Hey You, Don’t Like To Walk, Then Take A Hike!

I believe that hiking is one of the most enjoyable and relaxing ways to stay healthy and active after age 60, and even through our 70s, 80s, and 90s. Not only is it a great way to get in your cardio, but it can also be great for you mentally, emotionally, and even relationally when you take a friend. However, I also recognize that just one or two unpleasant hiking experiences can discourage some people or even create fear. 

As that great philosopher Dirty Harry (AKA Clint Eastwood) once said, “A mans gots to know his limitations.” The biggest reason people are disappointed or afraid to go for a hike is past bad experiences. It was too difficult, too long, or just plain boring. I have prepared a few simple tips to help you avoid those things and have a great time.

Picking The Right Tail For You

The best way to know if a hiking trail is right for you is to become familiar with the three primary categories of hiking trail difficulty. All trail apps will identify trails as Easy, Moderate, and Difficult. These ratings are determined by a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain ruggedness, helping hikers choose trails that match their fitness level and experience. 

Here are the three categories, along with some of my suggestions for people over 60 to stay safe and have fun while hiking.

·       Easy: These trails are usually short (1–2 miles), have minimal elevation gain, and feature well-marked, even, or paved paths. If you are over 60 and a beginner, this category of trails is where you want to start. After you get comfortable with several of these trails, you can give a trail in the moderate category.

·       Moderate: Moderate trails typically span 2–4 miles, with some elevation change, and moderately rugged terrain. They may include obstacles such as roots or rocks, which require a decent level of fitness. If you are over 60 and can walk two miles comfortably in under 50 minutes, this is definitely the next step.

·       Difficult (Challenging): These trails are usually longer than 4 miles, with significant, steep, or sustained climbing, and often rugged, uneven terrain. They may require hand use for balance and are best for experienced hikers.

In the past three years, I have completed one 8-mile and one 3-mile “difficult” hike. The only reason I did the 8-mile hike was that I got us lost. I did the 3-mile difficult one because a friend said, “It’s not that bad, you will like it.” I didn’t! Honestly, neither was fun, and I will not be (if I don’t get lost again) doing any more hikes that fall into the difficult category.

Preparing for Your Hike

Here are just a few things you can do to make every hike a fun and memorable experience.

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction to handle the varied terrain.

• Bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.

• Use insect repellent during warmer months to avoid bites.

• Check the weather forecast to dress appropriately and avoid getting caught in the rain.

• Carry a map or use a GPS app to stay on track. I use the AllTrails App. There is a free version if you want to try it out. However, the $35 annual premium version is well worth the cost.

Hey You, Take A Hike

Let’s be honest, most hiking trail reviews focus on younger people. That's why I created a Facebook Group named “Hey You, Take A Hike”, dedicated to hiking for those over 60. In this group, you’ll find my reviews tailored to those of us in retirement. Feel free to sign up for any of the hikes. Jean and I would love to have you join us as we thoroughly enjoy our Last Best Bite.