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With spring here and the weather warming, outdoor enthusiast see this as a time to get out and enjoy their favorite outdoor activity. Spring is a unique, unpredictable time of year in Utah; before you head to the hills, you should spend some time planning and preparing for your outdoor adventure. Whether you are taking your first camping trip, your first hike of the season, or just taking the family on a picnic in Utah’s mountains, the following tips should help you have a more pleasant, safe, spring activity.
Tip #1 – Pay close attention to the weather reports:
There is a saying in Utah: “if you are enjoying the spring weather, wait a few minutes – it will change.” The spring weather in Utah is very active, especially in the higher elevations. One minute, you could have seventy-degree weather; the next minute, you could be getting snow, hail, rain, wind, and thunderstorms. It is not uncommon to have extreme temperature fluctuations from the day to the night, especially in the higher elevations. Watching the weather and being prepared for what Mother Nature may throw at you will allow you to have a safer, more pleasurable spring activity, which brings us to the next tip.
Tip #2 – Make sure you have the proper clothing:
As mentioned above, spring temperatures in the valleys may be seventy degrees and you may see this as an opportunity to throw on some shorts and head to the mountains for a hike, only to discover it is a little cold up in the higher elevations this time of year. Be sure to wear and take the proper clothing for the outdoor activity that you have chosen. Camping trips in the higher elevations during spring may require winter gear, such as coats, hats, gloves, and boots. A day hike through the mountains may need extra clothing for layering, waterproof jackets, and waterproof shoes or boots. It is easy to take off layers of clothing when you get hot, and you will always have these layers available for sudden or expected temperature changes.
Tip #3 – Have the proper outdoor gear for your chosen spring activity:
Having the proper outdoor gear is essential for any pleasant spring activity in Utah. If you are planning a camping trip in the spring, your tent is the shelter that is going to get you out of the elements. A good three-season tent with a fly that can withstand rain, hail, and even snow is recommended. A warm, comfy sleeping bag with a rating of least 0 degrees will allow you to sleep in warmth and comfort. Of course, having some sort or survival gear is always recommended; this may include a first aid kit, fire starter, survival blanket, water filtration, knife or multi-tool, and lighting, to name a few.
Tip #4 – Food and Water:
No matter what time of year you venture into the mountains of Utah, taking plenty of food and water is needed for not only an enjoyable outdoor venture but also your survival. Day hikers also need to prepare and take plenty of food and water even if they only plan to be on the mountain for short amounts of time. I am definitely guilty of this one: I load up my pack with a few granola bars and a few bottles of water, expecting the hike to only take a few hours; then five or six hours later, my food is gone and my water is low. Taking plenty of food, snacks, and water should something go wrong is necessary for your wellbeing.
Tip #5 – Watching your surroundings:
Springtime in the mountains of Utah is a time for change. And with this change comes new dangers. One danger that seems to take at least one life each year is spring runoff. With the snow melting in the higher elevations, the water fills Utah’s streams and rivers, making them deep, swift, and very cold. Use caution around the rivers and streams during your spring outdoor activities. Keep an eye on your children, as all kids are attracted to water. Always remember that we are just visitors in Mother Nature’s playground…and she is in charge.
Following these 5 tips to spring activity in Utah will ensure you and your family have a fun, safe, and enjoyable outdoor season.
Bonus tip:
Try not to venture into the outdoors alone and always tell a friend or family member where you are going and when they should expect you to return home.
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