Friday, August 20, 2010

What Do I Need to Take On a Hike?


@Redmountainspa

At Red Mountain Resort & Spa, we enjoy year-round hiking in the red rocks. For summer hiking in the desert, be sure to take the following items to make your hike as safe and enjoyable as possible.

  1. Water
    We can’t stress enough to drink lots of water - at least 8 ounces every 15 minutes. Don't wait until you are thirsty to drink. By then, you could be on your way to dehydration.

  2. Hat & Sunglasses
    A good pair of sunglasses and hat are great protection for your eyes. Even your eyeballs can get burned by the sun or glare off of rocks and sand.

  3. Sunscreen
    Apply sunscreen before starting your hike and reapply it every few hours.

  4. Lightweight, Light-colored Clothing & Proper Footwear
    Dress for the hike. The desert is hot with little protection from the sun. Light-colored clothing reflects the sun's rays. Also, be sure to wear proper footwear. Yes, it’s sandy, but you’re not on the beach. Leave the flip flops in the car and wear lightweight hiking boots that give you good ankle support and stability on potentially loose and rocky terrain.

  5. Snacks with Salt & Sugar
    As well as drinking lots of water, you should be snacking on food containing salt and sugar to compensate for electrolyte loss from sweating.

  6. Personal First Aid Kit

  7. A Planned Route
    Before going on any hike, plan your route. Getting lost can be very dangerous.

  8. Tell Someone Your Hiking Plan
    Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return. If you haven’t returned by the expected time, someone knows where to look for you. Don’t depend upon a cell phone. You may be out of range for service.

  9. Small Trash Bag
    What do you do with those apple cores, banana peels and other refuse from your snacking? Hopefully, you remembered to bring a small plastic bag to practice your "Leave No Trace" ethics by packing out what you pack in.

  10. Camera
    Finally, take your camera, as every hike has its "Kodak" moment and you want to bring those memories back to share with others.

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