What to know before hitting the trails this weekend, and into the summer

With elements like wildfires, smoke, flooding and even snow to consider, this hiking season shouldn't put you off but preparation is key, say hiking experts.

This May was the hottest on record in parts of Alberta, wildfires engulfed many areas across the province, and this week snow hit parts of Highway 93 between Lake Louise and Jasper.

With this week's snowfall, mountain trails could be slippery, and there is an increased chance of rockfall into the weekend, says Steve Holeczi, visitor safety specialist for the Banff, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks field unit of Parks Canada.

"Before this last snow, a lot of the trails were in late summer condition — really dry, way ahead of schedule," he said.

"The mountains, snowmelt and things like that were probably a month [to] month and a half ahead of schedule. That was good for hiking and scrambling, but now we've had all this snow."

Holeczi says the snow is at the treeline and will take a few days of sun to melt, so in the meantime, proper footwear and warm gear should be considered for trails in the area.

Beyond that, hiking conditions will continue to shift as already seen this spring, and it pays to be prepared, says Rachel Oggy, co-ordinator of the outdoor hiking programs at the University of Calgary's Outdoor Centre.

"It has been an interesting year, but the approach to going hiking and planning to go hiking should generally involve looking at all those possibilities and preparing regardless."

Oggy says the basics of preparation remain the same: plan your route and how to get there, dress for the weather and terrain, and pack the essentials.

Getting there

Oggy says cell service is not always guaranteed depending on where one hikes, so considering a satellite phone or other GPS tracking device is a good idea.

There are also hiking guidebooks and maps that you can use, should the battery be low on a phone with map capabilities.

"A map is always a great idea. And whether it's a physical map or a map you're referencing on a phone that has lots of charge and a backup battery pack," she said.

Holeczi, with Parks Canada, says it's also recommended you let someone know where you are going, before you leave for the day.

What to pack

Though weather in Alberta can famously change on a dime, you should still plan outerwear based on weather predictions and anticipated conditions, says Oggy.

"Whatever you're expecting to wear on a day, you're going to want at least one more warm layer that you could add if needed for emergency perspectives," she said.

Beyond that, things like sunscreen, snacks and water are a must.

Hiking guidebook author Andrew Nugara says outdoor enthusiasts need to stock up on water especially.

"These days, always bring more water than you think you're going to need," he said on The Homestretch.

He recommends snacks high in carbohydrates but low in sugar, like granola and fruits and vegetables, but warns everything you pack in must be brought back with you.

Given changing conditions, it's recommended to do some research online about trail reports, weather conditions, fire status and flood alerts before any hike this summer.

"As long as you take a little time and do some research before you go, there's a lot you can do safely and happily," said Oggy.