No matter how much you’ve done outdoors, you might still feel scared or nervous before or during an adventure. I know I do sometimes, even if I know my fears are a bit silly.
Recently, I went on a 10-mile hike. It started out sunny, so I wore shorts and a t-shirt. Since the hike was so long, I should’ve packed a raincoat, but I forgot. A couple of hours into the hike, dark clouds rolled in, and I started to panic. I kept thinking, “How could I forget my rain gear? Didn’t I read my own advice?” But we decided to keep going, and it turned out fine, except for a quick hailstorm. Even so, I had a hard time enjoying myself because I was so anxious and thinking about everything that could go wrong.
If I had packed the rain jacket, I wouldn’t have been so worried about the storm. I could have had a great day, felt proud of hiking 10 miles, and if it rained, it would’ve been no big deal.
I’m sharing this because maybe some of you feel the same way. It’s okay to have fears about the outdoors, and it’s completely normal! The important thing is to listen to the signs and be prepared so you stay safe.
To handle your fears and have a good time outside, you need to know when to be careful and when to keep going. Enjoying the outdoors means balancing taking risks with making smart choices. Sometimes you need to be cautious, and sometimes you need to be brave. Being ready for whatever nature throws at you is the key to having fun and staying safe.
Here are some tips to help you deal with common outdoor fears so you can enjoy your adventures with less worry.
Worry About Getting Lost:
On my first trip, near Peshastin Pinnacles State Park, we accidentally went the wrong way and ended up at the wrong lake. We only realized this the next morning when we checked our map. Although it messed up our plans and wasted a day, we were on a clear trail, so we just had to backtrack to get back to our car.
The second time was in Emigrant Wilderness, California, where deep snow covered the trail in early June. We didn’t have a map or GPS, and we got really lost. We spent a day and a half unsure of where we were and running low on food. Finally, we hiked up a ridge, and luckily, we found the trail again.
These experiences taught me that without the right tools and preparation, it’s easy to get lost. You might misread a sign, get distracted while talking, or the weather might change how things look.
The fear of getting lost is real, but you can avoid it with good preparation. Before heading out, make sure to:
- Pack a compass, a map, and download a digital map on your phone that works offline.
- Carry the 10 hiking essentials for safety.
- Tell someone your plans and when you’ll be back.
- Weigh the risks and rewards: a challenge can be good, but being unprepared is not. Be honest about what you can handle!
- Stay alert and aware so you can find your way back if needed.
- If you do get lost, remember: Stop. Think. Observe. Plan.
If you get lost, don’t panic. Stay calm, think clearly, and use your skills to find your way back.
Worry About Not Having Enough Gear:
If you’re worried about getting caught in the rain or being unprepared for your outdoor adventure, the best thing you can do is prepare as much as possible and then go with the flow. We can’t control the weather, and sometimes unexpected things happen, but that’s part of the adventure and learning outdoor skills.
Before you head out for a hike, backpacking trip, bike ride, or paddling adventure, make sure to:
Research Your Destination: Learn about the place you’ll be visiting so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
Check the Weather: Look up the weather forecast before you go, so you can pack the right clothes and gear for cooler temperatures if needed.
Carry Enough Water: Make sure you have plenty of water and sun protection.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothes and bring extra layers just in case.
Plan for Mountain Weather: If you’re hiking in mountains that get afternoon thunderstorms, try to finish your hike and be back below the treeline before noon.
Being prepared helps you handle whatever comes your way, making your outdoor adventure more enjoyable and safer!
Worry About Not Being Cozy:
Being uncomfortable often comes from being unprepared, so the best way to handle it is to prepare as much as you can and then accept the challenges that come your way.
You shouldn’t have to suffer from ill-fitting hiking boots, the wrong clothing, or not having enough layers. However, a bit of discomfort is just part of the adventure. You might get cold, wet, hot, sweaty, or dusty—but that’s all part of the experience. To really enjoy life and have new experiences, some discomfort is normal.
Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone, and this is true for outdoor adventures too. Here are some tips to help you manage and embrace discomfort:
Get the Right Gear: Invest in gear that will keep you comfortable. You can buy new gear, find good deals, or borrow from friends before buying your own.
Prepare for the Weather: Check the weather forecast and learn about the terrain so you can dress appropriately and bring the right layers.
Choose Comfortable Shoes: Make sure your hiking shoes fit well and are comfortable, and don’t forget about good hiking socks.
Embrace the Discomfort: Understand that feeling uncomfortable is part of the adventure and will make you stronger in the end. It’s all part of the experience!
With the right preparation and mindset, you can handle any discomfort that comes your way and enjoy your outdoor adventures to the fullest.
Worry About Bugs:
Bugs can be a big worry for people new to the outdoors. While flies and mosquitoes can be annoying and spiders or scorpions might seem a bit scary, there are simple ways to protect yourself and reduce your chances of getting bitten.
Insects are part of nature, so it’s best to not stress too much about them. Instead, use these tips to avoid them and stay comfortable:
Check out a guide on how to avoid and protect yourself from mosquitoes.
Be Tick-Aware: Learn how to prevent ticks and check yourself for them when you get home.
Prepare for Bug-Heavy Areas: If you’re heading to places known for mosquitoes or ticks, bring bug spray and wear lightweight long sleeves and pants.
Keep Your Tent Closed: When camping, keep your tent zipped up and don’t leave it open for long when going in and out.
Check Your Gear: Shake out your shoes and clothing before putting them on if they’ve been outside.
Have Allergy Supplies: If you’re allergic to bees or wasps, bring what you need to stay safe. If you encounter any, turn back or take precautions to stay safe.
Be Extra Cautious with Ticks: In the US, ticks are a serious concern because they can carry diseases like Lyme disease. For example, I once found a tick on my stomach during a trip in New Hampshire!
With these precautions, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures without letting bugs get in the way.
Worry About Starting New Activities:
It’s the night before your first mountain biking trip with friends, and you’re the only beginner. You’ve packed everything and gotten to bed early, but you’re worried about not being good enough or slowing down the group. You’re even thinking about skipping the whole thing.
I’ve felt the same way before. When I biked the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park, I was brand new to mountain biking. Even though I was super nervous, I saw it as a chance to learn something new.
Whether it’s your first time trying a new outdoor activity or getting back into it, it’s normal to doubt yourself. But the best way to build confidence is to just dive in. Here are some tips to help boost your confidence on outdoor adventures:
Start Small: Set a few small, achievable goals to build your confidence and skills.
Bring Supportive Friends: Go with friends who will encourage you and make the experience fun.
Be Prepared: Research the right gear and clothing you’ll need for your activity.
Stay Positive: Remember that challenges help you grow and become stronger. Things will get better with practice.
Also, try not to apologize for being slow or inexperienced. Instead of saying “sorry,” try saying “thanks for being patient” or “thanks for helping me out.” This shifts the focus from criticizing yourself to appreciating your friends’ support.
Remember, the more you get out there, the more confident you’ll become!
Worry About Not Being Fit:
Feeling nervous about being out of shape when trying an outdoor activity is completely normal. It’s a personal challenge, but spending time outdoors can help you get stronger, healthier, and feel better about yourself. Plus, it can boost your mood and confidence. You can read more about how hiking and spending time outdoors can be good for both your body and mind.
Here’s some advice if you’re worried about being out of shape:
Don’t Worry About Others: People are often more focused on themselves than on judging you. Taking the first step can be the hardest part, but it gets easier with time. Be kind to yourself and know that progress takes time but is worth it.
Set Small Goals: Start with a few achievable goals, like going for a daily walk or a weekly hike. These small steps will help you get closer to your fitness goals.
Prepare Physically: Work on improving your lung capacity or do some yoga to stretch and strengthen your body before tackling longer hikes.
Get the Right Gear: Use gear like trekking poles to help with balance and support, making your outdoor experience more comfortable.
Remember, it’s all about making progress and enjoying the journey, not being perfect from the start!
Worry About Meeting Wild Animals:
A big part of being good at outdoor activities is showing respect for nature and the wildlife living there. Even though encountering animals might seem scary, remember that they are probably more frightened of you than you are of them.
Wildlife attacks are rare, but it’s still important to be prepared. Before heading out, do some research on the wildlife in the area you’ll be visiting. Learn how to avoid them and what to do if you encounter them. Knowing how to respond can help ease your fears and keep you safe.
If you’re in an area with grizzly bears, carrying bear spray is essential, and make sure you know how to use it. It’s also a good idea to hike in groups if possible and make noise while you hike to avoid surprising a bear.
Respecting wildlife and being prepared will help ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Worry About Hiking Alone as a Girl:
Solo hiking is something many women are discouraged from, often due to well-meaning concerns for their safety. While it’s true that the outdoors can be risky and there are some dangers, women are not helpless, and it’s important to not let fear hold you back from exploring nature.
I remember my first big solo hike in 2014. After a tough breakup and being alone in Las Vegas, I decided not to wait for someone to join me. I drove to Zion National Park and got a last-minute permit for the Subway hike. It turned out to be one of the most empowering experiences of my life. Everyone I met on the trail was friendly and supportive, and I felt so proud for taking that step on my own.
Feeling nervous about solo hiking is normal, but you can stay safe and build confidence with these tips:
Choose Popular Trails: Start with well-traveled and popular trails instead of more isolated ones.
Share Your Plans: Let someone know your location and how long you’ll be out.
Be Prepared: Bring all necessary gear and navigational tools so you can rely on yourself.
Talk to Fellow Hikers: Chat with others on the trail and let them know where you’re headed, so people are aware in case of an emergency.
Charge Your Phone: Ensure your phone is fully charged and carry the essentials.
Carry a Safety Whistle: Use it to signal for help if needed.
Use a GPS Device: If you’re hiking in remote areas without cell service, a Garmin inReach Mini can help you call for help if you get lost or injured.
Stay Confident: Believe in your ability and enjoy your adventure!
Solo hiking can be a rewarding experience, and with the right preparation, you can safely enjoy the freedom and empowerment it brings.
