Summer is the perfect time to hike, especially if you can explore our country’s state and national parks. However, venturing far from home requires preparation for the local climate and conditions, especially if you’re not an experienced hiker. High temperatures or extreme weather can be dangerous.
“If you’re hiking in mid-July in the Arizona desert, the considerations are very different than if you’re in the mountains of Montana or the forests of North Carolina,” says Dr. N. Stuart Harris, chief of the Division of Wilderness Medicine at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. Here’s what to consider before you hit the trail.
Travel Companions, Safety Notifications, and Orientation
First, it’s safer to hike in pairs or groups. Always inform someone not on your hike about your route and expected return time. National parks often require reservations or permits for overnight stays or specific treks and keep records of day-hikers. This information can be crucial if you get injured or lost.
Bring a map and know how to orient yourself. In many wilderness areas, cell service may be spotty or nonexistent, so don’t rely on your phone’s GPS. In desert areas, visibility may extend for miles, but in steep, wooded areas, you might not see 100 yards ahead, making it easier to become disoriented.
Be Ready for Heat, Humidity, and Other Weather Hazards
Check Forecasts First: Always check the weather forecast to prepare for changes. Temperatures may drop, and wind may increase as you climb higher. In areas prone to thunderstorms, be aware of lightning risks. Learn lightning safety tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To minimize risk, hike earlier in the day, as storms often strike in the afternoon.
Hydrate Well: During any exercise, especially hiking, drink extra water to replace fluid lost through sweating. On warm days, you might not notice sweating if it’s breezy. Pay attention to signs advising how much water to carry.
Consider Humidity: High humidity can hinder your body’s cooling mechanism. In humid areas like the Great Smoky Mountains, sweat evaporates more slowly, making it harder for your body to cool down. Rest and hydrate if you feel overheated.
What to Wear and Bring
Park websites often provide detailed safety tips specific to the terrain and weather of your hike. Here are five basics to consider:
- Footwear: Hiking boots offer more support than tennis shoes on rocky or uneven terrain.
- Clothing: Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing. Bring extra layers and rain gear if the forecast suggests. Temperature drops can be surprising, so be prepared to layer up if needed.
- Sun Protection: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen to all exposed skin before setting off.
- Food and Drink: Bring plenty of fluids and high-energy snacks. If you get off course or encounter a problem, you’ll be glad you did.
- First Aid and Protection: Depending on your hike, you may encounter rash-inducing plants like poison ivy. Bring insect repellent and follow tick prevention strategies. Carry a first aid kit with bandages for cuts and moleskin for blisters.
By preparing appropriately, you can enjoy your hike safely, even in hot weather.