Hiking is a wonderful hobby and the best part is you get to do this new hobby outside in nature. From the Mountains trails, to beach trails and treks across country terrain, there is so much to see and experience when hiking. As with all things, it is important to be prepared and aware of your surroundings. Expect the unexpected and make it a norm to do research on trails you are considering hiking. To get you started on your research, below are tips for new hikers that is focused on the dangers in hiking. And more importantly how to avoid them.
Weather
When we are planning a hiking trip, we may glance at the weather to see the temperature or what the day is going to bring. We may be more worried about the temperature. Or if it is going to be a sunny day. But is that all you need to know? Make it a best practice to see what the weather was prior to your hike, especially if you are not from the area and are traveling in. It is also a good idea to check future weather, including the evening/day(s) after your scheduled hike, depending on the length of your trip, to make sure there is not impending weather.
Weather plays an integral part in the condition of trails. If it has been pouring down rain for days before your scheduled hike, the trails could be in rough condition or muddy and slick. If the trails are near or through river beds/creeks, the water may be high or not passable. If the weather was not favorable prior to your trip, check online to see if any information is available on trail conditions. Take extra caution when hiking in case of possible mishaps.
So you may be wondering, why check the weather forecast for after my anticipated return time. Depending on the length of your trip, and where you are going, there may be potential for mishaps. Mishaps that could make your hike longer than expected. If possible severe weather is headed in the direction of the hiking trail, you need to be prepared and have a plan in case you get caught in it. Although we always plan for the best experience, things happen. We can plan a 5-hour trip and expect to be back well before a pending storm, but maybe someone trips and falls, breaks their leg and you are miles away from the end of the trail. Next thing you know, you find yourself in the midst of a storm that you were not expecting to be in.
If you are looking at the weather anyway, take the time to get a comprehensive picture of the weather.
Wild Animals
Hiking is done in nature’s playground. Be respectful of the wildlife and do not approach or interact with them. I do want to mention that feeding the wildlife is a big no-no. Do research to familiarize yourself with potential animals that can be found in the area of your trail. Read up on best practices for potential encounters. Staying alert and aware of your surroundings will help spot potential dangers.
Once you know what animals you may encounter, check resources for the best ways to handle situations with wildlife.
Plants and Insects
We have all heard of poisonous plants like poison oak or poison ivy. You may also be familiar with pesky insects. Mosquitoes, ticks, spiders are all potential dangers when hiking. If you are hiking in hot, desert climates, you may also encounter scorpions. 
Familiarize yourself with the dangerous plants in the hike region. Plants with berries can be very misleading. Do not eat berries of any plants, especially if you are not familiar with the plant. For example, Nightshade has a berry that looks very similar to blueberries. These berries are extremely toxic and can be deadly.
If your are going to be in hiking in a region with poison oak or poison ivy, consider wearing long pants and long sleeve shirts to protect your skin. You may also want to consider throwing some itch relief or calamine lotion in your back pack.
To help battle against mosquitoes and ticks, remember to bring your bug spray. Bug spray with DEET will help ward off ticks. After trekking in the woods and forests, make a point to check your body for ticks. If you are hiking in areas with spiders, scorpions or even ants, make sure to check the area before sitting or placing your gear down. Before continuing on your journey, make it a best practice to check your gear for any potential freeloaders looking for a ride. 🙂
Accidents
We hope all our hikes go without an emergency or accident. Most of the time they will be incident free. Potential hazards that could require aid are tripping and falling, sprains, scrapes or cuts. Accidents can also be caused by natural hazards such as rushing water, avalanches or landslides. Remember to use common sense and do not put yourself in potentially hazardous situations – going out on a ledge or the edge of a cliff, going off trail, or climbing unnecessarily on slippery rocks.
Be familiar with first aid practices. Cleaning a wound, wrapping or bandage and even CPR. Other first aid remedies to familiarize yourself with is the use of splints, for example a splint for a broken bone or checking for concussions. The most important thing to remember when accidents occur is to determine how serious the injury is. Keep the injured person calm and carefully consider all the options to assist the hiker and/or determine the best plan to get the hiker evacuated or get the necessary medical or emergency assistance to the hiker.
Knowledge is Key
Being prepared and knowledgeable about potential dangers is a good way to circumvent them. Research the habitat around your trail. Know the wildlife and plants in the area. Stay aware of your surroundings. Brush up or learn first aid, which is good to know anyway.
I hope you have a wonderful, incident free hike. If you have any questions, please drop a comment below.
Happy Hiking,
Michelle Louise
w. hikingnewbies.com
e. michellelouise@hikingnewbies.com
Hiking is one of my favorite past times. I love being out in nature and just exploring the creation of God. This is a great post for those who are interested or are just starting out; a must read. This helps you identify the dangers in hiking and what to prepare for.
Hiking is definitely becoming one of my favorite pastimes as well. Every hike is different and its just great to be outdoors! Thank you!
Hi Michele,
Thank you for sharing this helpful article. I found it very interesting.
When I go hiking, I only take my phone, some snacks, and water because I never think of dangers:)
I look at the weather, yes, but that’s all. Well, next time, I’ll carry a book about poisonous plants and a medical kit.
Just a question, please. Can weather change of a sudden? If so, how long does it take for the weather to change?
Thank you!
Hi Daniella, Yes you can have weather changes, you usually have warning signs though. In my region, its not uncommon for it to be a beautiful day than a passing storm comes through. It might rain for 10-15 mins and all of a sudden its beautiful again. 🙂 I cant say how quickly the weather will change, but when the weather says “chance of” rain, sleet, snow, etc, its a good idea to be prepared.
Thank you!