Last reviewed and updated: March 2026
When you first start hiking, choosing where to go can feel surprisingly confusing.
There are thousands of walking routes across the UK, from gentle countryside paths to steep mountain climbs. If you’re new to hiking, it’s easy to accidentally choose a route that’s much harder than you expected.
The good news is that planning your first hiking route doesn’t need to be complicated.
With a little bit of planning and some common sense, you can choose a walk that’s enjoyable, safe, and a great introduction to hiking.
Here are a few simple things to think about when planning your first route.
Start With a Short Distance
One of the most common beginner mistakes is choosing a walk that’s too long.
When you’re starting out, a route between 3–6 miles is usually a great place to begin. This gives you enough time to enjoy the walk without turning it into an exhausting day.
As your fitness improves and you gain more experience, you can slowly increase the distance of your hikes.
Starting smaller helps you enjoy the experience rather than simply trying to survive it.
Pay Attention to Elevation
Distance isn’t the only thing that matters when planning a hike.
A five-mile walk across flat countryside feels very different to a five-mile walk climbing steep hills.
When looking at routes, it’s worth checking the elevation gain, which tells you how much climbing is involved.
For beginners, choosing routes with gentle elevation makes the experience much more enjoyable.
You’ll still get great views without feeling completely exhausted halfway through the walk.
Choose Well-Known Routes
When you’re new to hiking, it’s best to start with popular and well-marked trails.
These routes tend to be easier to follow and often have clear paths, signs, and other walkers around.
Some great beginner-friendly areas in the UK include:
- the Lake District
- the Peak District
- the Yorkshire Dales
- local countryside trails
Circular walks around lakes, valleys, or hills are often perfect starting points.
If you’re looking for ideas, take a look at our guides to beginner walks in the Lake District and beginner walks in the Peak District.
Use Route Apps
Planning hiking routes has become much easier thanks to modern apps.
Apps like Komoot, AllTrails, or OS Maps allow you to explore routes, check distances, and follow trails using GPS on your phone.
These apps can show useful information such as:
- route distance
- elevation gain
- estimated walking time
- user reviews and photos
For beginners, this makes choosing a suitable walk much easier.
Just remember to download the route before leaving in case you lose signal.
You can also explore routes across the country using this UK walks map.
Check the Weather
Weather conditions can have a big impact on your hike.
A route that feels easy on a sunny day can become much more challenging in heavy rain, strong wind, or poor visibility.
Before setting out, it’s always worth checking the forecast.
If the weather looks particularly rough, choosing a lower-level walk or saving the hike for another day is often the smarter option.
Plan Enough Time
Many beginners underestimate how long a hike will take.
A comfortable walking pace for most people is around 2–3 miles per hour, depending on terrain and elevation.
It’s also important to factor in time for:
- rest breaks
- photos
- snacks
- enjoying the view
Hiking isn’t a race, and leaving plenty of time makes the experience far more enjoyable.
Tell Someone Where You’re Going
Even on beginner routes, it’s always a good idea to let someone know your plans.
Simply telling a friend or family member where you’re walking and roughly when you expect to return is a good habit to develop.
It’s a small step that adds an extra layer of safety.
Final Thoughts
Planning your first hiking route doesn’t need to be complicated.
Start with a shorter walk, choose a well-known trail, and check the weather before you go.
With a little preparation, your first hikes will feel far more relaxed and enjoyable.
And once you’ve planned your first few routes, the whole process quickly becomes second nature.
Before long, you’ll probably find yourself looking at maps and planning new adventures without even thinking about it.
