Moonlight Hiking: How To

First, I would like to take a moment to apologize for not posting sooner. My absence was a combination of the weather heating up and me being lazy. Sorry, it happens. However, the heat leads directly into my post (what a segue!).

Moonlight Hiking: How To

Moonlight (or midnight) hiking is just that, a hike that takes place in the moonlight. This unique activity allows you a chance to venture into the wilds without having to deal with the oppressive (especially if you live in the southern latitudes such as myself) heat of the day and offer you a chance at viewing different plant and wildlife. The trail that you hiked during the day can transform 100% by night, offering you a chance to see and experience more. However, before grabbing your friends and heading out into the night there are certain things that you want to make sure of.

1. Location Location Location - now the only reason I mention this is not all trails are open to the public 24 hours a day. In my local area, for examples, most trails close at 10 pm and open again the next morning at 7 am. Double check with your local parks and recreation department to make sure that your excursion will be legal.

2. Gear - Hiking at night is still a hike, and preparation is key. Gather information about the location that you are planning on visiting (I recommend the wilderness press, USGS, and trails.com as valuable information stores) to get an idea of what you might expect. You may end up having to bring more gear. On top of the First Aid kit, knife, compass, and rain shell that I would recommend bringing a flash light would also be included (size and power are up to you, personally I carry an iNova X0 LED flashlight and highly recommend them). Also to be considered are local conditions: is it going to be a cool night, do I need a wind breaker? Do I need a warmer jacket? Also not to be forgotten, WATER. I have been on a number of moonlight hikes where others in the group have not brought water and found that you can still dehydrate in cooler weather.

3. Lions and Tigers and Bears... - This technically falls under number one but it is important enough that it deserves it's own heading. Night time means that other animals wake up and are on the prowl. Consult your local park and recreations department if you need information and take appropriate precautions.

4. Enjoy - get out and there and have a good time. Night time offers you a rare glimpse at a landscape that we hardly get to see (humans being sun worshipers and all).