Hiking in the Heat

Zion National Park, like many others, is a great place to enjoy a day on the trail. As the summer season heats up, it is important to remember to come prepared for the adventure at hand. Planning ahead of time is key to having a good time while out in the park. As a reminder, your safety is your responsibility while hiking in national parks.

Step 1: Prior to Trip

Pick the right trail for you and your group. Recognize your abilities and the abilities of your group. Pick a trail that everyone can successfully complete and enjoy safely. Check the park’s website or ask a ranger for details on the difficulty level of trails. Rangers can also provide trail recommendations. If you have any medical conditions, consider discussing your plans with your healthcare provider.

- There may be park closures or alerts that are in effect – check ahead of time and the day of most up to date information.

Be weather-ready. Check the weather before you head out on your hike. If conditions in the park are not ideal, don’t take the chance! Be prepared to seek shelter if you encounter severe weather, know what to do in case of lightning or flash flooding. Have your rain equipment packed and ready.

- This includes hiking during the hottest part of the day. Know when that is and be prepared.

Have the right equipment for the hike you are on. Sun protection, the correct footwear, salty snacks, water, and your plan for the hike are key. Know the distance, elevation change, and estimated hiking time, share this plan with others and make sure all are in agreement before you head out. If your hike requires a permit, ensure you arrive on time and have all of the right equipment for the hike.

- Plan at least 2-3 liters of water per person for a ½ day adventure in the park.

Step 2: On the Hike

Let the slowest hiker set the pace. Always stay together. Put the slowest hiker near the front to keep your group together. While it may take a bit longer to reach your ultimate destination, staying together helps reduce the chance of someone getting lost and if someone gets injured you are there to help.

Keep Track of Your Time and Distance. Remember that your total hike time includes the time it took you to hike to your destination and back to your starting point. If any of your hikes, in either direction, are uphill, plan for it to take at least double the time it took you to go downhill. Be aware of the time you set out and turn around, so you don’t get stuck outside in the dark. Set a turnaround time if your trip takes longer than planned, and stick to it.

Yield to uphill hikers. Be courteous and cautious of others out on the trails. If you are downhill, carefully step to the side to let others pass.

Take breaks often. Know your limits and pay attention to how you feel when you are on the trail. A good rule of thumb is that if you can talk while you are walking, you are traveling at the perfect speed.

Leave no Trace. Remember to minimize your impact on the trail by staying on the trail, packing out your waste, and not stacking rocks or taking items from the park.

Step 3: After the Hike

Make sure to Hydrate. Hikes in the summer heat can really drain you. Eat a healthy meal, hydrate, and ensure enough sleep. If you are visiting our park for more than one day, plan to be tired on day two and have alternate plans that may not be as strenuous while still enjoying the park. Ranger programs, visiting the park museum, or exploring the local community may be great options that might not be out in the sun.