To choose your walking trail, you must first establish your objectives, think about what you want to see and experience, be aware of the time you have and take into account the season.
First, establish your goals in your walking trail
What’s the goal of your nature trip?
Are you just more capable of seeing orange cones, or do you want to explore all the ecosystems on the planet? Be honest with yourself and don’t play hide-and-seek with your current intention.
There’s nothing wrong with taking a leisurely stroll on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, and it doesn’t hurt anyone to try to outdo yourself.
Try to think about what you want to see in your walking trail and the experience to have
For this reason, I think it’s important to stay connected to what you feel.
If you just want to see some trees, you will be more flexible than if you absolutely need a gastronomic escapade to end your day.
You can be seduced by the attractions of a region you know, but don’t let that stop you from discovering other places.
Some parks offer exclusive access to waterholes, peaks or canyons, which can turn a quiet hike into a spectacular and unique experience.
And you’re lucky, good restaurants are everywhere in Quebec!
As interest in the outdoors skyrockets, parks are offering more services to set themselves apart.
It is therefore possible to make new friends and experiences.
Whether it’s a night walk where you’ll call the wolves, or a stay in a tree house, if you look hard enough you’ll find that little extra something that will make each outing feel unique.
Consider the time you have available
Unless you like to drive a lot, you won’t bother to drive 4 hours to do a 2 hour hike.
There are parks where you can hike in all regions of Quebec.
At the beginning, what you want is to create a habit, a connection.
Most parks will offer you different types of trails depending on your level, the time you have and the degree of difficulty you want to face.
Sometimes it’s better to do something less exotic and stay close to home so you have more time to walk.
After all, nature is beautiful everywhere.
Once you get there, consider the time of day you start your journey.
Plan to be back at least an hour before sunset. Try to choose an easy trail topography.
Of course, a trail that leads to the top will take you longer to hike than one that is hilly or flat.
Also take a look at the trail configuration. Usually the distance is marked from one point to the next on the site map.
If you’re going to the top, or on a trail that doesn’t loop, estimate how long it will take you to get back (yes, someone might not think of that!).
Consider the season
Depending on what you want to see, the season may influence your choice to go at specific times of the year.
For example, in the spring, it may be interesting to go near large rivers to take advantage of the presence of many migratory birds and in the fall in mountainous regions to better appreciate the contrast of colors.
Some trails are not usable all year round, so this may influence your decision to go to a place or not.
In winter, with snowshoes, many places that are not accessible in other seasons are available to you.
Each region has its own charm, each route offers different attractions depending on the season.
Evaluate the equipment you have
Certainly, if the only piece of outdoor gear you have is your old bivouac from your Scout days, you’ll make different choices than if you have four-season gear for extended trips.
This is a matter of priority. When hiking has become second nature to you, you won’t feel limited in your choices.
But until then, keep in mind that your level of equipment investment sets the foundation for your comfort.
The first piece of equipment you’ll need is a good pair of hiking shoes.
Then think about your backpack and clothing.
There is no limit to the amount of gear you can bring to increase your comfort in the outdoors. It’s really a matter of priority.
Alone or accompanied
Also, think about your fellow hikers and what type of trail will work best for them.
You need to consider the people you are hiking with and their skill level so that everyone can have a good time.
Also, if you like to hike with a dog or any other animal (horse, cat, hamster, crocodile, …) make sure that the place you are going to accept the presence of this animal.
It is not always the case!
Check the weather conditions
This is a very good habit to get into for all hikers to stay safe on the trail and to bring the proper equipment and layers of clothing in case conditions change during the hike.
Also keep in mind that the weather at the trailhead may be different than at the highest point of the hike.
Weather changes quickly in the mountains, so be sure to check specifically for conditions at the summit.
Checking the weather will help you plan your clothing and what to bring accordingly, and it can also help you decide if the trail is right for you.
Check if the day is going to be hot and the trail you plan to hike is sunny and exposed, bring adequate sun protection, or consider finding a shadier trail, at higher elevations with cooler temperatures, or near water.
If there is any chance of rain in the forecast, bring a light rain jacket.
If it has rained recently and some trails tend to be muddy, take that into account when looking for drier options.
Share your experience
It may sound egocentric, but when you share your questions, your emotions, your experiences there is a kind of magic that takes place, and it’s easier to connect with people like you afterwards.
You will quickly meet people with the same goals as you and their experiences will allow you to quickly learn a lot of things that would have taken you years of practice to know.
You’ll soon want to visit new places and all your practical questions will be answered in a flash.
Choosing the right hike will become second nature to you and you will be able to help others.
