Hiking in a group offers several benefits and is generally recommended, especially for less experienced hikers. Here are some reasons why you should consider hiking in a group:
Safety - Hiking in a group provides an extra layer of safety as you can look out for each other and help one another in case of an emergency. There are more people who can provide assistance for example, if someone gets injured or lost, the group can work together to provide first aid, call for help, or locate the lost hiker. It's always better to have more people around in case something unexpected happens.
Motivation - Hiking in a group can be motivating, especially for beginners who may find it challenging to stay motivated on their own. Encouragement and support from others can help you push through difficult sections of the trail.
Socialization - Hiking with a group is a great opportunity to socialize, meet new people, and make new friends who share a common interest. Hiking with a group can also make the experience more enjoyable and social. You can share the experience, have conversations, and make new friends along the way.
Knowledge sharing - Hiking in a group allows you to learn from others who may have more experience or knowledge about the area or the trail you're hiking. In a group you can share resources such as water, food, or gear. This helps ensure that everyone is adequately prepared for the hike and can prevent individual hikers from running out of supplies. During a Black Girls Hike event, we usually provide snacks and tissue for those that need it but the quality of knowledge and networking that happens is priceless.
Navigation - When hiking in a group, you can work together to navigate the trail and ensure that everyone stays on the right path. This can be especially helpful if the trail is poorly marked or if it's your first time hiking in the area. We learn different types of trail markings and what they mean, directional differences (North, South, East, West) and how to predict if rain is headed our way.
Overall, hiking in a group can be a fun, safe, and rewarding experience that offers many benefits. It is a great way to stay safe, motivated, and engaged during your hiking adventures
Do you prefer hiking in a group or alone? Tell us why below!
Until then, happy hiking!