Hiking Tips For Beginners

Hiking is an incredibly rewarding activity that allows you to explore places in nature while enjoying numerous health benefits. 

Top 11 tips and tricks to Hiking

If you are new to hiking or you are interested in starting to explore your local hills and mountains, we have compiled our top tips and tricks to help you get you started;

  1. Explore the places in nature that interest you.

    Hiking offers many different trails with a variety of scenery to explore. Check out our suggestions below which covers the entire country. Take the time to research and choose a trail that is easy to walk, with gradual inclines and descents. Plan your route and if you plan to travel alone ensure to tell a family member or friend your plans for the day.
  2. Take your time

    Hiking is a great way to get in touch with your surroundings and to sense accomplishment. Don't try to do too much at once and take it easy at the beginning. When you're more comfortable, increase your speed and elevation.
  3. Stay hydrated

    Hiking can be dehydrating, especially if you are doing strenuous hikes. Bring plenty of water and if you are planning to get water from fresh-water wells along the journey, use water purification tablets or droplets to reduce the chance of becoming ill.
  4. Take breaks

    Hiking can be a challenging activity, but it is also one that offers many health benefits. If you are feeling tired, at any stage, take a break and enjoy some fresh air.  Take pictures along the trail, which will remind you of your fun adventure and also help if you happen to drift away from the track.
  5. Dress Appropriately

    Make sure to bring enough water, snacks, sunscreen, and hiking gear. When hiking and the weather is unpredictable, bring waterproof shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket and pants/trousers, as well as a hat and sunscreen.
  6. Be aware of your surroundings

    Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife and hikers who may be in need of assistance. Also, ensure to leave no trace while out hiking. Put any trash into a carry bag and dump it in the nearest bin. Although tempting, don't feed the animals as human food is unhealthy for animals.
  7. Bring a buddy

    Hiking is a great way to spend some time with your friends and get a workout at the same time.
  8. First-aid kit

    A compact first-aid kit is also a must, just in case any minor accidents happen along the way. Cuts and scrapes are likely especially when climbing is involved or walking through longer brush. Blisters can happen especially when walking long distances.
  9. Light

    You will require some light along your trail especially if it takes you longer than expected. A flashlight or Portwest Beanie Hats are a great option because they have an inbuilt led light which will save taking up room in your backpack.
  10. Insects

    Bring along bug spray and sting relief for your journey. Also, ensure to check for ticks at the end of your journey and remove them immediately. Removing ticks is easier by using a dedicated tick tool which helps remove the entire tick.
  11. Safety

    If you happen to stray off the track and appear to have lost your way, the most important thing is to remain calm. Take a break to find your bearings. Look for landmarks which are easily identifiable. Retrace your steps and check photos you took along the way. They may contain important info to help determine your location. If you have a compass, take it out and use that tool to better understand your direction and location. If you are still having difficulties, check your phone for coverage and call someone for help. They may be able to guide you back on your trail or come get you.

Recommended Trails around Ireland for Beginners

Here are some popular Hiking Trails that we would recommend that are spread throughout Ireland.

Hikes in Leinster

So here are our best hikes to climb in Leinster:

👉🏼 Sugarloaf, Co. Dublin

👉🏼 Ticknock, Co. Dublin

👉🏼 Howth Cliff Walk, Howth Head, Co Dublin

👉🏼 Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

👉🏼 Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, Co Wicklow

👉🏼 The Barrow Way, Co. Kilkenny

👉🏼 Slieve Foye Loop, Co. Louth

 

Hikes in Ulster

So here are our best hikes to climb in Ulster:

👉🏼 Giant's Gate and Causeway Coast Circular, Co. Antrim.

👉🏼 Glenariff Scenic Trail, Cargan, Co. Antrim

👉🏼 Slieve Binnian Summit, Mourne Mountains Co. Down.

👉🏼 Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Boardwalk, Cuilcagh Mountain Park, Co. Fermanagh.

👉🏼 Sliabh Beagh, Sheskin, Co. Monaghan.

👉🏼 Arranmore Way, Co. Donegal.

 

Hikes in Munster:

👉🏼 The Gap of Dunlow, Co. Kerry

👉🏼 Carrauntoohil, Co. Kerry

👉🏼 Glen of Aherlow, Co. Tipperary.

👉🏼 The Galtees, Co. Tipperary and Co. Limerick

👉🏼 The Beara Way, Co. Cork

👉🏼 Mount Brandon, Co. Kerry

👉🏼 Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, Co. Clare

👉🏼 Canon Sheehan Loop, Co. Limerick

👉🏼 Loop from Rathgormack, Co. Waterford

 

Hikes in Connacht:

👉🏼 Erris Head, Glenlara, Belmullet, Co. Mayo.

👉🏼 Croagh Patrick, Westport, Co. Mayo.

👉🏼 Benbulben Forest Loop, Carney, Co. Sligo.

👉🏼 Queen Maeve's Trail, Strandhill, Co. Sligo.

👉🏼 Glencar Waterfail Trail, Glencar, Co. Leitrim

👉🏼 Diamond Hill, Letterfrack, Co. Galway.

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