Tips for Exploring Death Valley

Stay safe

Follow Desert Survival guidelines. The name of the park says it all. People have died within the borders of the park. Make sure you have plenty of water for any activity, whether it be on a backcountry trail, or on the main highway. Should you become stranded while driving, stay with your vehicle as it is likely to provide the only shade in the area.

If you are going a significant distance on any of the unpaved roads, phone a friend and tell them where you are going, when you will be back, when you will phone them again to tell them you are safe, and give them an emergency number to call if you don't get back in touch with them by a chosen deadline. Some of the unimproved roads eat tires for breakfast, and you could lose your spare tire too. In addition, make sure you have more than enough gas; roads may be impassable and can require unforeseen detours.

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Hot Weather Hiking Tips

Hot and bothered after a mid-day desert walk?

Well, it’s no wonder.

Recent studies have shown that optimum temperature for long-distance walks or hikes is in the 50 to 55-degrees F. range. Above this range a walker’s performance degrades as much as 2 percent for every 5-degree increase in temperature. Air quality, wind (or lack of same) and the amount and kind of reflective heat are also environmental factors that affect a walker’s performance.

Pay attention to your physical responses in the desert. Temperature extremes and dryness make it a stressful environment. If you’re overweight or out-of-shape, take it easy, and don’t push yourself to keep up with your fitter friends.

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As temperatures rise, walkers must adjust their routine. Here are five tips to beat the heat:

• Time your walk for the cool of the day--early morning is best, late evening second best. Avoid midday when the sun’s rays are directly overhead, and late afternoon when the earth has absorbed the sun’s rays but the heat hasn’t dissipated at all.
• Wear a hat. A baseball cap will do, but only if you wear it with the bill in the front (hopelessly unhip, but effective). A better bet is an expedition-type hat that has protective flaps to cover the neck. Another style is the wide-brimmed hat made by Tilley Endurables. This classic lasts and lasts; Tilley offers a free replacement if it ever wears out.
• Apply sunblock (minimum SPF 15) on all exposed skin. Read the product directions: some varieties of sunblock need to be put on some time before exposure in order to be effective.
• Wear loose fitting, light-colored, lightweight clothing.
• Carry--and drink--lots of water. You need to consume six to eight ounces for every 20 minutes of exercise on a hot day.

With the right preparations, walkers and hikers can enjoy their adventures afoot in America’s desert parks.

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