Before you start hiking, you should understand your current fitness level, One strategy is to take a “test drive”: go on a low-risk hike with some elevation change and see how you perform. It can also help you pinpoint hiking-specific weaknesses that you can then work on.

When you are choosing a hiking trail, pay attention to the distance, elevation, terrain, and note potential places you can rest along the way. To find a hike, guidebooks are great, as are free online resources like AllTrails or Hiking Project

Regardless of your experience, it’s recommended to carry a physical guidebook of the area where you’re hiking

If you are feeling trepidation about hiking, consider hiring a guide. Guided hikes are a great way to learn about the environment from a professional, meet other outdoorsy folks, and enjoy the activity without the logistical stress.

Turn around/get to shelter when you hear thunder - don't wait for it to get a certain distance from you - storms vary in speed and one storm might take an hour to reach you while another only takes 10 minutes. You will get better at judging this the more you are out, but having been caught in a storm once or twice myself, even experienced hikers can misjudge.

You should always plan to arrive at your destination with plenty of time before dark. If your hike takes longer than expected, getting caught in the dark without a flashlight could put you in a bad situation, so carrying one at all times is a must!

Give yourself about a month to prepare for your hiking trip and perform at least one of the exercises above at least once a week.

Aim to finish the day walking the same speed at which you started. Think rhythm and flow. Tortoise rather than hare.

Make sure to bring a map, compass or GPS for your hiking trip. You will want to know where you are and where you are going at all times, but you will also want to know where all the campsites, emergency exits, water sources and rest areas are located.

Wear a pair of thin nylon socks (like panty hose but socks) underneath your heavier wool or cotton socks to prevent blisters.

If you plan to hike on mild terrain, light hiking shoes should work just fine. However, if you are going to traverse tough mountainous or snowy terrain, you may want to invest in more rugged mountaineering boots. If your hike falls somewhere in-between, backpacking boots with a solid sole can handle a range of landscapes.

Water is perhaps the most important item on your hiking gear list. Without enough water, your body cannot perform at its best. Make sure to hydrate before the hiking trip and sip water throughout the day. Whether it is cold or hot outside, an adequate water supply should always be a priority.