Authorities in the Catskills mountains responded to a unique call-out late last month, when four hikers became intoxicated after taking hallucinogenic mushrooms.

Local rangers and firefighters in the Slide Mountain Wilderness came to the rescue after the hikers misplaced possessions and complained of a "debilitating high."

"The original caller admitted the group had consumed psilocybin mushrooms and one of them was experiencing a debilitating high," reads a statement from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Rangers.

The hikers were quickly located and escorted "to the trailhead where they were evaluated by Shandaken Ambulance," before they were taken back to their lodgings by authorities.

Psychedelic mushrooms on the trails

Psilocybin mushrooms are otherwise known as magic mushrooms or 'shrooms, and found in wilderness areas throughout the US. They're especially common in mountainous areas due to the varied terrain and diverse habitats of high-altitude environments.

Because of their regularity in the wilderness, incidents with hikers are more common than you might expect. In May, authorities in New York's Adirondack Mountains were left bewildered after two hikers reported the death of a surviving companion while high on magic mushrooms.

Nearby rangers found them in "an altered mental state," with their reportedly dead friend actually alive and well.

Despite their occasionally comical nature, hallucinogens present several dangers if taken on the trails.

In 2022, a 25-year-old trekker drowned near Washington's Wallace Falls after allegedly eating mushrooms. Multiple varieties of mushrooms can also be deadly if ingested.

Psilocybin and psilocin mushrooms are illegal for recreational use in New York and most other US states. They're legal for therapeutic use in Oregon and for personal use in Colorado.

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Hikers and climbers have two new options to help them head into the wilderness with confidence, as Garmin has released a duo of super smart handheld GPS devices.

The new GPSMAP H1 and GPSMAP H1i Plus utilize Garmin's GPS technology to track your whereabouts and keep you in touch with the outside world when you lose signal.

Both devices feature 3.5-inch color touchscreen displays and physical buttons, which you can use to access preloaded topographic maps and satellite imagery and track your progress as you hike.

They both boast up to 145 hours of battery life in GPS mode and come with an array of high-tech safety features to keep you safe in the wilderness. Livetrack sharing, for example, allows you to share your location with loved ones back at home, while a live weather feature provides up-to-date information and warnings about local weather conditions.

If you're in danger, you can trigger an SOS alert. This signal will be received by Garmin's 24/7 international coordination center, which will pass your information on to local search and rescue agencies.

The H1i Plus is the premium device and comes with a few more bells and whistles to streamline your outdoor experience.

With an active InReach subscription, you can share photos, voice messages, and texts regardless of your position in the wilderness. There are built-in front and back cameras so you can snap a selfie or a landscape shot, and your device will also respond to voice commands.

"When your journey takes you off the grid, the new GPSMAP H1i Plus lets you connect with loved ones through a photo, a text message or a voice memo where mobile phones do not work," says Garmin's Vice President of Consumer Sales & Marketing, Susan Lyman.

"Now, you can share your adventures in real-time, sending photos when you’re at the mountain summit or communicate with friends and family from the trail."

Although they're impressive, these extra features will cost a pretty penny. The GPSMAP H1i Plus will set you back $999.99 (£849.99) while the standard H1 is priced at $699.99 (£549.99).

These devices are the latest in Garmin's range of handheld GPS devices. We've tested and been very impressed with previous models, including the InReach Mini 2, which received a rare five-star rating in our review.

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An 85-year-old hiker has died after being trampled by cows in the Austrian Alps.

The unnamed man and his wife were charged at by an aggressive herd on Sunday, August 31, while they walked their dog in the Ramsau am Dachstein area of Austria's Styria province.

Local police spokesman Markus Lamb told AFP: "A retired couple from Vienna and their dog were walking just below the so-called Austria hut when a herd of nine cows, including three calves, charged and severely injured them."

Nearby hikers and refuge workers witnessed the attack, alerted emergency services, and administered first aid to the couple, who were taken to a hospital in Salzburg. The man died of his injuries before he could undergo surgery.

Cow safety

Depending on where you're trekking, cows might not be high on your list of worries, but they might be a little more dangerous than you expect.

Believe it or not, cows are the deadliest animals in the UK, killing upwards of 70 people in the past 15 years. They're equally dangerous across the Atlantic, accounting for roughly 22 deaths each year in the US.

Cows are generally peaceful animals, but there are a few things to keep in mind when passing by them, so prepare in advance with some of our top safety tips

• Reroute when necessary - Look around before you enter a cow field and take a different route if you see calves or a bull. Like most animals, cows are extremely protective of their young, and bulls, identified by their humped shoulders and muscular necks, are notoriously ill-tempered. Cows are also known to take a keen interest in pregnant women, so they're best avoided altogether if you're expecting.
• Alert the cows to your presence - Cows can become aggressive if surprised, so make plenty of noise when they're in your way.
• Walk quickly and avoid eye contact - Avoid antagonizing cows by passing them at speed and allowing them plenty of room.
• Keep dogs on a short lead - Excitable furry friends can wind up cattle, so keep yours on a short lead and keep it from barking if possible.
• Don't panic - Keep calm if cows move towards you. Continue walking at a steady pace towards your exit and give them a gentle shove if they come within touching distance.
• Don't run - If cows become aggressive, running will only spur them on. Instead, make yourself as big as possible, wave your arms, and yell the expletive of your choice to avoid getting trampled.

For a detailed safety breakdown, check out our expert guide to cattle safety.

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Search and rescue officials in Wyoming have recovered the body of a missing hiker who disappeared in the Bighorn Mountains at the end of July, almost a week after ending their initial search efforts.

The body of Grant Gardner was discovered after a professional climbing team from North Carolina noticed a backpack underneath a nearby ledge in the Cloud Peak wilderness area on August 26.

Search and rescue personnel travelled to the scene and found Gardner's body near the site on arrival.

A statement from the Big Horn County Sheriff's Office reads: "Grant Gardner’s remains were located near the backpack. Gardner was wearing clothing that very closely matched the terrain he was climbing in."

"A difficult/dangerous recovery was conducted, and Grant Gardner is being brought home to his family."

Gardner was last seen at the end of July, before embarking on a three-day hike in the Big Horn National Forest. Alarm bells were raised on August 1, when he failed to return from his trek in the Misty Moon Lake area, where he planned to scale the 13,171ft (4,015m) Cloud Peak.

He was last heard from on July 29, when he contacted his wife to confirm that he had summited the mountain. After 20 days, rescuers ceased their search efforts, which included the use of helicopters, planes, ground teams, and dogs.

"In consultation with family members, I have made the heartbreaking and difficult decision to suspend active search and rescue operations for Mr. Gardner," Big Horn County Sheriff Ken Blackburn said in a statement on August 21.

The search was hampered by strong winds, lightning, thunder, and tricky underfoot terrain in the mountains.

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A 73-year-old hiker has died in Montana's Glacier National Park after falling from one of its most popular routes.

Diane Bunker of Muscatine, Iowa, was hiking the famous Highline Trail on Friday, August 29, when she tripped and fell roughly 450ft (137m). Search and rescue officials rushed to her location and found Bunker dead at the scene with sustained traumatic injuries.

Glacier National Park officials confirmed the incident in a news release obtained by the Daily Montanan.

It reads: "While hiking with a large group, Bunker tripped and fell off the edge of the trail, out of sight from her hiking party."

"Two Bear Air was dispatched to search for the fallen hiker. Two Bear Air located and recovered her below the trail."

The stunning but potentially dangerous Highline Trail is one of Glacier's most popular routes, guiding trekkers through 14.9 miles (24km) of Wyoming wilderness and gaining 2,621ft (798.9m) in elevation.

The route offers breathtaking views of Glacier National Park, but can also be dangerous, featuring a narrow, exposed cliffside section, with steep drops and a tricky cable handrail.

"The trail can be 3 - 5 feet wide in places, with a large drop-off on one side of the trail," explains the National Park Service website, which says there is a hand cable available for about 50 yards of the trail.

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Could AI-enabled drones be the life-saving rescue apparatus of the future?

Italy's National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps (CNSAS) isn't shying away from the controversial tech. The mountain rescue service turned to the devices at the beginning of the year in a bid to locate more missing trekkers, and has recently revealed how the technology helped them uncover the body of an Italian hiker, who had been missing in the Alps for over ten months.

The location and recovery

Nicola Ivaldo, 64, disappeared in September 2024 on Monviso, a 12,602ft (3,841m) peak in the Cottian Alps, on the border between France and Italy.

Using data from his cell phone, rescuers were able to narrow down his location to the mountain's north face, a steep and uneven area far too dangerous to explore on foot.

After months of searching, CNSAS deployed drones, equipped with high-definition cameras, to take more than 2,600 images of the area.

AI software then analyzed the imagery and identified a few distinct red pixels, which rescuers later discovered were Ivaldo's helmet. After a few days of bad weather that prevented any earlier attempt, a helicopter successfully recovered the man's body.

Mountain rescue drones

Mountain rescuers often use drones in search and rescue operations to locate and identify missing hikers and climbers.

They've also been used to deliver essential supplies to mountaineers. Last March, drones successfully carried 33lb (15kg) payloads from Everest's Base Camp to Camp 1, in a trial of technology which officials hope could become commonplace.

The use of AI technology is less common, but its success in this instance could pave the way for greater application in rescue scenarios, although opponents argue its potentially harmful environmental impact should also be considered.

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Canadian authorities have found a body in their search for a missing Norwegian hiker who took on harsh conditions in the Canadian wilderness.

Steffen Skjottelvik, 29, has been missing since August 15, when he failed to check in to his accommodation at the York Factory in Manitoba. The experienced trekker had embarked on a gruelling journey from Fort Severn in Ontario to the York Factory, traversing plenty of harsh terrain and unforgiving weather conditions.

Following a lengthy search, rescuers discovered his body when a helicopter pilot spotted it in the wilderness, near the Hayes River, where his jacket was discovered days prior.

In a statement shared with People, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said they accompanied Parks Canada officers and Community searchers from Fort Severn "to the provided location on foot and confirmed that the body recovered on shore was that of the missing 29-year-old Norwegian hiker."

Skjottelvik's planned trek covered more than 186 miles (299.3km) of remote Canadian wilderness and would have been a challenge for any trekker, regardless of their experience.

RCMP Sergeant Paul Manaigre told CBC that: "People have said there are only a few people that can do it on this planet."

"The fact that he made it that far is just a testament to his skills."

Manaigre explained that the ground near where Skjottelvik was found is so boggy that people would often sink to their knees or waist while walking. It's also populated by wolves and polar bears, and features dangerous, fluctuating water levels.

"I've been a police officer for nearly 30 years, involved with search and rescue for the last eight, and in my experience, this has probably been one of the hardest searches that has taken place in this province," he continued.

If you're thinking of taking on a long-distance trek, check out our expert guide to hiking hazards and how to avoid them.

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A wildfire that's been burning in northwest Colorado since the beginning of August is now the fourth-largest in the state's history, capping off a historic fire season.

The Lee Fire, burning near Meeker and Rifle, grew several acres on Monday night and has now surpassed the 2002 Hayman Fire, which resulted in six deaths and stood as Colorado's biggest wildfire for nearly 20 years. In the most recent update on InciWeb, the fire is reported to be at 138,758 acres, only slightly smaller than the 2020 Pine Gulch Fire, which burned for nearly two months.

However, that update also shows the fire as 90 percent contained, and in a Tuesday briefing, FDNY Incident Management Operations Section Mike Izzo says favorable weather conditions brought by monsoon season mean crews are making "strong progress."

"With increased moisture in the area, fire activity has remained low. Operations have shifted to implementing the Lee Fire suppression Repair Plan."

That plan involves monitoring and securing the perimeter of the fire, says Izzo, who adds that the fire has stopped growing, and there is only one small section along the southern perimeter where it remains uncontained.

The weather forecast for the area calls for rain throughout this week, which will help firefighters in their efforts but also increases the possibility of dangerous flash flooding. Mudslides have been reported in Rio Blanco County.

The Lee Fire was discovered on August 2 and ignited as a result of lightning strikes on BLM land in the Piceance Creek area. Governor Jared Polis has declared a state of emergency, which has been approved by the Trump administration.

This summer has brought the worst fire season for Colorado since 2020, when the Cameron Fire destroyed hundreds of properties.

In Canada, Nova Scotia has banned all hiking and camping in wooded areas to reduce the risk of wildfire, while in Europe, we've seen disruption from Italy's Mount Vesuvius to Scotland's Arthur's Seat.

If you're planning on recreating in a wildfire-prone area, read our articles on wildfire safety and hiking in wildfire smoke before setting off.

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Rescuers in Wyoming have abandoned their 20-day hunt for a missing Minnesota man after concluding that his "most optimistic survival odds have run out".

Grant Gardner was last seen at the end of July, before embarking on a planned three-day hike in the Big Horn National Forest. Alarm bells were raised on August 1, when he failed to return from his trek in the Misty Moon Lake area, where he planned to scale the 13,171ft (4,015m) Cloud Peak.

Gardner contacted his wife on July 29 to confirm that he had summited the mountain, but hasn't been heard from since. Rescuers have now decided to end their lengthy search efforts, which included the use of helicopters, planes, ground teams, and dogs.

"In consultation with family members, I have made the heartbreaking and difficult decision to suspend active search and rescue operations for Mr. Gardner," Big Horn County Sheriff Ken Blackburn said in a statement .

"Our teams have exhausted all resources and personnel over the last 20 days. With weather conditions and other factors updated in our search models, we have to face the reality that the most optimistic survival odds have run out.”

The lengthy search efforts were hampered by violent winds, lightning, thunder, and challenging terrain at altitude.

“It should be noted conditions are extreme and very challenging, at least two rescuers have suffered medical conditions, and have had to receive medical care," an earlier Sheriff's Office report read.

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Rescuers in England's Lake District National Park were called to a unique situation, after a stubborn dog refused to move, despite the best efforts of his owners.

The four-legged trekker came to a halt while traversing the loose rock and uneven underfoot terrain of the Wast Water Screes, underneath the Illgill Head and Whin Rigg fells, with its two human companions.

At 66lb (30kg), the pooch was too heavy to pick up and carry, so the hikers were left with no alternative but to call for emergency help.

In response, rescuers from the Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team (WMRT) deployed a boat across Wast Water to pick up the stranded trio, who then walked back to their campsite.

How to hike with your dog

Exploring the trails with your furry friends can be a great way to get some exercise and make lifelong memories together, but there are a few things to know first. Here are some fundamentals to keep in mind if you want to hike with your dog.

• Prepare to carry them - Hiking trails, especially harder ones, often feature challenging obstacles, like ladder stiles, chained-up gates, and metal mesh bridges with holes big enough for paws to slip through. There's also the risk of injury. Either way, you'll probably have to carry your dog at one point or another, so make sure you're capable of doing so.
• Check the temperature - Scorching temperatures are made even worse under a thick coat of fur, so make sure to check the forecast and avoid long hikes when the sun's out. This will depend on your dog's breed, age, and the amount of shade you're likely to encounter on the trails, so do your research beforehand.
• Plan for diversions - Fallen trees, washed-away trails, and other unsurpassable obstacles may force you to divert from your planned route, so prepare yourself and your dog for an extra mile or two.

• Use your leash - You might be surprised by how often you need to have your dog on a leash in the wilderness. Sheep, goats, cows, and other animals can all be easily disturbed, and you'll need to be especially careful if you're passing through bear country.
• Pack for your dog - Give yourself peace of mind by packing gear to help your dog when things don't go to plan. This could include a GPS tracker in case you lose touch, an LED collar for late finishes, and plenty of water in case it gets too hot.
• Pick up behind you - There's little worse than a walker who refuses to pick up after their dog, so bring plenty of bags and do the right thing if required.
• Look out for ticks - Ticks often attach themselves to dogs and find refuge in thick fur. Make sure you know how to spot one and invest in a good tick remover to get rid of the pests.

For more information, check out our expert guide to hiking with a dog.

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A 36-year-old man has become the seventh person to lose their life in Snowdonia this year, after falling from a notorious ridge walk.

The unnamed man was scrambling along the knife-edge Crib Goch section of Yr Wyddfa, otherwise known as Mount Snowdon, in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), when he slipped and fell to his death.

Local mountain rescue teams rushed to the scene via helicopter, but found the man dead when they arrived.

"We are saddened to confirm that a 36-year-old man has died following a fall from Crib Goch in Eryri National Park on Saturday, 16 August," they said in a statement from the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team.

"Emergency services, including North Wales Police and the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team, responded to reports of a man falling from the ridge at approximately 11.30am.

"The man was recovered from the mountain by helicopter but was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene."

A deadly year in the mountains

The man is believed to be the seventh person to lose their life in Eryri this year.

In February, Doctor Charlotte Crook died on the Glyder Fach mountain. The 30-year-old lost her footing and fell onto rough terrain. Her partner also fell and sustained serious head injuries on his way to her position, where he performed CPR until rescuers arrived. Crook died at the scene.

Just days later, university student Maria Eftimova succumbed to serious injuries after she tumbled down the north ridge of Tryfan, a 3,010ft (918m) peak in the park.

In May, a walker died after falling from the perilous Y Gribin scrambling route, which is rated grade one for difficulty, and another hiker perished after he was seen ascending Yr Wyddfa.

The following month, the bodies of two women were pulled from a popular swimming spot in the Nant Gwynant valley, after heavy rainfall turned the formerly gentle waters violent and created a dangerous undercurrent.

People lose their lives every year in Eryri National Park, with most fatalities occurring on the towering Yr Wyddfa.

Hiking safety

Hiking in the UK may seem like something of a doddle in comparison to the extreme conditions elsewhere, but it can still be dangerous, especially if you're underprepared.

Take a look at some of our top safety tips if you're planning a trip to a national park like Eryri.

• Take plenty of food and water - Correct nutrition is essential all year round, so make sure to bring an adequate supply of fluids and snacks.
• Wear the right footwear - Conditions underfoot are especially trecherous in the mountains. A grippy and dependable pair of hiking shoes or boots can keep you upright without sacrificing comfort on the trails.
• Prepare for darkness - Injuries and unforeseen obstacles can slow your progress on the trails. Take a powerful flashlight or headlamp, even if you're not planning to hike at night.

• Bring plenty of layers - The higher you hike, the colder it will get. Pack plenty of layers, including something insulating like a thick down jacket if you're ascending a challenging peak.
• Have a way of calling for help - Satellite communicators like the Garmin InReach aren't dependent on cell signals, so they can be used in remote locations to send an SOS signal if you have an accident.
• Plot your route ahead of time - Research where you're going to trek and how long it will take. This way, you won't be surprised by anything on the trails and can hike with peace of mind.

• Go with others - Hiking is far safer with a partner or in a group, as they can offer assistance and get help in an emergency.
• Know your limits - Check the weather forecast before you start hiking. If overhead or underfoot conditions are too dangerous, then abandon your trek. Don't test your limits on dangerous mountains or scrambling sections like Crib Goch.

For more safety tips, check out our expert guide to hiking hazards and how to avoid them.

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Frustrated mountain rescuers in France are making their voices heard after experiencing an increase in call-outs to help underprepared hikers.

Rescuers say that the rise of social media has led to inexperienced trekkers embarking on potentially dangerous hikes without the proper equipment or know-how.

Jeremie Pesenti of the Alpes de Grenoble mountain rescue told FranceInfo that his rescue office is receiving more calls from inexperienced hikers than ever before, as tourists set off "on a whim" without adequate knowledge of the area or the conditions they're likely to encounter.

Pesenti says these unorganized hikers "rely too much on what they find on social media and on apps that suggest routes," and "find themselves stuck because they do not have the technical skills to do that hike".

These issues have been particularly prevalent in the summer, but could prove even more dangerous in the unforgiving weather and biting temperatures of winter in the mountains.

Fellow Alpes de Grenoble rescuer Lionel Chatain told FranceInfo about an incident involving city-dwellers who had seen beautiful pictures of the sunsets in the mountains surrounding Grenoble and decided to take the train there from Paris.

"They had not realized that in winter, there are not any paths as they are covered in snow, which can be hard, so you need crampons."

The hikers were also wearing insufficiently insulating clothing and were using their phones as flashlights.

Hiking advice

Heading into the mountains without adequate clothing or proper equipment can put you and your companions in extreme danger, especially in the winter months.

If you're keen to hike to a spot you've seen on social media, it's best to prepare well in advance and check out a few fundamental safety tips.

• Wear the right clothing - Whatever time of year you're hiking, it's essential to wear the right clothing. In the summer months, this might consist of a breathable, sweat-wicking top and plenty of protection from the sun, including an effective sunhat. In the winter, you should bring plenty of layers and consider insulating items like a thick down jacket. A good pair of hiking shoes or boots is always necessary.
• Bring the correct gear - Additional gear like a spacious backpack and a reliable pair of trekking poles can come in very handy on the trails. If you're going to be trekking in the snow, you should consider wearing appropriate crampons to keep you upright. A good first aid kit should also always be in your gear list.
• Research your hike and plan ahead - Have a clear plan of where you're going to trek and how long it will take. Familiarise yourself with the conditions you're likely to encounter. This way, you won't be surprised by anything on the trails and can hike with peace of mind.

• Don't go alone - Hiking with a partner or in a group is always safer than going alone. Other hikers can help you in an emergency and arrange for your rescue if necessary.
• Use proper, up-to-date maps - Make sure to use an accurate, modern map or a suitable maps app. Some apps don't feature crucial topographic and safety information, so use a reliable outdoors navigation app like AllTrails or the OS Maps app.
• Bring a GPS device - If you're heading into a remote area, it's worth investing in a satellite communicator. Devices like the Garmin InReach track your location and can be used to call for rescue regardless of how remote you are.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
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A hiker in Japan has died after being attacked by a brown bear on the trail.

Sota Keisuke, 26, was descending Japan's 5,450ft (1,661m) Mount Rausu with a friend when the animal approached and began acting aggressively. He reportedly tried to fight the bear off but sustained severe injuries, with his legs profusely bleeding.

Unable to help, Keisuke's friend called the police and watched in horror as his fellow trekker was dragged into the woods. Following the attack, authorities swiftly closed nearby trails and airlifted 71 people away from the area.

Rescue efforts were also launched, and on Friday, August 15, Keisuke was found and taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The same day, rescuers found and shot three bears in the area where he was killed.

In November 2023, a brown bear killed two and attacked three others on Mount Daisengen on Hokkaido.

Bear safety

Bear attacks are on the rise in Japan. From April 2023 to 2024, there were a record 219 incidents, including six deaths.

They're considered to be a little less dangerous in the US, with far fewer attacks and roughly two to three people killed each year on average. Still, it's important to know what to do if you come face-to-face with a bear, so check out some of our top safety tips.

• Stick to established trails - The safest way to deal with bears is to avoid them altogether. Most bears want to be left alone by humans and rarely stray onto established trails.
• Hike in groups - Hiking in large groups can deter bears as they will be able to sense you coming and leave the area.
• If you encounter a bear - Keep calm. Speak in a loud, steady voice and slowly wave your arms, so the bear knows you're not prey. Aim to make yourself appear as big as possible.

• Do not run - Adult bears can run at speeds of up to 30mph (48kmph), covering 110 yards (100 meters) in only seven seconds, so you've got no chance of outpacing one. Running can trigger predatory instincts, so stay calm and move slowly.
• If you're attacked by a brown or grizzly bear - Play dead. Lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped around your neck and legs spread. This will signal that you’re not a threat and will make it harder for the bear to turn you over.
• If you're attacked by a black bear - Do not play dead. Try to escape to a secure shelter like a building or car. If you're unable to escape, fight back by attacking the bear's face with whatever you can find around you. Use bear spray if you have it.

For more tips, check out our expert bear safety guide.

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Two inexperienced hikers had to be rescued after becoming lost and falling ill on Phoenix's South Mountain.

The pair ascended the Arizona peak in scorching afternoon heat at around 4pm on Tuesday, August 12, without proper shoes or ample supplies. That evening, after nightfall, they called 911 to request rescue, saying they were overheated and lost.

The inexperienced pair were "not familiar with the trail," according to Phoenix fire Captain Rob McDade.

"They were asking a lot of themselves, and look what happened," he told 12 News.

Rescuers tracked the cell phone the hikers had called from and found the pair around a mile from a popular trailhead. Due to the challenging underfoot terrain and low light, they opted to dispatch a helicopter to collect the pair.

“We dispatched our Phoenix police department Firebird 10 hoist helicopter,” continued McDade.

“We put firefighters in it, our technical rescue team members hoisted it down and got them off the mountain.”

Hiking advice

Following the rescue, McDade was keen to illustrate the dangers of hiking at night.

"The heat is just the beginning of potential dangers for even experienced night hikers," he continued.

"You can only see as far as your light can light up. You no longer have depth perception. We see an increase of low extremity injuries, people blow out knees, your ankles."

If you're insistent on trekking in the dark, McDade says you should bring plenty of supplies, including a headlamp and a fully charged phone. Hiking in groups is also advisable, as fellow trekkers can assist in emergencies.

On this occasion, the hikers had sufficient cell signal and were able to successfully call for help, but this may not always be the case.

If you're heading into a remote area, it might be worth investing in a satellite communicator, which you can use to request rescue regardless of how remote you are.

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Authorities in the Rocky Mountain National Park have recovered a body in the search for a missing hiker, who was last seen in the Colorado park over a week ago.

Blake Kieckhafer, 23, from Omaha, Nebraska, was reported missing in the park on Monday, August 11, prompting a widespread search involving over 80 people. Rescuers from multiple agencies focused their attention on the Emerald Lake area and subsequently discovered what they believe to be Kieckhafer's body.

A National Park Service statement reads: "Rocky Mountain National Park rangers completed an on-scene investigation and recovery operations took place by helicopter. His body was flown to a landing zone in Rocky Mountain National Park and transferred to the Larimer County Coroner’s Office."

Kieckhafer was last seen on August 7 in the park's Upper Beaver Meadows area, where he was dropped off by a car-sharing service. He didn't appear to be adequately equipped for the night and carried only a small daypack.

The Larimer County Coroner’s Office is now "working on obtaining positive and scientific identification via DNA," reads a statement. An identification will be made once the next of kin is informed.

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Officials in Nova Scotia have banned hiking in the woods due to concerns of wildfire risk in the province. The move follows a full fire ban already in place.

Frontcountry camping in designated campgrounds is still permitted, but any hiking, camping, fishing or use of ATVs has been banned on trail systems through woods in provincial Crown land, including municipal parks. The ban is in place until October 15 or until conditions change, and violators may be fined $25,000.

At a press conference on Tuesday, August 5, Premier Tim Houston said he's "losing sleep" about more than 700 wildfires currently burning across the country.

“We are telling Nova Scotians to stay out of the woods."

The weather forecast for the province continues to call for hot, dry conditions.

The CBC reports that the sudden decision has left campers, commuters and municipalities scrambling to react.

If you're spending time in an area affected by wildfires this summer, read our articles on wildfire safety and hiking in wildfire smoke before heading outside.

• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices
• The best hydration bladders: water storage for adventures

Hikers and climbers in the Italian Dolomites have been told to stay off Cima Falkner after a series of rockfalls on its western and eastern sides. Popular trails on and surrounding the mountain have been closed as investigators work to assess their safety.

“All hikers in the area have been evacuated. We urge everyone to pay maximum attention and strictly follow the ordinances to ensure their own safety," warned officials from the local Trentino-Alto Adige council.

The mountain is currently going through permafrost degradation, meaning that ground that usually stays frozen all year round is thawing, allowing rocks to become loose and tumble down the mountain. This phenomenon has caused the summit to open "like a flower," according to the council.

“The fractures, previously filled with ice, are now partially empty, indicating a change in the morphology of Cima Falkner,” it explained.

Although it's difficult to link single events to climate change, scientists have previously warned that increasingly extreme heat can melt the vital ice that holds otherwise unstable mountain rocks in place.

The Scientific Committee of the Italian Alpine Club told La Repubblica: "Landslides are on the rise, and the main cause is the climate crisis. There’s no doubt about it.

"Mountains, by definition, are destined to collapse, they won’t remain as we know them forever. What’s different now is that we’re seeing a clear acceleration of these processes, driven by heat and extreme weather events intensified by the climate crisis," it continued.

The local council says that Cima Falkner has already shed over 12,360,13 cubic ft (35,000m³) of rock and could lose upwards of 24,72027 cubic ft (70,000ft³) before the rockfalls stop.

Rockfall safety

Despite their dangers, rockfalls are relatively uncommon on hiking trails. Even so, it's important to be prepared, so check out some of our top tips to keep yourself safe from falling rocks in the mountains.

• Stick to proper paths - Established trails are more likely to be well-maintained, and offer better stability than untamed wilderness sections.
• Check the weather - Heavy rain and strong winds increase the likelihood of rockfalls, especially in steep or wild sections, so make sure to check the weather ahead of time and prepare accordingly.
• Heed warnings - Local mountain authorities will publish rockfall warnings if incidents are likely or have been reported. You should check ahead of time and take any warnings seriously before embarking on a trek.
• Don't go alone - Hiking with a friend or in a group is a great way to stay safe in the mountains, as they can call for help in an emergency situations, including rockfalls.

For more top tips, check out our expert rockslides safety guide.

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

A 28-year-old man has been charged with the murder of two hikers, who were killed in front of their young children in an Arkansas state park last weekend.

Former teacher Andrew James McGann was arrested in a barbershop in Springdale on Wednesday, July 30, after a five-day search in which police released a composite sketch and asked hikers to check back through old pictures.

Police made the arrest after they identified the vehicle belonging to a man they suspect of killing Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, on a remote trail in the Devil's Den State Park on July 26.

The couple, who had recently moved from South Dakota, were hiking with their two daughters, who police say are now safe with family.

According to a Facebook video posted by the barbershop's owners, and reported by CNN, McGann was mid-way through getting a haircut when plain-clothed officers arrived and asked if he was the owner of a car outside. Officers then arrested McGann and collected some of his hair.

He's since been charged with two counts of capital murder and was being held without bond as of Thursday, July 31.

Following the arrest, Arkansas Police Colonel Mike Hagar said: “I’m extremely grateful for the long hours and dedication that our agents put forward in bringing justice to this family.

"Because of their hard work and investigative skill, we were able to take a monster off the streets, and bring relief to those two precious girls, and the rest of our citizens."

Devil's Den State Park covers 2,500 acres of rugged Arkansas wilderness at the western edge of the Ozark Mountains, near the Arkansas / Oklahoma border.

The park is known for its scenic hiking trails and rock formations, although there's plenty of potentially tricky underfoot terrain, and it's very remote, so there's no cell phone service.

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

A 17-year-old hiker has suffered significant burns while walking in a thermal area of Yellowstone National Park.

According to a news release by the National Park Service, the unidentified male hiker was in the vicinity of Lone Star Geyser near Old Faithful on the morning of Monday, July 28, when the incident occurred.

"His foot broke through the thin crust and he suffered burns to a lower extremity. Emergency medical staff responded and transported the patient to a hospital for further treatment," states the NPS.

This is the first known thermal injury in Yellowstone in 2025, though there have been many incidents of tourists sustaining severe burns by getting too close to thermal features at the Wyoming park.

The Park Service doesn't mention whether the teenager was hiking off the boardwalks, which have been put in place to protect visitors, saying only that the incident remains under investigation. They did take the opportunity to remind all park visitors to remain on boardwalks and to keep a good distance from all thermal pools and geysers. If you're planning on visiting the park this year, you can learn more in our article on hot spring safety at Yellowstone.

Lone Star Geyser erupts up to 45 feet (13.7 m) from a 12-foot (3.6 m) cone approximately every three hours.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails
• Best trekking poles: take the pressure off

A 29-year-old woman was killed by a falling tree limb while walking in a popular giant sequoia grove at Yosemite National Park.

According to reporting by San Francisco Gate, Angela Lin was hiking with her boyfriend David Hua, and two friends in Tuolumne Grove on July 19 when the tragedy occurred. Hua says the group heard a loud cracking sound followed by several falling branches just seconds later.

“One big branch struck Angela, and then there were a bunch of smaller ones directly behind me."

Hua says he closed his eyes when the branches started falling, and when he opened them, Lin was on the ground, bleeding. Hua was able to call 911 from the grove and, with the help of bystanders, administer CPR, but when paramedics arrived, they pronounced Lin dead on the scene and reportedly told Hua she had likely died instantly.

A Facebook post in the Monterey Park Pickleball group confirms the incident and identifies Lin as Peter Lin's daughter, a Google software engineer.

The National Park Service has not issued a statement on the incident, but it closed the area for about a week.

In October 2024, a 22-year-old Australian hiker was killed by a falling tree on the Four Mile Trail in Yosemite.

What's your risk of being hit by a falling tree?

Your risk of being hit by a falling tree, also known as a hazard tree, is very low, but as this news reveals, these incidents do occur and can be deadly.

Though hazard trees are often associated with windy weather, there are other reasons why a tree might become structurally unsound, and not all of them are easy to spot with the naked eye.

Diseases and rot can plague trees that appear healthy on the outside – a rotting base was responsible for a tree that killed a German hiker on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2019. A dead tree often falls onto another tree, which can compromise the roots of that healthy tree, while heavy rains can make the roots of a healthy tree unsound enough to fell it.

Though it may not always be possible to protect yourself from hazard trees on a hike, there are some steps you can take.

• Check the weather forecast for wind gusts and high winds.
• Use clearings to stop for breaks away from trees.
• Avoid hiking in areas with dense patches of dead trees such as burn scars and beetle kill areas.
• Report the GPS coordinates of hazard trees you encounter to local authorities.
• Carry a satellite communicator such as a Garmin InReach when venturing into wilderness areas in case you need to signal for help and cell service isn't available.

Learn more in our article on hazard trees.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails

Colorado health officials have announced the state's first death from West Nile virus this year and issued guidelines for prevention for anyone spending time outdoors.

A bulletin from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment says an adult from Lafayette died after exposure to the virus, which is commonly transmitted by mosquitoes. The deaths is one of nine human cases of West Nile virus that have been confirmed in eight different Colorado counties so far this year.

Officials say the virus, which can result in neurological disease, has been found in mosquitoes in eight of the 16 counties where mosquito testing has taken place this season, including Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Jefferson, Larimer, and Weld counties.

“This tragic loss underscores the serious nature of this virus and why personal prevention is so vital,” says Dr. Ned Calonge, Chief Medical Officer at CDPHE.

“I cannot stress enough the importance of taking simple, effective steps."

How to protect yourself against West Nile virus

• Use insect repellent (containing DEET if you are comfortable doing so) whenever you go outdoors. 
• Limit your outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are most active.
• Wear protective clothing such as long hiking pants and long-sleeved base layers when recreating in areas where mosquitoes are active – you may also want to consider clothing treated with Insect Shield technology.

No deaths from West Nile virus were reported last year, but 2023 saw one of the deadliest years on record for West Nile Virus in Colorado, with 51 people dying due to complications from infection.

According to the CDPH, most people infected with mosquito-borne viruses such as West Nile don't get sick, however, those who do will typically develop symptoms between two and 14 days after infection. Symptoms can involve high fever, headache, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors and coma.

• The best hiking shirts: choose one of these great fitting active tops with bags of technical clout
• The best hiking pants: don't let winter slow you down with our top trail trousers

Police have issued a call to action after a couple was murdered while hiking with their daughters at a remote Arkansas State Park.

Clinton Brink, 43, and Cristen Brink, 41, were discovered dead on a trail in remote Devil's Den State Park at 2:40pm on Saturday, July 26. They were hiking with their two daughters, aged seven and nine, who police say are uninjured and are now with family members. The couple had recently moved to nearby Prairie Grove from out of state, and officials have not yet determined how they were killed, but are calling their deaths a double homicide.

Now, Arkansas State Police is requesting anyone who visited the park on Saturday to check their cellphone and camera footage for images of the suspect, who officials believe is a white male with a medium build. After receiving additional information, they say he was dressed in a long-sleeved shirt with sleeves rolled up, dark pants, a dark ballcap, and sunglasses. He was carrying a black backpack and wearing fingerless gloves and was seen driving toward a park exit in a black, four-door sedan.

"The suspect’s vehicle may be a Mazda with a license plate covered by electrical or duct tape. It may have been traveling on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220 near the park," states the ASP in its report. The department also released the following composite sketch:

Anyone with images of the suspect or information about the suspect is asked to contact ASP Troop L at (479) 751-6663. Investigators urge anyone with photos or video to not post footage on social media, as this may "inadvertently jeopardize" the investigation.

“I want to thank the public and our media partners for their support as we pursue the man responsible for this heinous crime,” says ASP Col. Mike Hagar.

“We are using all available resources to apprehend this suspect and bring him to justice.”

Devil's Den is located at the Western edge of the Ozark Mountains near the border of Oklahoma in the northeastern part of the state, and is located in what officials call rugged terrain where there is no cell phone service.

• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices

Two separate hiking parties were forced to spend the night on Mount Katahdin when they became stranded after dark.

According to officials at Baxter State Park, park rangers were alerted to two groups that had become stranded on an exposed ridgeline on the Maine mountain on Thursday, July 24.

One hiker, who WGME 13 News has identified as 47-year-old Beata Kosc, had suffered an "unstable knee injury." She was hiking with another female, 32-year-old Courtney Doyon. The other stranded party consisted of a man and a juvenile, and none of the other hikers were injured. It's not known how close the groups were to one another.

Rangers were able to maintain communication with the hikers throughout the night and reached them on foot on Friday morning, despite rain, clouds, and high winds in the area. Rescuers provided them with food, hot liquids, and dry clothes and staged a tent to shelter the injured hiker while they treated her.

The uninjured hikers were escorted down on foot, and at 5:45pm on Friday, conditions were sufficient to rescue the final hiker by helicopter.

At 5,269ft (1,606m), Katahdin is the highest mountain in Maine, and the summit serves as the northern terminus for Appalachian Trail thru-hikers. The Knife Edge Ridge is notoriously exposed, with steep drops on either side, and rangers frequently close it to hikers during severe weather.

How to survive the night on a mountain

If you're not planning on camping, you're not likely to take a tent and a sleeping bag on a day hike, but a night on a mountain is often only one sprained ankle away. That's why it's vital to carry the 10 essentials for hiking so you always have weather-protective gear as well as extra snacks and water.

For safety, it's helpful to ensure you have a means of communication in remote areas, such as a Personal Locator Beacon or Satellite Communicator, and you may choose to carry an emergency shelter to protect yourself from the elements. Learn more about keeping yourself safe when things don't go to plan in our article on how to survive a night on a mountain.

• The best emergency blankets, bags and shelters: lightweight lifesaving gear
• The best headlamps: tested and rated for hiking, camping and running

Whether he's fueling vaccine hesitancy, comparing autism to the holocaust or calling Lyme disease a "military weapon", Robert F Kennedy Jr is no stranger to inciting mixed and strong reactions to his views. But he might have been a little surprised by the uproar of his recent choice of hiking gear.

The internet has been roasting the US Secretary of Health and Human Services after he shared an image on social media of himself hiking in sweltering heat wearing jeans. The July 19 post on X showed Kennedy standing at the top of Camelback Mountain with his son Finn wearing dark blue denim and a sweat-soaked green T-shirt.

"Enjoying the fact that you must be chaffed and miserable af wearing jeans on a Camelback hike in July," writes X user Robbie Sherwood, while other critics called the sartorial choice "hilarious" and "diabolical".

Hiking in jeans?

Wearing jeans to hike isn't exactly a criminal offense, despite what some rabid outdoors folk claim – those of us born before a certain date have all likely done it and lived to tell the tale – but temperatures in the area were forecast to be as high as 106°F (41°C) and judging by the looks of Kennedy's shirt, we can only imagine his jeans were about 3lb heavier by the time he reached the summit. Chafe much?

Jokes aside, Arizona heat in the summer (and spring and fall) is notoriously dangerous for hikers – earlier this month, a family of 11, including six kids, was rescued from a closed Phoenix trail in scorching temperatures – on the same mountain where a 10-year-old boy died of heatstroke a year ago. And at the end of May, hiking influencer Hannah Moody succumbed to extreme heat despite carrying five liters of water on a hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and just a couple of weeks prior, 33-year-old Noah Farabaugh died on a hike on the Wave Cave Trail in the Superstition Wilderness.

So perhaps, for once, we can all stand united in calling jeans for hiking a poor choice, especially if you're heading out in extreme heat?

The best way to stay safe in extreme heat is not to go hiking at all, and that's why Phoenix area trails are often closed during the day when temperatures are predicted to reach triple digits. If you are hiking in hot weather, you'll need to do what you can to try to keep yourself cool. That means carrying a lot of water (we suggest loading up a large hydration bladder), seeking shaded trails and dressing in breathable, light colored clothing that's designed to wick sweat, which supports your body's natural air conditioning system. Think: lightweight hiking shorts or pants if you want to protect your lower legs.

While Merino wool is always praised for its moisture-managing qualities, synthetic fabrics excel in the summer months because they dry in a flash rather than getting heavy and wet like jeans. Learn more in our articles on when it's too hot to hike, and how to dress for hiking in hot weather.

Swimming in sewage?

Of course, if you're out in the summer months, you can always hike near water so you have the option of taking a dip to cool off, but even when he's doing that, Kennedy manages to set a bad example.

Back in May, he posted several pictures of himself swimming in Rock Creek in Dumbarton Oaks Park. The problem? Washington DC officials have closed the creek to swimmers due to dangerously high levels of bacteria like E. coli – it's used to drain excess sewage whenever there's been heavy rainfall in the area and poses dangers to human health. Maybe we should have listened when he claimed a parasite had eaten part of his brain?

Here at Advnture, we're not shy of taking a wild dip to cool off on a hike, and in fact we rarely set off without our water shoes, but it's important to know that pollution and algae in water can pose serious health risks.

Always do your research to see if there are any alerts on the quality of a body of water you want to swim in. During heavy rains water companies will often discharge waste water into local rivers and the coastline. You may be able to track this in the US using the How’s My Waterway interactive map and in the UK with the Surfers Against Sewage live map that gives updates on water quality.Some infestations, such as blue green algae are highly toxic and can cause skin rashes, vomiting, and even liver and brain damage.

If you're unsure or public information isn't available, at the very least keep your head out of the water since the easiest way for bacteria to enter your body is through your mouth, eyes and ears. Learn more in our article on how to find wild swimming spots and wild swimming safety.

Boots aren't bad

Before you accuse of us being biased, we're happy to concede that one area Kennedy appears to have got things right is in the footwear department. His photos from the trail reveal that he has donned decent-looking protective hiking boots that hopefully have good traction – what are those, Merrell Moab 3s? Just when you thought he was getting sensible though, turns out he also wears them at the gym. Weird.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails
• Best hiking shirts: great-fitting active tops

A hiker has been killed after getting caught up in a rockslide, which sent him 700ft down a mountain in Utah's Sawatch Range.

David Mull, 49, of Salt Lake City was hiking alone on The Pfeifferhorn on the morning of Saturday, July 19, when the incident took place. Officials from Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office say they received a report of the rockslide at around 8:45am, and arrived on the scene to find Mull unresponsive.

A doctor who was hiking in the area reportedly witnessed the fall and attempted to perform life-saving measures, but Mull was pronounced dead at the scene. No one else was seriously injured in the rock slide.

Few details have been released by the Sheriff's Office, but one witness responding to a post in the Utah Hikers Facebook group writes that he saw Mull descending on the north side of the ridge when he grabbed onto loose rock, and the slide occurred.

"Heard the thunderous crashing and climbed up to the top of the ridge as fast as possible. Saw the slide making its way down into the Maybird Lakes basin. He was mixed up in the slide," writes Tyler Price.

The Pfeifferhorn is an 11,326ft peak in the most isolated part of the Lone Peak Wilderness Area. It is commonly referred to as the Little Matterhorn, and the most common route to the top requires a 10-mile roundtrip hike with some scrambling.

The incident took place exactly one month after a massive rockslide killed two hikers and injured three in Canada's Jasper National Park.

Can you keep yourself safe from rockslides?

Rockslides are difficult to predict, but there are some steps you can take to help keep yourself safe:

• Avoid hiking in areas of steep, rocky terrain during spring thaw.
• Avoid hiking in areas of steep, rocky terrain following heavy rains.
• Keep your eyes open for areas showing evidence of recent rockfall and hike carefully or avoid these areas.
• Avoid hiking in the fall line (the most direct line downhill) of steep terrain when there are other hikers above or below you.
• Stay on the trail and make use of switchbacks.
• If you’re hiking downhill on a wider, rocky trail in a group, hike side-by-side in parallel lines rather single file.
• In narrow areas like canyons and ravines, move through one at a time.
• Take care not to dislodge rocks and boulders when crossing scree or boulder fields.

You can learn more in our article on rockslides.

• Best hiking boots: find the perfect footwear for any terrain
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

A teen climber is in a medically induced coma after hallucinations caused him to fall over 120ft in the Sierra Nevada.

Zane Wach, 14, was hiking with his father on the 14,494ft (4,417m) Mount Whitney, earlier this month, when he began hallucinating, likely due to the effects of altitude.

“He knew he was hallucinating. He said he saw things like snowmen and Kermit the frog," his father, Ryan, told SFGate.

Concerned for his son, Ryan opted to take him down to safety. The pair had already conquered the toughest parts of the route and headed down via an easier trail. But soon after saying that he wasn't sure whether he was dreaming, Zane walked to a staggered cliff edge and fell around 120ft (36.5m).

"I didn’t hear it until he was about at the edge, and when I went to reach for him, he was 10 feet away from me. I couldn’t get him, and he walked off the edge," continued Ryan.

Rescuers airlifted the boy to Sunrise Children’s Hospital in Las Vegas after the pair spent six traumatic hours on the peak. He was placed in a medically induced coma after suffering a severe head injury and breaking multiple bones.

The incident occurred on June 10, and Zane has been recovering in hospital ever since. He's now been taken off a life-support ventilator, but remains in a coma while he's weaned off the powerful medication used to aid his recovery.

“He’s been on a lot of heavy drugs," explained Ryan, who's hopeful of a full recovery.

“Getting off those is extremely hard and painful. As parents, it’s terrible to watch.”

A GoFundMe campaign to support the Wach family's medical, travel, and lodging costs has since been set up and has raised over $34,000.

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is caused by rapid exposure to the low oxygen levels at altitude. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath, but sufferers can sometimes experience more severe effects like hallucinations.

To mitigate the risks, climbers acclimatize to the low oxygen levels by spending time in the mountains or sleeping in hypoxic tents, which mimic the arduous alpine conditions and prepare their bodies for altitude.

For more information, check out our expert guide to avoiding altitude sickness.

• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies
• The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out

A mountain rescue team in England's Lake District National Park has urged hikers and campers to prepare properly after a non-stop weekend of call-outs.

Rescuers from the Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team (LAMRT) were called to multiple incidents from Friday, June 27, to Sunday, June 29, including three involving student groups.

Youngsters completing their Duke of Edinburgh award expeditions got into trouble in unforgiving, unclear weather conditions.

The first two student groups became disorientated near the 2,960ft (902m) summit of Bowfell at around 1pm on Friday, and the third reported that they were "lost, cold and wet" some five hours later. Volunteer rescue teams were quickly dispatched and soon located the groups, whom they guided to safety.

"Team members helped the groups pack their tents and walked them down to the valley floor, where they were met by the minibus to take them to Patterdale," explained team on the LAMRT Facebook page.

The rescue volunteers' busy weekend of rescues continued in the early hours of Saturday morning, when they received a call from nine young men in the Cochdale Tarn area, who had "succumbed to the weather in the middle of the night, with tents flattened around them", according to an incident report.

Six volunteers, three of whom had been out on the previous rescue, scrambled to the scene, where they helped pack away the collapsed tents and escorted the group back to their vehicles.

Rescuers, said they were forced to "dig deep", after being called to a further three incidents over the next two days, prompting LAMRT to issue an advisory statement via Facebook.

"Planning and preparation is absolutely key when heading out into the mountains," it reads.

"As we often say, we will always come out to help those in need and we know that accidents happen; all we ask is that you do everything in your power to create a safe and successful day."

Safety advice

The team urges visitors to ask themselves three questions before heading out for an ambitious hiking or camping trip. They are as follows:

• Am I confident I have the knowledge and skills required?
• Do I know what the weather will be like?
• Do I have the right gear?

For more expert advice, check out our guide to summer hiking safety, and see our top tips for what to wear while hiking.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best navigation apps: find your way in the great outdoors

The cause of death has been released for the second of two hikers who were found dead on Mount Katahdin.

The Maine Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has revealed that Tim Keiderling, 58, died from complications of hypothermia after attempting to reach the summit of Maine's highest peak on June 1 with his daughter Esther, 28.

Earlier this month, officials announced Esther died from blunt force injuries after it appears she attempted to traverse the boulder area and slid downhill before colliding with large boulders.

The Kiederlings, who both lived in Ulster, NY, set off from Abol Campground and were last seen at approximately 10:15am. A large-scale search and rescue effort was launched after their car was discovered in a day-use parking lot for Mount Katahdin. The weather on the peak that day presented a windchill of around 19F (-7C) with winds up to 40mph, sleet, rain and snow, according to the National Weather Service.

Rescue crews found Tim's body near the summit on June 3, and the following day, teams discovered Esther's body in a steep, snow-covered boulder area between the Cathedral and Saddle Trails off the Tablelands, approximately 1000ft feet from where her father was found.

• The best emergency blankets, bags and shelters: lightweight lifesaving gear
• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

Two teenage hikers spent the night stranded on one of Colorado's deadliest peaks after seeking a shortcut down.

According to a report from Mountain Rescue Aspen, two 19-year-olds from North Carolina had summited Capitol Peak near Aspen on June 24, but became "stuck in a precarious position" after they tried to take a shorter route down the north face of the 14er.

The hikers were cliffed out at around 13,000ft (3,900m) when the call came in at around 8:20pm, and with sunset fast approaching, crews informed them that rescue would not be immediate.

At 6am the following morning, a Blackhawk helicopter with two hoist-rescue technicians was dispatched to scene, where they were able to locate the individuals despite challenging conditions, including a brief snow shower and lightning, and the hikers' clothing choice making them hard to spot.

"The Blackhawk crew was able to visually locate the two stranded hikers, despite the fact the stranded hikers were wearing all black and gray clothing."

Crews were able to hoist the hikers to safety and evacuate them. Though their condition remains unknown, AMT reports the hikers were released after medical evaluation.

Capitol Peak has a reputation as being Colorado's most difficult 14ers (peak higher than 14,000ft), and one of its deadliest, thanks to its notorious Knife Edge Ridge.

Though this 17-mile roundtrip route is the only non-technical route to the summit, it still involves nerve-jangling scrambling across a narrow, exposed ridge where one wrong move could prove deadly – and indeed has done so for at least 10 climbers since 2000, including a Denver woman who fell 900ft after the handhold she was using broke away in 2022.

Last week, two hikers were struck by lightning near the summit of another Colorado 14er while on the phone to mountain rescue.

14er safety

Though details are sparse regarding what led these two hikers to be at high altitude so late in the day, the case serves as a good reminder to hike and climb responsibly with 14er season arriving.

• Always plans to start early (before sunrise) and aim to be off the summit before noon to avoid dangerous afternoon thunderstorms.
• Research your route and carry a map and compass in addition to GPS (and know how to use those tools) to avoid navigational errors.
• Pack extra warm and weatherproof clothes, an emergency shelter and food and drink in case you have to spend the night at high altitude.
• Consider investing in a satellite device such as a Garmin InReach as phone service is often unavailable in remote areas.
• Make yourself searchable by wearing bright colors.

Learn more in our article on how to stay alive when you're hiking 14ers.

• Stay warm with the best down jackets
• Fend off the elements with the best waterproof jackets and rain pants
• Be ready for the unexpected with the best emergency blankets, bags and shelters

Officials have released the names of three hikers who died after jumping into a remote California waterfall.

Place County Sheriff's Office identified the men as Matthew Anthony, 44, of New York City, and Matthew Schoenecker, 50, and Valentino Creus, 59, both of Los Angeles. They were hiking with three other men in the Soda Springs area on June 18 when they jumped into the water at Rattlesnake Falls and failed to resurface.

Search and rescue crews launched an immediate response in the area, which they described as "remote" and "difficult to reach," but their efforts were hampered by strong currents, poor water visibility, and high winds. The bodies were recovered on June 22.

Juan Heredia, a diver who says he was hired by a "family friend" to help recover the bodies, posted a video on Facebook showing the ferocity of the waterfall as he entered the water for the search. He describes the waterfall as "brutal" and "freezing cold".

"It kept pushing me down but I wasn’t leaving without bringing those three souls home to their families," he writes.

Heredia tells the LA Times that Creus was allegedly the first to jump into the water. Schoenecker, a former high school diving champion who knew the waterfall well, and Anthony followed to try to help him when they realized he was in trouble.

“He started panicking and then the two Matts jumped in to save him, but they couldn’t and they drowned.”

Noël Blaszczyk commented on Heredia's post and identified herself as Schoenecker's sister and wrote that she is "unbelievably grief struck".

"You left an indelible mark in this world," she wrote in a social media post about her brother.

With rising temperatures contributing to higher water levels, this isn't the only recent case of a hiker drowning in a waterfall. In Washington's Olympic National Park, search and rescue crews have been unable to recover the body of 18-year-old Grant Herridge who was swept away and drowned while attempting to cross the river above popular Sol Duc Falls on June 8.

Waterfall safety

Before entering the water on a hike, it's important to scope out a safe entry spot and enter the water slowly to avoid being injured by hidden obstacles or swept away by strong currents. It's generally advised to stay out of waterfall areas and on the trail. You can learn more in our articles on open water safety and waterfall hiking safety.

• The best hiking boots: hit the trail
• The best trekking poles: take the pressure off when you're out on the trails

The family of a missing Brazilian hiker who fell off a cliff while hiking on an active volcano in Indonesia says she has been found dead.

Juliana Marins, 26, was hiking on Mount Rinjani when she fell at around 6:30am on June 20. The head of Mataram Search and Rescue, Muhammad Hariyadi, tells Reuters Marins slipped off the trail and fell up to 9,84ft (300m) down a cliff on the side of the mountain, but not into the crater as some outlets previously reported.

Hariyadi says drone footage reveals that Marins was initially seen moving, but her location made it difficult to reach her using either ropes or by helicopter. An Instagram post by a local trekking company says she was heard crying for help on the day of the fall. She appears to have been slipping further down the crumbly slope, and by the time rescuers reached her initial location on Sunday morning, Marins was no longer there.

Monday's efforts were aborted due to weather conditions, including thick fog, which Marins and a friend had joked about obscuring the views in an Instagram video shared by her family.

Earlier on Tuesday, her family posted on an Instagram account set up to share information about the case that helicopters and "well-experienced mountaineers" had been dispatched to the scene, but a more recent update says she has been discovered deceased.

"Today, the rescue team managed to reach the place where Juliana Marins was. With great sadness, we inform you that she did not survive. We remain very grateful for all the prayers," writes the family.

In an interview with Brazilian TV station Fantastico, Marin's sister Marianna says she heard from other hikers in the group that Juliana stopped for a break, but the hiking guide continued on. When the guide returned to check on her, he allegedly discovered she had fallen.

An unidentified friend said in an appeal to authorities that Marin's family learned about Juliana's disappearance through social media, saying that since then, they have received only "conflicting, delayed, and often false information" about the accident and rescue efforts. They also asked people to report fraudulent fundraisers claiming to be raising money for the family.

According to the friend, Marins was "living her dream backpacking through Southeast Asia."

Mt Rinjani is a 12,224 ft (3,726m) active volcano on the island of Lombok next to Bali that is popular with trekkers. In May this year, a Malaysian hiker died after falling from a cliff on the same volcano.

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The National Park Service has issued an update on the teenage hiker who was swept to his death after falling into a popular waterfall in Olympic National Park, revealing that they have been unable to recover his body due to significantly high water levels.

Grant Herridge, 18, was seen slipping and falling more than 50ft after attempting to cross the upper river at Sol Duc Falls on Sunday, June 8. A multi-agency response was launched immediately, and the park closed the area to conduct searches.

On June 9, a ranger located a submerged body, presumed to be that of Herridge, pinned between the first and second falls. Despite lowering "multiple responders" into the narrow canyon, attempts to recover the body have been unsuccessful due to "high river flows " caused by recent warm temperatures and rapid snowmelt.

"The park’s priority is to safely complete this recovery as soon as conditions allow. Rangers will continue to monitor the target area, natural hazards, and changing conditions. Recovery operations will resume when it is safe to do so," reports the NPS.

Crews say the area where the body is located is at "a constriction point beneath the main falls" where the speed and force of the water increases. They are also contending with vertical rock walls covered in slick algae and moss.

A woman named Jill Dorman posted in the Friends of Olympic National Park Facebook page, identifying Herridge as her cousin and revealing he had planned to attend Baylor University in the fall.

"The son of a Pastor, he was out in the world for the first time in his life and paid with his life for a tragic mistake," writes Dorman.

Sol Duc Falls is one of the most popular attractions at Olympic National Park, splitting into as many as four channels as it cascades nearly 50ft into a narrow canyon that is less than 8ft (2.4m) wide.

In 2016, a Washington man miraculously survived after walking out onto the rocks at Sol Duc Falls, slipping and being swept away.

When hiking around waterfalls, it's important to wear proper footwear such as hiking boots or shoes with good traction, as the trails themselves can be slick. Always stay on the trail, out of the water, and observe any safety signs. You can learn more in our article on waterfall safety.

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Hikers exploring the Grand Canyon are being warned to come prepared for extreme heat after a surge in search and rescue helicopter call outs.

Emergency teams were mobilized for life-saving missions some 13 times in one week in May, according to a report in Outside.

The culprit? Hiking detours due to the construction work on the Transcanyon water pipeline.

The works have led to the closure of key routes into and out of the canyon, rerouting hikers onto the Tonto Trail. This trail is both lengthier and more technically challenging than the River Trail, the usual link between the Bright Angel Trail and the North and South Kaibab trails. The detour adds around 4.5 miles (7.25km) to hikers' journeys.

The lack of shade on the trail and recent high temperatures, coupled with the more challenging nature of what hikers are undertaking are thought to be the causes of the uptick in rescues.

Speaking to Outside, Megan Smith, the park's preventive search and rescue supervisor, said that most of the recent helicopter rescues involved hikers who had underestimated the additional challenge of the detour before subsequently suffering from exhaustion, heat illness and dehydration.

Risky rescues

Not only are the detours more challenging for hikers, performing rescues along them is also more difficult for SAR teams, as casualties can be much harder to reach, especially after nightfall. During incidents on May 29, 30 and 31, SAR personnel were required to perform a dangerous manoeuvre called a "hover exit" in order to reach stricken hikers who were beyond terrain where the chopper could land safely. This technique involves leaping from the helicopter as it hovers above the ground.

This was then followed by SAR teams 'short-hauling' the casualty to safety, wherein they're loaded onto a metal litter affixed to the helicopter by a rope. The pilot would then fly the casualty, dangling beneath the helicopter, to a safe place.

"“The risk in all three of these rescues was incredibly high,” Smith told Outside. “One little thing goes wrong and everybody on scene is going to die.” She went on to advise hikers to allow extra time for their chosen route, carry plenty of water and pack quality headlamps with spare batteries.

Be prepared and avoid the heat

Authorities at the Grand Canyon National Park posted an alert on June 3 stating: “Hikers should be prepared with adequate water, sun protection, and a realistic assessment of their physical abilities. Attempting these routes (the detours) during the heat of the day (10am to 4pm) is strongly discouraged.”

They went on to say: "These detour routes are not recommended in the extreme heat of the summer.”

Current trail closures can be seen on the Grand Canyon National Park website.

Read up on our advice on hiking in summer for more tips and get geared up for a hot summer of trail adventures.

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The cause of death has been revealed for one of two hikers who were found dead on Mount Katahdin.

The bodies of Tim Keiderling, 58, and his daughter Esther, 28, both of New York, were discovered on June 3 after they failed to return from a day hike. The pair had set off on June 1 from Abol Campground to attempt to reach the summit of Maine's highest peak and were last seen at approximately 10:15am that morning.

A large-scale search and rescue effort was launched after their car was discovered in a day-use parking lot for Mount Katahdin. The mountain forecast at the time called for temperatures around freezing, rain, sleet, and winds up to 40 miles per hour, according to the National Weather Service.

Rescue crews found Tim's body near the summit on June 3 and the following day, teams discovered Esther's body in a steep, snow-covered boulder area between the Cathedral and Saddle Trails off the Tablelands, approximately 1000ft feet from where her father was found.

Now, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner says she died from blunt force injuries after it appears she attempted to traverse the boulder area and slid downhill before colliding with large boulders.

The cause of death of her father is still under investigation.

A Facebook post from Rifton, which specializes in adaptive equipment, says Tim had worked as a sales and customer service representative for the New York-based company since 2020, and Esther joined him in 2023, helping to provide hundreds of in-service and product trainings to customers all over the United States.

"Anyone who attended one of these sessions can’t help but remember Tim’s lively presence and the joy and fulfillment both he and Esther found in helping all of you serve the children and adults in your care."

Mount Katahdin is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and stands at 5,270ft above sea level. The final 15 miles of the famous trail lie within Baxter State Park.

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Hikers in Sicily have been warned to stay away from Mount Etna after a sizable eruption sent tourists fleeing from the 11,165ft peak.

Videos posted to social media show people running from a large grey cloud, which quickly emerged from the active volcano at around 11.30am on Monday, June 2.

The volcanic activity also prompted a pyroclastic lava flow from the mountain, although officials insist there is no immediate danger to Sicily's population.

Salvo Cocina, of Sicily's Civil Protection Department, recommended that hikers and tourists avoid the area “in consideration of the potential evolution of the phenomenon".

Hundreds of hikers and several tourist buses were on the mountain during the eruption, despite an official safety warning issued earlier that morning.

You can watch what happened next below.

Dangerous as it may seem, Volcano hiking is a common pastime for thrill-seekers across the globe. Many active volcanoes that are also popular spots for hiking, and tempt thousands of people every year to trek near their bubbling, smoky peaks.

Volcano hiking safety

Volcano hiking incidents have made for some unfortunate headlines over the years. But with the right gear and plenty of preparation, it is possible to enjoy a safe and sensible trek on an active volcano.

Check out these tips if you're planning to hike a popular volcano route.

• Check for eruption alerts. Make sure you're up to date with recent and upcoming volcanic activity by checking in with local authorities and volcano monitoring websites.
• Choose your route carefully. Alongside lava and ash, volcanoes are susceptible to rockfalls and often feature uneven underfoot terrain, so make sure to pick a safe route with minimal hazards.
• Hire a guide. You can often take on volcano hikes accompanied by a guide. These mountain experts have a thorough knowledge of their peak and can offer up-to-date safety guidance.

• Wear the right clothing. The temperature atop volcanoes can vary depending on your location, so take plenty of layers and wrap up warm near the summit. A sturdy pair of hiking boots is also essential. The right boots will feature sizable, grippy lugs with plenty of traction.
• Be aware of safety risks. Different volcanoes present different risks. Some volcanic peaks feature sharp drops that need to be navigated carefully, while others may require you to wear a helmet and safety goggles.
• Protect yourself from ash. In the event of an eruption, cover your face with a cloth or item of clothing to avoid inhaling volcanic ash, which poses significant health risks.

For more on volcano hiking, check out our eight favorite routes.

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Authorities in Scotland have found a body in the search for a Swiss hiker, who had been missing in the Highlands for six days after taking on one of Britain's toughest hikes.

Bernard Trottet, 65, was last seen on May 27 at a bothy near the village of Glenfinnan, after embarking on the challenging Cape Wrath Trail.

He was due to check in to a nearby campsite in Morvich, but failed to show, prompting a multi-day search from the air and on the ground by local mountain rescue services.

After several days of searching, Police uncovered a man's body in the water at the Kinloch Hourn on Monday, June 2.

Although they're yet to confirm its identity, authorities have alerted Trottet's family to the discovery.

The Cape Wrath Trail is considered to be one of Britain's toughest walks. The 230-mile (320km) backpacking route leads trekkers over plenty of rugged terrain from the town of Fort William to Cape Wrath, the northernmost point of mainland Scotland.

It typically takes two to three weeks to complete and requires participants to wild camp and navigate their own way through through coastline, forests, and mountainous areas.

The Cape Wrath Trail website warns that participants should have prior hiking experience and prepare well in advance before taking on the route.

"Walkers attempting the trail should have a high degree of navigational skill, and always carry a map and compass," it says.

"There are also several unbridged river crossings which can become dangerous or even impossible in spate conditions."

For more hiking safety advice, check out our expert guide.

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The body of a British hiker who went missing in the Italian Dolomites has been found, six months after his disappearance.

The remains of Aziz Ziriat, 36, were discovered in a snow-covered rocky crevice on Saturday, May 31, roughly 1,300ft (400m) beneath the spot where the body of his hiking partner was found in January.

Ziriat and 36-year-old Samuel Harris disappeared on New Year's Day while camping in harrowing winter conditions.

They had embarked on a hut-to-hut journey through the snowy Dolomite mountains and planned to camp off-trail. Conditions at the time were unforgiving, with temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C) and thick snow blanketing most of the area.

The pair, both from London, were last heard from on January 1 and caused alarm when they failed to check in for their return flight to the UK on January 6.

Their disappearance prompted a widespread search, which resulted in the discovery of Harris's body, buried under snow at the foot of a rock face on the Caré Alto mountain on January 8.

Ziriat was found in the Passo di Conca area by a specialist search team from Trentino Alpine and Speleological Rescue.

According to BBC reports, a spokesperson for the team said that the rescuers "lowered themselves down the wall below the base of the slope, where the dog finally signalled the missing man's body in a rocky crevice, where it had been covered by snow."

In a social media post, the Palace for Life charity, where Ziriat worked, described him as "a kind, compassionate and generous individual who brought positivity and warmth to everyone he has worked with".

Northern Italy's vast Dolomite mountain range covers 6,155 square miles (15,942km²) of unforgiving terrain. The area is well known for its challenging mountain trails and jagged peaks.

The Dolomites are especially dangerous in the winter months, due to sub-zero temperatures, frequent snowfall, icy rock walls, and large glacial landforms.

If you’re considering a winter trip to the Dolomites, make sure to prepare well ahead of time and check out our expert safety guide to winter hiking.

• The best ice axes: for tackling frozen terrain
• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

Authorities in New York's Adirondack Mountains were left bewildered recently after two hikers reported the death of a surviving companion while high on magic mushrooms.

The pair called 911 after ingesting the hallucinogenic mushrooms to report that their fellow hiker had died while trekking on the 14,409ft (4,392m) Cascade Mountain. But it turned out the third person was absolutely fine.

The third hiker also contacted authorities and "was not injured," according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

After making the calls, all three were met by a 'summit steward', who oversees conservation efforts atop the mountain, and a forest ranger, who found them in "an altered mental state".

The forest ranger escorted the hallucinating hikers down the mountain to a waiting ambulance and New York Police unit, and took their companion back to their campsite.

The incident occurred on May 24.

Magic mushrooms and other hallucinogenic plants can be found in mountainous areas due to the varied terrain and diverse habitats of high-altitude environments.

Although they can be common, hallucinogens present several dangers if taken on the trails. In 2022, a 25-year-old trekker drowned near Washington's Wallace Falls after allegedly eating mushrooms, while many more have suffered injuries while under the influence of drugs. Some varieties of mushrooms can also be deadly if ingested.

Psilocybin and psilocin (magic mushrooms) are illegal for recreational use in New York and most other US states. They're legal for therapeutic use in Oregon and for personal use in Colorado.

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A popular hiking influencer has been found dead a few hundred yards away from a well-worn Arizona trail.

The body of 31-year-old Hannah Moody was discovered at the 30,000-acre McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 25 hours after she went missing during a warm-weather hike.

Hannah began hiking in the area at around 11.30am on May 21, sharing a video on her Instagram stories captioned "Conquering this trail as a last hurrah before summer hits".

Friends raised the alarm that evening when they failed to hear from her as expected.

Authorities headed to the reserve where they launched an unsuccessful aerial search using helicopters and drones. They returned the next morning and discovered her body around midday, roughly 1,800ft (549m) from a popular, but unspecified, trail.

Scottsdale Police have confirmed that they will open an investigation into Moody's death but suggested that they don't suspect any foul play or trauma.

Without official confirmation, friends told local news channel KPNX that they believe she died from heat exhaustion. Temperatures in the area reached 106°F (41.1°C) on the day of Moody's disappearance.

Moody had amassed around 45,000 followers on Instagram, where she shared hiking content and vlogged her treks. Her videos encouraged others to get outdoors and often included hot-weather hiking safety tips.

Warm weather hiking

Hiking in extreme temperatures can be dangerous, especially in desert areas that lack shade and protection from the heat.

Although the hottest months are between June and August, shoulder seasons like May and September can also be deadly, as hikers often underestimate temperatures. Earlier this month, one trail runner died, and four others needed rescuing following a heat-related incident in Arizona.

If you're considering a hot weather hike, make sure to check the weather conditions ahead of time, dress accordingly, and stock plenty of water and salty snacks.

For more hot-weather hiking advice, check out our expert summer hiking safety guide.

• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear
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Hikers face are facing strict new regulations in Italy's Cinque Terre National Park - including massive €2,500 (equivalent to $2,800) fines for wearing the wrong shoes.

The measures, which copver a stunning stretch of coastline on the Ligurian Sea, include penalties for inappropriate footwear, a one-way system and the need to purchase tickets for one of the most popular sections. The changes are designed to manage the ever-increasing number of tourists on the trails while simultaneously ensuring visitor safety.

It's a move that resembles some of the tougher regulations recently introduced in Tenerife's Teide National Park, on Madeira's more popular trails, Peru's spectacular Machu Picchu trek and Mt Fuji in Japan. Local authorities around the world continue to attempt to balance the demand to safeguard these beautiful places while allowing people to access them safely.

Fines, one way systems and tickets

While a quality pair of hiking shoes may set you back a little, it's nothing in comparison to the maximum fine of €2,500 (equivalent to $2,800) that you could be lumbered with if you're caught wearing unsuitable footwear on the Cinque Terre, according to a report by Travel and Tour World. This is the most extreme case, with the fines that can be handed out ranging upwards from €50 ($55).

In fact, open-toed shoes, flip-flops and smooth soled shoes have been banned from the trails here since 2019. The national park website states that 'on the trails it is compulsory to wear closed, waterproof and ankle covering shoes, with an anti-slip sole.'

As well as fines for the wrong footwear, a one-way system have also been introduced on the trail between Monterosso and Vernazza in order to manage numbers. During the peak season, this popular trail is only open between 9am and 2pm. According to a report by Travel and Tour World, about 70% of the visitors to the national park choose to walk this section.

Another popular stretch of the Cinque Terre is the Via dell'Amore (Path of Love), a short paved section between Riomaggiore and Manarola. As it's name suggests, it's the go-to for couples visiting the region. However, it only recently reopened in February 2025 after a 2012 landslide forced the national park to undertake extensive renovations to make it safe again.

Such is the demand for this 1-kilometer path that a ticketing system has been introduced, limiting the number of walkers to 400 per hour. Those wanting to stroll along the Via dell'Amore will have to pay €12.50 (approx $14) for the privilege and should book in advance to avoid disappointment.

What is the Cinque Terre?

The Cinque Terre coast is a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site that's renowned for its spectacular scenery and the charming fishing settlements that cling to its cliffs. Historically, the five villages of Riomaggiore, Manorola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Montorosso could only be travelled between via the coastal trails, though today they're linked by the railway.

Nevertheless, it's a beautiful hiking destination, with more than 75 miles (120km) of ancient footpaths to explore and 48 named trails, with everything from romantic ambles to strenuous hill walks.

The revolutionary outdoors inventor of FiveFingers barefoot shoes has died after suffering a fatal fall while climbing in Italy.

48-year-old Robert Fliri was descending the Oberettespitze mountain in the Tyrolean Alps of Northern Italy when he lost his footing and fell almost 1,000ft / 305m as horrified friends watched on.

His two companions quickly raised the alarm, and local authorities launched an immediate rescue effort. They soon located Fliri with the help of a helicopter but found him dead at the scene.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 5.

Fliri was a beloved figure in the outdoor community due to his invention of the FiveFingers barefoot shoes.

These hiking, climbing, and trail running shoes mimic the close feeling of being barefoot with thin outsoles that follow the shape of your feet and individual sections for each toe.

The shoes launched in 2006 to immediate success and are now produced by outsole experts Vibram.

As an experienced mountaineer and trail runner, Fliri took inspiration from the freedom of being barefoot in the wilderness.

Prior to launching the FiveFingers shoes, he told Birthdayshoes.com: "We have five toes: when they can move and grasp the ground independently, and when you can really sense the surface under your feet, your body is able to do what it is designed for by nature. This is a powerful feeling."

"It is very joyful to move around on the five-fingers [sic]; you will become really happy to move. Your movements will be more flexible, more supple."

The Vibram FiveFingers shoes are now produced in a range of styles to suit different outdoor pursuits and terrain.

The V-Alpha and V-Trail shoes are suited to runners and hikers looking for a close, barefoot feel as they speed through the wilderness. Waterproof, insulating models like the V-Lynx are better suited to chilly autumn and winter treks. FiveFingers water-shoes are also available.

Shoes from the FiveFingers range are available from $130 on the Vibram website.

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Mountain rescue teams are pleading with hikers to check the weather forecast after a 50-man mission thankfully saved the lives of three young trekkers.

“The mountains don’t care about your plans. Weather can turn on you in minutes, and when it does, it can be the difference between life and death,” reads a Facebook post from the Skamania County Sheriff's Office search and rescue team.

“Before heading out, always check the forecast, bring essential survival gear, and never underestimate nature.”

The three men became stranded atop Table Mountain in Skamania County, Washington, when the weather took a violent turn for the worse, and a ferocious storm washed away several trails.

The trio was trapped at more than 3,000ft / 914m and exposed to unrelenting rain and winds of up to 60mph.

Two mountain rescue teams set out to save them, but both groups were forced to turn around when they encountered unpassable terrain.

A third team was deployed and eventually reached the hikers after three-and-a-half hours of climbing in slippery conditions. The stranded hikers had signs of hypothermia but could not be brought down as the weather continued to worsen, leaving the third rescue team stranded along with the hikers.

Two helicopters were also sent out, but had to turn back due to the dangerous weather conditions.

More than 50 rescuers from nine separate rescue teams trekked up the mountain in the middle of the night with medical supplies, dry clothes, food, and water. They were successfully able to bring all three hikers and the safety team down to safety, where one of the hikers was airlifted to hospital. All three survived the ordeal.

Serge Newberry, Skamania County Sheriff's Office search and rescue team leader, described the rescue as a miracle.

"Nothing short of three miracles, a series of miracles, frankly," he told KGW8.

He continued: "To see those young hikers reunited with their family members and that they were still alive. I mean, that's why we do this, right? It's very emotional. It's a beautiful thing."

How to be prepare for a hike

The weather can turn quickly in the backcountry. Rain can come without warning, and temperatures can drop sharply at altitude. It's always important to check the forecast, regardless of how the weather looks when you leave.

To prepare for unforeseen conditions, we recommend taking a long-sleeve base layer, mid layer, outer-layer, and waterproof layer. All in addition to a good pair of hiking boots and hiking pants.

Remote areas often have poor phone signal, so consider taking a communication device that doesn't rely on one, such as the Garmin Inreach Messenger.

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An American and a Canadian hiker have been attacked while walking in the Jacumba Mountains Wilderness, California, near the southern border with Mexico. The US citizen was shot and wounded in the leg and both men were robbed of their cell phones and backpacks.

They were part of a group of hiking on a scenic trail when they were approached by two armed individuals who summoned them. When they refused to move, the assailants fired a volley of shots toward them, hitting one man in the leg.

According to a release from US Customs and Border Protection, the assailants advanced on the downed hiker and his Canadian companion, taking their cell phones and backpacks.

US Border Patrol agents were dispatched to the area and the victim was transferred to Reach Air Ambulance and flown to Sharp Medical Center in San Diego for treatment.

The incident has been blamed on Mexican cartel members by local law enforcement, although no one has been caught or charged.

The Jacumba Mountains Wilderness is an area of more than 31,000 hectares of granite rock terrain east of the Jacumba Valley in San Diego County, California. It is home to mule deer, rare peninsular bighorn sheep, golden eagles and kangaroo rats and it is a popular destination for rock climbing, hiking and camping.

The landscape, made up entirely of huge rock formations, comprises the remote desert mountains bisected by the US-Mexico border. It is a functioning ecosystem to endangered wildlife and also part of the native Kumeyaay people’s ancestral land.

Construction of the physical border has heavily impacted the fragile environment, destroying rare plants and obstructing the water flow and the natural paths of wildlife.

Planning a desert hike? Safety advice & recommended gear:

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A mountain team that rescued two hikers lost in the UK’s wintry Lake District fells have urged people to be more responsible.

Langdale Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team was called out earlier this week to assist the hikers who were reportedly unable to make their way off a mountain pass in the Lake District.

The conditions were described as “severely wintry” with “extreme cold” and strong winds.

Rescuers told the hikers to remain where they were, in a relatively sheltered position, while a party of six went to assist them.

The walkers were given more clothing layers, heats pads and hot drinks before being walked down to safety.

Esk Hause is a mountain pass where the paths from a number of popular fells, Eskdale, Borrowdale, Langdale and Wasdale, all meet.

Following the incident, the mountain rescue team took to social media to issue an appeal to hikers to take more safety precaution.

They said: “If you are venturing out to enjoy the fells, please check a variety of local and mountain forecasts so you are fully aware of the conditions out there.

“Please also ensure that you have appropriate kit, even if you don't think you will need it. If you require the services of mountain rescue in a remote location, it could be a couple of hours before we are able to get to you.

“Carrying, and knowing how to use a map and compass is also essential.”

The LAMRT appeal is the latest from rescuers this winter.

Tips for winter hiking safety

Winter hiking can be a magical experience, but you need to make sure you are properly prepared and have the right kit to stay safe and warm in the hills and mountains.

The first tip is to check the weather forecast. There are mountain-specific forecasts operating in many countries, such as MWIS in the UK. You should also check local weather forecasts if available, such as mountain summit reports via the Met Office and The Fell Top Assessors.

Make sure you are avalanche aware, too, and you have checked avalanche forecasts.

Update your hiking kit for winter by adding more insulated layers, gloves and warm headwear. Make sure you have full waterproof cover, including a waterproof hiking jacket and waterproof pants, as well as winter hiking boots.

It’s vital that you pack an emergency shelter of some kind, such as a bivvy bag.

If conditions are forecast to be icy or snowy, you should take appropriate kit, including micro-spikes, or crampons and an ice axe. It’s important that you know how to make effective use of crampons and ice axes if you need to, for example, arrest a slip or fall.

While many people use a variety of mapping apps on their smart phones, winter hikers should also have – and know how to use – a map and compass with them and be prepared to use this form of navigation as back up.

If the worst happens and you need to call rescuers, you will require some form of messaging device. Your phone might suffice but if you have no network, a personal locator beacon (PLB) makes good sense.

Also remember to tell someone where you plan to hike and your approximate time of finish.

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An elderly hiker who got lost in Hong Kong's backcountry has been found safe and well, two days after he disappeared.

90-year-old Ng Sek-wu, from the Wong Tai Sin area, set out on a popular backcountry trail with his local hiking club on Sunday, December 8.

However, he became separated from the group and found himself lost on a remote hill in the Hong Kong backcountry. At 10pm he called his wife to update her, reassuring her that he’d return home the next day, right before his phone died.

Despite his assurances, Sek-wu was nowhere to be found the following day, prompting his concerned wife to contact local authorities, who quickly organized an intensive search.

Multiple rescuers from various organizations began the hunt for the pensioner, which included the use of a helicopter.

After hours of searching, Sek-wu was thankfully found at roughly 3pm on Tuesday, December 10, wandering around the remote Kau Tam Cho village.

Despite the exhaustive efforts of various rescue organizations, the lost hiker was discovered by a local villager, who’d spotted the old man struggling to use a walking stick.

Although he was unharmed, Sek-wu was quickly escorted to the nearest hospital for a full and proper recovery.

Hiking safety

Traversing the backcountry can be a dangerous hobby without the right equipment. Despite trekking with his hiking club, Ng Sek-wu was reliant on his phone, which soon ran out of charge, for navigation.

Although mobile phones can sometimes suffice, especially if you have an iPhone with Apple’s SOS function, satellite communicators like the Garmin InReach Messenger Plus are the safest option for backcountry emergencies. Unreliant on phone signals, these long-lasting GPS devices can be used to call for help in all manner of remote backcountry locations.

In the past decade, Garmin InReach devices have been used to source emergency assistance on over 10,000 occasions, saving several lives in the process.

In September, a Canadian hiker who’d been mauled by a bear was rescued after sending an SOS signal with his InReach device.

For more on hiking safety, check out our expert guide to all the essential kit.

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A popular European hiking trail is the focus of an increasingly worrying mystery after three people disappeared in a five-week period.

Most recently, it was reported that an Australian man is missing almost seven weeks after he set out to hike a 10-mile route in the Albanian Alps.

In the weeks before, two other hikers, one from Lithuania and another from Belgium, were also said to have vanished in the same area.

Several theories have been put forward for the triple disappearance. Most have focused on the Cameron Twiss, from Adelaide, who was last seen hiking solo on the trail between Valbona and Theth in mid-October.

Concerns first arose that the 28-year-old may have become disorientated and lost after reaching a complicated crossroad in the main path.

Rescuers who took part in a three-week search told Australian media they had come across a cliff near the trail, although they could see no sign of a hiker. Many tourism organizations recommend a guide for hiking in the Alps for safety, as well as enjoyment.

In another twist, foul play, and even a kidnapping, were considered a possibility for the disappearance. A friend had apparently received a text message from Twiss that said he was “making vodka with a random Albanian”.

Now it’s thought he may have been attacked by a brown bear. While such incidents are rare in Albania because the numbers of the predators are small, some bears are thought to have been in the vicinity of the track.

All three hikers, who vanished between September 6 and October 13, are still unaccounted for and reports reveal the belongings and passport of Twiss were found in the hostel where he was staying in the town of Shkoder.

Though it's unknown what's behind the disappearances, any time you are hiking in bear country, it's a good idea to carry bear spray, where it's permitted, and know how to use it.

No matter where in the world you are hiking, always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back, so they can quickly raise the alarm if you don't return.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trail
• The best emergency blankets, bags and shelters: lightweight lifesaving gear
• The best first aid kits: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

Visitors heading to Yosemite National Park will need to take extra precautions over the next few days after officials forecast extreme weather from an incoming winter storm. The park and surrounding area could see up to 18 inches of snow over the weekend alongside strong winds of up to 50mph and heavy rain.

The National Parks Service advises against hiking in Yosemite during winter storms due to unpredictable, dangerous conditions. Weather can quickly change in the Yosemite valley, leaving even the most experienced trekkers unprepared and vulnerable.

Winter hiking advice

Unpredictable and fearsome, harsh winter storms can often come out of the blue, so it’s imperative to take extra precautions when heading into the wilderness during the winter season.

Dress for the season

If you’re thinking of hiking in the coldest months you’ll want to be wearing the right clothes. Make sure to be ready with a warm winter jacket like the Columbia Si Down parka. Rated as our best jacket for insulation, the Si Down parka boasts 650-fill duck-down insulation to keep you toasty.

Its waterproof outer is an essential component of any good winder jacket. You can’t stay warm without keeping dry, so make sure you’re clothing is well-equipped to ward off heavy rain.

Layering is highly recommended. Wearing a base layer and mid layer will not only keep you warm but give you something to wear should conditions improve and you need to cool down.

Choose the right footwear

Wearing the right footwear is a non-negotiable for any hike, let alone in treacherous winter conditions. Terrain often becomes unpredictable in the colder months, with heavy rain and even snowfall affecting the trails.

If you're heading out in extreme conditions, you’ll need a pair with ample traction and enough protection to keep your feet warm and dry when conditions take a turn for the worse. Ranked number one in our expert guide, the Scarpa Manta Techs fulfill all these criteria. Their thick, durable lugs dig into uneven surfaces for stability while gor-tex insulated comfort membrane linings keep your feet toasty, and thick waterproof outers battle off the elements.

If you’re likely to encounter thick snow and ice, consider a crampon-compatible pair like the Scarpa Mescalito TRK Pros. Similarly sturdy winter boots, the Mescalito TRK Pros can be fitted with metal crampons for improved traction on snowy and icy trails.

Bring supplies

When planning a winter hike, prepare for the worst with enough food to sustain you in the short term. Light, portable snacks like trail mix and hard pretzels contain enough calories to keep you sustained without taking up too much space.

Basic medical supplies like bandages and antiseptic ointments can also be extremely useful. Slippery trails and strong winds can easily cause injury, so make sure you’re stocked with the basics.

Call for help

Should your situation become perilous, the first thing to do is call for help. The best way to do this is with a satellite communicator. Not reliant on cell signal, satellite communicators like the Garmin InReach can send SOS signals from remote backcountry locations regardless of the weather.

Garmin’s InReach SOS service alone has responded to over 10,000 calls for help in the past decade. Just two months ago, it saved the life of a Canadian man who’d been mauled by a bear.

Seek shelter

If you do end up needing rescue, the best way to stay warm is to seek shelter. Locate a protected area, ideally away from wind and below the tree cover to wait out the storm. Make-shift shelters can be built from nearby branches.

For more information on how to have a safe winter hike, check out our top ten safety tips for winter hiking.

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A man who set off on a two week mission to raise money for charity by hiking the famous 268 mile Pennine Way had to be rescued just hours later after injuring himself.

The hiker, who hasn't been named, had made it a mile past the high point of Windy Gyle from his start point at Kirk Yetholm in Derbyshire's Peak District when the accident happened - a trek that takes about 11 hours.

The man, who had rolled his ankle on uneven ground while carrying a heavy backpack and heard an "audible crack", knew straight away that he needed immediate emergency assistance. Two vehicles from the Borders Mountain Rescue Unit were soon dispatched and helped the man to safety.

Stretching between the Scottish border town of Kirk Yetholm and Edale in Derbyshire, the Pennine Way is a hotspot for hikers and trail runners alike, with more than 150,000 people tackling the trail each year. Usually taking two to three weeks to complete, the trail guides trekkers through stunning valleys in the Yorkshire Dales and Derbyshire Peak District across to the North Pennines and ancient Hadrian’s Wall.

Considered to be one of the toughest routes in Britain, the Pennine Way includes some tricky terrain, uneven paths and boggy wetland. The trail is especially awkward in the darker winter months, with poor visibility and unreliable ground increasing the likelihood of accidents.

The rescued man’s injury “can happen to anyone,” Borders Search and Rescue volunteer Damon Rodwell told the BBC, after the man was rescued last weekend.

“As soon as he knew he was in trouble, he did exactly the right thing,” he continued.

“He called 999, asked for police, mountain rescue, erected his tent and made himself as comfortable as possible.”

Winter hiking advice

If you’re thinking of heading out for a chilly winter hike, there are a number of things to consider first.

What to wear

Ensure you’re prepared by wearing warm winter clothing and appropriate footwear. Layer up with lightweight, insulating clothes that can be easily removed when you work up a sweat.

Winter hiking boots are different to their warm-weather counterparts, often featuring enlarged lugs to maximise traction and thick waterproof materials to keep your feet dry. If you’re taking on especially snowy conditions, consider wearing Yaktrax, Microspikes or even crampons for extra traction.

How to prepare

Before hitting the trails, get ready by checking the weather forecast and stocking up on essential supplies. It’s imperative that you're ready for whatever winter conditions you’ll face, so make sure to have enough food and water to carry you through the duration. Emergency equipment is also invaluable - a good flashlight or first aid kit could prove life-saving in the event of an emergency, and won’t take up too much space.

Handling an emergency

Before heading out, make sure you have some way of calling for help should calamity strike. Although this can be done through a mobile phone, other methods are often preferable. Satellite communicators like the Garmin InReach Messenger Plus don’t require any phone signal, allowing you to send an SOS in remote backcountry locations.

In September, a Canadian hiker who’d been mauled by a bear was rescued by emergency services after using his Garmin InReach to call for help. In total, more than 10,000 people have received emergency help through Garmin’s SOS system.

For more advice on winter hiking safety, check out our top 10 winter hiking safety tips.

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The Earth is an incredible and, as far as we know, unique mass of matter that’s home to vast oceans, mighty mountains and the dazzling array of life that has come to characterize it. It hoards these treasures thanks to the gravitational force brought about by its huge mass. It’s this gravity that keeps us firmly rooted to the ground. Gravity can also make a steep, snowy mountain quite an intimidating place to be.

This is, partly, because of avalanches, the often-destructive events that occur when snow begins to tumble down a mountain slope. Even if you’re not an ice axe-wielding mountaineer, you’ll undoubtedly have seen footage of white plumes crashing down mighty Himalayan mountains in a display of terrible strength, leaving destruction in their wake. An avalanche is one of those instances when Mother Nature reminds us all of who is in charge.

So, why do avalanches happen? Understanding this is crucial when exploring any wintry mountain landscape, as even a small avalanche on a diminutive peak can have devastating consequences. We asked one of our mountaineering experts to delve into the science.

Why do avalanches happen?

Avalanches occur when the force of gravity acting on a snowpack is greater than the strength of the bonds keeping the snow in place on a slope. This causes a mass of snow to travel downhill from a start zone, finishing where it is deposited, which is called the runout zone. The path the avalanche takes is known as the avalanche track.

Most of the time, the snowpack sits in a state of equilibrium with the mountain, anchored by the bonds between layers of snow and the terrain. However, if this equilibrium is upset and tipped in gravity’s favor, gravity will win, the bonds will break and snow will slide down the slope. This can either happen when the bonds are weakened, or the load bearing down on the bonds increases.

There are broadly two ways that avalanches are triggered: naturally occurring avalanches and human-triggered avalanches.

While gravity remains pretty much constant, there are a great number of factors that can have an impact on the snow bonds. Some are natural, while others are due to human interaction, such as mountaineers stomping their way up towards a prized summit. In fact, Avalanche.org (an excellent source of avalanche safety information, particularly for exploring the American backcountry) state that 90% of avalanche accidents are human-triggered.

Other triggers include cornice collapse, increased snowfall, sudden changes in temperature, rain and meltwater. These, as well as human-triggered avalanches, are all known as external triggers. Internal triggers that can lead to an avalanche include the collapse of a delicate layer within the snowpack and more gradual temperature changes leading to a weakening of the snow bonds.

That's it in a nutshell, but for more detail on the fascinating processes that lead to avalanches, as well as advice on how to avoid becoming an avalanche victim, read on...

Meet the expert

On what terrain do avalanches occur?

• Most avalanches occur on slopes angled between 20 and 50 degrees
• Within that range, the majority occur between 30 and 45 degrees
• The snow bonds are under different amounts of tension at different points on the slope

Typical slab avalanches generally occur on slopes between 20 and 50 degrees, with most between the 30-to-45-degree mark. Snow tends to slough off steeper terrain, where bonds have a more difficult battle against gravity, while the opposite is true on more gently angled gradients, where snow will sit quite happily.

So, it’s between 20 and 50 degrees where the balance between gravity and the bonds holding the snow in place is at its most precarious. 

Another factor is the uniformity, or lack of, of a slope. Picture a perfect ramp, angled at 30 degrees and covered in snow. The bonds within such a snowpack would be under equal tension and relatively stable if in equilibrium. Now imagine a more realistic slope, with varying degrees of steepness in different places. On this kind of terrain, the situation is less stable. For example, on a convex slope, there’ll be greater tension between the bonds at the top and this is where an avalanche would be most likely to start from.

When do most avalanches occur?

• Most avalanches occur during a snowstorm, or in the two days after

Most avalanches occur either during snowstorms or in their wake, typically over the following two days. It makes sense that freshly fallen snow, or snow redeposited by strong winds, doesn’t form strong bonds. Then there’s the additional weight and strain placed onto the snowpack. By contrast, during periods of settled winter weather, the avalanche risk is usually lower.

However, avalanches can, and do, occur at any time there's snow lying on sloped terrain, so you should always have your wits about you, regardless of recent conditions.

Factors affecting the snowpack

• Snow accumulates on mountain slopes over time, leading to different layers
• Different types of snow bond differently to each other
• Some types of snow, such as graupel, don't bond particularly well initially
• This can lead to weaknesses in the snowpack

Loose snow avalanches happen when there’s a rapid accumulation of new snow and the weight of it all becomes too much for the relatively weak, newly formed bonds. Slab avalanches, where a whole layer of the snowpack detaches and slides, occur when the bonds holding it all in place can no longer hold it together.

Not all bonds within a snowpack are created equally. Cut a block from a deep snow slope and you’ll notice distinctive layers that tell the tale of how the snowpack has evolved over the season. It’s a bit like how geologists can tell a lot about the history of the Earth from layers in the rock, only this time you’re looking at formation over weeks and months, rather than millions of years.

It’s easy to think of snow as all being the same but it's simply not the case. Many different types of snow form the snowpack. Not only this, it may also have been through various freeze-thaw cycles, which affects the structure of both the individual snow particles and the integrity of the wider snowpack.

Some snow is fantastic at bonding, whereas some is not. Graupel is a form of snow that falls in soft pellets that look a bit like ball bearings. The bad news is that it doesn’t bond well initially and can lead to a weak layer in the snowpack. Another potential weakness can be a buried layer of surface hoar, which forms in clear, crisp, calm conditions, with high relative humidity. While its feathery appearance is beautiful on the surface, the instabilities it can lead to when buried beneath an additional layer can be deadly.

The terrain beneath the snowpack is also important. Impervious, hard, slabby rock is not an ideal surface for snow to bond to. This weakness can lead to full-depth avalanches, when the slab that detaches from the mountain is the entire depth of the snowpack.

Naturally occurring avalanches

• Significant changes in temperature can cause meltwater to lubricate bonds
• New snowfall and rainfall adds weight to the snowpack, putting bonds under pressure
• When snow becomes heavy with liquid water, wet snow avalanches can be triggered

There are a range of reasons an avalanche might occur naturally. Significant changes in temperature can weaken the snowpack, such as a thaw causing meltwater to lubricate the space between layers, thus weakening the bonds and causing a slab to slide away. 

Large amounts of new snowfall can add significant weight to a snowpack, increasing the strain on the bonds below and causing them to fail. Rainfall can add significant weight to a snowpack, causing what’s known as wet snow avalanches. This often happens during the first hour of significant rainfall.

If the bonds holding a cornice in place fail, a huge mass of snow can come crashing down the mountainside, causing a domino – or should that be snowball? – effect. A cornice is an overhanging mass of snow that accumulates on the leeward (downwind) side of a summit or mountain ridge. They're formed by snow redeposited by the wind and can be grow to be mightily impressive in scale, as well as somewhat intimidating when you're below them. As well they should be – you certainly don't want to be under one when it collapses.

Human triggered avalanches

• Human-triggered avalanches are caused by human interaction with the snowpack
• Large groups are more likely to set off an avalanche due to the increased weight on the snow

When skiers, snowboarders, alpinists or winter walkers move across snow, they obviously have an impact on the snowpack, weakening the bonds below their skis, boards or winter hiking boots. This can unbalance the delicate equilibrium between gravity and the snowpack, leading to human-triggered avalanches. A large party is more likely to set off an avalanche compared to a solo adventurer or a pair of climbing partners due to the increased weight on the snowpack.

As mentioned earlier, human-triggered avalanches account for around 90% of avalanche accidents. That’s not to say that 90% of all avalanches happen because of human interaction, they don’t. Many natural avalanches occur with no one in the immediate vicinity and, therefore, no accidents occur as a consequence.

However, what all this does suggest is that you’re significantly more likely to trigger an avalanche yourself than you are to fall victim to a natural cornice collapse or a spontaneous avalanche. Therefore, your actions when exploring the winter backcountry are hugely significant when it comes to staying safe. Knowing how to avoid avalanches, both human-triggered and natural, is half the battle.

Signs to look out for when walking on snow include the top layer cracking or a large slab breaking away. This is a sure sign of a potential slab avalanche, where a large platform of consolidated snow may break away from the main snowpack. A warning to listen out for is a whoomping sound, which indicates instability.

How to avoid avalanches

• Using an avalanche forecast and experience of what warning signs to look out for are essential when exploring the winter backcountry
• If you have to move across potentially dangerous terrain, there are strategies you can use
• Make yourself searchable with an avalanche beacon and/or a RECCO reflector

Experience of assessing avalanche-prone terrain and making use of appropriate avalanche information are the two essentials when it comes to avoiding danger. Knowing how to read an avalanche forecast and then using the information gleaned to plan a suitably safe route are crucial. Then, once out in the mountains, keeping a close eye on weather and snow conditions allows you to make informed judgements when it comes to travelling across potentially hazardous terrain.

For high-altitude mountaineers in the Greater Ranges, avalanche risk is ever-present. Some of the world’s greatest mountaineers have met their end due to an avalanche. No amount of skill or experience can remove the danger entirely.

If you have no choice but to cross avalanche prone terrain, try to cross towards the top of the slope so that you would be at the top of the slide, rather than in the middle of it. Identify islands of safety, such as rock outcrops, and move between them. If ascending a gully, stay to the sides, close to the rock. If you're in a large group, move one at a time through potentially hazardous terrain. Keep an eye above for cornices and try to avoid traversing below them, or where snow would funnel in the event of a collapse.

If you expect your adventures to take you into avalanche terrain, make yourself searchable and equip yourself with an avalanche beacon (sometimes referred to as transceivers or ‘avy beacons’). Knowing how to use an avalanche beacon may just save your life, allowing rescue services or your companions to locate you quickly. Wearing a backpack or ski jacket with an integrated RECCO Reflector is also a smart move.

Dozens of hikers have been struck down by a severe vomiting bug after camping at a popular waterfall near Grand Canyon National Park over the weekend.

According to a report by the Associated Press, the hikers had been camping on the Havasupai Indian Reservation in Arizona which is known for its incredible turquoise blue Havasu Falls reached via a 10-mile trail.

In the article, a 32-year-old veterinarian named Madelyn Melchiors from Kingman Arizona says she experienced vomiting on Monday and a fever lasting several days. Melchiors says she drank from a spring that is listed as potable and used a water filter when drinking from other sources, however her filter is only designed to remove bacteria and parasites, not viruses.

Melchiors was able to hike out to her car despite the excessive heat in the region, and used a mule to transport her backpack.

 “I slept 16 hours and drank a bunch of electrolytes. I’m still not normal, but I will be OK. I’m grateful for that," she says of the days following her ordeal.

The federal Indian Health Service says it is providing medical attention to anyone who becomes ill. 

“Our priority is the health and well-being of the Havasupai residents and visitors, and we are working closely with local health authorities and other partners to manage this situation effectively,” the service says in a statement.

Meanwhile, environmental health officers have been dispatched to Havasupai to investigate the source of the outbreak.

Norovirus can spread easily at campsites – last September, we reported that a cabin on the Pacific Crest Trail had been identified as the source of an outbreak affecting dozens of hikers.

To avoid gastrointestinal illness on the trail, it's important to wash your hands with soap, boil your water before you use it, practice food safety and make sure you have a water filter that removes viruses, or use water purification tablets. Learn more in our article on avoiding tummy troubles in the backcountry.

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails