How to Have a Great Hike

Make safety a priority

Plan your hike using the trail’s website or the kiosk at the trailhead. Ensure you are physically able to hike the route you have chosen.
Hike with a friend, bring a fully charged cell phone and carry a whistle.
If you hike with a dog, be sure Fido is on a leash.
If you hike alone, tell others where you are going and when you expect to return.
Stay on marked trails.
Bring water in a reusable container and a snack.
Check the weather before you hike and dress for the conditions.
Hike during the daylight hours.

Wear the right shoes or boots. Research a reputable brand of hiking shoes/boots and try on many styles before buying.
Wear the right socks. Merino wool socks are excellent for hiking. They wear well over time, prevent blisters, wick water, retain warmth and don’t itch.
Wear the right clothing. In cold weather wear clothing made from a wicking fabric. In hot weather wear light colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that breathes. Polyester are good choices.
Tuck pants into your socks to cover gaps in your clothing where ticks can get in.
Gaiters are a good investment when the snow is deep.
A hat will keep you warm and/or keep sweat off your face.
Hiking poles will help provide stability, especially going up and down hills. They are helpful when conditions are muddy or icy.
Wear insect repellent in all but the depth of winter and sunscreen all year round.

Use all five senses, slow your pace, and pay attention to the rhythm of the forest.
Avoid behaviors that may stress wildlife (e.g., wearing strong scents, making loud noises, dog barking, approaching an animal too close, and/or playing music).
The Naturalist’s Companion: A Field Guide to Observing and Understanding Wildlife by Dave Hall (2022) is an excellent reference for learning how to enhance your senses while hiking.
A transition zone or an ecotone, such as where a forest meets a field, is a great place to observe wildlife.
Use a pair of binoculars and use your cell phone as a magnifying glass for a closer look.
Several free apps for your phone can help you identify things. Merlin identifies birds by song. Seek helps identify insects, birds, plants, amphibians, fungi and much more. iTRack helps you identify animal tracks. iNaturalist lets you join science citizens and contribute to research projects.

You can support Friends of Webster Trails (FWT) by becoming a member, volunteering to maintain trails, becoming a trail steward, and/or participating in a workday project.