It's HOT outside. So get out and enjoy yourself. In the middle of summer, the elevated temperatures can be overwhelming, but don’t let the hot summer days prevent your from getting out. With careful planning and the right gear, you can still enjoy the great outdoors. Here’s a guide to ten outdoor activities perfect for those sweltering summer days.
Morning Hiking: Catch the Coolest Part of the Day
Start your day with a brisk hike at dawn when the air is at its coolest. Choose shaded trails and prioritize elevation gain to avoid the harshest sun. Essential gear includes a sun hat, sunglasses, lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, comfy hiking shoes and ample water. Tip - Keep an ice coffee in a cooler in your car for after your hike.
Night Fishing: Escape the Day's Heat
As the sun dips below the horizon, temperatures cool down, making it ideal for night fishing. Pack your rod, reel and tackle, head lamp, insect repellent, and comfortable, breathable clothing. Remember, many fish are more active at night, so adjust your bait and techniques accordingly. Tip - Fish from a pier with lights, it's more relaxing and the light often attracts fish.
Stargazing: Nature's Celestial Spectacle
Far from city lights, the night sky offers a breathtaking show. A stargazing blanket, a red-light flashlight (to preserve night vision), and a stargazing app can enhance your experience. Tip - Check out space.com for special celestial events and use a star app like Night Sky to help you locate constellations and planets.
Wildlife Watching: Nature's Quiet Moments
Early mornings and late evenings are prime times for wildlife spotting. Night vision binoculars, a field guide, headlamp with red light and quiet earth tone or camouflage clothing can enhance the experience. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance to avoid disturbing their habitat. Tip - Animals are attracted to water, so scout out a game trail that leads to water and wait patiently.
Insect Observation with UV Light: A Nighttime Adventure
Discover a hidden world with an ultraviolet light. Many insects are more easily identified at night using an ultraviolet light. Fireflies, scorpions, beetles and glowworms become irredescent when struck with uv light. A UV flashlight, insect identification guide, and bug spray are helfutl. Tip - Look for a sandy shoal area near water and possibly under rocks for insect habitat.
Swimming: Cool Down and Refresh
A refreshing swim is the ultimate heat wave escape. Pack goggles, sunscreen, a waterproof phone case, and a floatation device if needed. Always prioritize water safety. Tip - Natural water holes are always the best, but don't discount the fun that can be had at a neighborhood pool.
Paddleboarding: A Watery Workout
Paddleboarding offers a full-body workout while staying cool. The temperature over water can be 10 degrees cooler than over land. Think of falling over and getting wet as a fun way to cool off. A buddy, paddleboard, life jacket, sunscreen, water bottle and a waterproof dry bag backpack are essential. Tip - Use the Paddling.com website or app to find locations to launch or join a local Facebook paddleboarding group to get out on the water with others.
Cave Exploring: Underground Adventure
Caves offer a constant, cool temperature, making them perfect for heat wave relief. A red-light headlamp, sturdy shoes, knee pads, durable clothing layers and possibly at helmet are piece of gear that you should consider. Always explore with a knowledgeable guide. Tip - Don't carry anything in your pockets unless you want to donate it to the deepest crevice of the cave. And bring a complete change of clothes because you will likely be climbing, crawling, shimmying and getting dirty.
Picnic: Outdoor Dining, Reimagined
Enjoy a leisurely picnic in the shade. Pack sandwiches, order take-out or make your own charcuterie board with your favorite noms. A cooler filled with cold drinks and snacks, a picnic blanket, insect repellant and sunscreen are essential. Tip - canned drinks are fine for a picnic, but there is something special about bringing a homemade sangria, horchata or sweet tea.
Gear Organization: Keep Your Equipment Ready
Proper gear organization ensures it's ready when you are. So spend the day cleaning, organizing, preparing and packing your gear for your next adventure. Use ditty bags, compression sacks, plastic bags, bins, metal shelves and modular gear systems to maximize space and protect your equipment. Tip - Label shelves or bins so that everything has its place and is easier to locate gear for those spontaneous opportunities.
Final thoughts:
Remember, hydration is crucial during elevated temperatures in the summer. Start hydrating the day before any strenuous activity. Use coolers, bladders, bottles and water filters to extend your hydration. Listen to your body. Final Tip - Freeze several water bottles and use them as ice packs in your cooler. Compared to traditional ice cubes, frozen water bottles stay colder longer, create less mess, and are easier to clean up. Plus, once they melt, you have refreshing water to drink.
By choosing the right activities and following these tips, you can enjoy the outdoors even on the hottest days.
