SO, I'm trying to train for a 10 mile hike that I will be participating in at the beginning of September. The difficulty level isn't so bad. It's about a 2 out of 5. I've never really been a hiker, but as I'm losing weight and becoming more active I'm finding that I want to do those types of things!!

We're going to the Grand Canyon and the hike is to our campsite. I don't really need advice on supplies. I have all that taken care of, but I do need advice on how to train for this. I have a weak right knee also, so I'm a little nervous. Should I use trekking poles or wear a knee brace??

I walked 3 miles on the treadmill at a 5% incline tonight and I'm surprised that my knee doesn't really hurt. I'll be packing some 800 mg ibuprofen for the trip as well haha. Should I keep doing this or should I get out on some trails. I'm in Houston so it's not really very hilly. Anyway, any advice would be much appreciated!

Yes, use treking poles... I got some a couple years ago and it has made a whole bunch of difference when walking on any kind of unlevel ground, and offers some support.

Since your hike is so near, I would also wear a knee brace, even while training. If you throw out your knee now or in the upcoming few weeks... it could offset your hike. As I got into shape though... started walking first, then lots of hiking, then running, my knees strengthened and I no longer have to wear the brace.

Up your mileage slowly to prepare. Walk daily at least a couple miles, but up the mileage each week... I would suggest something like this for a months training plan... if the hike were in exactly 4 weeks or so... you can edit to your preference, but that's just how I would do it.
3,3,4,3,3,4, rest
4,5,4,4,5,4, rest
4,6,4,3,5,4, rest
4,8,4,3,1,rest, hike!

Make sure you stretch well after your practice walks to avoid shin splints and other related injuries.

Edit:... and if you're going to be carrying a heavy backpack keep that in mind, load it up, and carry it on some of your daily walks!

I absolutely love going hiking. My knees give me problems as well so I use poles and knee braces while hiking. Where I go on the weekends is about a 3 out of 5.if I can survive you roil be just fine. We did roughly 10 miles last week and while I never thought I would make it, I surprised myself. Just stay well hydrated and post lots of pictures!
I was so nervous the first time I went hiking.... Now I'm addicted!! So be ready to want to go weekly.

Last time I summited, I trained on 10-15% incline, and I found the actual trail much easier. I would suggest pushing yourself up to this level with time, and you should find the hiking experience more enjoyable.

Thanks for all the advice!! It's about exactly a month away, so the month long training plan will work perfectly. I'm going to try that out and will definitely start wearing my knee brace now. I read that the poles make it easier on your knees and back, but I just wanted to make sure. I'm going to buy some of those today then!

I've always been afraid of walking/running and I've let my injuries and knee troubles keep me from doing things I really want to do. Not anymore! I'm going to conquer this, knee troubles or not! I'll start posting my training and how my knee is feeling after.

Like I said, I'm REALLY surprised that after walking last night it's not hurting. That must mean that all the other exercise I've been doing has already been strengthening it without my knowledge. Yippee! I didn't walk very fast. I was at 2.8-3.0 mph, but that's ok. I don't expect to be power walking this hike anyway.

You will do great!!! But no joke we must see pictures!! I bet it is beautiful there!!!!

Oh my goodness yes. There will be TONS of pictures!! I'm so excited already. The end of the hike has waterfalls you can swim in...it's going to be ridiculous.

As everyone else said, I would use both. Good luck and have a blast!

Just wanted to update everyone that the hike went well! I did get tired, me knee did hurt, but I made it the entire 10 miles and it was so beautiful/amazing! I would do it again an wouldn't trade the experience for anything! So glad I have come so far in my fitness and weight loss that I could accomplish this! Thanks for the help and encouragement!

Congrats!! Good job!