by Sandra Jones

Hiking is a popular hobby in the Natural State.  I got hooked on it about five years ago when my son and I spent an early summer morning hiking Mt. Nebo.  We had a fantastic time and agreed that we should explore a different trail each week. Thus the weekly tradition began, and from Mt. Magazine to Pinnacle Mountain to Petit Jean, we covered many miles that summer.

A few weeks into our adventures, my husband became interested and began planning weekend hiking trips.  We started with the basics, utilizing the wonderful, very well maintained trails of the Arkansas State Parks.  As the number of trails completed and miles trekked grew, we became more confident and decided to try more challenging trails in the Ozarks and Ouachitas.  It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to explore Arkansas.

Along the way, however, we’ve made our mistakes, mainly because of our lack of preparation.  To have a good time on the trail, one must be well equipped.  Based on my experience, there are five important items that every hiker needs.

Number One

A good pair of hiking shoes.  I have hiked in sandals, flip flops, running shoes and even ballet flats.  They have all left me with aching feet, and sore muscles.  Hiking shoes are made specifically to handle rough, rocky terrain, supporting the feet and ankles on every step.  The soles are covered in a rough tread because traction is almost always necessary, especially on wet rocks.  They don’t have to be expensive; prices start at $20.

Number Two

A backpack that fits.  When I first started hiking, I would take needed supplies in an old discarded school backpack.  It was fine for the first half mile or so, but then it began to get very heavy, an enormous burden on my back and shoulders.   I didn’t realize at the time that it was much too large for my short body.  I did some research and discovered the world of hikers’ backpacks.  They come in various shapes and sizes, are rated for short, long or overnight hikes, and are made with materials that are waterproof and breathable.  I also learned that, just like clothing, the hiker should always try on perspective backpacks.  Going to a store that specializes in hiking, taking the time to try on and carefully choose my backpack was one of the best hiking decisions I have ever made.  My back and shoulders thank me every time we hit the trail!

 

Number Three

A map.   Even when hiking on the state park trails, if trails intersect, it can be confusing.  Fortunately, each state park has maps that can be accessed online or in their respective visitor center.  They are a great tool not only for guiding hikers but also for noting specific highlights on the trail.

Number Four

Knowledge of the trail.    I will never forget the first time I hiked to Twin Devil Falls in the Richland Creek Wilderness with my son and husband.  According to the guide and map, the hike was only two miles, so I packed my backpack with a few granola bars and a couple of bottles of water.  Little did I realize that these two miles were in the extremely rugged terrain.     In fact, we traveled at a speed of less than one mile per hour.  When we reached the falls, we were ravenous, and our energy was spent.  The small supply of food and water helped a little but left me very concerned about the trek back to the car.  Finally making it back safely, we inhaled the sandwiches and gulped the extra water that were stashed in the car.  We were very lucky that day, in my opinion, and probably could have prevented any discomfort and/or injury had we done a bit more research on the area. I vowed never to make that mistake again!

Number Five

A sense of wonder.  There are so many amazing things to see in the Arkansas outdoors.  The list is endless:  towering bluffs, phenomenal overlooks, spectacular waterfalls and cascades, interesting wildlife, cool, dark caves and beautiful flowers, just to name a few.  Each trail that I have hiked in Arkansas has so much to offer, and, before I take one step, I check my attitude.  Am I ready to discover something unique, or experience something new?  Can I forgo the worries of the day to enjoy this precious time in nature?  Am I willing to find yet another reason to love Arkansas?  Can I be open to the great story that’s about to unfold?  A wholehearted yes should be answered, but, of course, I know that’s not always possible.  However, even an attitude slightly bent in that direction will be significant in a successful hike because, once the first few steps are taken, the trails of the Natural State undoubtedly has a positive effect on a person’s demeanor.

Arkansas is a great state for many reasons, among them the hundreds of miles of trails that can be explored.  It’s a hobby that, with a little preparation, can be very enjoyable.

 

I am a wife, mother, and co-owner/manager of Gallery B, a photo gallery in Russellville, Arkansas.  I like to write about the pictures in the gallery, my family and our adventures.  Check out our gallery at http://www.kurtjonesphotography.com  or our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/kurtjonesphotography.  My blog can be accessed at trekkermom.wordpress.com.