Tips for hiking beginners wanted? Here you’ll find 5 easy ways to get into hiking without stress – no pressure, just joy in nature.
At the beginning, don’t worry too much about clothing. Grab some comfortable shoes, something to drink and just get going. Especially at the start, it’s about clearing your head and enjoying the fun of moving around in nature.
Tips for hiking beginners
I myself started out with tours organised by the IVV (Internationaler Volkssportverband). Every Sunday, a hiking event takes place somewhere in Germany. For the Saarland, you can find dates and information here, for example: IVV-Wandertermine Saarland.
Registration usually takes place in a local sports hall. You pay a small fee (back then around 1.50 Euro) and can choose between route lengths of 5 km, 10 km or 20 km. Every 5 kilometres there is a small refreshment station with drinks, fruit and sometimes small snacks. Perfect for gathering your first experience!
Another highlight: sports halls often also have stands set up by other clubs promoting their upcoming hiking events. There you can discover new destinations on the spot – often beyond the region, for example in France or Luxembourg. So you always know where the next tour is waiting for you!
Only when you’re walking longer distances should you really think about good footwear. I wear the Salomon Speedcross, for example – lightweight hiking shoes that offer good grip and don’t slip even on uneven paths.
If you prefer to head out on your own, I recommend the Traumschleifchen in the Saar-Hunsrück. These small premium routes are usually only 3–6 kilometres long, beautifully signposted and walkable at any time. No stress, no time pressure – just follow nature.
🥾 1. Start with short routes
Start with routes under 8 km – that way you can get used to pace, terrain and endurance without overdoing it.
🎒 2. Less is more when packing
A small backpack with water, a snack, a plaster and a light jacket is perfectly sufficient. You don’t need to bring half your household.
👟 3. Good footwear is essential
Comfortable, worn-in shoes with good grip make all the difference. They don’t have to be high-end hiking boots – but they should be secure and non-slip.
🌿 4. Go at your own pace
Don’t let anyone rush you. Hiking is not a competition. Enjoy your surroundings and listen to your body. Breaks are allowed – and important.
🗺️ 5. Use simple navigation
Apps like Komoot or marked circular routes help you get started. That way you can focus on the experience – rather than on navigation.
Conclusion
As a hiking beginner, hiking doesn’t have to be a science at first. The main thing is to get outside, breathe deeply and enjoy nature. Everything else comes with time!