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Life-Saving Tips on the Trail

7/26/2017

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With a chance to spot rare animals and beautiful wildflowers in the springtime, the River Mountains Loop Trail is full of wonderful things to discover and enjoy. However, the Mojave Desert can be a dangerous place if you are unprepared. Locals may already know some of these dangers, but the unsuspecting traveler may be caught unaware. Read these tips before hitting the trail, they may save your life:

The Excessive Heat

Best time to be on the trail. It is always advised that you hike in the mornings or evenings, and avoid that afternoon heat. This climate can be brutal for us humans and our four legged trail buddies. Temps can exceed 100 degrees in the summer around Las Vegas.

Be aware of pavement temperature. The paved trail can burn dog paws in the sunny afternoons.

Dehydration. Make sure to bring ample water for you and your pet. With the temperatures rising well above the 100 degree mark, it is easy to run out of water supply quickly. There are a few places to refill your water supply along the trail, but it is always better to bring more water than you think you need and start out the day well hydrated.

Little Shade. This may be obvious, but wear sun protection. There is little to no respite from the sun in this part of the desert, so hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are more than great ideas.

Wild Animals

Most desert animals are active during the morning and evening, away from the high heat of day. You generally won’t get too close to them before they scurry or slither away, unless you happen to find a particularly territorial or sleepy creature. Look before you sit in that shady spot, it may already be occupied by a desert creature who doesn’t like to share.

Snakes. Rattlesnakes pose the most threat to hikers on the trail, Although about 25% of the time a rattlesnake does not release venom into a bite, a venomous bite requires immediate treatment. Watch where you put your hands and feet, especially while scrambling up rocky and sunny ledges. If you find yourself within a few feet of the snake, stay still and wait for the tension to de-escalate. Do not jump back from the snake as it will trigger a strike response. All snakes do not like the heat and are seldom seen when the temperature is above 90 degress.

Scorpions. Scorpions are nocturnal animals. All scorpions are poisonous, but most of do not have enough poison to kill a human. That doesn’t mean you won’t experience fever, nausea, swelling and, and sometimes, breathing difficulties. It is best to remain calm and apply cool water to the affected area as you seek medical attention. According to Russell Hedland, owner of Las Vegas Pest Control, “Scorpions like shady spots during the day. If you take your shoes off at any point on a hike, shake them out thoroughly.”

Coyotes. Generally coyotes are shy around humans, but there have been incidents of a coyote chasing cyclists on the trail. To scare a coyote, create a lot of noise, make yourself look as big as possible, and throw rocks until it leaves the area.

Mountain Lions. These large cats primarily stick to mountainous regions, but they do come down into the surrounding areas and have been spotted before. If confronted by a mountain lion, do not turn your back or run. Act defiant, loud, and big. Pick up your kids and stand close to others. Disrupt the lion’s hunting instinct by speaking loudly and throwing rocks. Luckily, mountain lions sightings are very rare.

Africanized Honey Bees. Although their sting does not pose any more danger to us than a normal bee, these bees are much more aggressive. They are easily provoked, attack in greater numbers, chase prey farther, and stay agitated longer than normal bees. According to Vance Hardinger, owner of Pest Control Las Vegas, "If you do find a hive, avoid making loud noises. Protect your face as you quickly run away."

Other Best Practices

Hike with a buddy
Carry a first aid kit in your pack
Carry a GPS device or map of the area

Be aware that cell phone coverage may not be available

Always tell someone what trail/route you are hiking and when you expect to be home

Most hikers and bikers won’t run into many of these dangers, but in the off chance you do, you can be prepared. Keep your eyes peeled for all the scenic views, unique wildlife, and be safe. Enjoy your time on the trail!

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Rom Daypack - Very Different Type of Pack

7/9/2017

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Hiking Las Vegas Blog

Life-Saving Tips on the Trail

Rom Daypack - Very Different Type of Pack

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Hiking Las Vegas Blog​

Life-Saving Tips on the Trail

Rom Daypack - Very Different Type of Pack

Author

Archives

Categories

Company

Hiking Areas

Hiking Tips

Hiking Las Vegas Blog