Last month brought a substantial amount of rain to the Los Padres, and even snow in some areas, but that didn’t keep us from getting outside with the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Barbara. Venturing out in rainy or wet conditions can have many benefits if we are well prepared.
Hiking in the rain is awesome. The conditions can provide a remarkable sensory experience—the sound of the drops falling, the smell of moisture in the ground and plants from the earthy petrichor, the vibrant green colors, and the fresh, clean air all help to create a more tranquil setting. In some cases, the water rushing through a creek or the water on your face can also heighten the senses and boost energy levels. In Southern California, rain in the local mountains usually means less traffic on the trails providing hikers fewer human distractions and an opportunity to observe the natural surroundings more closely.
We heard some of the participants express, “I love the way it smells,” “It’s so quiet out here,” and one also shared that the hike was a great way to end what had been a very stressful week for them. This was the first time the teens had hiked in the rain. While there was some hesitation about getting outside, there was also curiosity around what it was like. At the end of the hike when asking participants what they learned, one teen stated they realized how important getting out into nature once a week was for their self-care. Now that’s a testimonial that will keep our enthusiasm and efforts going for a long time!
While getting outside in different conditions can be fun and rewarding, it’s important to plan ahead and check the weather in detail before venturing out. This includes temperature, amount of rainfall expected, the possibility of lightning, mudslides, or any other risks specific to the terrain you will be hiking in. It’s also important to stay dry and having the right gear to keep you dry is essential for safety. Our December hike included mild showers and sprinkling for a short amount of time; hence, we considered it safe to proceed.
Winter is one of the best times to experience our wild places. In the Los Padres you’ll see the hills covered in blooms from Ceanothus, California Sagebrush, and brilliant red California Holly berries. We encourage everyone to get outside and explore.
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