Beat The Heat: Six Ways to Stay Cool On Summer Hikes

(Updated Summer 2023)

Around this time of summer in the Mid-Atlantic region, a grand divide develops between friends, family members, & neighbors.

The divide?

Those who relish, even celebrate, the slow, hot days at the height of summer - and those who, well, just don't.

Whether you are the first to head out for adventures on a steaming day, or you are just sucking it up and going along with family & friends to keep the peace - this blog is for you. 

Summer can get pretty darn hot these days, and here in the Mid-Atlantic Region keeping the basics in mind when playing outside in the summer has become an absolute necessity.  

Below are six tricks from the sleeves of some experienced hikers to help you stay cool while hiking this summer. 

1. Stay Hydrated

It sounds like a no-brainer (and of course, beat the heat advice always starts here) but the importance of drinkingenough water cannot be overstated. 

Beyond quenching your thirst, sweat (which is water) is your body’s primary way of cooling itself. Drinking enough water also increases concentration and improves mood - both of which can be critical when you are adventuring in the heat.

Knowing how much water to bring for your length and difficulty of outing is a good start. You should also identify where all your water sources are on your Purple Lizard map, and carry a small filter to treat it before drinking. 

2. Stay off the South-Facing Slopes

If you are off to explore the mountains, you will want to keep in mind where you are heading. Choose your adventure carefully - is the trail or area you plan exploring shaded?

There’s a good reason that many plants grow more quickly on south-facing slopes. In the Northern Hemisphere, thesun’s trajectory is more southern throughout the day. That means that mountain slopes facing the south receive more sunlight, and are thus are generally quite a bit warmer.

When planning your trip, consider looking for trails in the shady valleys (streams or river trails with lots of shade can be fun on a hot day) or trails that traverse on the north-facing slopes of mountains and hills to get out of the sun. With a little research you can find some amazing water holes - like this one on the Mid State Trail!

3. Soak a Bandana or a Neck Gaiter 

If you like to wear a neck gaiter, dipping it in a cool stream and stretching it around your forehead can make all the difference. The same can go for your trusty bandana, or even a shirt. 

Of course, you can always go for a dip if you find the perfect swimming hole. You don't have to actually swim - the benefits of taking off your shoes and socks and putting your feet in a cold stream are immeasurable on a hot day.

4. Be an Early Bird or a Night Owl

In the thick of summer, the time of day that you choose to hike can make all the difference. It’s best to avoid the middle of the day into mid-afternoon, when temperatures will be hottest. Opt instead for a sunrise or a sunset hike, when temperatures are cooler. If you are less experienced adventuring in the heat and are planning a hike, you may want to plan a shorter than trip, or have a bailout option available.

If you’re on a multi-day trip, try to get started early in the morning while it’s still cool. When the day heats up, take a nap or a long break, and as the afternoon rolls around, resume hiking. 

5. Wear the Right Stuff

Unless your trip involves overgrown trails or extended exposure to sunlight, your best bet is thin, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Lighter colors will reflect sunlightmore effectively than darker clothing while loose-fitting fabric will allow more airflow around your skin. That means moisture can evaporate, and your body can cool itself more efficiently.

While you don't have to invest a bunch of money in fancy hiking clothes, remember that light, synthetic fabric is often best in high heat, because it wicks moisture and dries quickly. Basically, wear your favorite exercise shirt instead of your favorite cotton tee. 

6. Head for the Mountain Tops

If you’ve ever worn shorts and a t-shirt to start a hike only to be cold when you reach the top of a mountain, then you’ll know that it can be surprisingly chilly on mountain tops.Air pressuredecreases with altitude, and temperature as a result. You can typically expect to lose aroundfive degreesFarenheit per thousand feet of altitude. 

Be sure to keep an eye on the weather - you’ll be more exposed to storms on summits. A cool breeze or light drizzle may be welcomed, but a micro-cell burst and lightning strikes definitely are not. But in general,  if you’re trying to escape the heat, a mountain top destination may be just the place. 

Plan Ahead & Head Out There!

Summer is hot, but it doesn’t have to keep you hiding out indoors for the AC. Just like when you play outdoors in winter, being prepared in summer makes all the difference. Always let someone know where you are heading, keep the essentials in your pack, stay within your limits, and pay attention to yourself and your hiking partners.Learn the signs of heat illness - it is no joke. 

Don't miss the beauty of an awesome summer season - unfold your Purple Lizard map, dunk your bandana, and enjoy the (shady) trails! You don't have to make it a hard hike - pack a hammock and go find a shady spot by a stream!

 By Renée Korma

 copyright Purple Lizard Maps 2021

Renée Koma is a writer in mental health and personal development. When she’s not tapping away on her laptop, she loves to play her cello, go backpacking, and write for her own outdoors-themed blog, The Dirt.