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There’s a unique sense of adventure that comes with hiking through desert and dryland environments. Their ethereal landscapes and unique ecosystems make them the perfect setting for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Let’s first clarify the terms. ‘Desert hiking’ relates to trails in areas receiving less than 9 inches of annual rainfall. ‘Dryland hiking,’ on the other hand, refers to areas with slightly more rain (9-15 inches annually) but dominated by water scarcity and heat.
In the United States, these areas include large parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and southern California, along with portions of Colorado, Idaho, eastern Washington, and eastern Oregon.
Hiking and backpacking in these regions present similar challenges. Key strategies for tackling them revolve around effective planning, gradual acclimation, prudent water management, and a good dose of common sense.
Planning Your Desert and Dryland Hiking Adventures
It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with seasonal weather patterns. For instance, trails that might be unbearable in the summer could be pleasant or even icy in the winter. The North Kaibab Trail on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, for example, often sees winter ice at higher elevations, while trails at the canyon’s bottom can be pleasantly cool.
Water availability also depends on the season. Drylands surrounded by mountains have increased water supplies post-spring snowmelt, and those experiencing a monsoon season see a water boost following seasonal rains. While guidebooks provide this information, it’s best to get the latest details from local sources due to potential variations in seasonal water conditions.
Having a detailed trail map (1:25,000 U.S.G.S. map) is indispensable for locating seasonal water sources such as springs. GPS alone doesn’t cut it. Your map should show springs, windmills, water tanks, and buildings – all potential water sources.
Bear in mind that cell phone connectivity can be sketchy in remote desert areas due to a lack of towers. Leave a detailed hiking plan and your expected return time with someone back home. You might also consider a satellite cell phone for extra security.
A vital part of preparation is physical conditioning. Acclimating to heat and exertion becomes easier with a fit body, leading to less sweating – a boon in arid conditions. Essential hiking gear includes a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sufficient water containers, lightweight, breathable clothing covering your entire body (to protect against intense sun or sunburn), sunscreen, bug repellent, and a warm layer for chilly desert nights.
Gear and Strategies for Safe Desert Travel
Understanding the heat-water dynamic is fundamental: more heat equals more water requirement. The quantity of water you need depends on your exertion levels, fitness, metabolism, and air temperature. Aim for at least a quart of water per hiking hour. For more specific advice, consider the National Park Service’s recommendations for the Grand Canyon.
Always fill up your water bottles at every water source you encounter. Besides, drink as much as you can at the source to stay hydrated.
To beat the heat, hike during the cooler parts of the day – early mornings and evenings. During high-temperature periods, walk slowly, take breaks in shaded areas, and avoid overexertion.
Stay cautious of desert fauna. Rattlesnakes are hard to spot, and scorpions may find refuge in your boots overnight. When scrambling over rocks, avoid putting hands where visibility is limited.
Cover as much skin as possible with clothing. Covered skin evaporates less water than exposed skin. Constantly replenish electrolytes lost through sweating by eating light, easy-to-digest snacks like GORP, crackers, or cereal bars. These salty, sweet snacks are ideal for hot-weather hiking.
With the right preparation and mindset, hiking in a desert environment can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s all about minimizing the dangers and maximizing the enjoyment of these uniquely beautiful landscapes.
Let these desert hiking tips guide you through your next adventure, blending safety with unforgettable experiences.
