Night Hiking in the Western United States
Preparation and Planning for a Summer Night Hike
Sep 9, 2009
Hiking in the bright of the day can be a pleasant experience, but hiking at night under a full moon can be an uncommon adventure. As summer temperatures heat up that desire to hit the trail often dwindles. Although hiking at night can be an enjoyable experience during spring and fall, heading out after dark is often most popular in areas where the summer heat becomes relentless.
The Night Hiking Experience
Everything changes when hiking after dark, including a familiar trail. The luminescence seen at night often accentuates nature's beauty; the moon's reflection dances across a body of water, fireflies light up a trail and mysterious owls call for their mates from the surrounding trees. Trails that climb in altitude closer to the city will reveal an exquisite light show. As humans we are not characteristically creatures of the night, at least in a wilderness sense. Hiking at night gives adventurers the opportunity to step outside of their comfort zone and reconnect with nature.
The Benefits of Hiking at Night
Hikers living in areas where the summer typically warms up will find a reprieve from the sweltering heat experienced during the daylight hours. In addition to the cooler weather, many of the more crowded hiking trails can be experienced in solitude under the shimmer of the stars.
Planning and Packing for a Night Hike
Hikers preparing for a night hike should pack as they would for a day hike. It is important for nocturnal travelers to pack an adequate amount of snacks and water to sustain them for the duration of the trip. In addition to extra layers of clothing, a map, compass and headlamp equipped with a red lens should be included into a backpack. It can take up to 30 minutes for individuals to adjust their eyesight in a dark environment. While most headlamps are fitted with a white LED light, this color can be disruptive to the eyesight of hikers traveling across dark terrain. Avid night hikers and cavers use a red lens which is easier and less blinding to the human eyes.
Hikers heading out for the first time at night should stick to familiar and well maintained trails. Prior to departure hikers should also check the weather report for weather warnings and to get an idea of when the moon will be rising. Another informative resource for the moon's cycle and other astrological events is the Farmer's Almanac.
Popular Trails for Night Hiking
Night hiking is a recreational activity that is best experienced on trails with very minimal tree canopy so that the night sky can light up the trail ahead. Cowles Mountain, the highest point within the city of San Diego, is a noted night hike that awards adventurers with a panoramic view of the city's lights upon reaching the summit. National Parks such as Bryce Canyon and Yosemite offer full moon night hikes that offers hikers a new perspective on some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the nation. The Pecos Wilderness in New Mexico is another noteworthy adventure to experience in the dark of the evening and was listed as one of Backpacker Magazine's "Top 3 Night Hikes." Night hiking enthusiasts can summit the 12,622 feet of Mt. Baldy summit to view the stars and moon dance across Lake Katherine.
Hiking at night can be a challenge for the mind and body. By planning ahead and choosing a trail that is situated in an open area hikers can enjoy an experience that will create lifetime memories.
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