Safety & Health Tips
A Practical Water Plan for Every Hiking Day
Most hikers should start with 2 to 3 liters per day, then adjust for heat, climbing, pace, trail time, reliable…
![A hiker rests on a rocky mountain ledge with a sunscreen bottle beside her[cite: 1]](https://hikematic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/nn-3203-0-768x432.jpg)
Best Sunscreen for Exposed, High-Altitude Hikes
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk SPF 60 is our top pick for exposed hikes, with practical advice on reapplication, mineral…
Altitude sickness tips for high elevation hikes
I learned practical altitude sickness hiking tips the hard way on a windy ridge, and those lessons save time and…
A Clean-Side Method for Filtering Trail Water
Keep untreated water off clean gear with a field-tested sequence for filtering, prefiltering, treating viruses, and protecting bottles from cross-contamination.
How to Prevent Sprained Ankles While Hiking Rocky Trails
Hiking on rocky trails is thrilling and connects you with nature. However, it also increases the risk of spraining your…
How to Identify and Avoid Poisonous Plants on the Trail
Hiking in Washington offers a beautiful view of nature. However, plants like stinging nettle, poison ivy, and poison oak can…
How to Handle Insect Bites While Hiking: Tips and Remedies
Warm weather means many look forward to exploring the trails. But, it’s important to be ready for insects too. Experts…
How to Safely Camp in Bear Country: What You Need to Know
Camping in bear lands offers real thrills. Yet, knowing bear habits is vital for a secure trip. As more people…
How to Stay Hydrated on Long Hikes: Tips and Tricks
Hiking is great for your body and mind. But, drinking enough water is key to get those benefits and stay…
Best Snacks for Staying Energized on Long Hiking Trips
Hiking requires the right nutrition to keep energy levels high. Whether it’s a short hike or a long journey, the…
10 Ways to Avoid Heat Stroke While Hiking in Hot Weather
Hiking in the summer is exciting. But temperatures can soar over 105°F. It’s crucial to follow hiking safety tips to…
Tick-Free Trails: How to Avoid Ticks While Hiking
I went on a hike in the beautiful Shenandoah National Park over the weekend last summer. The air smelled like…