SUMMER HIKING TIPS

Summer Hiking Safety

Summer's warm, sunny days make it a popular season for outdoor activities. But even when the weather is balmy, trip planning and preparedness are still important for a safe and enjoyable hike. While the following information is no substitute for experience and proper instruction, it is useful as a general checklist and reminder for backcountry users. For trail information, contact the ADK High Peaks Information Center at 518-523-3441.

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Trip Planning

A minimum of three people is recommended for a summer hike, and each person should have a map and compass. Stay together on the trail. Study a map and guidebook beforehand and know the terrain and elevation changes, mileage, trail junctions, and water supplies. Choose an itinerary consistent with the abilities of your group and remember that weather and trail conditions can drastically alter the pace of a trip. Be sure to leave word of your itinerary with family or friends, and sign in at trail registers.

Weather

Mountain weather can change rapidly and unexpectedly. Temperatures can drop 40 degrees Fahrenheit in a few hour, and a sudden warm front can bring rain or a thunderstorm. Never ascend above the treeline when there is lightning. If you are already above treeline descend immediately. When climbing peaks, every 1000 feet (305 meters) of elevation gain drops the temperature 3-5 degrees F (2-3 degrees C), and winds on the summit can be severe. Before starting out obtain the latest, most accurate weather report and keep an eye on changes in the weather.

Click here for High Peaks weather information.

Food and Water

Heavy exertion in hot, sometimes humid weather uses a lot of liquid. A minimum of two quarts/liters of water per day is necessary. Drink frequently. If you wait till you are thirsty you are already dehydrated. If you plan on refilling water bottles along the trail, bring a water filter or purifying tablets/drops to prevent contracting the waterborne parasite giardia. Also bring a meal and/or snacks, as eating enough helps prevent fatigue.

Clothing

Bring several layers, adding or subtracting as needed to keep from cooling down or overheating. Often only the base layer will be necessary, but insulating and wind/water blocking layers are necessary for summits and inclement weather.

  • Base layer: Wicking tee to carry moisture away from your body
  • Middle layer(s): Insulation to retain body heat
  • Outer layer: Wind and waterproof shell

Do not wear cotton! Cotton does not insulate once it is wet. Instead, it wicks heat away from your body and contributes to hypothermia. Hypothermia is not just a winter concern. Depending on weather conditions, it is possible to become hypothermic in any season, including summer. For example, cold rain or being wet at night when the temperature has dropped can both cause hypothermia. Jeans, cotton tees, and sweatshirts are dangerous and should not be worn.

Recommended warm weather clothing

Wear synthetics and/or wool. Synthetic wicking base layers carry moisture away from your body and keep you cool. This quick drying also helps to keep you warm on summits. Wool, polypropylene, fleece, and synthetic insulation are all warm even when wet.  

  • Wicking tee: polypropylene or polyester
  • Fleece jacket or wool sweater
  • Shorts or pants: Synthetic fabric
  • Hooded shell jacket and pants: For wind and water protection
  • Hat and mittens: Can be necessary on summits
  • Socks: light wicking inner socks and heavier outer socks, plus dry spares
  • Boots: Hiking boots with good support and tread. Trails here are very rugged and sneakers are not recommended.
  • Gaiters: to keep mud, water, and rocks out of your boots
Gear

Do not rely on rescue – be self-sufficient! Always be prepared to be out overnight in case of an emergency. Even if you are able to send for help, rescue takes time, sometimes overnight. Be aware that cell phones work inconsistently in the backcountry and do not take the place of trip planning and preparedness. Pack the following in a comfortable backpack of at least 2500 cubic inches.

  • Food and water
  • Map and compass
  • Headlamp and extra batteries
  • Emergency blanket or bivy sack
  • First aid kit including splinting materials and triangular bandages.
  • Whistle
  • Knife
  • Waterproof matches or lighter
  • Insect repellent*
  • Sunscreen*
  • Sunglasses *

* Optional

In Case of Emergency

In case of an accident attend to the victim, then carefully assess your predicament. If outside help is needed, write down the time, circumstances of the accident, type of injury, and the weight, age, and sex of the victim. Mark your location on a map. One person should stay with the victim while the others go for help. Stay as warm and comfortable as possible, and bear in mind that it may take several hours or even overnight for help to arrive. Forest ranger emergency dispatch can be reached at 518- 891-0235.

Environmental Concerns

The wilderness is a fragile resource. To protect it, carry out all of your trash and cover up all signs of your passing. Stay out of the woods during spring mud season when the soil is especially vulnerable. Stay in the center of trails, walking directly through mud if necessary, to reduce erosion and prevent the formation of herd paths off trail. At higher elevations alpine plants are very fragile so please keep to the trails. Walk softly and quietly, enjoying the woods around you.

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