Hiking Tips for Rising Early

I've had some conversations recently with some friends and members of the hiking group I lead about getting up early to drive to the mountains and hike, what to bring, how to know what to bring, etc.

I decided maybe a post about the tips I've used over the years might be helpful.

Most hard-core hikers....those of us who have been hiking all of our lives or those who basically call hiking their main sport (I fall into both categories), know to get up early.  Here in NYS, it's vital that a hiker get to the Adirondacks early mainly because they are so popular and parking is at a premium in many of the trailhead lots.

Here are some quick tips to get you up early so you don't miss your ride!

• Pack your backpack the night before!  If you keep the essentials stocked in your bag in an organized fashion, this shouldn't be arduous or take very long at all.  Things that are essentials: first aid travel kit, bug spray, flashlight, extra socks, extra wick away shirt or light weight jacket, biodegradable tissue, hand sanitizer, whistle, small notepad, pen or sharpie marker, a granola or protein bar.

Once I determine that the essentials are in the pack, I make my lunch for the hike.  I tend to pack the things that don't need to stay cold, which is usually everything except my water (or hummus).  Freeze your water bottle (sip a bit first to leave room in the top for the ice to expand) overnight in freezer to ensure that it stays icy cold throughout the hike. I pack at least 2-3 bottles. I always have a re-usable one I freeze (I buy the Pogo/ brand) and then I bring 2 regular water bottles or another pogo or camelbak.  NEVER leave trash in the woods/on the mountain so if you insist on buying plastic water bottles, make sure you place them back in your pack. Make sure you have protein, a fruit, veggies and whole grains.  All of these foods will give you energy.  Also pack your jacket (if needed) and place your hiking boots by the door.  I typically put my backpack right in my car before I head to bed. I add a pair of casual shoes to change into after the hike and I keep a bag of extra clothes in the trunk for changing if going out for dinner afterwards. I also make sure I have written an itinerary for the people left at home so someone knows where I will be in case of an emergency.  Make sure your cell phone is charged although there's rarely any cell service in the Adirondacks where I do most of my hiking.

• Lay out your hiking clothes for quick assembly in the morning.  If it's summer, I lay out my hiking shorts, a wick away shirt, a top layer and the hiking sox.  
• Take your shower before bed and that saves you a step in the morning plus showering before a hike just seems silly.
• STOP ALL ELECTRONICS AN HOUR BEFORE YOU WANT TO SLEEP. Believe it or not, the less screen time in the evening, the better your sleep will be. there's been research on this!  
• Go to bed like it's a work night. For me, that's 10:30 pm if I'm getting up at 5:30.  I work best on 6-7 hours of sleep.  Adjust your own sleeptime accordingly.
• Set your clock alarm (don't rely on a cell phone alarm!!) for 45 min-an hour before you have to be out the door. For example: if I'm driving and I know a friend is meeting me at my house to either ride with me or follow me up, and we're leaving at 6:30 a.m., I set my alarm for 5:30.  This allows time to get dressed, have a healthy protein packed breakfast, and use the bathroom/brush teeth.  I use minimal make up on hiking days....I tend to outline my eyes, and dab on a tinted moisturizer that is also a sunscreen. Grab your frozen water bottle, add it to your pack, and you're good to go!

Other tips:

• Double check your cell phone to make sure the hike is still on.
• Get to your meeting spot ON TIME.  Try to make it your goal to get to the meeting spot 5 min early.  This year, I'm not waiting around for people. I refuse to miss a parking spot because of others.
• If you really don't think you'll make it due to being tired, or not prepared, be honest with the hike leader and simply bow out. CALL the leader's phone to ensure that he/she gets the message.  Do not rely on social media/messenger app. (I know for my self I never check social media on the morning of a hike. I'm much too focused on preparing my body and mind for the drive up and for the climb).  No one will be upset!

The awesome thing about hiking is that it's free!  But make sure that you bring some cash or a credit card (to leave in your wallet safely locked in the car) for snacks or dinner on the way home!

Hopefully, these tips will be useful!  

HAPPY HIKING!