Hiking for Beginners: How to Start with Confidence

I still remember the fear I felt when I first started solo hiking in more difficult and secluded areas. What if I got lost? What if I ran into the wrong person? What if I got hurt? My mind raced with worst-case scenarios. When I took my first backpacking trip in the Northwest, I was also recovering from a broken kneecap. I was terrified—of sleeping deep in the backcountry, of animals, of the unknown, and of whether my body would hold up. But I didn’t let the fear stop me. Instead, I educated myself on everything from weather and navigation to wildlife safety and took small, intentional steps toward building my confidence. I started by hiking in areas where I knew there would be others, then gradually ventured into more remote trails. That process of learning, growing, and pushing through fear is what turned hiking from something intimidating into something empowering.

People often tell me, “I have to get in shape before I can start hiking” or “I’ll never be able to do more than a couple of miles.” But I know from experience—and from watching others prove themselves wrong—that if you can hike one mile, you can hike two with persistence. And if you stick with it, hiking will get you into the best shape of your life.

If you're new to hiking and feel uncertain about where to begin, you're not alone. The good news? Confidence comes with preparation, knowledge, and experience. Here’s how to start your hiking journey with confidence and ease.

1. Choose the Right Trail

Not all trails are created equal, and starting small is key.

• Look for well-marked, beginner-friendly trails that are relatively flat and easy to follow.

• Use apps like AllTrails, Hiking Project, or Cortex (for Colorado) to check trail ratings, recent conditions, and reviews from other hikers.

• Start with shorter hikes (1-3 miles) before working up to longer, more challenging trails.

2. Know Before You Go

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is heading out without researching the trail. A little preparation goes a long way!

• Check the weather forecast to avoid getting caught in unsafe conditions. In Colorado, the weather can change on a dime, even in summer.

• Read up on trail maps, elevation gain, and potential hazards (like river crossings or steep sections).

• Understand the wildlife in the area and what precautions to take (e.g., carrying bear spray in bear country).

3. Wear the Right Gear

Good gear can make or break your hiking experience. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but having the right essentials is important.

• Shoes: Trail runners for summer and waterproof hiking shoes for winter.

• Layers: Dress in moisture-wicking layers and bring a rain jacket if needed.

• Backpack: A small daypack with water, snacks, and other essentials.

• Trekking Poles (optional): Helpful for stability on uneven terrain.

4. Pack the Essentials

Every hiker should carry the 10 Essentials to stay safe on the trail: 1-Navigation (map, compass, or GPS) 2- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat) 3-Extra clothing (warm layers, rain jacket) 4-First aid kit 5- Knife or multi-tool 6-Fire starter (lighter, waterproof matches) 7- Shelter (emergency bivy or space blanket) 8- Extra food and water 9-Headlamp or flashlight and whistle (for emergencies) 10- Bear spray (if hiking in bear country)

5. Hike Smart: Safety Tips

• One of the most important things you will ever do before a hike is to tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

• Start early to allow plenty of daylight for your hike.

• Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.

• Trust your gut—if something feels off, turn back.

• Carry a fully charged phone but don’t rely on it for navigation—bring a paper map or download offline maps.

6. Build Your Confidence Over Time

Feeling nervous is normal, but confidence grows with each hike. Start small, hike with a friend if it helps, and gradually challenge yourself as you gain experience. Over time, you’ll develop an instinct for trail navigation, reading weather conditions, and handling different terrains.

Final Thoughts

Hiking isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about the journey, the learning, and the moments of peace along the way. If fear is holding you back, remember that education, preparation, and experience will empower you. Take it one step at a time, trust yourself, and enjoy the adventure ahead. The trail is waiting!