Spring, Summer and Fall are wonderful seasons here in the upstate and outdoor activities are bountiful from a day on the lake, hiking a trail, or mountain biking.  Every year we hear about extreme accidents in which Medical and Emergency services must be called in to help an injured person.   Many times, people simply forget about safety and get caught up in the moment of exploring our beautiful area. The Tri-Counties have a lot to offer people and I certainly want you to be around to enjoy it all.  

Hiking is a poplar activity in the area, and there are many trails that lead to magnificent waterfalls.   Some are well marked, and some are not, so use caution when exploring.  If you are new to the area and have not hiked a lot in the past below are some simple tips for staying safe this summer and fall.  

If you are hiking alone or just two of you, please let someone know when and where you will be hiking.  Give them an estimated time in which they can except you back from your trip.  Always stay on the marked trail, people do get lost when they venture off the trail.  

Plan ahead, if you are not in excellent condition you may want to pick an easier trail first.  Locations like Table Rock may appear to be a super fun day until you are halfway up the trail and realize that you expended all your energy.  There are many family friendly trails to start on and build up your stamina.  

Wear light colored clothing.  You will stay cooler and professionally research has shown that light colors attract less insects and bees.  Wide bream hats will provide better protection from the sun than baseball caps.   A good pair of hiking socks will help to prevent blisters on long hikes.

Shoes will provide better traction than flip flops. Foot injuries and ankle sprains decrease when you wear shoes on the trails.  As well they will provide protection from unwanted bites.  If you want to wade in the water or dip your toes in the cold mountain streams, then pack your flip flops or water shoes in your backpack.

Always, always, always check the weather.  In certain locations the weather can change quickly during the summer months. Be prepared to take cover when a storm rolls in.  

 

Items for your backpack and vehicle.

Water---always hydrate before a long hike and take plenty of water with you on your hike.   Dehydration can set in before you realize it.  Keep extra water in your vehicle, many people underestimate how much they will drink on the hike.  Also, if you hike with your pet, they will need to be replenished upon turn to the vehicle. Collapsible bowls are easy to store in your backpack for your pet.

Packing some protein snack bars are a must and are an excellent way to restore energy.   Many people are surprised that even easy trails will work up an appetite.  Don’t forget your pet’s food as well, they burn a lot carioles when they are out exploring with you.

Beach Towels-you made it to the waterfall and decided to go for a swim in the shallow pool.   Cold mountain water is a great way to refresh but hiking back to the vehicle in soggy clothes may not be your idea of fun. Drying off just a little will help prevent chaffing. Keep an extra one in the vehicle for those pop-up summer storms and wet pets.

First Aid Kit!!!! This is a must.  Please take the extra time to keep one in your vehicle. You can purchase pre-stocked with supplies at local stores.  Having one in the vehicle will allow you to treat minor scrapes, bites, or small mishaps. You can use a small Ziplock bag for band aids and first-aid creams and then place in your backpack for the hike. For scrapes on pet paws, you can use light weight sterile gauzes.  

Please remember that as beautiful and splendid waterfalls may appear, the hidden dangers of climbing to the top of them could lead to a serious injury and even death.  In case of injury to you or others on the trail, please call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.  We have medical and emergency personal trained for these occasions.

I hope that you find the Tri-Counties as wonderful as I do.  Welcome home, and I hope to meet you on the trail very soon!

Namaste,

K.D. McCurley