Physical activity offers many health benefits. Walking and hiking is fun and are great activities for both physical and mental health. Here are some general tips to follow to make your outing safer, more pleasant, and more fun:

1. Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes and socks.
2. Be courteous and observe trail etiquette – communicate with others and step aside to yield (when possible) when others approach you on a trail. Alert those in front of you if you wish to pass. Be considerate of others by keeping voices and noises unobtrusive.
3. Take water, and a snack, if you plan to be out for a while. (Remember - stream, lake, or river water might look refreshing and clean, but it could make you ill.)
4. Never feed or touch wildlife. And, do not attempt to move sick or injured wildlife, but report any encounters with sick or aggressive animals to park staff.
5. Always know where you are stepping – watch for snakes on trails. And, learn to identify poison ivy, oak and sumac and avoid touching those plants.
6. Don’t forget to use insect repellant. In addition, precautions such as walking in the middle of the trail and tucking long pants into your sock can help to avoid ticks and other insects. After taking off walking or hiking gear, check yourself for ticks.
7. Plan ahead, and check the weather.
8. Don’t toss your trash – not even biodegradable items such as a banana peel. Either place it in an appropriate receptacle or pack it back out with you. “Leave No Trace."
9. When taking a pet on a hike with you, be sure to keep it on a leash and keep it under control. Don’t forget to pack out pet waste, as well.
10. Leave what you find – the only souvenirs you should take are photographs, happy memories, and improved fitness levels.
11. Avoid short cuts or “cutting across,” to avoid damage to trails.
12. Take a cell phone (make sure it is charged), hike with a friend, or let someone know where you are going.

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