Hiking in the rain can be a great experience. Sometimes, the adventure and challenge of climbing up a mountain while battling the rain can be much more satisfying than hiking on a hot summer day. However, it can also be dangerous if you don’t take the proper precautions. We love hiking, and you’ve seen it in the various hiking articles we’ve posted in the past. In this post, we discuss 10 useful tips for hiking in the rain that will help you stay safe and have a great time.
1. Wear the Right Clothing
Make sure you wear waterproof and breathable clothing such as a rain jacket and waterproof pants. This will help keep you dry and comfortable while hiking in the rain. Also, wear a hat and gloves to keep your head and hands dry and warm. For more tips on what to wear when hiking in the rain – read this Hiking Essentials by Hike It Baby.
2. Wear the Right Footwear
Make sure you wear waterproof and breathable footwear such as hiking boots or shoes. This will help keep your feet dry and comfortable while hiking in the rain. If you’re one of our followers and readers in Toronto, for example, you can find good footwear for hiking by visiting the Toronto and GTA footwear store.
3. Bring a Rain Cover
Bring a rain cover for your backpack to keep your gear dry. This will help protect your gear from getting wet and damaged. These days, everyone carries so many electronic gadgets, from cellphones, notebooks, chargers, GoPro cameras, and more. While some are waterproof – I prefer not taking chances with my precious gadgets. It’s easier to get a rain cover for the backpack.
4. Stay on the Trail
Make sure you stay on the trail while hiking in the rain. This will help you avoid getting lost and will also help you avoid slippery and dangerous terrain. It’s always tempting to go off-trail for some fun adventures, but when it rains – it can be a dangerous one.
5. Bring a Map and a Compass
Bring a map and compass with you while hiking in the rain. This will help you stay on the right path and will also help you find your way back if you get lost. A hard rainy day with bad visibility can easily take you off track, so a map and compass can be life savers.
6. Bring a Flashlight
Bring a flashlight with you while hiking in the rain. This will help you see in the dark and will also help you find your way back if you get lost.
7. Stay Hydrated
Make sure you stay hydrated while hiking in the rain. Bring plenty of water with you and drink it regularly to stay hydrated.
8. Watch for Slippery Conditions
Be aware of slippery conditions while hiking in the rain. This will help you avoid slipping and falling.
9. Watch for Lightning
Be aware of lightning while hiking in the rain. If you hear thunder, seek shelter immediately. For specific safety measures you can take to avoid lightning dangers when hiking – read this post on AmericanHiking.org.
10. Have Fun
Don’t forget to have fun while hiking in the rain. Enjoy the experience and take lots of pictures!
Hiking in the rain can be a great experience if you take the proper precautions. Make sure you wear the right clothing and footwear, bring a rain cover, stay on the trail, bring a map and compass, bring a flashlight, stay hydrated, watch for slippery conditions, watch for lightning, and have fun.
