The heat in AZ is nothing to be messed with. People die every year. I’ve seen people put their dogs in extremely dangerous heat related situations, as well. The heat will kill you or your hiking partner if you aren’t smart about it.
Want to hike in the AZ heat? Here’ stuff I’ve learned for myself…
Don’t bring your dog.
Always hike with a partner.
Bring a lot more water than you think you might need. I see people bringing just a single water bottle. That is insane. You need at least a gallon and a half.
Learn about hydration, including when to also consume minerals/ salt.
Bring a changed cell phone and walkie talkie, at the very least.
Bring signaling tools.
Bring a cloth or tarp that you could drape over bushes in case you must get in some shade.
Leave early, like 4 am and be done before 10 am.
You need a hat.
Bring first aid.
Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back. Don’t deviate from that course. Sign in with the ranger station or sign in at the trail entrance.
Bring food that won’t spoil. Protein (dried meat), salty snacks, some carbs. Energy drinks and other gimmicks are dumb.
Be in shape.
Bring an emergency whistle.
Start with easy hikes.
Have a map.
Don’t bring your dog.
Plan accordingly.
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