Introduction to Desert Trekking

Deserts make up an important part of North America. Even Canada is not without them. In Western Canada, you can find three semi-arid regions: The Thompson River Valley to the west of Kamloops in British Columbia, the Badlands in Southeastern Alberta and the Osoyoos region in the Okanagan Valley, also in B.C.

: Image via Wikipedia

In the United States, there are ten deserts including, but not limited to, the Central Basin covering much of Nevada and neighboring states (the largest), the Mojave, the Sonoran, the Chihuahuan and the Columbia Plateau in the Northwest. Desert Trekking

Image Source: weathersavvy.com

Hiking in the desert can be very rewarding. It’s very different from hiking in other ecoregions. Your view is not obstructed by trees, so you can see a great distance. The flora and fauna are unique and worth viewing.

Of course, the desert is hot. So, there are some special rules. Well, some of them you’ll recognize as the same rules that you should apply wherever you hike, but with more emphasis on them because of the added harshness of the desert.

Here are eight rules for hiking in the desert:

1. Always leave your itinerary with someone before leaving on your desert hike.

2. Hike with other people; going alone in the desert can be especially risky.

3. Prepare for extreme swings in temperature if you plan to camp overnight. During the summer, the temperature can go rapidly from the hundreds in the daytime to the sixties at night.

4. Dress for hot weather. Remember that the sun’s rays are stronger in the desert. A broad-brimmed hat is highly recommended.

5. Use sunscreen liberally and reapply it often.

6. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes. Leather boots are more protective against snake bites than sneakers.

7. Make sure you have adequate navigation equipment including a map and a compass – plus GPS if you wish.

8: Take at least a gallon of water with you per person for a day hike. Dehydration can be rapid and deadly in the desert.

If you have never experiences desert trekking, I recommend that you take your first foray with someone who is experienced.

Be safe hiking in the desert. Have fun.

by Richard Davidian, Ph.D.