Plan your route, pace, hydration, safety checks, and simple trail etiquette during a hike to stay safe, engaged, and respectful.

Yes, when you run into a snake on a hike, stop, give space, and back away slowly to avoid provoking the animal.

During a hiking lightning storm, drop elevation fast, avoid lone trees, spread out, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder.

During a trail thunderstorm, leave high ground, spread out, avoid lone trees, and head for a building or hard-topped vehicle if reachable.

On a hike, plan the route, pack basics, pace yourself, hydrate, follow Leave No Trace, and turn back early when conditions shift.

In a mountain thunderstorm, drop below ridges, avoid lone trees, spread out, crouch on a pad, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder.

If you sprain your ankle while hiking, stabilize it, reduce swelling, assess red flags, and plan a safe exit before starting rehab.

If you see an alligator while hiking, stop, give it space, back away slowly, leash pets, and alert park staff if it acts boldly.

If a wolf appears on trail, stay calm, stand tall, group up, hold ground, and back away slowly while warning it off—never run or leave kids or dogs loose.

If a snake appears on a hike, stop, stay 2–3 body lengths away, back off slowly, and let it pass; call 911 only if someone is bitten.