The 5 Products I Wished I Had On My First Hike

Last Sunday, I went on a hike at Macedonia State Park in Kent, Connecticut. My fellow adventurers included my soon-to-be-married best friends from college and my long term boyfriend, Josh. As the only novice hiker, I may have signed myself up with more than I should have. When the trail guide said “strenuous,” it wasn’t kidding. With over six miles of rolling up and down hills, including several sharp sheer rock inclines, I probably should have chosen an easier path.  Luckily, with my better eating habits and my increased stamina from my half-marathon training, I managed to get through the 4 hour long hike by the skin of my teeth.

An example of what “strenuous” trail can mean is this rock face we had to climb without any rungs for support.

The experience wasn’t all bad. I got to spend serious bonding time with my loved ones in the middle of a fall color explosion.

Beautiful fall days ALMOST make up for the Northeast snow.

At the end of the day, I did wish I had the following products to help make my trek easier.

1. Hiking boots. Proper footwear can make all the difference during a challenging hike. My running sneakers gave me proper support, but were neither water proof or had the proper grip I needed for this trail. All my hiking companions raved about their Merrell’s hiking boots. My plan is to pick up a pair ASAP.
2. Protein Bar.  During our rest breaks, I couldn’t help looking on with envy as my friends refueled with protein bars. I, trying to be health conscious, packed a bag of baby carrots as my snack. Big mistake. With challenging climbs, you need to refuel. Next time, I will eating a yummy carrot cake Clif Bar instead.
3. Backpack. I went out on the trail with only the clothes on my back. My boyfriend was kind enough to carry my food and water for me, but I quickly learned this is not the norm. Carrying my own supplies would have been smarter, especially if we wanted to split up. I plan on getting my own North Face backpack because it is versatile for both the hiking and my other life adventures.
4. Flash Light. Do not go out into the woods without a flash light. I REPEAT don’t go off into the woods without a flash light. No matter what time you head out or how long your trail, carrying a flash light is a must. Weather can change and you can get lost. On our trip, we managed to beat an impromptu storm, but thirty minutes later, we could have been stuck in the dark. I wish I had my own flash light with me, like this Eddie Bauer LED headlamp. That way I am guaranteed to see where I am going with my hands free to climb.
5. Moisture Wicking Clothing. As an experienced runner, I am not sure why I didn’t think to wear moisture wicking clothing on my hike. Nothing is worse a sweaty cotton long sleeved t-shirt in the cold. If I had this LLBean Power Dry long sleeved base shirt, I would have been much more comfortable.

Lesson learned: Even though I am enjoyed my quality time hiking with friends, next time I will make sure I am properly prepared.

Hiking a challenging trail is a great bonding experiance, as long as you survive!

Do you have any hiking tips to share?