How to Prepare for Your First Nature Walk — a gentle beginner’s guide

My Nature Guide teacher, Marc Migon geeking out about a tree on one of our first walks together

The first time I joined a guided nature walk, I worried I wasn’t “outdoorsy enough.” I wore cheap hiking boots from Lidl, my backpack was the same one I use to tote my computer around, and I had no idea how much I was supposed to prepare beforehand.

But as soon as the group set off, I realized none of that mattered. The leader welcomed everyone with a smile, the pace was relaxed, and the only real requirement was curiosity. Honestly, the first thing that really left a mark on me was the intellectual humility of our guides. A nature guide doesn't know EVERYTHING and certainly doesn't expect their participants to know more than they do!

Still, a little preparation can make your first nature walk smoother — so here are some tips to help you feel confident and comfortable.

1. Wear the right shoes

You don’t need expensive gear, but sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential. Sneakers are fine if the trail is gentle; waterproof shoes or boots are better if it’s muddy or uneven.

Think: “shoes I don’t mind getting dirty” — not “fashion first.” Make sure your shoes are suitable for the weather. I once wore thin soled hiking shoes for a Nature Walk in the middle of winter and spent the whole walk complaining about my frozen feet rather than actually enjoying my time in nature.

2. Dress for the weather

Layers are your best friend. A light jacket in spring, breathable clothes in summer, a scarf or gloves in winter. Nature doesn’t have heating or air conditioning, so dress in a way that lets you adapt. Wear a hat that's adapted for the weather. Make sure you carry a bag large enough to store all of your extra layers if, by happy accident you find yourself blessed with beautiful weather.

A small tip: avoid jeans if rain is possible. Wet denim stays wet a long time!

3. Bring the basics

For a beginner-friendly walk, all you really need is:

• Water (hydration makes everything better)

• A snack (a handful of nuts, fruit, or a granola bar keeps energy up)

• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

• Curiosity (the most important tool of all)

Optional extras: a small notebook, a camera, or binoculars if you like observing details.

To reduce bulk, download a good Naturalist app onto your cell phone (Merlin, ObsMapp, Seek) and make sure it is fully charged before you arrive! Many times I have found that the only thing I've actually used on my walk for notes, photos, etc. is my phone.

4. Walk at your own pace

A guided nature walk isn’t a race. If you want to stop and look at a flower, do it. If the group moves faster than you’d like, that’s okay — guides usually build in pauses (Misty tends to geek out about just about anything) and everyone’s pace gets considered.

Remember: there’s no prize for finishing first.

5. Leave no trace

One of the simplest but most important parts of preparing is knowing how to respect the environment. Stay on the paths, carry out any trash, and leave plants, rocks, or mushrooms where they belong.

Nature walks are about connecting, not collecting.

Your first step into the forest

If you’re hesitating to try your first walk because you don’t feel “prepared enough,” know this: the forest doesn’t judge your gear or your knowledge.

All it asks is that you show up, take a breath, and pay attention.

Because whether you walk one kilometer or ten, the first step is always the hardest — and the most rewarding.