Hiking has a range of physical and mental benefits including lowering the risk of heart disease, improving blood pressure and regulating blood sugar levels. It can also help you strengthen your core, improve your balance and build resistance in the body.

But that’s not all; there are multiple mental benefits of hiking as well such as better mood and regulation of emotions. It can also reduce stress and has helped many people deal with their mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Hiking in spring time is even more glorious because you rarely have days when the weather isn’t perfect for exploring the great outdoors. You can dress more comfortably and head into the deeper end of your favorite trails.

Here are some tips for hiking in spring to make it more enjoyable for you.

Watch out for faster flowing rivers

Rivers and creeks tend to flow faster in this time because of melted snow so make sure you spend plenty of time researching and choosing your hiking trail. It’s also advisable to avoid going for higher peaks as these could still be buried in snow.

Most of the trails that are in elevated areas are likely to be wet and muddy so if you want clearer paths, stick to lower areas. Trails are also vulnerable to changing conditions during this time, so as a hiker, you should respect the environment and the area and avoid tramping in these areas.

Be prepared with insect repellant

Spring means plenty of flowers in full bloom, but these flowers invite all kinds of insects to pollinate them. One of your hiking essentials should be insect repellant, and mosquito repellant if you’re hiking at night. You should also pack plenty of sun block if you’re heading out in the morning because you don’t want to end the hike with severe sunburn.

Dress for the hike

Make sure you’re wearing waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots so you can make it over possibly waterlogged areas. Depending on your location, water proof clothing can help you prepare for unexpected spring showers and even hypothermia if your trail is in a mountainous location.

The weather is also more likely to change more often during this time and while it’s pleasant when you leave, it can get cooler in shady areas and warmer again when you’ve been hiking for a while. Make sure you layer up accordingly.

At Light Hiking Gear, we pride ourselves for presenting you an exclusive collection of hiking backpacks that are ideal for day hiking and long hiking trips. For more information about our products, you can contact us!