If heat is a barrier to hiking, pick a hiking trail that has a cooling feature. This is Rock Bridge at Red River Gorge in Eastern Kentucky. As you descend down the windy trail, the temperature drops. Once at the bottom, it’s a playground of refreshing water to cool you off for the hike back up.
Other ways to stay cool while hiking:
- Start early. Mornings are cooler.
- Wear loose, moisture-wicking clothes.
- Wet a bandana or buff to wear around your neck.
- In fact, drench yourself with water.
- Protect your skin from the sun’s UV.
- Drink up a lot. Stay hydrated.
- Stop and snack often.
- Last but most importantly, learn the signs of heatstroke.
The good folks at REI have more hot-weather hiking tips.
REI also happens to have some nifty hydrating tips.