Common Sense Hiking
Hawaiian Style


If you don't consider yourself an experienced hiker, this is for you.


  • Hiking is an exercise ranging from mild to strenuous depending on the terrain of the trail.
  • If you can't walk 10 blocks in the city, hiking is not for you.
  • Trails are not sidewalks. You must pay attention to where your feet goes.
  • Trails do not have street signs. Either stay with your guide or learn to carry and use a map.
  • Forests have bugs; it's their home. If they "bug" you, bring and use insect repellent.
  • Forests often have rain; bring rain protection.
  • Forest floors are often muddy and uneven; wear adequate shoes or boots.
  • Ridges can get windy; bring a jacket or sweater.
  • Hiking can be hard exercise; you will get hot and sweaty. Bring at least 2 quarts of water to drink.
  • Hiking is hungry work; bring a good lunch or snack.
  • Don't hike alone - hike with a buddy or group for safety
  • Don't take unnecessary risk. Be safe
  • Watch the weather - it can change fast.
  • Forests get dark fast. Keep track of time, allow enough to get out before dark.
  • Unexpected events can happen. Consider bringing these:
    • First Aid Kit - bandaids, tape, your medications, Aspirin or Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
    • Cell phone - fully charged - to call for help
    • Something bright - yellow or orange shirt, bandanna, hat, etc.
    • Whistle - three blasts for help
    • Small LED flashlight - just in case it gets dark.
    • Warm shirt or fleece - for the "chillies"
    • One or two big plastic trash bags - for sitting and rain protection of your gear.
  • Leave a note with your family/friend telling them:
    • Where you're going hiking
    • When you expect to return
    • What you're wearing (type of clothes, color)
    • Who you're going with
    • Your cell phone number
    • How you're traveling (bus, car - license number, catch ride, etc.)
    • Who to call if you don't get back in a reasonable time.
  • Carry some ID and money; have a cuppa coffee or a cool drink after the hike. You've earned it!
Sounds like a lot? Nah, not really. After you've done it once, it all fall into place.

What's in your Day Pack?

You DO need a daypack to carry all this stuff. Get one big enough to carry a jacket, water and lunch. All the other stuff will fill the nooks and crannies. Here's the list:

  • Daypack with shoulder straps - it keeps your hands free.
  • 1 or 2 quarts of water. Soda pop is okay for lunch, but you still need 1 quart of water.
  • Nice lunch - sandwich, small bento, 2 spam-musubi - your call
  • Rain/wind jacket
  • Small first aid kit in a Zip-Loc bag.
  • Cell Phone - fully charged
  • Small flashlight
  • Bright bandanna or cap
  • Insect repellent
  • Light fleece, wool shirt or cheap sweater
  • Large plastic trash bags

What you leave behind.
  • Note for your family or friend
  • MP3 player or IPod. You're out to enjoy nature; don't zone her out with your music.

Happy Hiking!

Jim Yuen,  April, 2008

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