【Myths of Mountains】How to Stay Chill?

There is a lot to pay attention to when hiking in summer, not only on the preparation of equipment, but also special route planning is needed. A few routes suitable for hot summer days is recommended for this issue.

June Newsletter, we mentioned that the summer weather is unpredictable and hikers are advised to prepare for the worst. The “Hong Kong Heat Index” is calculated by The Hong Kong Observatory based on temperature, humidity, wind speed and solar radiation. The weather might cause adverse effects to human health when the index is close to 30°C. Always monitor the weather forecast, be prepared for the hot weather and consider to cancel the hike when the Very Hot Weather Warning or Hot Weather Special Advisory is hoisted.

  

MyObservatory app – Very Hot Weather Warning

We should pay extra attention when hiking in summer. Following are a few tips on gear and route planning: 

1. Choose Shorter Route with Shades

Hot weather is not ideal for outdoor activities; however, choose and plan a suitable route and you can still enjoy hiking in summer. According to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department’s Country Park Hiking Safety Guidelines, “In summer months, plan a route which is shaded by trees. Leave more time for rest and don’t plan a prolonged journey”. Routes with many tree shades and less ramps, such as the reservoir trails are preferred. Remember to plan points for resting and leaving along the way in case of emergency. 

2. Avoid Hiking at Noon Time

Depart early in the morning and go for a short route if you want to finish the hike by noon. Hiking and outdoor activities should be avoided at noon as extended exposure in the sun can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Hiking at night with appropriate gear and planning could be another option in summer. Beginners can join ecotours at night to explore the different biodiversity of Hong Kong. 

3. Bring Adequate Food and Water

Hiking in summer is not suitable for everyone, it is vital to understand personal health condition and capacity before the trip. Keeping yourself hydrated is critical when hiking, especially in the scorching summer. Regular water and sports drinks that contain electrolytes can meet the needs of hydration and mineral during the hike. Hikers should avoid consumptions beverages containing caffeine such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, and alcohol.

4. Gear Up for the Weather

Wearing light-coloured and loose clothing can reduce heat absorption, facilitate sweat evaporation and heat dissipation. Bucket hat and sunglasses can effectively blocked the UV radiation. An umbrella works for both sunny and rainy days, bring one with you for the unpredictable weather.

For more information about heat stroke prevention, please visit the website of the Centre for Health Protection, Department of Health – Beware of Heat Stroke.

 

TrailWatch recommends the following short routes for hiking in summer times. The trails are shady with nice scenery along the way.

It is only 3km loop from Po Fu Lam Reservoir to Po Fu Lam Reservoir Road. The trail is a gentle and easily accessible. Shorty after entering the woods, the view of Pok Fu Lam Reservoir unveil before you. Various plant and bird species can be spotted along the route with great scenery. 

Starting from Shui Cheun O Estate and arriving Sha Tin Pass Road through the ancient trail, the trail continues to Tsz Ching Estate in Tsz Wan Shan or to other paths through the MacLehose Trail. The Tsz Sha Ancient Trail is flat and gentle, tree-lined with a river along the way.

Little Hawaii Trail is a popular short-distance hiking trail and also an ancient trail towards the city center. Departing from Clear Water Bay Road, you can enjoy the view of Tseung Kwan O city in the midway of the trail, with the spectacular view of the waterfall along the way.

If you want to challenge your physical fitness for a summer hike, be sure to know your physical ability and monitor the weather regularly.