Top 5 Hikes for Beginners
Hiking is one of the best activities to get your mind and body in shape. The mental health benefits alone make it one of my favorite hobbies. For some, hiking can be intimidating because of the preconceived ideas about being outdoors. People wonder if there will be bugs, bears, and bungee jumping off cliffs.
First and foremost, safety is always the most important. Do not jump off any cliffs, engage with any bears or wildlife you may come upon.
Always research the area you will be hiking. Read the park’s website and prepare for your hike. Think about the total mileage and difficulty rating. Know where the trail starts and ends. Take screenshots of your route just in case you lose cell service, which is highly likely.
If you are hiking in the summer, wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water and snacks. I put together this list of things to pack for your day hike.
Now, here are my top 5 places beginning hikers can enjoy in NC. As you become comfortable with being outdoors, you will find more parks within NC to satisfy your craving for outdoor adventures.
Let me know if you hit the trails listed and what you think. If you would like to join the Culture Queens for an outdoor adventure, be sure to sign up for our newsletter. We hike during the week and weekends.
Be safe out there!
