. Today, it draws walkers from around the world – not just for religious purpose – but for the physical challenges and stunning terrain. There are a few routes to choose from, with the most popular being the 800km-long Camino Francé. It starts from Saint Jean Pied de Port and crossing from east to west of northern Spain.[6]