Hiking safety

Mountain Lion Safety: Stand Tall and Back Away
Stay upright, face the lion, make yourself look larger, and back away slowly. This guide covers children, dogs, attacks, deterrents,…

Why Every Hike Needs a Clear Exit Strategy
More than 2,000 search and rescue missions happen in US national parks every year. A common thread? Many trekkers had…

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…

What to Do in a Hiking Emergency: A Safety Guide
Adventure awaits in places like Yosemite National Park, with its 800 miles of paths. Yet, stunning views can come with…

Hypothermia on the Trail: A Safe Response Plan
Stop hiking, shelter the person, add dry insulation, and call for help as needed with this clear field guide 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…
