Hiking in Hawaii Tips

Hiking can be an awesome and fascinating vacation experience. But it can also be dangerous unless safety and precautionary measures are undertaken while on a hiking trail. Here are some hiking safety tips that may help you have a wonderful and fulfilling hiking adventure.

Let others know where you are going

Before you venture to a hiking expenditure, plan you hike. Let someone know about your hiking plans. Let people know which trails you are going. Information about the name and location of the trail are important in case of emergency. Rescuers will know where to start searching in case something went wrong. Never put any hiking escapade in a secret because this may endanger your life.

Hike with a Partner/ Group

It is not advisable to hike alone even if you are a seasoned hiker. Trails can be dangerous any time of the day. Most hikers who get into troubles are those hiking alone. It is advisable to get a   hiking guide who can give you necessary hiking information while on the trail.  He can tell you more about the trails, where to start and the degree of difficulty of each trail. It is a good recommendation to take a group hike or hike with a partner.  A group hike can be more enjoyable as you share and compare experience with other people. You can also compare and assess your level of fitness with your group mates. Most group hiking takes on the same trail based on the level fitness and capacities of its members. 

Get informed about the weather

Hawaii’s tropic weather can be unpredictable. Sunny and clear mornings are sometimes followed by rain and wind later in the day. It is wise to check conditions of the weather with the National Weather Service. Flash floods can pose dangers especially in narrow quiches. Slippery and wet rocks are also dangerous as well as falling rocks and debris from soil erosions. Have a daily weather broadcast updates on the radio or you get your updates through online.

Wear proper clothing gears

It is best to wear layers of clothing to protect yourself from the heat of the tropical sun. The sun may damage your skin so better have layers of clothing for skin protection. To protect your eyes, wear sunglasses. A hat and sun blocks can also be a good source of protection from the heat of the sun. Wear boots, preferably hiking boots because they offer traction and angle support and may help prevent or reduced injuries in case of fall in muddy trails and from sticks or rocks injuries. Light rain gear is best for quick change. Don’t wear shoes that are not suited for harsh surroundings and may give discomfort while hiking.

What to bring

It is a must to bring water. Two liters water per person for a full-day hike is recommended. The longer the trail is or on a hotter day, more water is extremely essential. Dehydration can be a serious problem mostly in a tropical weather. Carry a daypack or waist pack to keep your hands free while hiking. Pack a bright color article to attract rescuers ‘attention in case of emergency while a whistle is useful and can be heard from miles away than human voices.  Sunscreen, insects repellant, a small flashlight, food and basic first aid such as band aids and antiseptic are also part of hiking essentials. You can also bring your cell phone although signals may be poor in some trail sites, it can still be a good communication means in case of emergency.

These are simple hiking tips but it can help achieve safe hiking experience while in Hawaii. Always remember that you are a quest in this tropical island, the home of Hawaii’s forest creatures and Hawaiian ancestor. It is polite and proper to treat these areas with respect as you enjoy your hiking vacation packages.