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In this blog post, we will give you some tips on how to go hiking in the rain and make the most of it!
When the forecast calls for rain, it can be tough to figure out what to do with your weekend. If you're an outdoor lover, though, you shouldn't let a little rain stop you from hitting the trails. After all, there's nothing quite like a hike in the rain. The air is fresh and clean, the forest is alive with the sound of running water, and everything is just so green and lush. But if you're not prepared for it, hiking in the rain can be a pretty miserable experience. You need to be prepared for the different types of weather conditions you might encounter, and make sure to pack the right gear.
Related: 10 Tips For Camping In The Rain
In this guide, we'll provide you with everything you need to know about hiking in the rain. We'll discuss how to dress for the weather, what supplies to bring with you, and where to go hiking when it's raining. So whether you're braving a downpour or just dealing with a light sprinkle, read on for tips on staying dry and having fun while hiking in the rain.
Here are some tips to help you go hiking in the rain safely and comfortably:
1) Choose the right trail
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Hiking in the rain can be a fun and rewarding experience, but only if you choose the right trails. So it is important to know what kind you are looking for before starting out! When hiking in the rain, you want to make sure that you choose a trail that is not too steep or slippery. If possible, try to find a trail with some tree coverage so that you can stay dry.
Since you won't be able to see expansive views, it's best not to go on a summit hike while it is raining. Instead, you should choose a forest trail that will be full of the sights and smells of rain-soaked nature. But if you're feeling adventurous, you should go for trails with waterfalls! Just remember to be cautious and watch for slippery surfaces, and avoid crossing swift rivers or streams.
Related: 10 Bucket List Worthy Hikes In 2022
2) Bring rain gear for hiking
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The next step is to make sure you have the proper hiking gear. This includes rain gear, of course, but also hiking boots with good traction and hiking poles to help balance. A hiking rain jacket is a must-have, but you'll also want to layer up with a synthetic shirt, fleece, and windbreaker. And don't forget to wear waterproof hiking pants! It is also important to pack extra clothes (especially socks) in case you get wet and cold. But you should avoid clothing made out of cotton because it will hold moisture and make you colder.
When it comes to hiking in the rain, we recommend outdoor clothing made from synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. You'll want to make sure that your gear stays dry in case it rains, so don't forget to bring a hiking backpack rain cover. Also, bring gaiters if your trail will be mostly covered in mud or deep puddles. And don't forget to carry a first aid kit, just in case! It's also a good idea to bring a map and compass. One last pro-tip: make sure your footwear is weatherproof and grippy. You don't want to risk slipping and injuring yourself on wet rocks or roots.
3) Pack plenty of food and water
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When hiking in the rain, it's important to be prepared for any situation. So you need to bring plenty of water and food, even if you don't think you'll need it. You never know when the weather will take a turn for the worse or when you might get lost. We highly recommend packing easy snacks that will give you energy, like granola bars or trail mix. Some other food items that you can bring include: peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, hard-boiled eggs, dried fruit, nuts and seeds, beef jerky, and pasta or rice dishes.
And you should keep yourself hydrated by drinking even if you're not thirsty. Carrying a water filter is also a good idea in case you run out of potable water. But do be mindful of Leave No Trace guidelines, and remember to pack out all snack materials. This includes food wrappers, empty water bottles, and any other garbage.
Related: 15 Best Hiking Snacks
4) Keep monitoring the weather
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If you're hiking in an area with a lot of trees, you'll be protected from the rain to some extent. But if you're hiking in an open area or above the treeline, pay close attention to the weather and be prepared to turn back if necessary. Once again, safety should always be your number one priority when hiking. Look out for signs of thunderstorms, such as darkening skies, increasing wind speed, or hearing distant thunder. If you see or hear any of these, it's time to head back to the trailhead. To make sure you stay safe on your hike, consider bringing a satellite communicator with you. This device can help in case of emergency and ensure that rescue teams know where to find the hikers if something goes wrong!
5) Hike with a buddy
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Hiking in the rain can be quite treacherous. One slip-up and you're a disaster! To avoid this, it is best to go on your hike with a buddy. Hiking with a group of friends is not only safer but has great benefits as well. Having a companion to chat with and share the experience makes the hike more enjoyable. But that's not all - research shows that hiking with a friend also has health benefits.
A study by the University of Oxford found that people who regularly hiked with friends had lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels than those who hiked solo or didn't hike at all. So next time you head out for a hike, bring a friend along! You'll both benefit from the experience. But if you do choose to hike solo, make sure to let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time. This way, if something happens to you on the trail, there will be someone who knows to look for you.
Conclusion
Hiking in the rain can be a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. Just make sure to dress appropriately, bring the right hiking gear, and (if hiking solo) let someone know your hiking plans. With these precautions, you'll be able to enjoy hiking in any weather! Thanks for reading! I hope this was helpful.
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