St. George Health and Wellness - Getting the Most from Outdoor Adventures

Getting the Most from Outdoor Adventures

July/August 2024| Outdoor Recreation
July 02, 2024•2 min read

There are few places in the world that top Southern Utah for geographic beauty and access to the great outdoors. Hiking, biking, and mountaineering offer unique opportunities to be “at one” with nature and away from high-traffic areas. For those with stories of exciting backcountry experiences, there is humility in understanding the associated risks of exploring a remote environment while dealing with an unexpected health condition or injury. Dehydration, hypothermia, broken and dislocated bones, cuts, and scrapes top the list of issues treated by healthcare providers.

St. George Health and Wellness - Getting the Most from Outdoor Adventures - Hiking Zion National Park

There are practices that outdoor enthusiasts follow to maintain a high level of safety while ensuring a fantastic time. Here is a basic list of best practices:

  • Check for inclement weather before heading out.

  • Let someone know your plan, including expected start and finish times.

  • Carry a printed map as well as a navigation device that supports an SOS call.

  • Observe trail signs and be alert to warnings.

  • Stay hydrated by carrying an adequate supply of drinking water.

  • Have nuts or protein bars on hand to provide extra energy when needed.

  • Pack a first-aid kit with injury treatment essentials; include a headlamp and an emergency space blanket.

  • Dress like an onion; remove layers before losing energy and moisture to overheating, and add layers to prevent hypothermia.

  • Carry easily accessible identification and emergency contact information for emergency healthcare providers.

Since October 2023, visitors to Zion National Park can receive medical care for non-life-threatening injuries and primary health care needs at the Family Healthcare Zion Canyon Clinic located at 120 Lion Boulevard in Springdale, Utah. During high season, the clinic is open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Visit familyhc.org or call 435-986-2565 for more information. 

*If you are planning an outdoor adventure in Zion National Park, please take note that the National Park Service has issued a warning about the presence of cyanobacteria in the Virgin River. While the water in the river looks clean and fresh, it’s not safe for drinking (filtered or unfiltered) or swimming.

outdoor safetybackcountry safety
Lori Wright is the CEO of Family Healthcare. With more than twenty-five years of experience in community health, she is passionate about developing equity, where everyone can access high-quality, integrated primary health care. Family Healthcare’s mission is Making Lives Better, and as CEO, Lori’s efforts are focused on improving the overall health of patients and the communities that Family Healthcare serves. Lori serves on a variety of committees across the state and throughout Washington and Iron Counties, including the St. George Area Chamber Board of Governors, Dixie Tech Pharmacy Tech Advisory Committee, and Association of Community Health Center’s Board. She also serves as co-chair of the AUCH Health Center Control Network. She is a Certified Medical Practice Executive by the American College of Medical Practice Executives and has received a BS in Community/Public Health and a Master of Public Administration from the Marriott School of Management.

Lori Wright, CEO, Family Healthcare

Lori Wright is the CEO of Family Healthcare. With more than twenty-five years of experience in community health, she is passionate about developing equity, where everyone can access high-quality, integrated primary health care. Family Healthcare’s mission is Making Lives Better, and as CEO, Lori’s efforts are focused on improving the overall health of patients and the communities that Family Healthcare serves. Lori serves on a variety of committees across the state and throughout Washington and Iron Counties, including the St. George Area Chamber Board of Governors, Dixie Tech Pharmacy Tech Advisory Committee, and Association of Community Health Center’s Board. She also serves as co-chair of the AUCH Health Center Control Network. She is a Certified Medical Practice Executive by the American College of Medical Practice Executives and has received a BS in Community/Public Health and a Master of Public Administration from the Marriott School of Management.

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