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6 Tips for Hiking Safely

hike in santa barbara ca

Here at Santa Barbara Adventure Company we love to go hiking. We know that hiking can take you to see some of the most beautiful sites, like views of the Channel Islands or of our city, waterfalls, rivers, and even old castle ruins. It also offers a fantastic opportunity to get in shape and a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors. However, hiking can also be dangerous if you are not prepared.  After searching online, we came across California State Parks tips for hiking (posted below), and if you follow them you will have a safe and fun time!

  • Hike with a friend or family member.  The companionship in the great outdoors is fun and you can encourage one another to meet your fitness goals.
  • Take plenty of drinking water.  Leave stream, river and lake water for the park wildlife.  Although it looks clean and refreshing, mountain stream water can make you ill.
  • Let someone back at camp or at home know where you are going and when you plan on returning.  Take a mobile phone for emergencies only or to let them know you have returned safely.
  • Don’t walk off-trail.  Cutting across switchbacks erodes the hillside and eventually destroys the trail.  Plus, walking off-trail increases your chance of suffering an injury or getting lost
  • Wildlife lives in all of our state parks, even near urban areas.  Although rare, black bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes may be seen. Whenever you encounter wildlife on the trail, keep your distance back away slowly, and do not run.  Report your sightings to a State Park Ranger.
  • Poison oak is a common plant throughout much of California.  Learn to identify its shiny, three-leaf pattern and avoid touching it.  If you touch poison oak, wash immediately with water and mild soap.  Pat dry with a clean towel.
  • Make your visit to a California State Park better with these Hiking and Camping Safety Tips. –Click to read more

We hope you are able to take full advantage of all the beautiful hiking trails that Santa Barbara has to offer. If you want to make sure that you are following these tips, then join us on one of our beautiful guided hiking tours.

Explore the local countryside with your own expert guide! Natural and human histories are the focus of our hike. Knowledgeable guides will offer discussions on native plants and animals, local geology and Chumash culture. Discover the finer points of the Chaparral plant community, sample edible plants, and learn about wild flowers and sage. We’ll stop for beautiful views and lunch by a quiet creek. This day’s walk is popular with all levels of nature enthusiasts. Back at trails-end we’ll enjoy a cold beverage before heading to back to town.

Have a tip you don’t see here? Leave it in the comments below.

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