Weekly Update

This Week in San Diego Hiking – April 9, 2018

Photo: Cactus Hill

Hello Hikers!

Looks like this week will be starting off warm, with high temps on Monday and Tuesday. Things should start cooling off mid-week.

There’s been lots of reports of rattlesnake activity lately as the weather begins to warm up. While rattlesnakes are present year-round in San Diego, they are much more active during the summer. Rattlesnakes are an important part of the local ecosystem, and while they can be scary, with a little common sense we can all share the trails amicably:

    • Avoid rattlesnakes by staying on the trail and away from tall brush and grass where you can’t see where you’re putting your feet.
    • Be alert and keep your ears open (no earbuds!) for their tell-tale rattling noise. A snake would REALLY prefer to avoid a confrontation so they will warn you if you get too close.
    • If you need to go over a rock or log, step onto the obstacle instead of over it in case there’s a snake hidden underneath.
    • Keep dogs on leash and children under close supervision.
    • If you encounter a snake, just back off and give it some space. Go around it if there’s space or wait for it move away. If it’s blocking the trail and not moving, you can gently encourage it to move along by tossing small rocks towards it (not AT it – you’re trying to scare it away, not hurt it).
    • In the unlikely event that you get bit, call 911 and/or get to a hospital as soon as possible. Snake-bite kits are not recommended (they are ineffective at best, harmful at worst).

If you’ve got some time, I highly recommend watching this informative YouTube video on the subject.

April 21st marks the first day of National Park Week, and there will be free admission to National Parks to celebrate. Head on over to Cabrillo National Monument for a hike or to check out the tidepools!

Here’s the latest outdoor and fitness deals from Amazon:

Have a good week!

Photo: Sycuan Peak