Hiking in Detail

In this post, I would like to bring you a little closer to the world of hiking. From walks through city parks to trips to national parks and mountain treks. Hiking is not just about walking from point A to point B—unless we are talking about a simple stroll through a park where you step onto a path, walk around, and turn back at the fountain. Even city parks have rules that, unfortunately, often go ignored.

That is exactly why it is necessary to write posts like this one—and more importantly, to get them to people so they are read and, ideally, so that everyone takes something away from them. Look at it this way: many of us occasionally feel lost or decide to go on a more difficult trip, only to be surprised by details we weren't prepared for. I’m not saying this applies to everyone; there are those among us who know hiking well and know how to prepare. But even for them, my post can serve as a reminder, because even an experienced hiker can make a mistake. And nature deserves more than just a visit and an Instagram photo. It deserves our humility, respect, and consideration. We can summarize these terms in one simple phrase: "love for nature."

My post is not written "from the top down" or in official jargon. It is written from the boots, from the backpack, and from the trails, where I have tested and found out for myself many times what I neglected or what I wished I had known before I set out. Hiking is not about who goes the furthest, but about who returns home safely, without injury, with positive experiences, memories, and the desire to head out again.

Even here in the Czech Republic, we have so many places to see, so there is no need to travel far to Norway, the Alps, or the Tatras. We have plenty of beautiful spots that deserve our attention. Let’s finally get to what this post brings and what it will inform you about.

My introduction was a bit longer, but I wanted to put all my thoughts into it. To make it easier for you to find what interests you, I have prepared a table of contents that divides the post into clear categories.

If you are only interested in a certain part right now, just click on its title and the article will scroll directly to that section. Of course, I’ll be happy if you read it all, but thanks to the list, you can quickly choose what is most important for you right now:

ARTICLE CONTENTS

KNOW YOUR LIMITS: DON'T OVERESTIMATE YOURSELF ROUTE PLANNING: A MAP IS NOT JUST A PICTURE MANDATORY GEAR: WHAT TO HAVE IN YOUR BACKPACK ETHICS IN NATURE: LEAVE ONLY BOOTPRINTS HIKING ABROAD: DIFFERENT LAND, DIFFERENT CUSTOMS TRAIL MARKINGS AND MOVEMENT IN PROTECTED AREAS

Know Your Limits: Don’t Overestimate Yourself

Every hike begins long before you leave the house; it starts in your head. And that’s where an honest question should be asked: what am I really capable of today? Not what I would like to manage, but what my body, the weather, and circumstances will allow.

Among my followers are all kinds of people, from "couch types" who enjoy watching Instagram, YouTube, and reading articles about nature, to experienced hikers who trek up Mount Everest or the Himalayas. But every one of us occasionally longs for adventure. And that’s where the question begins: do I have the strength only to walk to the fridge for milk, or to hike up Sněžka?

If you are a couch type attracted by beautiful nature and motivated by social media, but you don't want to pay for a cable car and want to do it on your own two feet, prepare yourself. Start with, for example, 10,000 steps a day, gradually 10 km a day, and then try test hikes: 15 km, then 20 and 30 km. It doesn't have to be uneven terrain; flat ground is enough. Once you can manage a longer hike without problems, you've won, and only then should you head out to somewhere like Sněžka.

I also started with walks around the neighborhood of about 12–18 km (for approx. 6 to 8 months). During these hikes, you can well test how your body reacts—within the context of what you already know about your health from your doctor, whether it's your heart, diabetes, musculoskeletal system, or other limitations. Thanks to this, you will know for yourself what you can afford and what load you can handle.

Remember that hiking is not a test of courage. Going up is always harder, but going down is even tougher; knees start to complain even for intermediate hikers. Even for the experienced, the descent is demanding; they are just used to it. The main thing is preparation, calmness, and joy from the journey, not impulsive actions. Hiking should be an enjoyment of the day, not a source of suffering.

Route Planning: A Map is Not Just a Picture

Every one of us knows maps, whether classic paper ones or apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Mapy.com (formerly known as Mapy.cz). For me, Mapy.com is ideal; they have excellently designed hiking trails and know the Czech Republic best. Their coverage of neighboring countries is also improving. Nevertheless, it doesn't hurt to have a paper hiking map with you; you never know when electronics might fail.

Before you start planning, it's important to know that 10 km on flat ground is not the same as 10 km in the mountains. Elevation gain, surface, technical difficulty, weight of gear—all of this can turn a short line on the map into a real challenge. A shorter route can hurt more than a long one.

That’s why it pays to plan your trek in advance:

• Check the terrain and elevation gain.
• Take the season and weather into account; don't head out into a storm, rain, or blizzard.
• Consider your physical preparation; if you can manage 30 km on a flat path, it doesn't mean you can manage 10 km in the mountains.
• Count on a time reserve of 20–30% for rest, snacks, or taking photos. This isn't pessimism, but sensible planning.
• Try to plan your return during daylight and think about the return journey; if you are driving, make sure you'll be fit to drive or arrange a backup driver.
• You must also consider the type of terrain: asphalt, forest paths, stones, roots, ridges, or snow. Every surface means a different tempo and load for your legs and mind. The map can tell you a lot, but always take into account your condition, gear, boots, and daylight hours.

Those who already hike regularly know what I'm talking about.

Mandatory Gear: What to Have in Your Backpack

Gear depends on where you are going and for how long. It's not just about "stuff in the bag," it's about safety, comfort, and common sense, so you can enjoy the trip and handle any unexpected situations.

1) For Beginners: The basics to always have with you

When heading out on your first hikes or if you want to be prepared for a sudden change in weather or light, keep these in your pack:

Basic Essentials:

• Water and food: at least 1-2 liters of water + energy snacks
• Map + compass (not just a phone): even if you use offline maps on your phone
• First Aid: medications, band-aids, bandages, blister care
• Light: headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
• Extra clothing: an extra layer, windproof and rain jacket
• Whistle: for emergency signaling
• Sun protection: sunscreen, glasses, hat
• Phone + Power bank: fully charged and with offline maps

This set of items is the foundation of the so-called Ten Essentials, the 10 most important items a hiker should always have.

2) For Day Hiking

For one-day trips, a relatively light backpack (20–30 l) is enough, but it should contain more than just water and a sandwich:

Backpack and Basic Gear

• Comfortable backpack (20–30 l)
• Enough water + backup (e.g., water purification tablets)
• Energy food and snacks
• Clothing according to weather: functional layers, not cotton
• Lighting: headlamp, even if you expect to be back before dark
• Navigation: offline maps, paper map, compass
• First aid + basic tools (knife, strap, duct tape, etc.)

3) Night Hiking / When darkness threatens

If you plan to set out so that you might finish your journey after dusk, your gear must be a bit better:

Light and Safety

• Powerful headlamp with spare batteries
• Backup light or flashlight
• Extra warm layers: even in summer, it can get cold in the evening, especially in the mountains
• Emergency clothing (e.g., space blanket or light down jacket)
• Signaling devices: whistle, reflective elements

Night hiking = higher risk, so light and orientation are absolute priorities.

4) Multi-day trips with overnight stays

When planning to sleep outside for several nights (in the forest, under the stars, or in a bivouac), the gear expands and the backpack is larger:

Sleeping and Camp

• Tent / tarp / bivvy bag
• Sleeping bag (according to season)
• Sleeping pad or inflatable mattress
• Stove + fuel + cooking utensils
• Extra clothes for changing every day
• Larger food supplies + cooking gear + liquids
• Hygiene needs: toiletries, gel, towel, biodegradable soap

Tips for All Types of Trips

✅ A map is not just a picture: a paper map is an immortal "backup" when electronics fail.

✅ Organize your pack by trip length: the longer the trip, the more volume and emphasis on comfort.

✅ Don't forget the reserve: extra food, water, and time.

✅ The further from civilization, the more you should consider "just in case" options (rescue blankets, signal whistles, backup lights, etc.).

Regarding Apple phones abroad, it depends on the specific model; some have the option to connect to a satellite for rescue. Not everything is available in all countries, and it's mainly for emergency situations where there is no signal. Other brands are gradually introducing similar options; for example, Huawei has its own solution.

For Apple Watch Ultra owners, there is also a signal siren, which can be useful in emergency situations: ideal if you wear the watch while hiking in remote areas. I recommend having a charging puck and a high-quality power bank with a USB-C port and sufficient capacity to charge both your watch and phone.

Ethics in Nature: Leave Only Bootprints

Nature is not a movie set. It is a home for animals, a silent world of trees and plants, and a space with rules that make sense. When we go somewhere, we should always respect the environment, the rules, and other visitors.

Before you head out:

• Find out where you are actually going and what rules apply there—whether it's a regular forest, a Protected Landscape Area (CHKO), a National Park (NP), or a nature reserve.
• In national parks, there is often a strict restriction on movement off marked trails; strict protection zones may be completely closed to the public.
• In CHKO, rules are more lenient than in NP, but entry into protected and quiet areas is still prohibited.

Marked trails are not there by accident. They lead through areas where they protect nature while guiding you safely through the terrain. Walking off-trail is not only disrespectful to nature but often dangerous for you as well.

Respect for Nature and Rules

• Never go off marked and approved trails.
• Not all areas are accessible everywhere and at any time; some sections close seasonally, e.g., to protect endangered species like the Capercaillie.
• In national parks and reserves, you will often encounter various signs and prohibited zones; respect them.

Trash and Leaving Things Behind

When you take food and drink with you, take the packaging back with you too.

• No trash in nature! This means no plastic packaging, papers, cigarette boxes, or any other wrapping.
• Even biological waste (orange peels, banana peels, nut shells) does not belong here because it is not native to the environment and disrupts the ecosystem's balance.
• Keep a trash bag in your backpack and dispose of it back in civilization (recycling is ideal).

Restrooms in Nature

When you need to go:

• Respect if a place is clearly marked as prohibited (e.g., near water sources or protected areas).
• If permitted, use a natural trench, carry a trowel, and always bury biological waste (meaning feces).
• Do not leave paper tissues loose in nature. If they are biodegradable, add them to the biological waste; if they are not, take them back with you in a bag.

Noise, Privacy, and Other Visitors

• Forests and parks are not places for noisy behavior.
• Respect other hikers and wildlife; animals also react to noise and get stressed.
• If you are struck by romantic urges, try to find a place designated for such activities; nature around trails is not an ideal spot, and you risk disturbing others' peace.

Campfires, Grilling, and Camping

• Never start a fire in the open wild.
• Nature is fragile, and in summer, the fire risk is high; a single spark can destroy hectares of forest.
• In some areas, there are designated fire pits or grilling spots; use them if available.

Sleeping Outside Civilization

• In many national parks and reserves, sleeping outside designated campsites is prohibited.
• If you want to sleep under the stars or outside a camp, verify this in advance; rules vary not only from country to country but also between individual protected areas.

Summary: What to carry in your pack and your head

✅ Respect for nature

✅ Knowledge of the area's rules

✅ No trash in the forest

✅ Proper restroom practices

✅ Silence and consideration

✅ No open fires outside designated areas

Forests, CHKO, and NP are places where you should leave only bootprints. That is the best "trace" a hiker can leave in nature.

Hiking Abroad: Different Land, Different Customs

When heading abroad, hiking can be completely different than at home, not only in terrain but also in rules. Each country has its own rules, fees, and customs. Therefore, it is important to verify everything in advance and not assume that it "works the same as at home."

1. Documents and Entry Requirements

• Check the validity of your documents (ID or passport depending on your destination) and whether the country requires it. Some states want a passport valid for several months after your return.
• Make sure whether you need a visa or other entry permits.
• Keep copies of your documents with you (e.g., on your phone or in email) in case of loss or theft.

2. Money and Payments

• In some countries, you pay entrance fees to parks, protected areas, or tourist sites, sometimes only in cash in the local currency.
• Not everywhere accepts credit cards; having cash in local currency is practical, especially in remote areas.
• It is also recommended to inform your bank that you will be traveling abroad so they don't block your card due to unusual activity.

3. Local Rules and Restrictions

• Every country has different rules for hiking trails, parks, and reserves; in some places, entry is free, in others, you pay.
• Check whether movement on some routes is restricted (e.g., seasonal closures for nature protection). Various areas, especially protected ones, have stricter rules than ours.
• Not everything is allowed everywhere; for example, camping, making fires, or gathering natural materials varies from state to state and park to park.

4. Insurance and Safety

• Before departure, arrange travel insurance with an additional limit for medical expenses and potential repatriation.
• Within the EU, you are entitled to necessary medical care via your card (EHIC), but even that might not cover everything.

5. Local Customs, Traditions, and Cultures

• Local residents often have different customs and expectations of behavior, so:
• respect religious and cultural norms
• follow local prohibitions and recommendations
• be considerate, especially in smaller towns or reserves

Practical Final Tip

Before your trip, make a small "checklist" for the country you are visiting:

✅ What documents are needed?

✅ Do I need a visa?

✅ What is the local currency and where can I exchange it?

✅ Are there fees for entering parks or trails?

✅ What are the local regulations on camping, fire, and trash?

Check all this in advance because "different land means different customs," and when you're prepared, hiking abroad will be a beautiful experience without unpleasant surprises.

Trail Markings and Movement in Protected Areas: Follow the Signs

When you enter a forest, CHKO, or National Park, the most important guide is not just the map on your phone, but the marked hiking trails. These lead you safely through the terrain while helping to protect nature. In the Czech Republic, the hiking trail marking system is one of the densest and most perfect systems in the world.

How Trail Marking Works in Czechia

In Czechia, hiking trails have their strip marking—colored stripes on trees, stones, or signposts that navigate you throughout the territory.

Markings for hiking trails look like this:

A white - colored - white stripe forms the mark. The middle stripe is the color of the trail.

• 🔴 Red: main or long-distance trail
• 🔵 Blue: major trail
• 🟢 Green: local trail
• 🟡 Yellow: short or connecting trail

In practice, this means that when you follow the red marks, you stay on one solid path and won't accidentally turn onto another trail with the same color.

When a trail changes or turns, it may be supplemented by an arrow or a multi-colored sign where multiple trails intersect.

Why Marking is So Important

1. Safe Orientation

• Marking guides you in the right direction without having to constantly check the map.
• In mountain areas, it provides clear information even in bad weather.

2. Nature Protection

• Hiking trails were designed to minimize impact on sensitive ecosystems.
• Walking off marked paths means destroying vegetation, soil, and animal habitats (even if it doesn't seem like it at first glance).

3. Protection Zones in NP

• In national parks (e.g., Šumava, Krkonoše, Podyjí, Bohemian Switzerland), territories are divided into protection zones; in some, there is free movement, elsewhere only on marked paths, or entry is prohibited. If a marked trail leads nowhere, it means that the place is closed for nature protection or quiet reasons.

4. Legislation and Safety

• In CHKO and NP, rules are not just recommendations; they are often legally binding, and their violation can have consequences.

TIPS on how to navigate the trails

Don't panic if a sign disappears

- Signs are usually every ~250m and clearly visible at turns; if they aren't, return to the last clear sign.

Map + Marking = Ideal Combination

- Marking shows you the direction, the map captures the terrain, elevation, and surrounding points of interest; both together are the best navigation.

Look twice at turns

- At some intersections, it may be multi-colored, which means trails are intertwining; pay a moment of attention to the signposts.

Markings Abroad

In other countries, marking can be different; some use different colors, symbols, or a completely different system (e.g., black or other marks). Therefore, always find out the local marking system in the NP/CHKO you are visiting, as it varies from state to state and sometimes region to region.

Summary for Readers

✅ Hiking trails lead safely and protect nature

✅ Marks have their colors and meanings (red, blue, green, yellow)

✅ Stick only to marked paths to minimize the risk of getting lost and damaging nature

✅ In NP/CHKO, movement off-trail may be prohibited; respect the rules

In Conclusion?

Hiking is not about performance, records, or proving something. It is about being outside, feeling good, and leaving the places you visit in the same or better condition than when you arrived. When you know your limits, plan sensibly, and behave respectfully toward nature, it will reward you with the best it has to offer: peace, silence, and the feeling that you were a part of it, not a problem.

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Important Disclaimer: This post is not an expert article or an official document. It is written as a summary of recommendations, experiences, and information that is publicly available and unified into one comprehensive text. It serves primarily as inspiration and guidance, not as a binding manual. The author is not responsible for the actions of individuals. Everyone is responsible for themselves, their decisions, preparation, and behavior in nature. Information in the article may help, but always verify it from official sources, follow current rules, prohibitions, and recommendations for specific areas. Just as we evolve, rules, laws, and times also evolve. What applied on the day this article was published may not apply tomorrow. Therefore, continue to educate yourself, check for current information, and approach nature with common sense and respect.