Have you recently started walking in the mountains? Are you at your first experiences and not sure how to proceed? In the mountains you just need to follow a few simple rules!
Evaluate your physical condition and never overdo it. Walking in the mountains it is an activity in its own right, different from many others. It can happen that even a trained person is put to the test by a path with a significant difference in altitude. In fact, it is necessary to keep in mind that what counts here is not only the physical condition, but a combination of factors that include the altitude difference, difficulty of the terrain, altitude and weather conditions.
It's best not to go hiking alone. The mountain environment presents inherent difficulties and dangers that, especially for a novice, are difficult to identify. The first treks are always best done in the company of friends with experience or, in any case, always in company so that in the event of an accident someone can provide first aid and possibly seek help. Better if you come with us!
Choose shoes suitable for the route
To walk on a trail you need shoes with a good tread, but they shouldn't be too stiff. Preferably they should fit high on the ankle, providing a comfortable fit support. Better to avoid sneakers or other footwear more suited to the city or an athletics field, we are on a different terrain where a good shoe can save from a bad slip.
Learn to pack a backpack – it's not trivial!
Packing a backpack for an excursion takes time and you have to think about everything you might need, even in an emergency. The first few times you will definitely have to think carefully, check that you have taken everything and, surely, once at altitude you will realize that you have forgotten something or that you have brought an object with you which later turned out to be completely useless. Experience will be your guide. Or read our article
It is essential to have with you a bottle of water, some food, a small first aid kit, a fleece to protect you from the cold and a shell to shelter you in case of rain or wind.
Don't look for shortcuts
Don't look for alternative routes or quicker routes, follow the marked path. It doesn't take much to get lost.
Take your waste back to the valley
Leave the mountain as you found it, bringing back everything you bring up to the valley. Bring a bag with you in which to throw candy wrappers, sandwiches, chocolate, and any other waste. Don't leave them at altitude, if you brought them with you full it will be even easier to bring them back to the valley empty.
Inform yourself well
Choose an itinerary and study it thoroughly, consult the maps of the area, note the possible support points. Read reviews of those who have made that journey before you, check the presence of telephone signal and the availability of water in the area. Find out about the local weather . Good preparation beforehand helps resolve unexpected events more easily. Or rely on our advice.