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Hiking Essentails

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About Course

The curriculum of the Hiking Essentials is broken into 8 units, each with specific learning objectives, key topics, activities, and resources. The course is completed in a single day. It is a very practical and fast moving Course, assessment is confirmed by both practical demonstrations and online.

Course Dates

14th July – 20th July – 28th July – 1st August – 9th August – 2nd September

What Will You Learn?

  • By the end of the one day (4 hours) course on Hiking Essentials, you'll typically learn the fundamentals needed to safely and enjoyably start exploring trails. With the hands nature of this course you will gain valuable experience and confidence.

Course Content

What is Hiking?
Objective: Understand the basics of hiking and its benefits. Topics: Definition and types of hiking (day hikes, thru-hikes, etc.) Physical and mental health benefits Hiking vs. walking or trekking History and culture of hiking Activities: Group discussion: Why do people hike? Watch a short documentary on hiking adventures Personal goal-setting exercise Resources: Introductory hiking videos (YouTube: REI, The Outbound Collective) Infographic: Benefits of Hiking

Gear and Clothing
Objective: Identify and properly use essential hiking gear. Topics: Footwear types (trail runners, hiking boots) Clothing layers (base, insulation, shell) Backpack basics Trekking poles, headlamps, and hydration systems Activities: Hands-on gear demonstration Pack a backpack activity (with weight test) Gear checklist creation Resources: REI's gear checklists Outdoor gear guides (printable)

Navigation and Trail Skills
Objective: Learn how to read trails, maps, and use navigation tools. Topics: Trail markers, blazes, and signs Topographic maps and trail maps Compass basics and GPS apps (AllTrails, Gaia, etc.) Route planning and trip logs Activities: Map-reading exercise Compass navigation practice (orienteering course) Plan a hike using an online app Resources: Printable topographic maps Compass tutorial handouts

Safety and First Aid
Objective: Learn to stay safe and respond to common hiking injuries. Topics: The “Ten Essentials” Risk assessment (wildlife, weather, terrain) Common injuries (blisters, sprains, dehydration) Basic first aid and emergency procedures Activities: First aid roleplay scenarios Ten Essentials scavenger hunt Emergency planning workshop Resources: First aid kit demo Red Cross first aid basics

Leave No Trace Principles
Objective: Practice responsible and sustainable hiking. Topics: 7 Leave No Trace (LNT) principles Human waste disposal Wildlife interactions Trail etiquette Activities: LNT principle skits or posters Trash pickup challenge Group discussion on ethical dilemmas Resources: Leave No Trace Center resources Printable LNT pocket card

Fitness and Preparation
Objective: Build physical fitness and mental readiness for hiking. Topics: Conditioning for hiking (strength, cardio, flexibility) Stretching and recovery Mental stamina and mindset Activities: Hiking warm-up and cool-down routines Guided breathing or mindfulness walk Pre-hike workout plan creation Resources: Beginner hiking fitness plans Simple home workout guides

Environmental Awareness
Objective: Understand ecosystems, flora, and fauna encountered while hiking. Topics: Local geography and biomes Plant and animal identification Invasive species and trail conservation Activities: Nature journaling Scavenger hunt for native plants Wildlife tracking basics Resources: Field guides (regional) Mobile apps: Seek by iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID

Planning and Leading a Hike
Objective: Apply all knowledge to plan and execute a real hike. Topics: Choosing trails (distance, difficulty, features) Weather checks and timing Group dynamics and leadership roles Activities: Group hike planning session Peer presentations on chosen trails Capstone: Lead or participate in a group hike Resources: Trail websites (AllTrails, GaiaGPS) Trip planning worksheet

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