One does not simply become a master of karate. First, you must accidentally walk into a spider web.
Web on, web off.
Off please.
We’ve all walked through a web. Here are a few tips to get through it: Well, you already went through it, but...
Try to stay in the center of the trail. Webs are more likely to be found near bushes, trees, and other vegetation. Staying in the middle can help reduce the risk of walking into one.
Use a stick. Wave a hiking stick or trekking pole in front of you as you walk to catch any webs before you walk into them. Let’s not go all Jedi Knight first day with a lightsaber but use as needed.
Wear a hat. Wearing a hat with a brim can help catch webs before they reach your face. If a spider decides to hitch a ride without notice, you have permission to cancel the ride and let them off at a convenient location without your star rating being affected.
Walk slowly and carefully. Take your time while walking on the trail to avoid quickly running into webs, squirrels, bears, hikers, other dimensions—you name it.
Avoid walking at dawn or dusk. Spiders are more active during these times, so consider hiking during the middle of the day to reduce the risk of encountering them. So, in essence, sleep in.
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“Catcus” alert! Sitting on a throne of spines, this bobcat was observed at @OrganPipeNPS in southern Arizona. 🐱🌵
The height of the cactus provides a good lookout station. But what about the spines? Bobcats are very adept climbers. They also have very thick foot pads that protect them from the sharp spines of the cactus.
When you get your DNA results and find out you’re 3% frog.
🐸🐻
Bears sit in the woods. We said it.
Why do they just sit? Bears have a very high ratio of brain size to body size. Some believe that bears can interpret some sense of natural beauty. Scientists have observed bears sitting at vista points for hours staring at a river or mountain views.
We like selfies. We also like it when your trip to a national park is fun, safe, and that you don’t chip or crumble. But when capturing the perfect photo or selfie, be a smart cookie.
Wildlife may appear calm and docile but can be unpredictable and easily startled.
Really? You wore the hat with the giant pom pom and bells?
Remember to use a zoom on your camera. If you are close enough to take a selfie, you may lose more than your gumdrop buttons.
We get it---national parks have some photogenic scenery, but do not put your life at risk for a picture. Stick to trails and boardwalks. Use caution, watch your step, and keep your eyes on the trail and not on your camera while walking.
Don’t we all? Remember, your safety is your responsibility while hiking in national parks. Planning is an important step in being prepared for any adventure.
Although it’s generally safer to hike with a companion, if you prefer to go solo, take a few extra measures, like leaving a trip plan with a trusted friend or family member.
Researching ahead of time gives you the opportunity to learn about the park you’ll encounter during your adventure. It will be an adventure. A good adventure. Didn’t mean for it to sound all “brace yourself kiddos,” or “who knew banana slugs would bite?" type of adventure. 🤔
Other considerations when planning includes, do you bring a tall friend (for spiderwebs), or a slower friend (to set the trail pace.)
You thought we were going to say bears, didn’t you? How’s your friendship these days? Asking for a friend.
Also, it’s good to know what essentials to bring on your adventure. Think water, snacks (For you, animal whisperer. Not the rock squirrel that will beg you for a peanut while its chipmunk accomplice snatches your car keys right out of your backpack), and also a map. 🗺️
Oh, you’re headed out to bear country? That salmon-scented body wash was a bold choice.
Bold indeed. So, you've decided to take a trip to a park either alone, or with friends, or maybe you somehow ended up as group leader.
Do you know what information or skills you need before heading out? If you answered yes, good luck. If you answered no, see the next tweets.
It's always important to keep in mind the time of year you want to venture out, hence the salmon-scented body wash during bear bulk-up season. Oh, it's trout? Same idea. Keep an eye out for the weather, road conditions, and environment.