I have been getting a lot of questions about Healthy Community Coalition’s physical activity grant initiative, Mapping Our Footsteps, with many people expressing interest in the program, but hesitant because we use the phrase “hiking trails” quite a bit.
For many people, the term “hiking” implies a variety of stereotypes- such as bearded men with walking sticks (Al Diamon must be a hiker) and L.L. Bean hiking boots (with matching backpack, of course), climbing up steep mountainsides and dangerous rocky precipices. I find that the mere mention of the word “hike” causes many people to hold up their hands in dismay, as if trying to ward off some evil spirit (I also get this reaction when I tell people how much fat is in a Big Mac). For some people, hiking implies that you need special equipment, as well as a certain level of fitness and the desire to spend days, perhaps even weeks, in the woods. But what I’m really talking about when I say “hiking” is taking a walk in the woods – that’s all. Hiking/walking (or skipping, jumping, frolicking, schlepping- whatever suits your mood) through the many trails in Greater Franklin County is one of the easiest ways to get outside and get active… for FREE.
The definition of hiking is “to walk or march a great distance, esp. through rural areas, for pleasure, exercise, military training, or the like.” The official definition of walking is “to move about or travel on foot for exercise or pleasure.” Both are physical activities used for pleasure and exercise. The only difference (aside from military training) is the distance. And what defines a great distance, anyways? I’d say that depends on the individual. What I’d consider a phenomenal hike (like Center Hill in Weld, on snowshoes, thank you very much) others would think of as a nice little walk in the park.
Unlike some outdoor activities, hiking and/or walking requires little or no money. Despite what many outdoor retailers would have you think, you don’t need any special equipment to go for a short hike/walk. I don’t own any of the following: hiking boots, walking stick, back pack with hydration system, GPS unit, and there is no GORP to be found anywhere in my house. What I do use when I go for a hike includes: comfortable sneakers with good treads, my kid’s old school back pack, a compass, water bottle and some granola bars.
Whether you are going for a quick walk at lunchtime or a day long hike, you should always practice sensible outdoor safety. Always know where you are going. I cannot stress this enough. If you are not familiar with the area, don’t leave the marked trail because it is easy to get lost in the woods (I speak from personal experience). You can print off easy to read maps of various trails at www.mainetrailfinder.com. All of the trails listed on the Maine Trail Finder are clearly marked, so it would take a lot of effort to get lost on any of them. A compass is handy if you find yourself lost- but only if you know how to use it (again, I speak from personal experience). Bug spray and sunscreen (SPF15 or higher) should be applied before you go into the woods and reapplied if you plan to be out for the day. Water and some snacks are also a good idea if you plan to be out for an extended period of time. As for those babbling brooks and streams that meander harmlessly through the wood s- don’t drink out of them, unless you want to risk spending the next day in the bathroom.
And, (the obligatory disclaimer) you may want to check with your doctor before beginning any new physical activity.
For more information about trails in your area, visit www.mainetrailfinder.com. If you would like more information about Mapping Our Footsteps or to volunteer please contact Healthy Community Coalition Program Coordinator Lorri Brown at 779-2929 or ljbrown@fchn.org
