Extra caution is required under the following conditions
Warm weather – As the temperature increases, additional hydration supplies are recommended to reduce the risks associated with dehydration and heat exhaustion. Please remember to take all containers and packaging home with you. Appropriate protection from the sun to prevent sunburn, including sunscreen and a brimmed hat, may also be required.
Rainfall/water – Rainfall and water on the trail increases the risk of slips, falls and injuries due to reduced tractions and loosening of trail materials. Be especially carefully when stepping onto rocks covered with moisture. Appropriate footwear and hiking poles may reduce some of the risk.
Cold weather – Cold weather requires appropriate clothing and footwear to stay warm and to reduce the risk of hypothermia or frostbite. Snow, slush, hail or ice present on the trail can lead to additional risks as outlined below.
Hiking is not recommended under the following conditions
Snow/Slush/Hail – Snow, slush and hail can conceal hazards (rocks, ice, holes, etc) and cause the trail to be very slippery or suddenly give way. Deep snow can also require more physical efforts to move through and lead to exhaustion. Appropriate training, footwear, traction devices and hiking poles are recommended for those who choose to proceed.
Hiking is strongly not recommended under the following conditions
Ice – Ice, whether visible or hidden under snow, slush, hail, soil, vegetation or other covering, can be extremely slippery and is an especially treacherous hazard on all sections of the Pulpit Rock trail. Descents require extreme caution – remember if you have difficulty going up, it is much more difficult coming down. Appropriate training, footwear, traction decives and balance devices (e.g., poles) are strongly recommended for those who choose to proceed in icy conditions.
Darkness/Nightfall – Hiking after nightfall and in dark conditions is not recommended due to increased risks of injury. Please allow for plenty of time to complete your hike prior to nightfall. If hiking in the afternoon, be prepared by bringing along a headlamp or flashlight.
Storms/Wind/Lightning – the probability of falling branches or trees striking hikers increases greatly during storms, strong winds and lightning activity. Storms and winds can also cause a loss of balance. Lightning strikes can be fatal. Cold weather often accompanies storms and strong winds.