Hiking is a fun, rewarding, and healthy pastime, but doing it right takes preparation. Before you head out on a long hike, here are some important things you should always remember.

If you’re not already used to walking long distances, a long-distance, multi-day hike isn’t something you should just jump into. Before you get ready to head up the trail, get yourself in shape by walking every day until you’re comfortable walking long distances over a variety of terrains.

Long-distance hiking is a true test of endurance. If you don’t want to find yourself unprepared to continue when you’re miles away from civilization, you need to get into shape. Too much or too little body weight can be a real hindrance, or even a health hazard, when doing long-distance hiking.

You never want to go on a long-distance hike using gear you’re not comfortable with or that you don’t know can handle the rigors of the trail. Take your gear on “shakedown hikes,” which are small hikes you take just to test out and break in your hiking gear to make sure you’re prepared for a bigger hike.

Another reason to test your gear is to see how light you can make your pack while still carrying everything you need. When you’re hiking, extra weight is your enemy. Know the minimum amount of gear you can get by with, and then leave everything else at home.

A long-distance hike is not the time to just wander off and see where nature takes you. Have your path planned out before you leave, and find out as much about the trail as you can so that you’re prepared for anything you might encounter once you get out there.

Hiking can burn up a lot of energy, which means you’ll have to pack meals that allow you to stock up on the calories and nutrients that keep the body going over days of strenuous exercise. Don’t just bring food that’s easy to prepare – bring food that also gives you a balanced, nutrient-filled meal.

Hiking alone can be dangerous, but hiking with someone who’s unreliable or doesn’t have your back can be even worse. Never go on a long-distance hike with someone you haven’t hiked with before, unless you want to discover you can’t rely on them in the middle of the wilderness.

Scenic Airlines takes travelers from around the world on scenic tours of the beautiful Grand Canyon. Learn more about our tour options or book a trip today by visiting www.scenic.com.