Tips for beginners - new to walking? Never fear!
It’s never too late to embrace the great outdoors and start your hiking journey.
Letting your feet guide you through beautiful scenery and over rugged terrain is one of the most satisfying ways to enjoy Tasmania’s spectacular landscape
No matter what age you are or your level of physical ability, walking and hiking can be enjoyed by everyone. With our hiking tips for beginners you can be sinking your feet into the world in no time!
Join a guided walk for beginners Don’t go booking a solo hike of Everest just yet! Beginners should start with a guided walk that takes the pressure off trying to organise the route, maps and points of interest so you can just focus on your footwork. On a guided walk you’ll be supported by professionals who know the area like the back of their hand and can share their knowledge of local history and wildlife with you.
Start walking today. You might not be prepping for a marathon but it’s still a good idea to consider some training before embarking on a guided walk or hike. Break in your hiking shoes well in advance by exploring different terrains and challenging yourself to up-hill walks that can give you a good idea of your fitness levels and what you need to work on.
Pack light, but right! As a hiking beginner you might be tempted to invest in the best gear, but you really don’t need to. In fact, you probably have everything you need already hanging in your wardrobe. Be sure to check the weather forecast in advance and pack plenty of layers that can be whipped on and off with ease*. And, don’t forget a comfortable pair of shoes that you’ve worn in. Blisters are not fun! If joining a guided walk, check in with the team to get an idea of the gear provided – many hiking tours will have quality rain jackets, day packs and other essential items for your use. *unsure of what to pack? Get in touch for your free multi-day hike packing list here.
Take photographs If you’re exploring somewhere like the Freycinet Peninsula with it’s red-orange rock formations and potential whale or Tassie devil sightings, you’ll definitely want a camera to hand. Try and find a balance between hauling all your fancy equipment around or deciding if your iPhone will do to capture those perfect shots.
Learn the etiquette Hiking is all about relaxing in the great outdoors but there’s a couple of unwritten rules that might help you along the way. Did you know hikers going uphill have right of way? Plus, don’t forget to say ‘hello’ when you pass someone. And, most importantly, hikers are expected to leave things just as they found them, so be sure to do your bit to protect the environment and leave no trace of rubbish or damage in your path.
Want to explore Tasmania’s East Coast? Check out our multi-day guided walking tour of Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula here.