Welcome to the trail
Your first hike.
One step at a time.
You don't need to know every trail or arrive with a crew. Joining Lifestyle Hikers is free, there's no membership fee, and plenty of people come to their first hike on their own.
Choose a hike that suits you
Every hike has a level from 1 to 10: 1 is the gentlest, 10 the toughest. For a first hike, pick something around Level 1–4: a river day or a walk with a few hills. Once that feels good, move up a level or two.
It's a hike, not a race. We move at the group's pace and take breaks together, so you won't be left behind. Meet our leaders →
Coming alone? That's normal. When you join the community you get the link to our members' group, where you can say hello before the day.
Costs & getting there
- Joining is free. There's no membership fee, and many of our hikes don't cost anything to attend.
- Meet-ups and carpools. Most hikers carpool or meet us at the meeting point shown on the hike page. Ask in the members' group if you need a ride.
- Out-of-town hikes. For hikes further out, we usually arrange transport at a shared cost. When there is one, it's listed on the hike page before you commit.
- Entry fees. Some places charge their own entry fee. If a hike has one, we'll say so in the hike details.
Every hike page shows the date, departure time, meeting point, level and any cost. If something isn't listed, ask in the members' group or email us.
What to bring
Comfortable footwear with good grip, plenty of drinking water, snacks or lunch, rain protection and a small backpack to keep your hands free. Put your phone in something waterproof.
River and waterfall days: bring swimwear and a change of clothes. Early starts are normal, so pack the night before. And leave room in your bag to carry your rubbish home.
See the full packing checklist →What to expect on the day
- The night before: check the hike page and the members' group for any last updates and the weather.
- At the meeting point: arrive on time (we leave early), introduce yourself and let the leaders know it's your first hike.
- On the trail: stay with the group, drink water often and speak up if you need a break.
- After the hike: check in before you head home, then find your next adventure.
Still have a question?
Email lifestylehikersja@gmail.com with the hike name and what you'd like to know.