On our recent trip to Juneau, Alaska, we saw some incredible landscapes that took our breath away. One of the most amazing hikes the area has to offer is the West Glacier Trail, where you can get an up close view of the stunning Mendenhall Glacier. The 15-mile hike round-trip is quite a feat, and something we hadn’t undertaken in some time. So, I thought I’d mention a few of the things we did to prepare so you can ensure you know what to do the night before a hike. With that in mind, these are five things everyone needs to do the night before a hike to ensure success and make it the best you’ve ever done.
Chill Out the Night Before Hiking
The night before a hike, you should take the opportunity to chill out and relax. This means you don’t want to stay up too late. Instead, consider playing a board game, doing a puzzle, or reading about other hiking experiences. Another option is to get in touch with friends who might be planning to hike with you and discussing the upcoming hike. Or, if you’re traveling and not with friends, you can and learn how to watch Netflix together as you pass the time before bed. Whatever you do, make sure it’s not too taxing because you’ll regret it tomorrow. You also don’t want to feel rushed in the morning, so get up at a reasonable time to ensure you start the hike and give yourself enough time to finish is before it gets dark.
Eat Healthy Before You Hike
Eat healthy foods the day before a hike. Ideal foods include anything that gives you energy, such as carbs or sugar. Fruits and vegetables are always a good choice. Avoid eating spicy foods or anything that could mess with your stomach, as that’s a definite recipe for disaster. There are lots of ways to prepare and get cheap, healthy meals that provide you with the energy you need to make your hike awesome. Make sure you also bring healthy snacks to enjoy during your hike, especially if you have kids. A reluctant hiker could be persuaded to keep going if you have the right snacks to entice them. Don’t be afraid to bring cookies or treats, just have healthy options as well.
Drink Enough Water Before, During, and After a Hike
Long hikes can be brutal, especially in humid climates with plenty of inclines. Therefore, it’s imperative to drink enough water, starting the night before you go on a long hike. Avoid drinking alcohol, as this can make you groggy and lethargic in the morning. Staying hydrated before, during, and after a hike will keep you from feeling tired and prevents muscles from getting too sore. When you drink plenty of water, you’ll avoid getting a headache or feeling sluggish as you hike. We like to bring our hydration packs on longer hikes, but water bottles are perfect for shorter hikes.
Get Plenty of Sleep the Night Before
If you’re well-rested before you hike, you’ll enjoy the experience a whole lot more. Depending on the time you plan to start your hike—and the time you’ll get back home or reach your campsite—this could mean you need to go to bed much earlier than you normally do. Try to get at least seven or eight hours of sleep the night before your hike. This ensures you wake up energized and on time. Keep this in mind when planning your arrival and departure times.
Get Your Hiking Gear Ready
The last thing you want to do in the morning is rush around, stumbling to collect your hiking gear. You may have misplaced it, or it’s still packed in the bottom of your suitcase. Regardless of the issue, it could delay the hike. Meaning you miss a stunning sunrise at the peak or can’t get a good parking spot near the trailhead. So getting together your most essential hiking gear and equipment the night before a hike will save you time. It can help to get all your food and water ready beforehand too. This means all you have to do in the morning is get dressed and you’re good to go.
Know Where You’re Going Before You Leave
The most exciting hikes can quickly become a nightmare if you’re not fully prepared. A wrong turn here or there could result in you losing the trail or getting injured. Having an idea of where you’re going and looking at trail maps the night before the hike can help. Research any trail markers and things to look for that keep you on the right track. Keep this information easily accessible because your phone might not have the required information. Plus, there are many areas where you won’t have a good cell signal. Paper maps are a good alternative to have with you.
Get Prepared the Night Before a Hike
They say failing to prepare is preparing to fail. This is truer than you’d expect when it comes to hiking. Even supposedly easy walks can be dangerous if you’re unprepared, so make sure you understand what you’re getting into and what you need to do the night before a hike. Following these tips from some seasoned hikers can help you make it to the end of the trail and back.
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