How to Avoid Blisters on Ramblers Holidays

The joys of hiking when going on ramblers holidays. You feel the sun on your cheek, you feel the fresh air flowing through your lungs, your eyes take in the fantastic scenery but your feet are aching like crazy because of a painful blister. The things that help spoil ramblers holidays!

Well the good news is that this can be avoided. You can enjoy an excellent ramble and walk for miles by following some simple key steps.

The first thing to mention is your footwear - hiking boots and socks. If you are going to spend some money make sure that you have quality boots and socks you can take away on ramblers holidays. The good news is that modern day hiking boots and socks are much better quality than 10-20 years ago. However it is not always wise to buy directly on-line. Go to a store and ask for expert advice and even try your walking gear on so you can make sure your boots and socks are comfortable.

The next point is not to wear brand new hiking boots directly on ramblers holidays. Your hiking boots will need to mould to your foot. The best way to do this is to wear your hiking boots a number of times before going on your hike. This way your hiking boots will be a great mould for your feet to restrict movement in the boot and prevent blisters.

The final point is looking after your feet while you are hiking on ramblers holidays. You need to make sure your feet are dry and have sufficient air. You know when a blister is about to form when you feel a slight pain or irritation when hiking. The best thing here is to tell your group you need a stop and remove your hiking boots to give your feet some air.

Also try not to get your feet wet. Thick socks will keep your feet wet and after a while you will have a blister. You can buy some hiking gaiters. These are great and will keep you feet dry
So enjoy your hike. Enjoy each element. However avoid any blisters and have a fantastic hike during ramblers holidays.

I enjoy Hiking and Rambling and also writing Hiking and Rambling blogs which I fully populate with videos and articles on a daily basis.

Please see my Hiking and Rambling blog here

http://ramblingwalking.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Nariel

Hiking USA - The Best Hikes in the USA Confirmed by the Internet

There are so many fabulous hikes in the USA. Hiking USA really is a goldmine of hiking opportunity. I wanted to find the best. Really the best hikes in the USA. After all if you were willing to travel and spend money getting to potentially one of the worlds best hiking locations, you want to hike in the best places - correct?

The challenge you find is that every relative web site will tell you a different TOP 5, 10 or 100 hikes in the USA. So which are the real top five hikes in the USA and how can you really work this out? Which website do you really believe?

I suppose this is a very debatable point. So I did a little research across most of the websites out there with the most popular search engines. I looked at each hike USA related ramble and noted their rating. I compared this over a number of web sites and here is what I found.

There were 5 locations which were ranking roughly the same score above any other locations. These hikes in the USA are

1. The Glacier National Park.
2. The Zion National park
3. The Yosemite National park
4. The Appalachian Trail
5. The Grand Canyon

So these are the top 5 hiking USA locations according to a consolidated list of hiking websites.

Of course to get further details on each hike you can simply search the heading on the internet. I am now planning my trip so that I can pick my best hiking USA location to fit my vacation. I wanted to do this so that anyone who is planning to a hike USA will not get as confused as I did.

So hopefully this will be useful to someone who is planning a similar trip. Hope you have a great trip, a great hike by choosing a fantastic hiking USA location.

I enjoy hiking and rambling and also writing a hiking and rambling blog which I fully populate with videos and articles on a daily basis.

Please see my hiking and rambling blog here http://ramblingwalking.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Nariel

climbing walking

How Ramblers Benefit by Joining a Rambling Club

If you have ever been hiking or rambling or simply just gentle walking then you will know the joys that ramblers have. You will know how great it is to get outdoors, to challenge yourself to either height or distance and immerse yourself in nature. Also of course it is a great way to exercise.

However ramblers need to organise there hike. If you do this on your own you will need to work out where you want to go, what route you wish to take, where you wish to stay and who will go with you.

So why not join a Ramblers Club. There are so many benefits. When you first join a Ramblers club they usually allow you to ramble with them to ensure you are happy with the club before joining. It does not matter how fit you are or what pace you need to take. A Ramblers Club will take this into account. You will also be with like minded people who love the great outdoors. Rambler Clubs are usually well organised, will have a list of great routes and do most of the organisation.

Looking at the favourite search engines there are many clubs that ramblers use which are very localised to each area. Some Rambling Clubs consist of just a handful of members whilst others are greater in number and who meet regularly for walks, talks and socialising.

The way that clubs are organised is that they have different grades of hikes or walks. It is up to the individual which walk they wish to join. The decision will depend on your level of fitness compared to the difficulty and length of the hike.

Of course you can be a rambler on your own and many people enjoy hiking in their own groups. After all hiking can be enjoyed however it is organised. However if you do not have a like minded group of friends and want to join other Ramblers then a Rambling Club could be a great way to enjoy this excellent pastime.

I enjoy Hiking and Rambling with Ramblers and also writing a Hiking and Rambling blog which I fully populate with videos and articles on a daily basis.

Please see my ramblers blog here

http://ramblingwalking.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Nariel

How to Resolve Kids Hiking Problem - Mosquitoes

It is great to take your kids hiking on your favourite hikes and show them why you love the pastime so much. However there are a number of problems when you take kids hiking which you need to tackle a different way to adults. One of these problems is mosquitoes.

During your hike you need to make sure your kids are fully protected by mosquito spray. I know I cannot trust my kids to put on the spray correctly so I always do this myself. So get them to stand still in their kids hiking gear, with their feet nicely apart and their arms stretched out to their sides.

Get them to close their eyes, hold the spray about 12 inches from their bodies and spray all over - hands, arms and torso. Legs and feet are particularly important as this detracts the other bugs from the ground. Next you need to protect their necks and ears. To do this get your kids to put their hands out and spray into their cupped hands. Then ask them to rub behind the ears and neck. You have now given the best mosquito protection for kids hiking during the day. Of course do not forget to spray yourselves as well.

Once your hiking day is completed and you are ready for camp you will need to ensure you are all protected during the night by a mosquito net. This is important for all of the team but especially for kids hiking. There are many types of net you can buy however I always use a Dome or Self supporting net as I find these the best for camping. In addition you need to consider the mesh size which will depend on the where you are hiking and the mosquitoes in the area.

So indeed it is great to take your kids hiking but please ensure they are protected day and night from mosquitoes.

I enjoy Hiking and also writing a Hiking and Rambling blog which I fully populate with videos and articles on a regular basis

Please see my Hiking and Rambling blog here

http://ramblingwalking.blogspot.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Nariel

The Wonder of Hiking, Walking and Rambling deviation

Hi this is Jim Nariel from ramblingwalking.blogspot.com

For the very first time I am stepping out of The Wonder of Hiking, Walking and Rambling to post information on a completley different subject. This reason is that I have found something that is so useful and FREE and I need to share this

This about a little report written by Dean Holland which I am giving away absolutley FREE. This report is about driving traffic to a website or blog or whatever you wish to.

I have used the major tip at the end of this report and driven lots traffic and therefore amazed by this simple but effective tip

So sorry if you are only interested in Hiking and Hiking is what you expect to see and read about. However this was so powerful I felt I had to share it with whoever this may help. Of course as I have stated before this is absolutley free - so please accept this free gift with my blessing.

To get access to this please click on the banner on the right hand side of this blog showing Traffic Tactics Revealed Free. Download and enjoy.

All the best, enjoy and use the report and we will return to Hiking next post

Yosemite Hiking

The Yosemite trails span over 800 miles of scenic trails. You will come across some of the most beautiful places in America, from wonderful mountains to pranging rivers. Yosemite offers world class backcountry hiking whether you're looking for an easy stroll around the lake or an extreme hike with elevation gains and strenuous climbs. Few places in America make you feel more in nature than a trip to Yosemite. They have massive redwood trees and a huge variety of wildlife to view. Yosemite offers a perfect combination of all outdoor experiences.

Yosemite has five regions, and they are:

Yosemite Valley:
Yosemite Valley is the place to be, with the majority of the staggering views across Yosemite, the valley itself is only seven miles long, but beats the rest of the regions in terms of magnificent scenery. Yosemite Valley is the most popular destination.

Tioga Pass Road:
Tioga Pass has a pinch of everything, from lakes and meadows to peaks and hikes. Accommodation only lasts through the summer months, so unless you are extraordinarily brave you will not be able to go any other time.

Southern Yosemite:
Southern Yosemite has some of the best trees in the United States, with over 300 giant Sequoias. The momentous Wawona hotel boasts over 100 rooms, and is one of the most popular places to stay in Southern Yosemite.

Glacier Point Road:
Glacier Point Road has the tallest peaks around. They go all the way up to an astounding 7800 feet, ranging through 16 miles of sunning landscape.

Hetch Hetchy & Big Oak Flat:
Hetch Hetchy & Big Oak Flat has come under some serious renovation works in the past 10 years, making it one of the least visited regions in the Yosemite region, however, because of this you will find some of the most relaxing destinations around.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_M_DuPont

Youtube Climb

colorado camping tents

Are you interested in camping? If you are thinking about going out for the camps then you must first find out a good place. There are so many places all over the world that it is quite difficult to choose the best one from them.

But still you can shortlist some of the places and then select one from them. Have you ever thought of Colorado for camping? Colorado is a great place with a lot of diversities. Other than this, it also offers a lot of outdoor fun and maximum amount of relaxation.

You will just love the place once you visit. You can enjoy the place in the summers as well as in the winters equally. The snow as well as the heat is equally great. If you are a nature lover then you must surely take up tent camping in Colorado once in your lifetime.

You can enjoy the snowballing, hiking, skiing as well as horseback riding. There are lots of popular camping grounds present in Colorado. They are either maintained by the government or by the private companies.

There are as many as 41 state parks present in Colorado. Other than this, it also has another 15 national parks. It also has some other 100 camping grounds which are maintained by the other bodies. So you might surely find this place a lot interesting to put up the tent camping.

Other than this, you also have the option of camping in the northern part of Colorado. In this part of the place you have the Poudre River. This is one of the most scenic rivers present in Colorado.

Lots of people camp on the beach of this river. This is one of the most popular places for vacation. You can visit the place with your family. You can even go for a romantic vacation on the beach.

While purchasing the tent for tent camping you always need to make sure that you purchase the best quality tents. You must be aware that there are lots of brands which manufacture the tents for camping. You might have also heard about the Coleman tents.

This brand has become quite popular these days. But you must find out which is the perfect camping equipment for you and your family. Other than this, you can also take up tent camping at the springs which is present in Colorado.

There are different kinds of campgrounds present in this place. You will surely love this place. Among the various activities you can also try out fly fishing in this place. There are so many things to see that you will just love the place. So choose your camping place now to enjoy the vacation.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elisabeth_Montgomer

star backpack

star backpack

Backpacks - known in Europe more commonly as rucksacks - are a key piece of walking equipment - but with so many on the market, which do you go for? This article aims to give some helpful hints on choosing the right one for you.

Backpacks (I'll call them this for the sake of convenience) come in many different sizes, materials, weights and colours. You are simply spoilt for choice. The right backpack for you will largely be determined by what kind of outdoor activity you undertake and, like most pieces of personal equipment, getting it right can make a lot of difference to the fun you get out of your day. Let's look at some different types.

Small backpacks - sometimes known as daysacks - are typically made of lightweight nylon and have a capacity of 20-35 litres. They are usually fitted with a pair of padded shoulderstraps and may have a couple of outside pockets fitted with zip closures. The main bag should have a drawstring with a stay-tight sliding toggle fitted and a top flap fastened by a couple of click-buckles. This type of backpack isn't normally reinforced in any way.

These are fine for taking a day's walk in fine weather in gentle countryside. The nylon is usually showerproofed but won't keep out a real downpour - it's not intended to. This size backpack will hold a packed lunch, a bottle of water and your jacket, with the side pockets handy for gloves, keys and the like. It will be very light and should be easy to carry - look for well-padded shoulder straps!

Medium backpacks normally have a capacity of between about 45 to 90 litres. The material is usually again nylon, although of a heavier grade than the daysack. They will again have the main bag, two or more exterior pockets that should have storm flaps in addition to the zip fasteners, and are far more weatherproof than the daysack. The main bag will again be closed by the drawstring and stay-tight toggle but the top flap will be thicker and far more water resistant. It may also include a pocket as well and there's usually ice-axe straps fitted to the outside back of the backpack, together with various 'd-loops' for attaching a tent or sleeping bag. This size of backpack is suited to more serious trekking with maybe a night or two out.

Large backpacks are generally in the range of 100 - 150 litres (and that's big!) but in construction are similar to medium backpacks, though they obviously have more room and more pockets. This size of backpack is normally only used on serious hikes that may last many days and will hold just about everything you will need for this kind of extended expedition.

Medium and large backpacks can be had in a variety of material weights, from fairly light nylon up to really thick cordura-type material that is very tough indeed. They can also be fitted with waterproof liners though many now come with 'Gore-Tex' type lining as standard. The weight and durability of material is determined by conditions you think you might experience - there's no point getting a backpack that will stand an Arctic winter if you normally go hiking in Nevada in the summer!

The other thing that is normally fitted to larger backpacks is a waistbelt and, on some, a chest stabiliser strap. These are not for show - they make a huge difference to your comfort and stamina when walking. In older-type backpacks the belt was an added-on item - in modern backpacks it's built-in. Wear it as tight as is comfortable. It should sit on the hips and these will then take a lot of the weight from your shoulders - the shoulder straps become more like stabilisers, aided by the cheststrap, and keep the backpack in place. Large backpacks often have a rigid internal frame to stop sagging - this is also a real boon on a long hike.

Another feature to look for, especially if you're planning to walk in summer or hotter areas, is an 'aeroback' design. This is a rigid plate that forms the part of the backpack nearest your back. It's curved slightly away from your back and holds the backpack in such a position that air can circulate, helping to avoid the 'soaked shirt syndrome'. I have one myself. They're great.

One other thing to remember. When you go to buy your backpack, take all the clothing and equipment you think you will need for your kind of hiking. If it doesn't fit the backpack you first look at, try a bigger one! Nothing is more frustrating than trying to cram everything into a too-small sack. Things break, bottles burst - you get the picture.

In summary, always get the best backpack you can afford and perhaps one size bigger than you think you might ever need. It's surprising how things mount up! Visit a reputable outdoors retailer and don't be shy about trying several out until you find one that really feels 'right' for you. You're going to be together for a while - take your time and you'll find your backpack really is the best friend you can have on a hike.

Steve Dempster is actively involved in running several websites and spends part of his working day creating short, informative articles such as the one above. To learn more about backpacking, click here or get more info on walking in the UK at the Countrywalkers website!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Dempster

Look for camping supplies on Overstock.com"

trekking in himalayas

Trekking in the Himalayas can be a great, even life-changing experience. Good planning of your trekking trip increases your chances of a successful trekking trip. Go through this little check list to make sure you remember some of the essentials in your planning.

1. Trekking alone or together with others
As a general idea, trekking alone in the Himalayas is not advisable. The main drawback is that in case of an accident or a sudden bout of altitude sickness, you can be stranded for days far away from civilization. You usually can't just pick up a phone and call for help. But it is possible to trek alone. The best thing about trekking alone is that you will be in complete control of when and where you stop for a break, camp or settle in for the night. On the popular trekking routes you can usually talk with other trekkers and locals. To avoid trekking alone, ask for trekking partners on some of the online trekking forums. You can also hire a guide to go with you.

2. Trekking with a guide
Especially if it is your first trek, a guide can be a good idea. You just need to make sure that it is a good guide who understands and respects your wishes. If possible, a face-to-face meeting with a guide prior to trekking is always advisable. In many parts of the Himalayas, a local guide can be hired without having to pay a fortune.

3. Camping trek vs. tea-house trek
If you bring your own camping gear on a trek, or if you are booking a camping trek through a trekking agency, you will have extra possibility of exploring the more remote mountain areas. It is a great way to get away from the beaten track and avoid the crowd of other trekkers. But it requires a lot more gear. In places like the Nepal Himalayas, it is easy to go on a tea-house trek where you will be staying in family-run lodges along the route. Typically, these village lodges / tea-houses are found up to 4000 meters / 13,500 feet altitude and are open all year round.

4. Best time to trek in the Himalayas
Trekking in the Himalayas can actually be done all year round. But the best time to trek is usually considered September-October-November for the southern side of the Himalayas, and July-August-September for the northern side of the Himalayas, also known as the trans-Himalayas. Trekking in the winter season, December-January-February is also a good option, as there won't be so many other trekkers and the weather is mostly clear. But you need to be prepared for high mountain passes that are closed for days or weeks due to heavy snow fall. So if you are on a tight schedule, you may have to abort your trek during this season. March-April-May-July (pre-monsoon) is generally considered the second-best time for trekking in the Himalayas. The weather is usually good, although it can be a bit hazy.

5. Trekking style
If you are trekking with friends or other people, make sure you all agree on your common 'trekking style'. Are you going quickly or slowly? Are you following the trails or will you be doing off-trail expedition style trekking? Are you doing lightweight trekking or carrying a lot of 'extras'?

Whether you are an experienced outdoor person or completely new to trekking, proper planning and a bit of background knowledge is always helpful. Visit my trekking blog that is stuffed with information about trekking in the Himalayas. Everything you need to know is there - how to get started, gear up and how to find the best areas to go trekking in. See you on http://himalayantrailtrekker.blogspot.com - Happy trekking!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danny_Sherpa

The best camping during your Lake District Walks

Camping is more than just a cheap holiday: it's about revelling in the glorious great outdoors and getting back to basics. Just how basic depends on your taste, which is why this list of best campsites in the UK has been split up into different kinds of camping holidays: best campsites by the beach, best campsites for kids and families, best campsites for scenery, best campsites for peace and quiet and best campsites for adventurers.

Best Campsites by the beach:

Near Swansea, the Three Cliffs Bay Caravan and Camping Site is a blue bay enclosed with grassy wildflower dotted limbs that makes you wake up in the morning feeling glad of the world we live in. It's so close to the beach that you can slide down the hill to it, just like the Ayr Holiday Park, another of the best campsites on the coast, which has views over the cliffs and beach of Porthmeor Bay.

Shell Island Campsite, on an island you can only reach at low tide, is one of the UK's largest and best campsites and once you get there and pitch your tent in the sand dunes you're a captive audience for the views and the beach, the entertainment of going crabbing on the causeway or, and strolling the paths that wind all over the island.

Best Campsites for Kids and Families:

Fisherground Campsite is a child's dream: it has an adventure course, a tree house, zip wire and a pond with rafts; and just down the road is a miniature steam railway, but best of all you're allowed to have an open fire, and they do a big communal barbecue. For adults the draw is the close proximity to the scenic strolls of the Lake District. If your kids like to make a lot of noise, each of the 20 pitches in of the Blackberry Wood Campsite, just off the South Downs Way, has its own little wooded clearing marked out by logs around a fireplace, and you can bring your dog.

Best Campsites for Adventure:

Gwern Gof Isaf Farm is popular with Duke of Edinburgh Award challengers, rock climbers, abseilers and people who prefer sweeping scenes of rocky peaks and outcrops rising up to Tyfan Peak, over creature comforts. Sligachan Campsite benefits from the epic Black Cuillins in the same way, so all walking, cycling, or recreating is on a grander scale and the facilities are basic.

Best Campsites for Scenery:

Lovely views of the North Devon coast are the Little Meadow Camp Site's main attraction; the cliff it perches on has been shaped into terraces so that every pitch gets a scenic view of the Atlantic over Watermouth Bay. Batcombe Vale Camp in deepest, rural Somerset is set among hills that roll around greenly, waiting for walkers to explore them. Four lovely lakes, ringed by pathways and lanes and well stocked with fish and free boats make up the idyllic picture near Longleat Zoo.

Most Peaceful Campsites:

Tranquil Side Farm is surrounded by breathtaking views overlooking Ullswater, and is a mile from the nearest road so the only sounds you'll hear are the quiet murmurs of fellow campers and the rural ambient bleating of sheep. Skye Farm Camping Ground by Buttermere is one of the prettiest places in the pretty Lakes District and has a no bar, no car rule, mean this is camping for people who like camping. All you hear is the babbling of the brook, and the air, sans exhaust, is clean and crisp.

WorldReviewer.com is a travel website with independent reviews on the Best campsites including the Three Cliffs Bay Campsite and camping experiences in the Lake District.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bea_Metcalfe

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Some great Lake District Walks

Discover the Beauty of England With the Lake District Walks

This is all about the joys and pleasure you can receive from the north west corner of England - The lake District and discover Lake District Walks. This is a beautiful part of England that needs to be explored, and in my opinion, explored in a certain way - walking. The Lakes have a mixture of different environments and terrains that can truly contradict one another; this is also one of the main features that makes it so beautiful and pleasurable! You need to take the Lake District walks to really appreciate all the different natural differences that reside in this Amazing Place.

The Lake District is the biggest National Park in England, at 885 square miles, with up to 14 million visitors a year all coming to see its natural beauty. It has the reputation of having the biggest Mountain in England, Scafell Pike and a vast amount of Lakes and Rivers. It has 14 main lakes and the deepest being West-water at 243ft. It has 42,239 people living within the boundaries making it a loving community and a place full of cultural heritage.

Because of the scale of the lake District there is an obvious need for transport. However I believe you should explore all the park with the assets of your two legs and discover Lake District Walks. You need to be able to get to the inner parts of the park and really appreciate the beauty, get to all the lakes and just look around you at the surroundings, climb the mountains and just get away from your normal routine. It has some great wonders like the Ashgill falls. if you haven't seen this then I'll paint a picture for you - it is a huge water fall that is surrounded by forestry and green life. The water fall fills the forrest with noise and excitement making the experience even more exhilarating and the waters are clear and sparkling giving the impression of purity and beauty There is a certain walk that you can do which starts at the village hall and follows the river towards Ashgill Beck where it leads to this amazing water fall. The walk allows you to walk right behind the falls where you can stand underneath the crashing water. This is an experience that needs to be seen with your two eyes and you need to just walk there!

That is just one of the natural pleasure you can gain from taking the Lake District walks and just immersing yourself with the natural environment and habitat. There is train lines to the Lakes if you wish to leave your car behind allowing you to just step off and begin your own journey! The west coast main line runs to the east of lake District which passes through certain parts. There is also a train that goes straight from Manchester to Windermere. There are also bus services in the Lake District allowing you to travel relatively easy. Just give it a go and visit this beautiful part of England today - you wont regret it!

I hope you found the article useful and inspiring. If you are interested in the lake District or lake District walks and would like to know more than click here now to go on my own website: Lake District Walks

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Blaine_T_Gray

The Most Significant Part of Outdoor Hiking Gear

It is obvious everything you take for trekking is vital, but the most important piece of outdoor Hiking gear is your backpack. It does not matter what kind of backpack you have as they are all equally important. There are several types of backpacks to choose from but primarily, there are only two types of backpacks: unframed and framed.

Weight of the backpack should be your first criteria while selecting a backpack as outdoor trekking gear. Since you're already going to be burdened down with paraphernalia, you don't want a knapsack that unnecessarily, adds extra weight. You should select a backpack which weighs around 3 pound when it is empty.

Diverse types of knapsacks are available in market.

Rucksacks: The main feature of a rucksack is that it closes with knap pack.

Day Packs: This will refer to any backpack that is small to carry and to use in an overnight trip. This type of outdoor hiking gear is most popular with students. Students are using day packs for carrying school books, now parents using them as diaper bags and, even business men/women using them instead of briefcases.

You should select a proper outdoor hiking gear for short hikes. This selection is not difficult. You should consider weight and durability of back pack as prime driver for selecting a backpack.

There are some backpacks with built in water bladders, but these types are not recommended for the temporary walk because it is burden some and no matter, how relaxing it may seem at first, the added pressure is not worth it.

Framed backpack is necessary for all trekkers

If you are trekking out into the wilds and are chalking out a plan on staying over night, then you will need a bit bigger backpack than just a day pack. The recommended outdoor hiking gear would be a framed rucksack. Frame means a construct. This internal or external construct keeps the pack in shape. A well framed haversack is a necessary for outdoor hiking.

These types of backpacks are heavy duty backpacks compared to the pack. This well framed rucksack can carry more equipment in an organized fashion. Framed haversack should be able to carry heavier loads.

Each pack has its benefits and challenges. Internal frame packs are the more well-known variety because they are more comfortable and fit well to the body but in hot climate, this could be a difficulty because there will be very little air movement between the pack and your back.

Visit to get interesting information on hiking accesories like hiking_boot [http://www.discount-hiking.com/hiking_boot.php]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arindam_Chattopadhyaya

Top tips when hiking and walking with kids

Top tips when hiking with kids

Introducing your children into your fitness routine is a lot easier than you might think. With all of the jogging strollers and children's bike seats on the market today, there is almost always a way to bring your child along if you exercise outdoors. However, at some point you may realize that YOU are the one doing all of the work! In the past 20 years, the percentage of children that are overweight has tripled. It is extremely important to teach young children the importance of exercise early in their lives so that it becomes natural to them.

An extremely simple and enjoyable activity that you can do with your child is hiking. If you were a hiker before, you may have to change your hiking expectations a bit. You will not be able to go as far or as fast, but it can be a very rewarding and fun experience for both you and your child.

Children view nature differently than adults do; not only are they younger and more innocent about the world, but they are also closer to the ground so they see different things than we see. Expect your child to stop frequently to inspect flowers, plants, bugs, rocks, or other woodland sights.

Put some thought into what you will bring along on your hike. First, be sure that you and your child are wearing proper hiking shoes, preferably with ankle support. Whether or not you want to invest in hiking boots is probably a decision you will want to make after you judge your child's reaction to the first hike. Children of age 5 of older can carry a small pack with them. You'll want to pack a water bottle or juice box, small snack, hat, sunglasses, jacket (as needed), and a compass (optional).

If you have very young children you will want to invest in a child carrier that you can attach to your body, over your shoulders. The child will rest in a seat that leans against your back as you walk. He or she can easily see out over your head to enjoy the hike with the rest of the family.

To get your walking kids excited for the hike, plan it out like an adventure. Before the hike, compile a checklist as a family. Come up with things that you want to find on the hike, such as differently colored leaves, or rocks, different plant species, bugs, butterflies, tree bark, moss, pinecones, etc. Print or write out a list for each child if they want to carry their own. Or you could do a family checklist and have a parent be in charge of the list. This works better if your children are not yet able to read.

Teach your children to respect the earth. Hiking is a great time and place to teach children about natural resources, and how limited they are, as well as the importance of not littering. You can also have your children "help" the earth by picking up any trash they may see along the hike. Teaching your children to enjoy and respect nature, while simultaneously showing them the joys and benefits of exercise are lifelong lessons that they will never forget!

Christopher has been working as a home and office consultant for the past 15 years. He is happily retired and writes articles and weblogs in her downtime. His newest interest is in water softener systems. Come check out his website to learn more at http://www.watersoftenersystemssource.com

How to Hike and Ramble in Snakes pass - Pennines England

How to get away and step into the silence in Hiking and Rambling

What is your definition of a special day? So special that you would make your lunch the night before, get up early (even on a weekend!), fill a thermos with tea or coffee, and ignore such temptations as lying in to read the weekend papers in bed.

For many, the anticipation of a day spent bushwalking will get them jumping out of bed. Call it bushwalking, hiking, rambling or tramping, walking in nature is the ultimate balm for fast city living. Get up and get out there as soon as you can!

Bushwalking is the ultimate pleasure sport - a fitness activity, an immersion in the beauty of nature and, more often than not, an adventure into the unknown. Whilst most bushwalkers walk on established tracks, there is often an element to the walk that is a surprise - a plant or flower that you have never seen before, a new birdcall, or the sunlight illuminating the leaves overhead.

Of course, in some countries, that surprise could be less than comforting. You may run into a grizzly bear in a Canadian forest or a red-bellied black snake in the Australian bush. In all cases, the scout motto will hold you in good stead. Be prepared! If you are prepared you will survive, enjoy and, best of all, have a story left to tell at the end.

A good day's bushwalking is the result of your preparation. You need food and water, sun, rain, and cold weather protection, a first aid kit, a map, a compass and the good sense to tell someone where you are going and when you are likely to come back. It also helps to inform yourself about the dangers of the local area.

For beginner walkers, it is wise to stick to set tracks and begin with a half-day walk to check out your fitness levels and see how your muscles feel the next morning. You will probably find that you are fitter than you think and able to walk five or six kilometres without much trouble.

Bushwalking can also be the perfect sport for those with limited mobility as many national parks and recreation areas have built short tracks for people using wheelchairs, walking frames or walking sticks. These will often be sited around areas where there is the maximum opportunity to view the flora and fauna specific to the area.

Walk options range from a day walk up to hundreds of kilometres, as bushwalking combines well with camping, canyoning, abseiling, and even skiing if you are happy to do your bushwalking through the snow.

Bushwalking can be transformative. Clean out the cobwebs of your mind and give your whole body a work-out by waking up to the possibilities of stretching, striding, climbing, jumping and relaxing in the silent beauty of a natural landscape.

Madeline Shaw writes for Mind Body & Soul; an array of natural health practices, spiritual beliefs and alternative therapies.

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Hiking and Rambling in Larvik, Norway

How to find the best places hiking in Norway

Norway is a country with a passionate national tradition of mountain hiking. This means that accommodations have been made for people to traverse large swaths of mountain terrain on foot. Hikers can walk from cabin to cabin, where they will find international crowds to regale them with stories by the fire. Thanks to the DNT, the Norwegian Trekking Association, Norway offers a network of 20,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails, one of the largest in all of Europe. Some of these routes have been developed from local footpaths and older thoroughfares. Others have been developed to meet trekkers' needs. Either way, these trails serve to guide hikers while protecting animal and plant life by limiting the path of human traffic through Norway's incredible outdoor scenery.

Even in fog and rain, you will be able to see the next waymark on your path, a "T" written in red paint on rock walls and cairns. If you'd rather journey through the Norwegian natural wonders with more of a plan set out, the DNT and Norske Bygdeopplevelser, an event supplier, both organize great rambling tours.

The Adventure Road on the eastern side of the country is the trail you'll want to explore to experience the best of Norway's unique landscape. The Adventure Road offers over one hundred well-marked trails, showcasing the beauty of the fjords and the majesty of the mountains. The proper time to hike this trail is between May and October. The high season is in July and August. During this time, the mountains abound with cloudberries and blueberries, and the fjords grow rich with juicy plums, cherries, and apples. The late season is when you'll find a dramatic explosion of color. Green becomes orange and red, and an incredible hiking experience is made even more so.

The Adventure Road offers a variety of attractions along its trail. For instance, you'll certainly want to stop at the largest national park in Norway, Hardangervidda National Park, home to the largest mountain plateau in Northern Europe. With many well-marked trails, this is a great place to explore alone or with a guide. Enjoy bathing or fishing in the rivers and lakes of the area, enjoy the many summits, like Hårteigen, Hardangerjøkulen, and Gaustatoppen, or watch a flock of several thousand wild reindeer run by you. For Fjords, you'll want to visit Nærøyfjord, voted the world's best preserved tourist destination by National Geographic magazine and granted a place on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Only 250 meters wide at its narrowest, Nærøyfjord is an immensely beautiful fjord that branches off Sognefjord. Between Flåm, Gudvangen, and Aurland, passenger boats run throughout the entire year. Another choice is to take your a kayak or inflatable speedboat through the waters of Nærøyfjord. If possible, try to plan your trip for May to enjoy the countless white and pink flowers that bloom during that time of year. If you're tired of hiking, consider experiencing the Flåmsbana or Flåm Railway, a fun train ride from deep in Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal, high in the mountains. Running throughout the year, one of the stops is the Kjosfossen waterfall, a place where you can hear Huldra's singing in the summer. Be sure to take a guide to hike around the stunning blue ice of glaciers like Hardangerjøkulen and Folgefonna. These areas offer challenging hikes that provide breathtaking and eye-opening images of natural spectacle. To see bears, roe deer, and elk, walk the trail through Vassfaret Park.

Whether you want to see serene fjords, astonishing mountain views, magical waterfalls, inspiring wild animals, lush plant life, or mind-blowing glaciers, Norway has it all!

Scott Amundson consistently writes compelling articles for popular blog THE ULTIMATE HIKING GUIDE, found at http://www.ultimatehikingguide.blogspot.com.

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How to enjoy hiking and Rambling in Canada

4 top trails to hike and Ramble in Canada

Cheakamus Lake - Easy
Located between Whistler Village and Squamish in Garibaldi Park, the Cheakamus Lake trail is just over a 2 hour drive from Vancouver, British Columbia. This trail circles much of Cheakamus Lake giving guests plenty of opportunities to view the unique turquoise coloured waters. At 16 kilometres in length, the primarily flat trail can be considered easy in terms of terrain but may take up to 5 hours to complete. Hikers should note, there are two campsites located along the perimeter of the lake; these campsites tend to feel much more secluded than others in the area as they do not offer direct vehicle access.

Ridge Lookout Trail - Intermediate
The Ridge Lookout Trail is located atop Whistler Mountain and can be accessed through the Peak to Peak Gondola. Coming in at the shortest of the list, the mere 0.8 kilometre Ridge Lookout Trail can be completed in around 30-35 minutes. This trail starts off from the heli-pad just uphill from the Roundhouse Lodge and finishes at the Ridge Lookout. Hikers will have to traverse an elevation of 68 metres before being rewarded with stunning cross-mountain views.

Overlord Trail - Intermediate
Once atop Blackcomb Mountain via the Peak to Peak Gondola, hikers will have access to several trails, one of which is the popular Overlord trail. This 7.4 kilometre trail serves as a transfer point for guests wanting to access Blackcomb's Marmot, Treeline, Decker, and Lakeside trails. The Overlord trail takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete and is recommended for intermediate hikers.

Black Tusk - Difficult
Black Tusk is a 29 kilometre trail located inside Garibaldi Provincial Park. Hikers will have to trek up an elevation of 1740 metres making this trail one of the more exhausting ones. Many experienced hikers are able to complete the Black Tusk in a day; however hikers must be prepared to turn around and head back if they don't anticipate completing it before nightfall. As this trail is very difficult it should only be attempted by experienced hikers. Prospective hikers should note, B.C. parks do not maintain the entirety of Black Tusk making the final parts beyond the border signs very dangerous.

Devon O' Malley is a staff writer for alluraDirect, a website featuring vacation rentals in many parts of Whistler. Research, review, & book Whistler accommodations direct from owners through a safe, trusted website.

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How to survive hiking in the mountains and waer the right footwear

How to overcome the challenges of hiking in the mountains

Mountain hiking is, for most hikers, an exciting prospect because of its challenging terrain and beautiful views. You get a huge sense of satisfaction after a successful mountain hike.

The Mountain Environment

The climatic zones in mountains present a huge challenge to hikers. At high altitudes, the temperature falls and precipitation is likely. Not all mountain ranges are the same. Some are predictably sunny in certain months of the year and some are rainy. Some mountain ranges have thunderstorms and some are have unpredictable weather.

Weather patterns in mountains are usually well documented and researching your destination before you set off is a good thing to do. You may find that above the treeline that conditions can get worse with fierce wind, blinding sun and no shelter. Sunglasses or goggles and sunscreen are indispensable this high up in the mountains.

As you go up to higher altitudes it's important that you slowly acclimatize your body and be aware of the decreasing temperature.

Mountain Hiking Season

Mountain hiking in most parts of the world is only suitable during summer. In hot tropical climates, the cool temperatures in the mountains is a good getaway from the heat and they may even be snow-covered throughout the summer.

In most areas, the mountains may start to lose snow in late spring or early summer and begin to build up again in autumn. However, some mountain ranges have snow all year-round and summer blizzards may even occur in some occasions. The further away from the equator, the shorter the hiking season.

Hazards

When hiking across fields of snow and ice you need special skills and equipment like an ice axe and crampons. In late spring or early summer, melting snow from glaciers and snowfields fills rivers and streams making them difficult to cross safely.

The Challenges in Mountains

Mountain hiking is physically challenging to hikers no matter what age or ability they are. If you want to go mountain hiking you need to get yourself in good physical shape. If you have trouble breathing or your lungs are not in good shape we advice that you don't go mountain hiking especially without special equipment.

A heavy backpack and long climbs make hiking quite challenging. Slow progress is expected as you walk at most half the speed you do walking on a flat surface. And speaking of backpacks, your backpack will also be heavier as you need carry more equipment, clothing and food to survive the cold. Always carry one layer of warm clothing more than you think you need and bring a balaclava or two along with you. You'll be glad you did.

But if you do decide to get in shape and confront the challenges of mountain hiking the sense of achievement when reaching a summit is incomparable and the memories will last a lifetime. You will also remember the friendship of the people you went mountain with and the bond will have gotten stronger.

Jonsky is an expert in camping gear and with over 20 years of experience hiking around the world. Especially loves hiking in the mountains. Be sure that you wear sunglasses because you will be more exposed to the dangerous sun rays high up. And balaclavas will help a lot in keeping you warm.

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The great Hike and Ramble up Mont Blanc

Top Hiking Tour du Mont Blanc

Hiking Tour Du Mont Blanc, France, Switzerland, Italy

The Tour Du Mont Blanc covers a distance of about 170 kilometres and takes in three countries France, Switzerland and Italy in a loop around Mont Blanc. There are valleys to walk through as well as long stretches high up in the mountains with mountain passes to cross. The first known person to walk around this area was in 1767 although it is possible that Hannibal used the pass, the Col De La Seigne when he crossed the alps with his elephants. It is impossible to describe the beauty of the mountains which have to be seen to be believed and the best way to see them is to hike the Tour Du Mont Blanc.

This hike has multiple start points but most people start at either les Houches near Chamonix in France or Courmayeur in Italy. Spectacular alpine scenery is the norm on this hiking adventure although the weather can interfere with views.

There is plenty of accommodation in mountain huts, food is also readily available when you are hiking Tour Du Mont Blanc so that the hike can be done carrying a relatively small pack. Accommodation can become booked out especially late in the day, however it can be pre-booked if required.

French is the most prominent language spoken in the Swiss and French sections of the track with Italian on the remainder. Some english is spoken however it is considered polite to attempt the local language so a knowledge of some words and phrases would be helpful.

The Tour Du Mont Blanc is normally walked in an anti-clockwise direction and you should allow seven to ten days for this hike which is classified as moderate to hard with lots of climbing and descending each day. For those that want to do a bit less walking there are some cable cars and buses that can be used at certain locations.

For more information on hiking visit http://www.hikinginfoonline.com
For more information on weight loss visit http://www.weightlosssecret.info

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How to enjoy a great Hike and Ramble in Hawaii

4 great Hikes and Rambles in Hawaii

If you are an avid hiker, you will have a blast on Oahu. And even if you're not, there are some very nice trails and short hikes worth checking out. Many of the trails on Oahu were blazed by the early Hawaiians. Like many nature oriented Oahu activities, hiking on Oahu is free -- and thanks to the State, you needn't spend any money on hiking guides or maps either!

Guided Oahu Hikes

Many Hawaii Eco Tour services offer guided hikes, but you can go on a Hawaii Sierra Club hike for free (although they do suggest a small donation). Just go to their Website and click on the Oahu on the map in the middle of the page. On the Oahu page, click on "Outings" on the menu on the left. There is a calendar listing outings up to three months in advance. The outings range from easy and suitable for young children to difficult and they include service project outings.

Oahu Hiking Safety & Self Guided Hikes

If you don't want to go with the group, visit the Hawaii's Trail and Access System, Na Ala Hele Administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources, under the Division of Forestry and Wildlife, the Na Ala Hele Website provides detailed information on many of Oahu's hiking trails, as well as their Trail Safety Guidelines.

Hiking in Hawaii may be very different from your hiking in your local region, so please read their safety guidelines!

You can also obtain permits here to collect plants in a state forest reserve. You may want to collect flowers, leaves or ferns for lei-making (more on this later).

Also download the State's free guide to "Hiking Safety."

Na Ala Hele's trail information includes whether a given trail can be used by mountain bikes, the length, difficulty, its' points of interest, printable topographic maps, driving directions and bus routes - all for free. They also give updated news and critical alerts about trails (you'll see the link when you're reading about a specific trail).

Here, you can locate on a map of Oahu an area that you're interested in hiking, and then by clicking on the number (not the pinpoint) the page opens with directions, details, photos and a topographic map. Or if you know the name of a trail you can use the drop down menu.

The American Hiking Society offers a long list of Oahu hikes with simple maps and extremely brief descriptions. It's a good place to start if you're not sure what you are looking for. When you find a description that suits you, take the name of the trail to the Hawaii site where you can get a map for free.

Here a few of Oahu's most popular hiking trails.

HONOLULU HIKES

Diamond Head: This national monument is home to the most popular Oahu hike! The moderate trek is made by people of all ages, is about one mile long one way and climbs 560 feet from the crater floor. Bring a flashlight for when you pass through the 225-foot tunnel. Also, be sure to bring water because it can get pretty hot up there. The trail offers sweeping vistas of Honolulu, and the crater floor where the trailhead is located offers a nice meadow for picnics.

If you don't mind sharing the trail with mountain bikers and aren't afraid of heights as in with sheer cliffs, you might enjoy the Aiea Loop Trail at Keaiwa Heiau State Park. This traverse through the site of an ancient healing temple in the foothills of the verdant Koolau Range. Above the town of Aiea, the trail winds through tall forests of eucalyptus, koa and other beautiful trees. The trail offers views of majestic canyons, Pearl Harbor, the Koolau Range and Central Oahu. It is about 4.5 miles long and about half of that is through a residential area.

Manoa Falls is beautiful to behold, an inspiring reward for the mile and half hike; however swimming in the small pool beneath the falls is not allowed and because of the danger, violators may be cited. As with any waterfall watch out for possible falling rocks from the top, in this case a long way up.

It gets darker up here in the forest before the standard sunset time so leave well before then because there are slippery roots and couple places with the trail narrows near precipices. This hike is very popular with locals.

WINDWARD OAHU HIKING


At the foot of the Koolau Mountains on the Windward side, the lush, Maunawilie Falls Trail is an easy 1.25 mile hike that winds through fragrant white and yellow ginger (blooms in Hawaii's summer May through October) and mountain apple trees, crosses a stream several times and climbs gently.

The trail offers views of Koolaupoko watershed and gulches, and then descends down a long flight of steps to a lovely waterfall and pool.

For more hiking information, including links to details and photos of hikes introduced above, visit http://www.CoconutRoads.com I've just written a new ebook about how to have a cheap but amazing eco vacation on Oahu, and there's a whole chapter devoted to Oahu Hiking. It's called the Hawaii Eco Budget Guide to Oahu, and you'll see a links to it on my Hawaii site.

Happy Trails,

Cindy Blankenship

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How to choosing and use a sleeping bag when Hiking and Rambling

How to select the right sleeping bag for hiking and Rambling

A lot of energetic people plan for an outdoor holiday. One of the requirements for such a trip is a sleeping bag which is as a matter of fact your first priority. It is a portable substitute for a bed. It provides all the comforts like warmth and protection from the weather. The bag also gives marginal protection against wind, rain or frost. But in inclement weather conditions like rain and snow you will need a tent or a bivouac sack as a cover. A bivouac is a light weight waterproof cover.

There are basically 2 types of bags. Firstly we have a basic sleeping bag which is in effect a square blanket which has a zipper on two sides. It can be easily folded and is easy to tote along. It can also be bound with a strap or belt. Secondly we have what is called a mummy bag so called as its shape resembles an Egyptian mummy.

A mummy bag tapers from the top (head) to the lower end (feet).Overall this type is more conducive to retention of heat. These types of bags are also especially available for women which adjust to the special contours of a woman's body.A mummy bag generally for carriage is just stuffed into a stuff sack. If you have children going along for the camping trip than you are well advised to carry a slumber bag- which is a sleeping bag for children. However a slumber bag is not for outdoor use and will need a cover. Hence a tent will be a requirement.

All campers have different needs as their bodies are different. Therefore selecting a sleeping bag is an important exercise.Before you buy one, you will have to think about your trip and where you plan to go. You will have to be aware of the terrain and type of weather you will come across during your camping holiday.

Incase you plan to travel in warm and hot weather conditions then your requirements are simpler. All you will need is a basic sleeping bag. But if you will be moving out in winter and snow and sleet may be encountered then one with more advanced features will be needed that must protect you from the vagaries of the weather.

Size and shape of the bag will have an important bearing on its comfort value. Such a bag affects the degree of warmth it can give you.In cold weather this become s a critical condition. A second factor to consider is the type of material used and also on its fill. This is important in case you are camping in the cold.

Whether your sleeping bag is made of all-natural down or whether it is composed of man-made synthetic, the choice is a significant one. In case children are going along than they will also need sleeping bags. Insure that you select the proper bag for your kid. It is an absolute necessity to have a sleeping bag designed for optimum comfort. You will be faulted if you do not select one that fits the requirements of your trek or holiday for you and your family.

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How to hike the great wall of china

How to walk, Hike along the great wall of China

When visiting the Great Wall of China, clothing is an important consideration. The Great Wall is an amazing achievement, one of the most impressive in the history of humanity. For that reason, those individuals who visit the Great Wall will likely want to spend a great deal of time walking and enjoying the extensive foot paths. To do so, the proper clothing and footwear are absolutely necessary or the experience could be marred by an uncomfortable day in possibly harsh weather conditions.

Clothing for the Great Wall of China

Much of the Great Wall, especially those sections that are most magnificent and well built are built among the mountain passes. These were military structures and for that reason, were built out of necessity not comfort. For that reason, you should wear the appropriate clothing. Assuming you visit the Great Wall during the summer, you should bring light clothing, suitable for hiking and walking in the mountains. Heavier clothing will only make your hike more difficult.

Also, your clothing should be suitably waterproof and wind-resistant as weather conditions in the mountains can be at times highly unpredictable and harsh. You will want clothing that breathes easily, but is not too thin, so that you do not sweat profusely and can remain comfortable while walking.

Footwear for the Great Wall of China

Every route of the Great Wall is slightly different and requires a different approach to foot protection. Primarily, it's important to note that you should not wear new shoes into the mountainous routes as your feet will likely swell because of the altitude. If you need new hiking shoes, wear them a few times before visiting the Great Wall to break them in. You should always wear some form of hiking boot or waterproof shoes to ensure proper ankle support and traction while walking the sometimes steep paths on the Wall. Be prepared for extensive walking.

Because of the risk of blisters, you should wear thick socks. It is true that cotton socks are at first more comfortable and work better to keep your feet dry by absorbing sweat, but their lack of support will cause you pain in the long run.

Preparation is Key

When preparing to visit any outdoor location in which you might be forced to walk great distances or spend a good deal of time climbing, you should be prepared for the possible outcomes. Carry with you a small bag with extra clothing in case of severe weather and whatever you might need if your feet become blistered. You clothing might seem like a small matter amongst the enormity of visiting the Great Wall, but without the right preparation, you will find it hard to properly enjoy your trip.

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Natalie Stephan lives on the south coast of Sydney is the creator of the Happy Vibe Gift Shop that originated with a comic design of the Great Wall of China inspired by a popular Australian telecommunications TV commercial. Natalie also has a mailing list which offers subscribers free information about many topics relating to personal development, meditation, and creating lasting happiness.

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How to find the best hiking and rambling experiences in Austrialia

5 Top Hiking and Rambling Locations in the World

Any hiker will tell you that the trail makes the experience. Hiking along the most beautiful and challenging trails are the hiking hobbyist's dream. One of the benefits of hiking is that there are many countries, states, and islands that cater to the hiker through beautifully unique trails. Where do you want to go for your next hiking trip? This guide lists the top five places for hiking that will challenge even the most experienced hiker. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, these hiking trails can bring an appreciation towards nature's beauty.

Breakneck Ridge Trail

Breakneck Ridge is located in New York along the Hudson River. The mountain trail is part of the Appalachian Mountains, so it's filled with lush, green forests and rivers. The mountain has several peeks and plateaus to choose for your hiking destination. The highest summit for experienced hikers is 1,260 feet. To begin, most hikers choose the white route up the western side of the mountain. The steep, rocky climb to the summit gives a challenging hike with breathtaking views of the forest and rivers below it.

Glacier Gorge

Glacier Gorge is filled with multiple hiking trails for beginners and experts. Its location in the Rocky Mountains National Park makes it perfect for all kinds of scenery including rivers, lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and animals. Choose from hiking trails from all directions around the scenic gorge. Beginner trails are available at low levels that are relatively short. The trails are perfect for family and small children. If you consider yourself up for the challenge of a more expert level, Glacier Gorge offers demanding hiking trails that require excellent physical fitness and acclimation to high levels.

Appalachian Trail: The Pinnacle

Located in Humberg, Pennsylvania, The Pinnacle trail is also a part of the Appalachian Mountains. The trail gives views of scenic mountains and rivers along the way. Not far from the Pinnacle Trail is the Hamburg Dam for a breathtaking view of mother nature and technology tied into one. Weather can be mostly rainy and humid, which allows a more advanced hike for those who like the challenge of fighting the elements.

Mount Whitney

Hiking the trails at Mount Whitney will bring you to the highest peak in the United States. Located in California, Mount Whitney leaves the hiker with an accomplishment that few are able to make. Great physical condition and the ability to acclimate to high altitudes of approximately 15,000 feet are a must for this trail. The trail is well worth the challenge. Scenic Rocky Mountain views and a visit to Consultation Lake give the hiker an enjoyable and memorable trip.

Conundrum Hot Springs

Nestled in Colorado's most underdeveloped wilderness, Conundrum Hot Springs is the place for hikers and other visitors to view mother nature's most unique watery springs. The pools are scattered around the trail and their temperatures vary with the hottest being 102 degrees Fahrenheit. The trail is perfect for photos and awe inspiring memories. The unique hot pools surrounded by winter snow gives the sight seer an impressive view of nature's characteristic style.

For more information, visit [http://www.onhiking.tv]

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How to Hike the Swiss Haute Route

How to hike the Haute Route (high route) in Europe

With thousands of miles of trails crisscrossing the Alps as they arc through France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Germany and Slovenia, you could easily spend a lifetime hiking here. But the Haute Route, linking Chamonix, France, to Zermatt, Switzerland, delivers more scenic splendour in one achievable trek than any other. It takes you through some of the highest hikeable terrain in Europe, passes beneath ten of the Alps' twelve highest peaks and connects the tallest, Mont Blanc (4808m), with the Matterhorn (4478m). Weaving through pine forests sprinkled with wild mushrooms and berries, you'll frequently emerge onto grassy slopes where herders graze their cows, goats and sheep throughout the summer.

The Haute Route, or "high route", was pioneered on an 1861 expedition to establish a trail from Chamonix to Zermatt over a series of glacier passes in the Pennine Alps, the sub-range that forms much of the border between Switzerland and Italy. Today the route is both a popular spring ski-mountaineering tour and a 180-kilometre summer trek known as the "Walker's Haute Route". The trek requires no technical mountaineering skills, avoids the high glacier crossings and is well suited to healthy hikers who can walk for twelve to fourteen days while gaining nearly 14,000m in total elevation. The journey links remote alpine hamlets with wild corries and high meadow, crossing eleven passes along the way.

A network of huts offers hikers simple accommodation, hearty meals and even the occasional hot shower. You'll hike for days without having to carry a tent, sleeping bag, stove or food. But while eschewing the very thought of a cable lift or a cosy chalet hotel is certainly an option for the purist, it is not obligatory. You'll have plenty of flexibility along the way and you'll likely exercise options such as these on your first rain day.

Although the Haute Route is bidirectional, most hikers start in Chamonix since that's how the guide books are written; this also puts the morning sun at hikers' backs as they ascend the steepest mountain slopes and passes. From the base of France's Mont Blanc you'll make a quick ascent past the aguilles, the dramatic needles that shine in front of Mont Blanc's snowy dome, to a refuge at Col de Balme, the pass at the unmarked border of France and Switzerland. The remainder of the Haute Route lies in Switzerland, and though Mont Blanc will be behind you, a string of equally illustrious peaks awaits.

Considering the concentration of ski lifts, runs and utility roads in the area, the Haute Route does an admirable job of avoiding them, especially along the forest path between the deep valley village of Le Châble and the lofty Cabane de Mont Fort mountain hut, which smoothly skirts the immense Verbier resort. The path brings you to a rugged, mountainous stretch where the three-peaked Grand Combin massif crowns the southern skyline and where your chances of seeing ibex and chamois are excellent. Both species are happiest on remote alpine slopes, where the chamois, a goat-like bovid, can ascend 1000m in fifteen minutes - something you'd be hard-pressed to do in three hours.

As you pass beneath the snout of a once-giant glacier that filled the rocky bowl known as the Grand Desert, observe the clear evidence of glacial retreat, as you traverse a rubbly and barren moraine long covered in glacial ice. The next day, take a relaxing morning stroll along the western shore of Lac des Dix, the snaking reservoir behind the Grande Dixence Dam before an hour of boulder-hopping to rocky Riedmatten Pass, the toughest on the route. Descending the Forcletta Pass into the quiet valley of the Turtmanntal, you'll begin to hear new greetings from people you encounter, from "bonjour" to "guten tag" or the Switzerdeutsch "grüezi". Gruben, the first German-speaking waypoint, is a seasonal hamlet where, gazing across a meadow at a distant object, you'll be unsure whether you're seeing a horse or an exceptionally large European red deer.

A steep ascent to the Augstbordpass, used as a trade route since medieval times, leads to a sweeping view of the last valley, the Mattertal, but the ultimate prize of the Haute Route is still a day away. Finally, as you climb slowly out of the valley to Zermatt, you'll be blessed with the mesmerizing sight of the legendary Matterhorn - the perfect ending to a magnificent alpine trek. It's easy to see why the Haute Route remains the most popular and rewarding of all the long distance swiss alps tours.

Greg Witt is one of the most popular and respected guides working in the Alps today. He is an adventure guide and author and lives the adventures he writes about. His explorations have taken him to every corner of the globe. He has guided mountaineering expeditions in the Alps and Andes and paddled wild rivers in the Americas. He has dropped teams into golden slot canyons, trudged through deep jungles in Africa, Central America, and Asia, and guided archaeological expeditions across the parched Arabian Peninsula.

He is the author of 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Salt Lake City (Menasha Ridge Press) and Ultimate Adventures: A Rough Guide to Adventure Travel.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Witt

3 peak challenge for the highest peaks in the UK

4 greatest peaks to climb, ramble and hike

A UK hiking holiday could encompass climbing the highest peaks of all four countries in the United Kingdom, giving you an overall view of the area, and a knowledge of the geography and environment in each region. All four countries are popular destinations for holiday-makers interested in hiking and the outdoors, and reaching their peaks is well worth the effort.

Reaching the UK's Highest Peak in Scotland

Ben Nevis is the highest peak both in Scotland and in the UK, with its highest point being 1344m. Of the eight UK peaks over 1200m, this mountain range is home to three, with Ben Nevis' neighbours, Aonach Mor and Aonach Beag both falling into this group. This makes the whole region great for a UK hiking holiday, with beautiful mountain ranges covering the area.

Home to the longest and steepest hill in the whole of the UK, Ben Nevis' western and southern flanks rise about 1200m in 2km. This makes for challenging United Kingdom hiking, if you attempt to ascend the mountain from this angle. The northern side of Ben Nevis sees cliffs dropping 600m, to a corrie containing the Charles Inglis Memorial Hut, a private hut often used as a base for many of the climbing routes.

This igneous mountain range is probably the best place in Scotland if it's a walking holiday in the UK you're after, with beautiful scenery as well as challenging peaks for those looking for a more active holiday.

Welsh Walking

Wales is an enchanting area for a UK walking holiday, with many interesting birds and plants populating the country. Wales' highest peak, Snowdon, is 1085m high, and is known for being one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Shaped like a starfish, Snowdon has six ridges, each with their own characteristics and geological build.

The mountain boasts some of the most spectacular views you will see on your United Kingdom hiking experience, with a number of different scenery types. If you're willing to engage in some complicated scrambling, you have the opportunity to see glaciated valleys high up near Snowdon's peak. When standing on the actual summit, you will see ancient fossils, and interesting volcanic rock formations can be found all over the mountain.

Your UK hiking holiday will be even better, with a number of rare species of flowers and insects being found in this region. One of the most fascinating plants is the insectivorous Sundew, which traps its prey on sticky droplets before devouring them. The beautiful and rare yellow four-petalled Tormentil can also be found here, and ravens and white-bottomed wheatears soar through the skies.

Scaling Scafell Pike

England's highest peak is Scafell Pike, being 978m tall. It is situated in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, an area known for being one of the best UK walking holiday destinations. Being in such a beautiful destination, this mountain can only be great for United Kingdom hiking.

It is a very popular hiking destination on weekends, with a relatively easy route available from Wasdale Head. For a more taxing hike with exceptional scenery, the route from Seathwaite Farm is know for its beauty, and is one of the best trails for United Kingdom hiking.

Northern Ireland's Mourne Mountains

The Mourne Mountain range is home to Northern Ireland's highest peak, Slieve Donard (849m). Situated in the southeastern region of Northern Ireland, this is among the most famous mountains in the country, and an ideal place for a UK hiking holiday.

The Mournes consist of 35km of dry-stone wall, crossing a total of fifteen summits. The area is scenically very beautiful, and heather, bog cotton, harebell, heath spotted orchids and Marsh St John's wort are all found in the area. Sheep graze high in the mountain tops, and ravens, buzzards and peregrine falcons patrol the skies. With so much wildlife in the area, it is the perfect place for United Kingdom hiking.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing for Ramblers Countrywide Holidays. They are dedicated to providing the very finest United Kingdom hiking holidays at the best value prices.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Maniscalco

How to pack a rucksack for hiking and rambling

10 top Day Hiking Essentials - how to pack a rucksack

Taking a day hike on your own or with the kids can be great fun for everyone. Nothing beats getting out into the wilderness to soak up all that nature has to offer. Whether you spend the entire day in scenic splendour or just a few hours in the woods, be sure you know what to put in your backpack for a safe hike.

If you don't know how to pack a backpack for a day hike, try carrying these basic items that prevent disaster when the weather turns ugly or a trail mishap occurs. It's always best to prepare for the worst and take simple precautions for a safe outing every time.

Top 10 Day Hiking Essentials:

Backpack Choice - It may seem obvious, but choosing the right backpack for the day can make or break your trip. A comfortable pack hugs your back, feels light and does not become a distraction or a reason for a foul mood. Size also matters. A daypack that is too small cannot carry the essential items needed and a pack too big becomes an annoyance.

Water Supply - Even if you don't drink much or have access to water, always take your own supply. Never rely on other sources. Make sure everyone stays hydrated and keep tabs on who's running low. Start off with a 2 or 3 liter bladder and drink it down during the trip.

First Aid Kit - For scrapes, bites and bleeding, a small first aid kit with the basic supplies prevents a minor incident from turning into a major hassle. Either purchase an emergency kit (e.g. Ouch Pouch) or make up your own kit with band-aids, ointments, sterile pads and fever and headache medicines.

Headlamp or Flashlight - Always carry a light source, even in broad daylight. When a hike takes longer than you think or dark clouds appear overhead, that's when you really need a flashlight to get back safe. A headlamp is easy to use and keeps your hands free to help out kids or read a map.

Sunscreen - A few hours on the trail under a hot sun and your skin begins to turn red before you realize it. Apply sunscreen before your hike and make sure kids are well greased up too.

Hand Sanitizer - Things get dirty on the trail, so keep it clean with a good hand sanitizer for added protection when eating or after using the toilet. This also allows you to save your water for drinking.

Cell Phone - Going hiking is a chance to leave technology behind, but a cell phone is too valuable for emergencies and for keeping people informed of late arrivals. Even if you're not sure to get a signal, take it just in case.

Snack Food - Packing snacks and energy bars keeps your body churning for a long day on the trail. It's a good idea to carry extra food for yourself and others in case you get lost or hunker down to wait out bad weather.

Map and Compass - Take a map of the area or specific trail to avoid losing your way or spending hours on the wrong trail. Even a highway map is better than none at all. A compass helps you find the basic directions - north, south, east, west - to follow if the trail gets confusing.

Rain Jacket - Clear skies turn into dark monsters in a minute. There are several good reasons to pack rain gear, including keeping dry, staying warm and using it as an emergency shelter.

One more extra essential:

Dry Shirt - A wet or sweaty shirt is very uncomfortable and very cold in windy and rainy conditions, especially for kids. A bit of extra weight, pack a dry shirt to keep your upper body warm and out of the chill zone.

For More Backpacking Basics and Tips:

Discover more information on how to pack a backpack for overnight hiking, overseas travel and other outdoor adventures at http://www.best-backpack-guide.com, the premier site for backpack reviews and research.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rick_Gregory