National Park Service Springtime Hiking Tips
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The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, a unit of the National Park Service, offers the following tips for springtime hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains:
* Water is life. Carry plenty of water and drink it. One quart or more for short walks. More for longer hikes. Alcohol is not a good substitute for water.
* Sun protection. Wear sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. Long-sleeved shirts are recommended on sunny days.
* Never hike alone; use the buddy system. That leaves someone to go for help if you run into trouble.
* Plan your hike and tell someone--a close friend or family member--about the plan. Stick with your trip plan.
* Wear sturdy footwear: hiking boots or sneakers.
* Do not build fires. Do not smoke.
* Carry a well-equipped first aid kit.
* High outdoor temperatures can reduce a hiker’s efficiency. Travel light. The heaviest item in your backpack should be water.
* Be aware that the Southern Pacific rattlesnake lives in the mountains. Stay away from it and it won’t bother you.
* State parks are closed during periods of extreme fire danger. Call (213) 454-2372 for a 24-hour recorded fire-condition message.
