Preliminary day hikes are a key to pre-hike training. After a few, initial day hikes, build your expected backpack and wear it for the remainder of the practice hikes. (Added benefit: this enables you to consider the pack’s contents and make a few changes before the real thing.) Also, where possible, include others who will be participating in the actual hike. (Added benefit: this allows you to spend time with the other hikers before the actual hike, developing friendships, general communications and discussion/ anticipation of the proposed hike.) The following training hikes were part of my training activities in Northern California in preparation for the Ireland trek in 2018.
Lafayette Reservoir – (Lafayette, CA)
Gateway to Canyon – (near Moraga, CA)
4th of July Lake – (near Silver Lake, CA)
Thunder Mountain Trail – (near Silver Lake, CA)
Cole Creek Lake – (near Silver Lake, CA)
Carson Pass to Schneider Cow Camp – (near Silver Lake, CA)