When traveling to the national parks, the most important thing is being safe. Safety needs to be your priority. It is best to be prepared so that no matter what you might encounter, you are able to handle any situation that comes your way. National parks are not manmade attractions with all the associated safety features. It is quite literally the wilderness and you need to be prepared to keep yourself safe.
1. First aid kit
The first thing that should go in your backpack when packing for your day should be a first aid kit that contains medicines, bandages, antiseptic cleanser, gauze, and antibiotic ointment. You never know when someone might get injured while hiking.
2. Maps
Stop by the ranger station before you start your hike! They can provide you with maps of the trails that you are taking. There also may be maps of the hike at the trailhead. If needed, you can take a picture of the signs that are located at the base of the trail to have on your phone. The last thing you want to do is get lost and not know where you are going. Maps can also help you judge your pace. You want to make sure that you have enough energy, water, and daylight to finish your hike. Check your map to judge the situation.
3. Water, water, water
The biggest mistake that national park visitors make is not taking enough water with them. It is so important to hydrate. It can get HOT and when hiking, your body needs to be hydrated. When you are strenuously hiking in the heat, it is recommended that you drink at least 1 liter per hour.
4. Weather
Check the forecast before you go! Checking the temperature can help you decide what clothes you need to wear. You also need to look out for rain. Getting caught in the rain on a hike is not so fun, but it can also be very dangerous. Things can get slippery and rivers and streams that you may need to cross can become very dangerous. Your phone’s weather app will also tell you the time of sunset each day. If you are hiking late in the day, make sure you plan out your hikes and allow yourself enough time to make it back with daylight to spare. You don’t want to get stuck on a trail at night!
5. Bear aware
Be alert! In a national park, you never know what kind of wildlife you might see. While you should stay away from all animals that you see, you should especially be on the lookout for bears. They are very common in a lot of the parks. Do your research on what to do if you encounter a bear. Consider purchasing or renting bear spray.
6. Equipment
Make sure you have all the gear you need. Sunscreen, hats, bug spray, good supportive hiking shoes, and walking sticks!
7. Ranger’s number
Have the park ranger or visitor center’s number in your phone, in case you get lost or need help!
8. Follow the path and restrictions
If it says stay on the path, STAY ON THE PATH. The people who are most likely to get hurt are the ones who don’t follow the posted regulations. These rules are not just a suggestion and they are there for your protection. It is not worth risking your life to get a better selfie with the view behind you.
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