[pct-l] Finding and making shade in the desert

Chris Martin hopeforgorilla at gmail.com
Fri Mar 21 10:17:09 CDT 2014


I recently found a really effective strategy for avoiding sun-sickness and
heat exhaustion while hiking: a very early start (on trail by 5 AM), and a
loong siesta in the shade when the sun gets intense. Then, resume walking
later in the afternoon and keep going until sunset. You also sweat a lot
less by avoiding mid-day exertion, reducing water and electrolyte
consumption.

I am guessing I'll have trouble finding shady spots for a siesta on the PCT
in SoCal. Is it reasonable to create shade in the desert by pitching a tarp
high to maximize airflow? Can anyone report the results of having tried
this?

Chris



More information about the Pct-L mailing list