Due to extreme heat, San Diego County recreation agencies have decided to close several recreational areas to ensure the safety of hikers. The U.S. National Forest Service has closed strenuous hiking routes in the Cleveland National Forest when temperatures soar. The first summer closures affected Three Sisters Falls and Cedar Creek Falls, the latter of which always requires a permit.

The Cedar Creek Falls/San Diego River Gorge and Three Sisters Falls/Eagle Peak trails remain closed due to excessive heat. The San Diego County Department of Parks has also closed park areas such as Agua Caliente (Anza-Borrego) and Vallecito (Julian) during the summer. The El Capitan, Hellhole Canyon, and Mount Gower reserves will close starting in August.

In June, a 50-year-old woman died after becoming separated from a group of hikers in Black Mountain Open Space Park during the first heatwave of the summer. The cause of her death has not yet been determined, although she had informed her sister that she was tired and needed water.

The San Diego County Department of Parks and Recreation advises hikers to take precautions on extremely hot days, especially when heat advisories or warnings are in effect. It is recommended to avoid the heat of the sun and to hike early or later in the day when temperatures are cooler.

Tips for Safe Hiking in the Heat:

1. Carry plenty of water: Plan to drink 24 to 32 cups of water per hike and more on difficult or long trails. Hydrate well before and after hiking.
2. Bring snacks: Non-perishable foods like dried fruits, energy bars, and jerky are ideal.
3. Don’t forget sunscreen: Apply it generously and reapply as needed.
4. Use proper gear: Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing, a hat, and sunglasses. Make sure your footwear is appropriate, with non-slip boots being the best.
5. Choose your hike wisely: Reserve difficult trails for cooler weather and choose easy to moderate routes with low elevation gain.
6. Plan your route: Download an offline map or bring a physical version.
7. Know the signs of heatstroke: Dizziness, nausea, confusion, and headache can be signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. If you suspect heatstroke, call 911 immediately, do not give the person fluids to drink, and try to cool them by moving them to the shade, spraying them with cold water, and fanning them.
8. Leave your dogs at home: Even easy hikes can be too much for dogs when the ground is hot.
9. Let someone know: Inform someone about your hike and your expected return time. Cell phones may lose reception in remote areas.
10. Don’t hike alone: Find a companion.