Temperature management is one of the most critical safety considerations for outdoor hiking. Hikers face risks from both extreme heat and cold, with conditions that can change rapidly and unexpectedly in mountain environments.
Hypothermia is often called the silent killer because it can develop gradually without obvious warning signs. Your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, and this can happen even when temperatures are above freezing, especially in wet and windy conditions.
Heat illness occurs when your body cannot cool itself effectively in hot conditions. High temperatures combined with humidity and physical exertion can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
As you gain altitude, temperature drops significantly - typically 3 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit for every thousand feet of elevation. Mountain weather can change rapidly, and wind chill dramatically increases heat loss, making conditions feel much colder than the actual temperature.
To stay safe in changing temperatures, use a layering system with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells. Always check weather forecasts, pack extra warm clothes, stay hydrated, and be prepared to turn back if conditions become dangerous.