Ditch the flip-flops and load up on water. Hiking season is right around the corner and preparation is the key to a successful hiking trip, meaning you don't have to get airlifted off the mountain.
“Phoenix is a good area to hike because it is surrounded by mountain ranges and everything is well within driving range,” says Cody Ploense, an avid hiker. “The area is diverse and the experiences are different everywhere you go.”
Ploense, ASU student, says Phoenix offers a variety of trails, and he hikes as often as possible. But it is important to prioritize safe hiking.
“When I hike, my focus is on the trail,” Ploense says. “There is always time to stop and enjoy the scenery, but I suggest doing exactly that: stopping. The trail changes with each step and one fall could do a lot of damage.”
It is important to take breaks throughout the hike. A hiker can easily make mistakes or lose focus if they don't stop and rest when necessary.
“There are slips, trips and falls. What happens from those are broken arms, broken legs, head wounds,” says Aaron Ernsberger, public information officer for the Phoenix Fire Department. “People face overheating, heat exhaustion, and obviously cardiac issues. We see them all equally on all the mountains.”
Ernsberger says one safety tip does not weigh out the other. When it comes to hiking, all safety methods are necessary in order to conduct a successful hike.
“Stay properly hydrated, wear the proper clothes, wear the proper shoes, don't out-perform your abilities and make sure you tell people where you're going and have a cell phone,” Ernsberger says.
He stresses the importance of wearing proper attire and carrying a charged cell phone in case of emergency.
Knowing exactly what you will be facing on the trail ahead of time will decrease the risk of getting injured or facing any other difficulties, according to Ploense.
“Research the hike,” Ploense says. “Know how much you will be ascending and descending, what the length is, what the weather is like, if there is water along the trail.”
The trails are filled with locals, hiking enthusiasts and out-of-towners.
People who come into town for a conference like to try out the local trails, Ploense says.
The hotels located near hiking destinations make efforts to prepare tourists who want to take advantage of the nearby trails.
Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort staff members provide a sheet with hiking tips and a map to guests who are interested in utilizing the nearby hiking, says Tessa Bajema, public relations manager, Pointe Hilton.
“The resort is located just a few minutes walk from Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, which is home to several hiking trails,” Bajema says.
Because the hotel is so close to popular hiking trails, it provides a map and helpful tips to assist guests.
Phoenix draws a variety of people who have many different interests and pastimes, which include hiking. While it is meant to be an enjoyable experience, experts stress the importance of preparation, research and proper attire.
“Remember you need a round trip ticket,” Ernsberger says. “So if you go up, you need to come down and it needs to be done safely.”
