Weekend Practice Hikes: Building Up to the Great Walks

Dreaming of tackling a multi-day trek like the Milford Track or the Routeburn Track? These “Great Walks” offer incredible scenery and a rewarding challenge, but they require preparation. Weekend practice hikes are the perfect way to build your fitness, test your gear, and hone your skills before embarking on a longer adventure.

Why Practice Hikes Matter

Jumping straight into a Great Walk without proper preparation is a recipe for discomfort, injury, or even failure. Practice hikes allow you to:

Improve your fitness: Hiking engages different muscle groups than your everyday activities. Regular practice hikes build strength and endurance.
Break in your boots: Blisters are a hiker’s worst enemy. Wearing your hiking boots on shorter hikes allows you to identify and address any problem areas before a multi-day trek.
Test your gear: Ensure your backpack fits comfortably, your rain gear is waterproof, and your cooking system functions properly.
Dial in your nutrition and hydration: Figure out what foods provide sustained energy and how much water you need to stay hydrated on the trail.
Practice navigation skills: Familiarize yourself with using a map, compass, or GPS device.
Build confidence: Completing progressively challenging hikes boosts your confidence and prepares you mentally for longer treks.

Planning Your Weekend Practice Hikes

A well-structured training plan is key to successfully building up to a Great Walk. Here’s a suggested approach:

Phase 1: Building a Base (4-6 Weeks)

Focus on increasing your overall fitness and getting used to being on your feet.

Frequency: 2-3 hikes per week.
Duration: 1-3 hours.
Distance: 3-6 miles (5-10 km).
Elevation Gain: Minimal. Choose relatively flat trails.
Backpack Weight: Light (5-10 lbs/2-4 kg). Carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
Example Hikes: Local parks, nature reserves, easy coastal walks.

Phase 2: Increasing Distance and Elevation (4-6 Weeks)

Gradually increase the distance and elevation gain of your hikes.

Frequency: 2-3 hikes per week.
Duration: 3-5 hours.
Distance: 6-10 miles (10-16 km).
Elevation Gain: Moderate (500-1000 feet/150-300 meters).
Backpack Weight: Moderate (10-15 lbs/4-7 kg). Add extra layers of clothing and a bit more food.
Example Hikes: Trails with rolling hills, gradual climbs, and varied terrain.

Phase 3: Simulating the Great Walk (4-6 Weeks)

Choose hikes that mimic the conditions you’ll encounter on your Great Walk. This includes terrain, elevation, and pack weight.

Frequency: 1-2 hikes per week, including at least one overnight hike.
Duration: 5-8 hours per day (for day hikes), 2-3 days (for overnight hikes).
Distance: 10-15 miles (16-24 km) per day.
Elevation Gain: Significant (1000+ feet/300+ meters).
Backpack Weight: Full pack weight (20-30 lbs/9-14 kg). Carry all the gear you’ll need for your Great Walk, including a tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and food for multiple days.
Example Hikes: Trails with steep climbs, challenging descents, river crossings, and exposed sections. Look for trails that allow camping.

Choosing the Right Trails

When selecting trails for your practice hikes, consider the following factors:

Location: Choose trails that are easily accessible from your home.
Difficulty: Start with easy trails and gradually progress to more challenging ones.
Terrain: Select trails with varied terrain to prepare you for different conditions.
Elevation Gain: Pay attention to the elevation gain to ensure it matches your training plan.
Trail Conditions: Check trail reports for information on closures, hazards, and weather conditions.
Permits and Reservations: Some trails require permits or reservations, especially for overnight camping.

Essential Gear for Practice Hikes

Use your practice hikes to test and refine your gear list for your Great Walk. Here’s a list of essential gear to consider:

Hiking Boots: Well-fitting, broken-in hiking boots are crucial.
Backpack: Choose a backpack with the appropriate size and features for your needs.
Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Include moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer layer.
Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and pants are essential for staying dry in wet weather.
Navigation Tools: A map, compass, and GPS device are important for staying on track.
First-Aid Kit: Carry a comprehensive first-aid kit with supplies for treating common hiking injuries.
Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir: Stay hydrated by carrying plenty of water.
Snacks: Pack high-energy snacks to fuel your body on the trail.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Bring a headlamp or flashlight for hiking in the dark.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from insects with insect repellent.
Trekking Poles: Trekking poles can help improve balance and reduce strain on your knees.
Camping Gear (for overnight hikes): Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cooking equipment, and food.

Safety Considerations

Hiking can be a safe and enjoyable activity, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions:

Check the Weather Forecast: Be aware of the weather conditions before you head out and be prepared for changes.
Tell Someone Your Plans: Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
Hike with a Buddy: Hiking with a friend is safer than hiking alone.
Stay on Marked Trails: Avoid getting lost by staying on marked trails.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards.
Carry a Communication Device: Bring a cell phone or satellite communicator in case of emergency.
Know Your Limits: Don’t push yourself beyond your limits.
Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in and minimize your impact on the environment.

Nutrition and Hydration

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for maintaining energy levels and preventing fatigue on the trail.

Hydrate Regularly: Drink water frequently throughout your hike, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Eat Frequent Snacks: Consume small, high-energy snacks every hour or two to maintain energy levels.
Choose Nutrient-Rich Foods: Focus on foods that are high in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
Pack a Variety of Foods: Bring a variety of foods to prevent boredom and ensure you’re getting a balanced diet.
Consider Electrolyte Replacement: If you’re sweating heavily, consider using electrolyte replacement drinks or tablets to replenish lost electrolytes.

Listen to Your Body

The most important thing is to listen to your body and adjust your training plan as needed. Don’t be afraid to take rest days when you’re feeling tired or sore. If you experience any pain, stop hiking and seek medical attention.

By following a well-structured training plan and paying attention to your body, you can successfully build up to the Great Walks and enjoy a safe and rewarding hiking experience.