As a new hiker, I’m feeling the benefits: fresh air, a sense of accomplishment, and team spirit that continues from trail head to suds in the local bar. I’ve also experienced side effects.

During last week’s moonlight hike on Breakneck Ridge, my partner and I accidentally wandered off the trail and into the dark brush. It was a hot night, and I wore shorts against my better judgment. By Monday, I was covered in the tell-tale dots of poison ivy, something I haven’t had since my days as a camp counselor.

The rash was almost gone when I sprained my left ankle going down Algonquin Peak. By Sunday evening, I had a dark bruise and a swollen outer ankle, tell-tale signs of a Grade I inversion sprain (the most common form that overstretches the ligaments of the outer ankle). According to About.com, ankle sprains are the most common foot and ankle injuries.