Hiking in national parks offers unparalleled opportunities to experience nature’s grandeur, from alpine meadows to desert canyons. However, the wilderness that makes these places so captivating also presents real risks. Every year, search and rescue teams respond to hundreds of incidents in national parks—many of which could have been prevented with proper preparation and knowledge. Whether you’re planning a short day hike or a multi-day backcountry adventure, understanding and following essential safety practices can mean the difference between a memorable experience and a dangerous situation.
Plan and Prepare Before You Go
Proper preparation begins long before you hit the trail. Research your chosen hike thoroughly: understand the distance, elevation gain, terrain difficulty, and estimated time. Check current conditions with park rangers, as trails can be affected by weather, wildlife activity, or seasonal closures. Always tell someone your hiking plan, including your route, expected return time, and what to do if you don’t check in.
Study maps and trail descriptions, and download offline maps to your phone since cell service is often unavailable in parks. Check the weather forecast, but remember that mountain weather can change rapidly—be prepared for conditions worse than predicted. Obtain any required permits well in advance, especially for popular trails or backcountry camping.
The Ten Essentials
The Mountaineers’ “Ten Essentials” system provides a framework for what to carry on every hike, regardless of length or difficulty. These items can save your life in an emergency:
- Navigation: Map, compass, and GPS device or smartphone with offline maps
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
- Insulation: Extra clothing layers for changing weather
- Illumination: Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid supplies: Including any personal medications
- Fire: Waterproof matches or lighter and fire starter
- Repair kit and tools: Including knife, duct tape, and gear repair items
- Nutrition: Extra food beyond what you plan to eat
- Hydration: Extra water and purification method
- Emergency shelter: Space blanket, bivy sack, or emergency tent
Customize this list based on your specific hike, season, and personal needs.
Water and Hydration
Dehydration is one of the most common problems hikers face. Drink water regularly throughout your hike, not just when you feel thirsty. A general guideline is to drink about half a liter per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures, more in heat or during strenuous activity.
Never assume natural water sources are safe to drink, even in pristine wilderness. Giardia and other pathogens can cause severe illness. Always treat water by filtering, using purification tablets, or boiling. Carry more water than you think you’ll need—running out of water on a hot day can quickly become dangerous.
Wildlife Safety
National parks are home to wild animals, and encounters are possible. The key to wildlife safety is maintaining distance and never approaching or feeding animals. Each park has specific distance requirements—in Yellowstone, stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other large animals.
If you encounter a bear, remain calm, speak in a calm voice, and slowly back away. Never run. If the bear approaches, stand your ground and use bear spray if you have it. For mountain lions, make yourself appear large, maintain eye contact, and fight back aggressively if attacked. Carry bear spray in bear country and know how to use it before you need it.
Store food properly, especially in backcountry camps. Use bear canisters or hang food in bear bags away from your sleeping area. Never keep food, toiletries, or scented items in your tent.
Stay on Trail and Know Your Limits
Staying on designated trails protects both you and the environment. Trails are designed to be the safest route, avoiding hazards like unstable slopes, cliffs, and sensitive ecosystems. Shortcutting switchbacks causes erosion and can be dangerous.
Be honest about your fitness level and experience. Turn back if conditions deteriorate, you’re running late, or you’re feeling exhausted. There’s no shame in turning around—the mountain will be there another day. Many accidents happen when hikers push beyond their abilities or ignore warning signs.
Weather Awareness
Mountain weather can change dramatically and quickly. Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in many mountain regions. If you hear thunder, you’re already in danger—lightning can strike from miles away. Descend immediately from ridges and peaks, avoid isolated trees, and seek lower ground.
Hypothermia can occur even in summer if you get wet and cold. Carry rain gear and extra layers. Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and loss of coordination. If someone shows these symptoms, get them dry and warm immediately.
Emergency Protocols
If you become lost, stop and stay calm. The acronym STOP helps: Stop, Think, Observe, Plan. Stay where you are if you’ve told someone your route—it’s easier for rescuers to find you. If you must move, leave clear markers and notes about your direction.
In case of injury, assess the situation. For minor injuries, administer first aid and decide whether to continue or turn back. For serious injuries, call for help if you have cell service, or send someone for help if in a group. Use your whistle (three blasts is the universal distress signal) or signal mirror to attract attention.
Conclusion
Hiking in national parks is one of life’s great pleasures, offering physical challenge, natural beauty, and profound peace. By preparing properly, carrying essential gear, respecting wildlife, staying aware of conditions, and knowing your limits, you can ensure your adventures are safe as well as memorable. Remember that the goal isn’t just to reach the destination—it’s to return home safely with stories to tell and a desire to explore again. The wilderness will always be there; make sure you are too.