What do I need to know about hiking?

[marinkitty]

Double post.

[liz]

Another vote for the All Trails app! It's pretty popular with lots of recent reviews (at least for my area) that help plan the hike. Definitely agree that you can't always rely on your cell phone! But if you can, use Google maps pinning where you parked your car/started your hike. That helped us loads on our last hike, as we parked in a random area.

Water (usually more than you think) and dry snacks in a lightweight day pack. We are in a deer tick area, so we use bug spray with a high DEET percentage. Ideally we'll spray our clothes with permetherin. You can buy this at Walmart, Amazon and REI. It lasts through a few washes.

We like using Keen and Merrell shoes for hikes. I find there isn't enough traction with most sneakers. Wet trails and rocks can be slippery! Trail sneakers would be better. I've never been a fan of hiking boots, but they would be helpful if you're walking in rocky, uneven terrain. Band-Aids and whistle are a good suggestion and don't take up any room.