by Debbie McKeown Take a Hike! After hiking past three stunning blue-green glacial lakes, I have not only reached their source, but have literally stepped inside the Matier Glacier. I enter the ice cave and am instantly transported to a world of wildly sculpted towers and delicate swirls of ice. And oh yes, the icy water dripping from the walls and ceiling soaks me to the skin within seconds.

As an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys many activities, hiking ranks as my favorite. It is uncomplicated, fun, inexpensive, a great workout and the opportunities are almost limitless. That recent hike to the ice cave at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park in British Columbia is just one example of the countless amazing and diverse experiences that I have enjoyed simply by lacing up my hiking boots. Another memorable hike in Louisiana’s Barataria Preserve brought me face-to-face with silent alligators almost completely submerged in the sultry swamps and bayous. In Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I hiked up Mt. LeConte to a lodge that can only be reached on foot. The next morning I marveled at pristine views of the Smokies that had magically been covered by an overnight snowfall. The list goes on and on. Gear Up For Adventure A good pair of hiking boots was the starting point to these and numerous other adventures. The variety of boots on the market is astounding, but knowledgeable staff at your local outdoor store will be able to help you find the perfect size and type of boot. Invest in a good hiking sock, try on several boot models and spend some time walking around the store in each. Many stores have a ramp built on an incline mimicking the terrain of a hiking trail. At home, walk around indoors a bit more to be absolutely sure the boots are comfortable. Blisters and sore feet can ruin an adventure before it even begins, so take the time to ensure you select the right boot. Expect to pay more for waterproof boots, but it will be money well spent if you plan to hike in wet conditions. Other gear can vary greatly depending on personal preference. Layers of quick-dry clothing for changeable weather are optimal. On hilly terrain, I use trekking poles to soften the impact on my knees. For even a short hike, it is essential to carry a small backpack with emergency supplies, high-energy snacks, sunscreen and extra clothing. As with any high-intensity activity, proper hydration is critical, so it is important to have ready access to water. My pack has convenient outside pockets for water bottles, but many hikers prefer a hydration system whereby water is carried in a reservoir on their backs. A long hose functions as a drinking straw. Go Your Own Way Once geared up, you are ready to begin exploring the many destination possibilities. Hiking trails of all levels abound in North America, and a good starting point is the fabulous system of national, provincial and state parks. By doing an Internet search on the park you wish to visit, you can easily link to websites listing trails and advice. Backpacker magazine has an excellent destination guide, as does Clubtread. A low-tech option is searching your local library and outdoor store. Most carry a good selection of hiking guidebooks. To give you an idea of the multitude of resources, I own at least 10 hiking books that focus solely on California trails. Once you are on the trail, the enthusiasm of other hikers becomes contagious. Many times I have come home armed with a recommendation on my next great hike. And since it’s always best to hike with a buddy, check your local outdoor store or community center for hiking clubs. At the very least, leave detailed information on your route with someone at home. Some hikers, myself included, yearn to extend the hiking experience to several days. As such, I have learned to love multi-day hikes which involve carrying a tent, cooking gear and food on my back for a full immersion into nature. Many hardy souls have taken this approach to the extreme. Every year numerous “thru-hikers” as they are known, tackle long distance trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail which runs the entire length of the western states from Mexico to Canada. I once met a genial backpacker in California’s Emigrant Wilderness who had been on the trail for several months. When asked how far he was planning to go, he said “until I’m skinny”. Whatever distance, destination or motivation you choose, hiking is guaranteed to inject a jolt of adventure into your life. You just never know what you might see around that next bend in the trail.