Amber's Guide to Hiking in the Desert

I've had wonderful visits from family and friends throughout my time in Utah. Every time I have visitors, it seems like I keep repeating the same instructions on how to prepare and what to bring. So, I'm putting down my thoughts for any inexperienced adventurers who plan a trip to Utah (or really any hiking destination).

Go on the hikes!
Whenever my family went on vacations that included national parks or scenic areas, we pretty much did the drive through version. It's great, but we barely scratched the surface of what's there. So, even if you think you're old or really out of shape or whatever, go on the hikes. Trust me, I've seen all sorts out on the trail.

Do your research

If you're going to a national park such as Arches, make sure you attempt to go at a time that won't be extra busy. I mean, Arches is a madhouse from early spring into late fall, but there are still times that are worse than others. For example, Moab's annual Jeeping festival. Don't do it. Or the NPS free-entrance days. You'll save money, but you'll pay for it by fighting the other thrifty hikers.

There are ways to save money on your accommodations. If you want to rough it, you can camp on any BLM land that's at least 100 ft away from the road. Free and easy. If you're more the hotel type, look into staying places that are a little further away from the main attraction (like Green River!) at least part of the time. You might drive an extra 45 minutes, but you can easily save a few hundred bucks.  

The main reason that National Parks are so popular is because they have been set aside to be protected and promoted. That doesn't mean you can't find really cool hikes in surrounding areas that will be far less crowded and probably just as cool as the national park. In fact, all the pictures included in this post are from non-national park locations. Find local websites that provide hiking guidance. That being said, make sure you pay attention to the type of vehicle required to access the hike. Several sites in my area are only found down rocky high-clearance roads. And I've found that sometimes people overestimate how cool hikes are, so check out some pictures if you're questioning. 

Also be on the lookout for changes in hours and other announcements that may affect where you're planning to go. For example, the Narrows in Zion are often closed in the spring because the river flows too quickly.

Kanarra Creek falls

Dress for the hike

There is a range of attire that is appropriate for any given hike, but here's a couple of ground rules: Don't wear jeans. Don't wear flip flops. Don't be the dork that brings your trekking poles for a 2 mile hike (unless you're gaining significant elevation per mile or you're 80 years old. If you're hiking at 80, you can do and wear whatever you want).

The Utah sun is intense! For summer hikes, I prefer to wear loose-fitting clothes that cover a lot of skin to avoid weird tan lines and stressing about sunscreen (don't forget to sunscreen the hands... my hands are so much browner than the rest of my body). Some lightweight pants will keep you a lot cooler than leggings, even cropped leggings. That being said, if I do a hike that requires any scrambling, squeezing in tight spaces, or getting wet, I prefer a pair of non-cotton leggings. In the spring and fall, wear layers. It might get down to 50 at night but be 85 during the day. Even when it's 85, you might get to the top of something and be cold in the breeze.  

For many hikes, especially the typical hikes in National Parks, a sturdy pair of tennis shoes will be just fine. The main reasons to get hiking boots, in my mind, are for traction and ankle support. It might be worth getting a pair if you are planning to do a fair amount of hiking in the future.

Crack Canyon

Be prepared

You don't need to go out and get a nice new hydration pack for a week vacation. That being said, they are very nice to have. (:  If you are buying a pack, make sure you go to a store and get fitted/try some on. Packs do come in different sizes, and different brands will fit differently. Pay attention to the capacity you need as well. Day packs are usually around 20 L, while overnight packs are usually 50+. [Promo: REI is a magical place]  

Having a first aid kit probably isn't necessary if you're just doing the national parks, but if you're hiking in more secluded areas having a small first aid kit will give you some piece of mind. Even just in case you need Band aids for blisters or you get a splinter or something. And ladies (sorry gents), make sure you have tampons handy in the car or in your pack. There's nothing worse than starting your period on a hike.

Even if you feel like your hikes will be between meal times, always carry a couple of granola bars. There's also nothing worse than hiking hungry. And you never know when you'll fall off a ledge and get trapped for days (... kidding! mostly).

Take more water than you think you need. The general rule is one gallon per person for a day of hiking. This is where having a bladder can come in handy because carrying all that water in bottles is a bit cumbersome. 

Get to your hike as early as you can

The majority of people are not early risers. 'nough said.

Respect Nature
"Leave No Trace". Stay on the trail, don't litter, and pick up other people's litter if you see it. Don't climb on things that you're told not to. Don't bust the crust. The beauty of Utah's landscape is partially in its fragility.  

Be safe 

Don't climb up anything without thinking about how you'll get down. (see "The Lessons of Misadventures")

Don't attempt things beyond your skill level or what you're comfortable with after a logical assessment of the situation. It might be a rush, but probably not worth it.

Don't hike in slot canyons if there's a chance of rain. You will get chlamydia. and die. (or just drown in a flash flood)

Do as I say, not as I do