Tips for the Start of Hiking Season

Jack Pine, Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Generally, the Victoria Day weekend is the start of the hiking season in the Cape Breton Highlands area for many hikers. You can expect wet conditions, some windfalls, cold temps, winds and much more. Here are some tips to get ready for the season:

1) develop a checklist for your hiking equipment, then review the condition of each item, make notes of what is needed to be replaced. Then make sure everything is packed before you go out hiking on the trail. The checklist should include the following – whistle, map, rain gear, layers, trekking poles, extra pair of smart wool socks, gaiters, jacket, first aid kit, knife, hat, sun glasses, bug spray, and a camera with extra batteries etc.

2) Develop a training plan – a) start your hiking season with short hikes, b) then move on to medium hikes and then c) longer hikes. Build your strength up, get used to your equipment and then you are ready for some hiking challenges.

3) Every hiking season brings many special moments and memories. Always bring your camera with you, bring extra batteries and memory card. You never know what you might run into or find yourself in the right place at right time. Below is a pick of a spruce grouse that I almost ran into on the Clyburn Valley hiking trail in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park on the long weekend in May.