Hiking Safety - Take a Hike
Hiking Safety Each year thousands of people discover that walking and hiking on trails are safe and healthy fun, if you follow a few tips:
Hike with a friend or family member
The companionship in the great outdoors is fun and you can encourage one another to meet your fitness goals.
Take plenty of drinking water
Leave stream, river and lake water for the park wildlife. Although it looks clean and refreshing, stream water can make you ill.
Let someone back at camp or at home know where you are going and when you plan on returning.
Take a mobile phone for emergencies only or to let them know you have returned safely.
Don't walk off-trail
Cutting across switchbacks erodes the hillside and eventually destroys the trail. Plus, walking off-trail increases your chance of suffering an injury or getting lost.
Wildlife lives in all of our parks, even near urban areas
Although rare, bob cats, mountain lions and rattlesnakes may be seen. Whenever you encounter wildlife on the trail, keep your distance, back away slowly and do not run. Report your sightings.
Poison oak is a common plant throughout much of California
Learn to identify its shiny, three-leaf pattern and avoid touching it. If you touch poison oak, wash immediately with water and mild soap. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Get Fit Outdoors - Take a Hike
Walk the Trails, Get Fit and Experience the Great Outdoors.
Walking is the most popular exercise and recreational activity in California
It's a low-impact exercise that will help you ease into a greater level of fitness and reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke and Type 2 Diabetes, while helping to manage blood pressure, weight gain and stress levels. It also can minimize signs of aging.
Hiking Trails
Hiking trails is more than just a walk in the park. It is an exciting and affordable way to improve your health, control your weight and enjoy the magnificent beauty of California with your family and friends.
Family Hikes are great!
No TV, no telephones and no computer or video games. Hikes are a perfect time for families to communicate without everyday distractions.
Teach
Children about the joys of hiking and encourage participation by involving them in selecting and planning a hike.
