Area outdoors enthusiasts discuss how, when to hike when it’s hot out
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Valley Voices
This is your public forum. We welcome your opinions, which can be emailed to AzOpinions@iniusa.org or posted below in the comments.
I’m seeing so many awesome hikes … how do you guys hike in this heat? Are you acclimated? Just coming from a way different climate. — Tera Christine
Hydrated
Yes. It takes a bit to get my body back into summer weather but I stay hiking weekly all year round so it doesn’t ever have a long period of time removed from activity. I drink a gallon of water a day no matter what so my body will be beyond hydrated. I usually wait until 5:30-6 p.m. to start hikes so the sun is out of my way. The sun is really the only thing that hurts me in the summer so I do lots of sunset and night hikes. — Karina Ridel
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Be kind
Late afternoon/early evening will be your hottest times. You will get there. But, lived here my entire life. When I would go to my dad’s house in Flagstaff in the summer I would use his ski jackets as soon as the sun set! So, be kind to yourself! There is a flip side to getting used to heat! — Jordan Shughart Picasso
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Acclimated
Go out a little each day and you will get used to it. I trail run throughout the summer during the hottest part of the day. It’s all in the training, and carrying enough water and wearing sun-protective clothing. — Saraniah Horn
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Editor’s note: What are your hints and tips for summertime hiking and other outdoors activities in Arizona? Be sure to consult your physician before beginning any new workout plan or outdoor activity. Join the civil discussion at: AzOpinions@iniusa.org (or in the comments below).