Hiking in The Wild
When was the last time you got away – as in, really got away? If you’re looking for a change of scenery or pace and you don’t mind physical exertion, a long-distance wilderness hike might be a good option. The Comeragh Mountains offer countless miles of well-maintained hiking trails, including many long-distance trails that stretch for hundreds or even thousands of miles.
Fitness level is another important consideration. Even on level ground, hiking is hard work – especially if you haven’t trained for it in a while. A couple of days on the trail can take a lot out of you. If you haven’t hiked in a while or simply want to take your time to smell the roses, it’s best to limit your hike’s duration.
A good rule of thumb is that a long-distance hike is any hike that would take the place of another type of trip or vacation. It could be as short as a full day without an overnight component (replacing a day trip), take place over the course of a weekend (replacing a sedentary weekend getaway) or replace a longer vacation of a week or more. Of course, you can complete a long-distance hike as one part of a longer trip – staying in Rathgormack Hostel for a few days and then heading out on the trail for another few days.
While the length of your hike is affected by your fitness level, the terrain you intend to travel, and simply how much time you can spare, there are certain considerations and safety precautions that can help you get the most out of your trip.