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    On the trail

    Turn on your Explore Mode, get on your boots and set off on an adventure.

    On the trail
    1:00
    On The Trail
    Video by National Geographic
    ByNational Geographic Staff
    Published April 25, 2019
    • 3 min read
    This is Paid Content. The editorial staff of National Geographic was not involved in the preparation or production of this content.

    Setting off to blaze a trail in the great outdoors is an exhilarating and accessible prospect. We’ve teamed up with The North Face to inspire you to get out there and provide some useful tips.

    Be prepared

    Turn off your phone and embrace your freedom, but follow the example of old-school and explorers and make sure you have a map and compass. Getting lost is only fun if you’re able to get un-lost too.

    Go near or far

    Long-haul trips to exotic locations are amazing, but you needn’t break the bank to find adventure. Even if you’re based in the heart of city, it’s very likely you can reach hiking trails within a few hours of the city, or even within city parks themselves. All you need to do is a bit of research, get on your boots and set off.

    Get fit

    Adventure isn’t just for Olympic athletes. That said, it’s important to find out ahead of time what you’re letting yourself in for and making sure you’re up to the task. No matter your location, you’re bound to find something to match your fitness levels with a bit of research.

    Team up

    While solo hikes provide sustaining doses of peace and quiet, life on the trail is even better when shared with friends. Apart from just having companions to share your experiences with, it’s also useful to have extra hands on hand for camping or carrying equipment. Check out hiking clubs such as Ramblers for meet-ups and events.

    Equip yourself

    The right equipment is essential to making sure life on the trail is challenging but not dire. Check that you have the right amount of layers, as well as more specialised equipment.

    Go for it

    Following a path is great, but don’t miss out experiences that deviate off your chosen trail. Jump in that lake. Scramble over that wall. Turn on your Explore Mode.

    Exploring Gravina di Laterza canyon in Puglia.
    Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
    Ascending a ridge in Terre delle Gravina natural park.
    Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
    Camping outside Gravina di Riggio caves in Puglia
    Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
    On the trail in Terre delle Gravina natural park.
    Please be respectful of copyright. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
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    1 / 4
    Exploring Gravina di Laterza canyon in Puglia.
    Exploring Gravina di Laterza canyon in Puglia.
    Photograph by Jack Atkinson

    Turn on Explore Mode with THE NORTH FACE

    The North Face’s fundamental mission remains unchanged since 1966: Provide the best gear for athletes and the modern explorer, support the preservation of the outdoors, and dare to move the world forward, through exploration.



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