Content creator and founder of Hike Life Roz Purcell talks to Brendan O'Connor on RTÉ Radio 1 about the little steps you take to get into hiking. Listen back above.
"The first step to getting into hiking, if you want to have a mission of becoming a hiker for summer, is just getting out walking in your local area right now, and building up that good pace, and getting time on your feet," Roz told Brendan.
"Then you can progress onto different terrains, maybe beginner hikes that are under five kilometers, getting used to forest paths and rocky trails, and building upon that."
From there, if you've decided you're going to commit your time to hiking the trails of Ireland, you can invest in a good pair of hiking boots to ensure your ankles are safe and supported.
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A great way to progress from beginner hikes to more intermediate trails, says Roz, is to join a hiking group. She recommends visiting Mountaineering Ireland to find a group in your area. Not only will you have some accountability and support while taking on your next challenge, but you'll meet a great group of people from all walks of life.
"You'll meet people of all ages now, I think hiking has become a really big thing in Ireland which is great because we're discovering our own island."
If you're based in Dublin, Roz recommends checking out the Howth Cliff Walk, Ticknock Forest Park (the fairy castle loop is beginner-friendly), Devil's Glen Forest, Bray Head, and the Sugarloaf.
For those in Cork, she suggests trying the Giant's Grave Loop, Moanbaun Forest, Old Head of Kinsale, Seven Heads Walk, Ballycotton Cliff Walk, Gougane Barra National Forest Park, and a trip to Lough Hyne if you want to add a swim to your day of activities.
Those around Galway may want to try Rinville Park, Glasheen Island, Salthill Promenade, Kilcornan Woods, and Abbey Hill Loop.
For more hiking tips, tricks and locations, listen back to Roz on RTÉ Radio 1 above.
