Hi every1 , Im an new hiker thats very excited to be a part of this community . I cant explain how much I want to be on the trail
Anyway , my question is how long should I go out for my first long distance hike . I dont want to overwhelm myself , but I also dont want to be shortchanged .
Tips any1
_Smokey_ If you have new equipment I would go out for a night or two just to make sure everything is working and you know how it works. Then I would try a week long hike. In one week you would be able to experience what its like to hike day after day and even fit a town stop/resupply in the middle. If you are out for a week and had fun and can't wait to get back out then you will be hooked for good!!
_Big B_ Hey Smokey, I agree with Big B and will add some recommendations. A good one-week or more (8-11 days, typically) with relatively easy logistics and lots of bang for the buck is Mt. Rainier's Wonderland trail. It's just under 100 miles, is designed as a loop, nice campsites (privies at each one), and so on (just google "Wonderland Trail" &/or YouTube). Another nicely designed loop (easy logistics) that's a bit longer one, at 165 miles is the Tahoe Rim Trail. You will gain valuable experience by gradually increasing the length of the trip. You will learn how to pace yourself, adapt over time, how to deal with resupplies, and so on.
_trek-or_ if you want to see how you will feel on a multi-month hike it takes me 2 weeks to be tuned up after that it's all about the same barring injuries
_George_ I agree with trek-or. I have hiked the Wonderland Trail, as well as most of the other trails at Mt. Rainier. It's a beautiful loop, especially in early August when the wildflowers are at their peak. If you're interested in hiking it or have questions, feel free to contact me. :)
_Gator_