USA: Mountain hikes
Hiking at higher elevations , for instance in the 14,000ft peaks of the Rockies or in California's Sierra Nevada, and certainly in Alaska, take especial care. Late snows are common, and especially in spring there's a real danger of avalanches, not to mention meltwaters that make otherwise simple stream crossings hazardous. Weather conditions can change abruptly. Altitude sickness, brought on by the depletion of oxygen in the atmosphere, can affect even the fittest of athletes. Take it easy for your first few days above seven thousand feet. Drink lots of water, avoid alcohol, eat plenty of carbohydrates, and protect yourself from the increased power of the sun.
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