Hiking in the Backwoods of Tennessee - 10 Tips

If you are planning on exploring some of the "Backwoods" and forests of Tennessee, you're going to need to take some safety precautions. I have some easy but necessary hiking tips for the Beginner Adventurer. I have been hiking in the deep, lush woods of Tennessee for about 14 years now so I've experienced my fair share of wildlife encounters, poison ivy, ticks, torrential down pours, and much more. Here are a few things I do before and during my hiking excursions that ensure that I have a wonderful and safe experience.

I suggest that you follow these 10 easy tips if you are planning on enjoying the Back Woods of Tennessee during your summer vacation.
TIP # 1: Wear khaki or light colored pants. If you're like me, you hate deer ticks and poison ivy. Light colored pants make it easier to see the ticks crawling on you. The pants are also a barrier against poison ivy, oak, sumac, or anything else that might give you an unpleasant rash.

TIP # 2: Wear a light colored or white cotton shirt. Once again, you can see deer ticks easier on light colored material. Cotton breathes so you'll feel cooler. If you get caught in a torrential down pour your shirt will dry quicker. If there are hunters in the area they'll see you easier as well.

TIP # 3: Wear comfortable shoes or hiking boots. Nothing can cramp a hiking trip like uncomfortable shoes. Blisters are unpleasant reminders of this. I prefer water-proof boots because they give more ankle support and keep my feet dry.

TIP # 4: Know where you are going and give yourself adequate time to get back or set up camp. Let someone know where and when you are going to hike in case you get lost. Check local maps or posted trail header maps. Look at where you are in relation to the sun when you begin your excursion. Start early in the morning and you'll have plenty of time.

TIP # 5: Bring plenty of water. Hydration is always important when participating in a physical activity.

TIP # 6: When you are walking along a trail, never look down at your feet. . . always look ahead at the trail. This puts less strain on your neck and also helps in spotting snakes that might be sunbathing in the middle of your path. Trust me, this has saved me from treading on many Cotton mouths. It has also saved me from territorial bucks(male deer) who may have charged me if I didn't first see them and then stop and wait until they left.

TIP # 7: Bring a pocket knife. You never know when you'll need it but it is good to have.

TIP # 8: Use common sense. Observe and respect your surroundings.

TIP # 10: Have Fun! Hiking is a wonderful way to relax. Forget about your problems at home and at work. When you're having fun and enjoying your hiking excursion you are improving your mental and physical health.

I assure you, if you follow these 10 easy tips, you will better your chances of leaving the Back Woods of Tennessee happily and safely. Below are a few places that I suggest you visit on your first hiking excursion, when in Tennessee, and a link where you can find more information about them.

Fall Creek Falls State Park
Lucius Birch, Jr. Forest
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Natural Area
Cedars of Lebanon State Forest Natural Area

http://state.tn.us/environment/na/natareas/