Tips to Hiking the Grand Canyon Safely
The Grand Canyon averages a high of 100° during the summer months. So, while hiking the Canyon is unforgettable, it’s important to take steps to ensure it’s also a safe experience. Therefore, the National Park Service has put together these tips as a safety guide.
Be Conscious of the Weather
Weather is unpredictable and thus, the forecast can change within a matter of hours. Therefore, hikers need to be vigilant when planning their trip. Hikers should keep a watchful eye on the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Wearing light, cotton clothes, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential to combat the desert sun.
Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks
When hiking in the Grand Canyon, there is a lot of different terrains. Encountering rocks, sand, extreme inclines or declines, puts a different type of stress on your body. It’s because of this that even people who are avid hikers are surprised at how the canyon makes their bodies react. Fortunately, by keeping yourself hydrated and well-fed, hikers can combat the negative effects of the desert. That’s why it is so important to have a lot of water and food with you on your hike. That will fuel your body and keep it pressing on comfortably.
Plan the Timing of the Hike
Experts claim that it’s best to plan a hike before ten in the morning, or after four in the evening. This allows hikers to avoid being exposed to the elements during the hottest part of the day. Exposure is extremely dangerous. Anything that can be done to mitigate the threat of exposure is essential to your safety.
Visit the Ranger’s Office
Rangers are the last point of contact a hiker has before going off on their adventure. Make sure, as a hiker, you retain all vital information from them before you leave. Ask the rangers about the conditions of the trail and the forecast.
Remember, even if you’ve done extensive research, Rangers know the canyon well. They will have a lot of experience to draw their answers from.
To close, even though the Grand Canyon is a dry heat, it’s still heat. It doesn’t take long for it to become dangerous. However, by following these tips, you can hike confidently, knowing that you’ve done everything possible to guarantee your safety.
