{"id":2242,"date":"2018-07-10T00:00:01","date_gmt":"2018-07-10T07:00:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thetrailmaster.com\/?p=2242"},"modified":"2022-10-20T12:15:19","modified_gmt":"2022-10-20T19:15:19","slug":"hiking-in-hot-weather","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thetrailmaster.com\/tips\/hiking-in-hot-weather\/","title":{"rendered":"Hiking in Hot Weather"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hot and bothered after a mid-day hike?<\/p>\n

Well, it\u2019s no wonder.<\/p>\n

Recent studies have shown that the optimum temperature range for long-distance walks or hikes is 50 to 55 degrees F. Above this range is considered hiking in hot weather, when a hiker\u2019s performance degrades as much as two percent for every five-degree increase in temperature.<\/p>\n

\"Broad-brimmed<\/a>

Broad-brimmed hats help hikers keep a cool head when hiking in hot weather.<\/p><\/div>\n

As temperatures rise, hikers must adjust their routine. Too much sun, too much hiking and too little fluid intake can make even a strong hiker an accident waiting to happen. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can result. A hike near home can be just as deadly as a trek across Death Valley, but heat illnesses and deaths are preventable by taking the right precautions.<\/p>\n

The main environmental factors contributing heat-related illnesses are temperatures above 90 degrees F., humidity above 80 percent and sunlight exposure (partial to full) and dehydration.<\/p>\n

Of course, \u201cWait \u2018til it cools off\u201d is always the best advice for the hiker contemplating a hike in the heat. But some hikers like it hot and, if you\u2019re determined to hit the trail in the heat, you must take the right precautions.<\/p>\n

Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather<\/h2>\n