HykLyt

Top 4 Destination Day-Hike Trip Ideas In The United States

One of the best things about hiking is that you can roll an entire adventure into just a few hours of the day. With the way Mother Nature is constantly bringing us joyful surprises, you’re bound to have a good time out in nature, for free! Here’s a list on some of the best (by popularity) day-hike trips available within the United States. Be on the lookout for the next list of (not-so-notable) day-hikes, which I plan to post next week for those who are seeking a little more off-the-grid day-hikes.

#4 Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California

A well-known rock formation in Yosemite National Park, Half-Dome is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the United States when it comes to day hikes. It’s popularity also makes it a high-traffic day hike so if you’re looking for solitude then this is not the trail for you.

Though it’s considered a difficult hike, a cable route has been developed to help guide hikers to the top of the dome and be completed in one day. Many people camp in this area too, however, so don’t be surprised to cross paths with wilderness sites along the way.

The course runs a little over 8 miles and the elevation tops out under 9,000 feet. Starting at 4,000 foot base, this isn’t considered a great hike for beginners. The difficulty and elevation gain may be a bit too much for inexperienced hikers. For reference, this dome is 3,000 feet taller than Angel’s Landing in Zion National, which is one of the high points of visiting Zion.

#3 Angel’s Landing, Zion National Park, Utah

One of the top bike destinations in the United States, you’ve probably seen this one on blankets, posters, and stickers galore. Angel’s Landing makes the list thanks to the unique view it provides.

With a valley of fauna and flora below, take in the amazing scenery Zion encapsulates thanks to the active volcanic fields and previous eruptions (32,000 years ago) of Southwest Utah.

Now considered one of the most beautiful places to live in the US as well, Zion has become a staple in the hiking, backpacking, bouldering, climbing, geocaching, and downright exploring industries.

With a second park located nearby, Bryce Canyon, which provides an even better experience in some peoples opinion, it’s no wonder Zion has become one of the most populated National Park based on foot traffic. There’s no permits required to enter Zion National Park (you can pay the vehicle fees at entrance) which makes it all the more perfect for a great day-hike, date or personal getaway.

Just be prepared to run into lines in the most popular areas of Zion, Angel’s landing being the top of that list as well.

#2 Skeleton Point, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

In my opinion, the prettiest site from the Grand Canyon is Skeleton Point. It gives you a panoramic view of the National Park while also keeping it a single day hike.

Where many people want to complete the rim to rim hike of the Grand Canyon, which is an out-and-back whopping 47 miles trek, Skeleton Point is just six miles in on the South Kaibab trail of the Grand Canyon.

Averaging a time of 3-4 hours for the casual hiker, this is a great way to spend the afternoon if you are near the GC park. This trail is considered beginner friendly and only climbs 2,000 feet in elevation.

However, this is no tropical resort. If you plan to hike anywhere in the Grand Canyon, make sure to come prepared. Hydration and sun protection are very important in this region. Also, having a bike and sting kit won’t hurt.

#1 The Kalalau Trail, Nepali Coast, Hawaii

There is a tropical trail making the list, after all. The Kalalau Trail of Hawaii is incredibly beautiful.

This park has a waterfall near the trail that would make it an 8 mile trip from the beach. Reservations are required as it is a wilderness site and State Park.

Temperate and on an island to boot, this is probably my most sought after trail (other than Eagle Creek, in Oregon, which doesn’t make the list for single day hikes).

Kalalau Trail is considered one of the most difficult trails of the Nā Pali State Park (located in the Northwest of Kauai, Hawaii, so it’s not very user-friendly for beginners. It is considers to be located on “The Garden Isle” as you can see from the picture above, the island really looks like a well manicured garden.

If that wasn’t enough motivation already, here’s a picture from Hawaii.com showing off the waterfall at Kalalau Valley.

What’s Your Favorite Day-Hike?

I’m curious to know the places you enjoy the most when it comes to spending your afternoon hiking. Let me know via email at hyklyt@hyklyt.com

This post was written by Evan

Botany For Hikers

Have you ever been out hiking and thought to yourself, “Wow! I wonder what kind of berry that is. Is it edible?”. If so, then this course is for you! I studied plant biology in college and let me be the first to tell you that it’s quite interesting.

Plants are amazing things. The way they reproduce, the way they develop survival mechanism, or plans for soil invasion at that! What I find most amazing about plants, especially while out on the trail, is their ability to sustain our body’s energy reserves when necessary.

It can provide a great time on the trail, adding a complete new level of activity while hiking, actively seeking plant identifiers. It can also be lifesaving in some scenarios.

Plants That Are Useful On The Trail

Some plants that you could identify are useful. They can provide medication, food, and shelter. Here’s a list that shows some of the plants you may come across that you’d be able to use for good outcomes on the trail.

*Wood Sorrel have heart shaped leaves that are edible and they even taste like sour candy!*

*Planting Weeds are very common in the trails and can be broken down and pressed into bug bites and scrapes to reduce inflammation.*

*Stinging nettle, do sting! But if you soak their leaves for about ten minutes they can provide the means to make tea!*

*Known for their waxy leaves and bright, blue, edible berries, the Oregon Grape can provide food on the trail. Depending on which species you get, the berries may be sweet, or tart.*

*Thimbleberry provide fruits that are edible.*

The Bad Plants That You Would Want To Identify On Trail

Not all plants are good for you. There’s some out there on the trail that can bring about serious issues if you let them. Quick identification and knowledge about these plants in general will help you to better be prepared on the trail.

*Cow Parsnip secretes an oil that will make your skin sensitive to light, running the risk of a terrible sunburn!*

*Death Camas: Let’s take its word for it.*

*White Banesberry (creepy doll eyes): poison.*

Having Fun Identifying The Trail Flowers.

You can find yourself having a great time on the trail if you decide to embark on a mission to identify as many plants as possible. For some, you’ll find that the name is very descriptive of its looks. For identifying things like wildflowers, I suggest bringing a book along with you as a resource to utilize. Sometimes, the difference between two species are very small, such as the way the veins run in the leaves.

Heading Off Of The Trail As A Newfound Botanist (kind of)

So now you have some information on the plants you may come across on trails throughout the United States. Hopefully this article will help someone identify a plant at a time of need. If you know of some amazing plants that should be included with this list, please feel free to list them in the comments section below!

Thank you for reading!

This post was written by Evan

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Living the Outdoors Lifestyle: A Photography Portfolio

Not every outdoor adventurer has to be a thru-hiking enthusiast. Here, you will find a great portfolio of people showing us their favorite things to do while enjoying the outdoorsy lifestyle. Enjoy!

Do You Have Outdoorsy Hobbies Other Than Hiking? Let Me Know In The Comments!

I Asked AI To Take Us On A Hiking Journey

And the artificial intelligence delivered.

Which One Do You Like Best?

Let me know in the comments below. Some of the artwork might feature people with an extra arm or leg, but I think overall the system did a great job of navigating multiple worlds. Thanks for taking this weekend journey with HykLyt!

The Mountains Are Calling; A Portfolio of Mountain Photography

Which One Would You Want To Climb First?

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How-To Guide To Advanced Ultralight Thru-Hiking

This post is for those who are already familiar with ultralight hiking and want to make changes to their pack to trek even lighter. I’m excited to share this post because this is what HykLyt is all about. Innovative gear design is the backbone of the HykLyt brand. For those thru-hikers out there who constantly want to hike lighter, I plan to launch our own items that are made with minimalist designs in mind that are not only lighter than what the market currently offers, but also eco and budget friendly.

*Sometimes the greatest memories can be found while climbing to the top. You don’t always have to be at the top to find the beauty of the view.*

Thru-Hike Clothing

Good clothing for your thru-hike is step number one. Here’s the crazy part: pack ONE set of hiking clothes, one set of sleepwear and one set of cold-weather thermals… and that’s it. You’d be surprised how much weight you can remove from your pack by doing away with all of the extra clothing you’re trying to bring along.

*But what about staying clean, and warm, and dry… and all the other things?*

Alternate the clothing as you would on a normal day at home, day clothes for the daytime, night clothes for bed time. Except this time, choose your alternation wisely. One thing about hiking light is that you have to hike smart. Let’s give an example of hiking smart when you only have two pairs of clothes to alternate if it’s not cold out (remember, thermals are your third set, but only to be worn underneath your ONE hike set or your ONE sleep set).

Example: If the evening is approaching and you only have another two hours of daylight, swap clothing. Wash the day set with unscented cleaner. Use little amounts of water to rinse the clothes. Then, hang the set on the back of your pack to dry while you slow your hike down on a cooldown as not to sweat in your sleepwear, keeping your night set dry and warm. In the morning, swap back to your day set. Also, you can save weight and skip the cleaner altogether. Water streams work wonders.

Thru-Hike Quilts

Quilts can save you more weight. Many people start out hiking with mummy-shaped bags with degree ratings lower than the weather that’s anticipated. That’s exactly what they should do.

Though mummy bags can be very comforting, they are by far the lightest option for overnight warmth. This tip is not to be taken lightly, I only recommended swapping to quilts if you know the weather you face, and are an experienced hiker with the knowledge to warm up via friction or fire making techniques if the weather drops quickly without warning, which can very well happen when you find yourself in the mountains.

Quilts are super comfortable and lightweight, but do not retain the heat a mummy bag can simply due to heat escaping from the top of your head. Take this into consideration if you choose to “quilt” instead of “bag”. A beanie is a good idea in case extra heat retainment ends up being needed.

Swapping your sleeping bag out to a lightweight quilt will save you a good amount of weight. In recent surveys of thru-hiker experiences, many are opting to bring a quilt instead of a sleeping bag.

Thru-Hike Sleeping Mats

Preferably, you’ll be carrying an ultralight foam cell sleeping mat on your bag. The air up mats may be a bit more comfortable than the foam cells that can sometimes feel rigid, but the foam cells are usually always lighter weight unless you’re venturing into the more costly ones like Klymits or Thermarest. as a budget friendly option, Nemo switchbacks are only around $50. If you do use an air up mat, leave the pump at home and breathe your way to inflation. Either of these options are both viable ways to cut down on your pack out weight.

Want an insider tip for foam cell mats to make it even lighter? Cut 1/3 of the foam cell mat off. You read that right. You most likely won’t notice much difference from your legs no longer being on the mat. Primarily, if you keep your upper torso on your sleep mat, then you’re getting it’s use as your hips, back and head are the heaviest pressure points.

Thru-Hike Water Storage

*Our HykLyt chef taking in the crystal clear water*.

One of the most popular brands of lifestraw squeeze tops are the Sawyer Squeeze tops. If you’re into thru-hiking you may already know this one, but I’m going to jot it down here just to cover all of our bases.

The Sawyer Squeeze top filters fit perfectly on a one liter Smartwater bottle. Don’t be surprised if you come across die-hard thru-hike enthusiast who do not carry a 3L water bladder with them. Not only are those super heavy, but take up precious space. Get yourself two one liter Smartwater bottles and fill the empty one every time you pass water sources. While setting up your sleep area, take the time to make sure both water bottles are filled.

You should be sleeping near a water source to be able to fill both for the night and to start your morning. Remember, you need at least a liter of water for every two hours spent hiking, and that’s on a ration. Don’t catch yourself straying too far from a water source for too long. This tip is not for beginner hikers! Take your bladder if you’re new to hiking!

Thru-Hike Rain Gear

My wife and I found ourselves battling the option of heavy duty rain gear in comparison to lightweight rain gear.

One one hand you have heavy gear but it provides warmth. On the other hand you have very little weighted gear but it is nearly breathable and the wind cuts right through it.

I recommend investing in ultralight weight non-breathable rain gear. Something made with impregnated silnylon will do wonders for warmth and rain protection. Adding to this, grab a lightweight rain cover for your pack. You don’t want to risk getting all of your stuff wet if you’re pushing long distance.

*Though this Patagonia jacket is really nice. It’s heavy and doesn’t fold down to a very small size, which takes up more pack space than I find worth when it comes to long-distance hiking.*

Thru-Hike Tent

Tents are one of those things that I consider to be of utmost importance. A good tent with good ventilation goes a long way, unless you like waking up in a puddle of water form moisture collecting on the inside walls of your tent. However, tents are often the heaviest portion of your kit. Even with an ultralight tent, you’re looking at around 2 to 3 pounds. Unless you’re able to purchase hyperlites which can run you upwards of 700 dollars!

To seriously reduce the weight in your pack, you can utilize a makeshift tent. To do so, find a cutout of impregnated silnylon (so it’s waterproof) that’s larger enough to circle you completely and still be raised in the center to cover you while sitting up. Then, use that cutout of fabric, a trekking pole, and six ultralight tent stakes. Voila! You now have an extremely light option for shelter.

This is an example of how a makeshift trekking pole tent would be setup. If you’re interested in buying a tent like this straight off of the market instead of finding a nylon fabric cutout, you can shop this brand at KUIU.

Tents like this won’t provide a whole lot of cover, so it’s best to prepare for the elements if you choose this option as shelter. However, in favorable weather conditions, saving a couple of pounds out of your bag is huge in the ultralight world.

Thru-Hike Pack

If your tent isn’t the heaviest thing in your bag, then it’s probably the bag itself that’s weighing you down. You can reduce your total weight by a great deal if you invest in a durable, but hyperlite bag.

A frameless bag is one of your best options when wanting to hike at the lightest weight possible. I recommend a Hyperlite Mountain Gear pack for this option, though, they are a bit costly.

Thru-Hike Recharge

*You can get turned around easily in snow. Everything can start to blend and look the same!*

This one will be short and sweet. Don’t go without a lightweight battery pack. You need the capability of charging Gaia GPS and your phone for downloaded map systems. These are getting lighter with new releases, so see what’s available on the market when you’re preparing. Do not risk your safety to shed a few ounces. This is one of the few times I’d tell you NOT to save weight.

Thru-Hike Final Thoughts

If you have taken these steps to lightening your pack, you’re probably amazed by how little your pack weighs in comparison to its prior state. Remember, sometimes lightening the load means sacrificing comforts and even safety measures. I strongly suggest slowly incorporating these tips into your thru-hiking routine. Just like HykLyt, take it One Step At A Time.

This post was written by Evan

The HykLyt Meal Plan For Camping

Disclaimer: this is a repost to make the meal plan article easier to access. It was originally posted in my guide to the Rocky Mountains.

I don’t want to brag here, but I kind of have an amazing chef as my trail partner (my wife). She spent a lot of time planning an entire week of breakfast, lunch, dinner, after-hike snacks, and even electrolyte reserves. So, when it comes to fuel, I was never running on empty. The good news is that I get to share this meal prep plan with you, pro-hiker!

First, you’re going to need a cooler that seals well. We used an Igloo brand. So long as you’re replacing your ice each day, the cooler should keep these meals over the course of a week. Be sure to eat it in the order listed, though.

The best order to eat your foods will be color-coded. This should ensure you make it through your trip without having foods spoil.

Color for foods to eat first.

Color for foods to eat second.

Color for foods to eat third.

Breakfast Menu

1) Over night oats with yogurt, almond butter, blueberries and granola

2) Eggs, bacon, orange juice, toast and jelly (cooked on a Coleman propane burner stove)

3) Bagels w/ cream cheese

Lunch or Brunch Menu

1) Egg salad sandwiches w/ chips

2) Tuna sandwiches and chips

Snack Menu

1) Baby bell peppers with cream chz and everything bagel seasoning

2) Cherries

3) Bananas

4) Strawberries and chocolate

5) Graham crackers, marshmallows, hersheys

6) High Sugar Snacks (Luna, Cliff, Etc.)

Dinner Menu

1) Meatballs with rice

2) Broccoli sausage rice

3) Salmon w/ white rice and broccoli

4) Shepherds pie

5) Ramen & Neguri

6) Red beans and rice

Hydration and Electrolytes

1) Water

2) Gatorade powder

For this, we grabbed a five gallon water and put it in the car to keep filling our Osprey bladders with. Then, anytime we needed mixing water for the powder we had it available.

*We used the Osprey bladders, they have a better mouthpiece in my personal opinion.*

Utensils You’ll Need

Cookware

• Large Frying pan

• Spatula

• Plastic and metal forks

• Spoons

• Knife

• Can opener

• Stove burner

• Small Propane x2

• Lighter

• Tongs

Cleaning Materials

• Wet ones

• Trash bags

• Laundry detergent

• Dish soap

For the Table

• Table cloth

• Folding chairs

• Folding table

• Paper plates

• Plates

• Paper Towels

For the Fire

• Fire starter sticks

• Lighter fluid

• Firewood

• Lighter

For Storage

• Ice chest

• Frozen water bottles

• Tupperware and foil pack meals and ingredients

*Another option to cook with is the MSR burner.*

Final Thought On Backpacking Meal Prep

It’s awesome. If you follow this list you can make it through a full week at your campsite. This allows you to store all of your food in bear safe containers and it doesn’t matter when you return, your food will still be ready to go. This is for our and back hiking. If you want to thru-hike you’ll need a provision list, which I’ll post at a later time. Thank you for reading!

This post was written by Evan

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What Are Trekking Poles Really Used For?

Trekking poles are a hiking accessory that helps hikers with their stability and rhythm while adjusting to different terrain. Typically sold as a pair, these hike accessories can help tone muscle groups in your arms while used in tandem and provide core support while walking. These are different than regular walking sticks because of the way they can provide propulsion, which is why you see cross-country skiers using them all of the time.

Even when used as a single unit (above), trekking poles are different than walking sticks. The ends of a trekking pole provide attachment options that can help overcome different types of terrain as well.

Trekking poles are not meant to hold up full body weight, rather, they are intended to support the body’s stability during movement. Similar to the mechanics found in a stair set’s railing, trek poles are a “lean-to” tool for mobility. These can be great for balancing while overcoming technical obstacles.

Looking to gain a leaner physique by using trekking poles? Great news! The Cooper Institute showed that Nordic walking increased energy expenditure and oxygen consumption by about 20% compared to walking without poles.

What is Nordic walking? It’s the act of walking cross-country with the aid of long poles. –Oxford

What Are Trekking Poles Made Out Of?

*Leki is a popular trekking pole brand and has produced many aluminum and carbon fiber options to choose from.* *Poles with natural cork handles provide a very comfortable grip.*

Trekking poles are usually made out of two primary materials, aluminum and carbon fiber. Where both are lightweight, the latter is the lightest. However, carbon fiber is known to crack when exposed to rough use, whereas aluminum is much more resilient. As an ultralight enthusiast, I’d go with the carbon fiber. For a more budget friendly pack out, aluminum would be the way to go.

Some hikers actually dislike using carbon fiber because it’s known to break. If you go the carbon fiber route be prepared to take good care of your poles. Many of todays hiking bags and backpacking setups have straps included to hold your trek poles.

How To Size Your Trekking Poles

*Your pole’s handles should reach your palms when your arms are bent in a 90 degree angle while standing on a flat surface. This allows for balanced angling on steep inclines.*

You should hold your arm outward to a 90 degree angle, and, with palm facing to the ground, the mid-handle of your trekking pole should reach your hand.

There are trekking poles available on the market that are adjustable and some that are collapsible as well. It’s worth mentioning that the collapsible ones help not to snag tree branches when they’re stowed and not in use.

The History Of Trekking Poles

The use of trekking poles dates to cross-country Scandinavian skiing. Also known as “Nordic skiing”. Skiers would utilize these poles to launch themselves forward, over expansive ski runs, and over passes.

Trekking Pole Attachments

*There are many different attachments to choose from. Most attachments are specifically designed for certain ground coverage.*

There are multiple attachments available but here I’ll list a few examples:

Mud baskets: designed for mud, beaches, sand and very grassy trails.

Snow baskets: designed specifically for soft ground textures such as snow or very light meadow grass.

Rubber Tips: are able to be used on any terrain, and provide a better “grip”-like traction while hiking.

Should You Invest In Trekking Poles?

I think trekking poles are just as important as any other piece of gear in your pack. That being said, it was also the last piece of gear I worried about getting. That probably isn’t the safest advice, but at the time I felt pretty confident with my stability and reaction while on trails. Once you start hiking with trekking poles, you’ll notice a big difference. They’re not for everyone, but everyone should at least give them a try. A good pair will set you back about $100-$200 depending on what brand and what material you choose. Well worth the price when you take your safety into consideration.

This post was written by Evan

Things To Think About While Hiking The Desert

Hiking the desert can be one of the most rewarding experiences. It can also be one of the most relentlessly unforgiving experiences if not planned properly. Here, I’ll list a few things to consider before you face the sandy terrain.

*This image is enhanced, but you will find some amazing stargazing, even to the naked eye, if you’re okay with the isolation of the desert at night, that is.*

Howling Winds

Try to plan your routes on a day to day basis, moving with the wind. Hiking into and against the grain (literally) is not optimal.

You wouldn’t think about howling sounds in the middle of the desert, but you will certainly hear them. It’s wind. And the wind sounds more wild than the wildlife sometimes. As wind picks up speed with very little to block it’s path, it creates a whistling and tonal noise throughout the skies. This can sound like a ghost howling. When you’re in the middle of nowhere, that’s the last thing you feel like hearing. Do not fret! It’s normal. Also, do fret, it’s blowing sand into your equipment!

Keeping safe from the wind is important. Many people don’t take into consideration the wind speeds when they first start learning to hike, climb, or camp. Wind speeds cause windchill and windchill cause dry and irritated skin, cracking, or more serious injuries. Take a buff with you to protect your face. Goggles can really come in handy as well, but that is something I would only pack for a desert specific trip (I keep as light as possible).

The takeaway: Be prepared to dress for the occasion. The desert is known for being hot, but that isn’t always the case. Windchill can happen in any climate and this windchill also carries sand along with it, which could result in some irritation. I suggest utilizing a balaclava, neck-gaiter, or buff with eyewear to protect form the winds of the desert.

Dancing Sands

Sand is… well… a nuisance. I’ve been to parts of the world where you could see walls of sand similar to the picture above rushing your way, allowing you ample time to prepare for it to hit. Dust and sandstorms can pop up seemingly out of nowhere, though. Having a quick setup shelter, such as the tent I use in my Backpacking Gear List, will ensure you’re capable of getting coverage when and where you truly need it.

The takeaway: Sand can become bothersome. To avoid this I typically stow my gear under a v-shaped entryway to my tent. Many backpacking tents come with this option built in by unzipping the entrance and rolling one side, securing it to the frame. My tent is an ultralight quick setup framed NEMO. You’re not going to be able to block all of the sand that’s out there, but it’s a whole lot more comfortable if you’re not dealing with an excessive amount. Waking up and having to brush sand away from all of your stuff makes for a rough start to your morning.

Unrelenting Rainstorms

Rain doesn’t fall often in the desert, but when it does, it really rains. I was in the Middle East the first time I experienced a “rainy season” in a desert. The scarcity of plants in a desert does not mean it doesn’t get water, it just means the water doesn’t stand a chance of permeating the soil. The reason for this? Evaporation.

The heat that beams down on deserts is far too hot for the water to hold for very long. This is because there is oftentimes no cloud coverage to protect the water from the suns’ UV rays, essentially cooking the water out of the sand.

The takeaway: Although you’ll be preparing for desert backpacking, you can’t assume the weather will be always warm and sunny. As much as we’d all like to spend some time sunbathing like a lizard, it’s best to be prepared by packing some lightweight rain gear. I wouldn’t bother bringing Gore-Tex equipment unless you’re making up the weight difference by reducing how many thermals you pack. This opinion is only due to my constant want to shave ounces in my pack. Whichever you decide, make sure you have some warm gear, whether that’s Gore-Tex materials or thermals. The deserts do become cold as well, especially at night.

*Monsoon-type rainstorms can occur in the desert.*

Perfect Packouts

Packing light for desert hikes is the best way to setup your pack. I’ve posted about ultralight weight upgrades to gear previously so I will link that post here just in case anyone is interested in further preparation for a desert trip.

Plants To Know About

Desert plants do not mess around when it comes to defense mechanisms. They protect themselves with sharp spines, hardened shells, and even toxins at times. It is important to know about plants that may help you, instead of hurt you. Here, I’ll list a few of those plants. This is not an exhaustive list by any means, and these plants are not found in every desert environment. It’s important to plan ahead and research the plants and environment of the desert you plan to traverse.

Pinyon Pine – provide an edible seed, nicknamed “pine nuts”. These seeds are high in calories and actually quite tasty!

Agave – provide leaves, flower stalks, flowers, and seeds that are all edible.

Prickly Pear Cactus – provide an edible flat, green pad, and plenty of sugars within.

*In some places prickly pear is fried to eat. In the desert, it can be lifesaving.*

Juniper – provide wood and fiber for fire making and hunting equipment.

*Use the wood for “A-frame” shelters and fire making*, *also, the leaves are great as slow burning fire-starters.*

Animals & Critters

*UV rays can cause scorpions to glow at night. If you see a creepy-crawly that’s glowing, watch for the sting!*

Rattlesnake: venomous and deadly, avoid if possible. They do give off a warning with the rattle, but most of the deadly bites have come from complacency in the wild. Stay alert! They tend to leave humans alone so long as we aren’t crossing them.

*Rattlesnakes are mostly found in the southwestern region of the United States.*

Gala Monster: These are the most venomous lizard in the upper Mexico/southwestern United States regions. They have an extremely potent venom and lightning-fast strikes.

*These lil’ dudes will stick their tongue out at you as if adding insult to injury.*

Wild dogs: mostly in Australia or Africa, the desert packs of dingoes are known to hunt and attack humans when hungry.

*An African species of wild dogs; for you hunters out there; please don’t, these cute friends are endangered!*

Cougars: also known as mountain lions, these big cats are precise, stealthy, and extremely fast. They have a brute strength to them as well thanks to all of that muscle. These are mostly found within the western-US regions.

Killer Bees: Today, Africanized honey bees are found in southern California, southern Nevada, Arizona, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, western Louisiana, southern Arkansas, and central and southern Florida. These guys can sting, and keep stinging, so don’t poke the bees nest!

A Final Word

The desert can be such a unique experience that I would suggest anyone to go. If you do, just make sure you’re prepared for it. Take your med-kits, bite-kits, and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Thank you all for reading!

What About Hydration?

This post doesn’t specifically cover tips about hydration, however, it’s the number one rule while you’re in the desert. To learn more about proper hydration techniques, click in this link, which will take you to one of my former posts with a hydration section.

This post was written by Evan.

3 Best Waterfalls To Hike To In The United States

#3 Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil, Oregon

Difficulty: easy, short length, tourist-packed

*620 ft falls! Includes a bridge midway to get a better view!*

This waterfall is extremely popular and that’s why it’s making number three on my list. If it were just about the view, I’d place it as my #2 on this list. This area is a popular birding and hike trail and easily accessible so you’re very likely to run into other people. Reservations are currently required to visit the falls.

The Quick Rundown

In July of 2021, reservations to the Multnomah Falls in Oregon became required. Information for the reservation permits required can be found by clicking on this link.

Multnomah Falls is part of the Columbia River Gorge (which by the way, was a primary topic in my latest post “Hiking The Columbia River Gorge”)

It is the tallest waterfall in the state of Oregon and spans two basalt cliffs. Being the most visited waterfall in all of Oregon as well, there is a lodge, visitor center, and gift shop on site. It is also the most visited natural recreational site in the Pacific Northwest.

Best Time To Visit

This waterfall is great to visit anytime of the year. In the summer it is a nice escape from the summertime heat many areas experience. In the winter it becomes a frozen wonderland.

*Multnomah Falls is absolutely stunning when frozen.*

Pricing at Multnomah Falls

Due to the limited parking capacity at Multnomah Falls, timed entry permits are required if you arrive in your own vehicle. Permits are available up to 14 days in advance. Reservations cost $2 per ticket. Visitors should access Multnomah Falls and the Historic Lodge from the Interstate 84 parking lot at Exit 31.

The Trail

This trail is located right off of a highway and the visitor center hands out free trail maps and brochures with information about the trail.

#2 Bridal Veil Falls, Telluride, Colorado

Not to be confused with Bridal Veil, Oregon, this trail is located in Colorado.

Difficulty: Moderate, elevation, technical terrain

*365 feet of waterfall makes this easily one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the United States.*

Overlooking Telluride, Colorado is a 365 ft. waterfall with a hydroelectric power plant positioned at the top of the falls. This is a picturesque waterfall as the landscape is gorgeous and the power plant is aesthetically pleasing.

The Quick Rundown

Off-road and hike trails pass through the area to get to the waterfall. This is the tallest free-falling falls in Colorado. This is listed as a moderate hike but is rather short at just 1.2 miles to the top from the parking lot at the trailhead. The path is open to biking and atvs as well.

The terrain at Bridal Veil Falls is considered moderately technical and there are no cabling systems, so trekking poles could come in handy.

*Very photogenic falls for a night hike!*

Best Time To Visit

During the late spring and early summer months there are some hazardous areas to cross to reach the top of the trail. Mid to late summer would be the best time to visit. As a bonus, the weather in Colorado during mid to late summer is very comfortable. In the winter months Bridal Veil Falls turns to ice and is stable enough for fearless ice climbers, if that’s something you’re in to.

Pricing At Bridal Veil Falls

It’s free!

And easy to get to from the main road.

The Trail

From the base of the falls to the top: 1.2 miles.

*Bridal Veil Falls, Telluride, CO* *still flows even with low amounts of recent rainfall.*

#1 Havasu Falls, Grand Canyon, Arizona

Difficulty: Moderate/Hard, length of trail, low elevation, pack mules available but keep in mind how that would contribute to animal cruelty.

*100 foot drop from a cliff, Havasu* *Falls also offers turquoise blue water to swim in. One of earths rarity’s!*

Tucked away within the Grand Canyon, lies an oasis. That oasis contains a 100 foot waterfall that has some of the United States’ bluest waters. A turquoise blue that can only be found at Havasu Falls.

The Quick Rundown

Part of the Havasupai Indian Reservation, and located within tribal lands, this one has become one of the hardest waterfalls to get to if you aren’t already living within the reservation. It once was open to the public but COVID-19 forced a change on that policy. Now, it is only available by reservation, and reservations are not easy to obtain.

To land a reservation is to play the lottery; literally. Permits to visit Havasu Falls typically go on sale on February 1st each year. Most permits are usually bought out within the first few hours of them going on sale.

If you want a chance at snagging a permit, make an account in advance by clicking this link, and then be ready to go at 8am February 1st.

Best Time To Visit

The warmer months are going to be your best best bet because the Havasu Falls are all about the swimming. I’d visit as early as possible after tickets go on sale.

Pricing At Havasu Falls:

Per person on weekday $100 per day.

Per person on weekend $125 per day.

Camping reservations require a 3night/4day reservation.

There’s a lodge available; though it’s rather small, with a quantity of just 24 rooms. These book quickly, of course. To book a room, call (928) 448-2111

You may add a helicopter tour for $170

Reservations cannot be transferred to other people. The person named on the reservation is the only person that reservation will allow in.

However, reservations can be resold at this link. So, if you didn’t get a permit on opening day, then you might still have a chance.

The Trails

Hualapai Parking Lot to Supai Lodge: 8 miles

Lodge to Havasu Falls Camping Area: 2 miles

Havasu Campground to Mooney Falls: .5 miles

Mooney Falls to The Colorado River: 8 miles

Not A Trail, But Still Fun

You can take a rafting tour of the river, available from the lodge as an add-on to your stay. If you’d like more information on the rafting availability you’ll want to inquire at the front desk upon arrival. These, like everything else within the oasis, are often booked out.

A Final Word

Havasu Falls is a bucket list item that every hiker should have on their list of places to hike to. Not only is the waterfall beautiful but the water color at the falls is worth the trip alone. It’s rare to find such a gem, and this one doesn’t fail to shine.

I do not receive any commission for this post. I simply want to provide my readers with information that I’ve learned over time, so that it can later be passed on to the next generation of hikers.

This post was written by Evan.