Lunar landscape hiking: Craters and valleys trek
Lunar landscape hiking includes some strenuous and beautiful hikes that take you across craters, through valleys, and over surfaces that closely resemble those found on the moon. In this article, we explore what makes these treks a must-try for adventure enthusiasts. We also share essential tips and insights to help you plan a memorable journey.
Choosing the right destination
Numerous earthly locations resemble the lunar landscape, offering unique experiences amidst volcanic fields and desert expanses. Key destinations include Iceland's Askja Caldera, Hawaii's Mauna Loa, and New Mexico's White Sands. Each site presents a unique lunar experience: Iceland offers a desolate, volcanic terrain; Hawaii pairs lunar views with a tropical setting; and New Mexico features vast, sunlit gypsum dunes, which resemble moon's glow.
Preparing for your trek
Packing for hikes in these unique landscapes requires some special considerations. First and foremost, invest in a good pair of sturdy hiking boots. You'll be encountering some seriously rough and uneven surfaces. Second, don't forget that there isn't much shade in a glacier! Pack high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Finally, given the remoteness and potential difficulty of some trails, it's highly recommended to hire an experienced guide.
What to pack
Besides regular hiking equipment, it's important to pack light clothing that will keep you warm. Temperatures can vary greatly between day and night in deserts and mountains. A sturdy backpack is a must to carry water (at least two liters per person), snacks, a first-aid kit, and navigation tools (map or GPS device) as trails might not be clearly marked.
Capturing the experience
Capturing lunar landscapes can be tricky because of the bright sunlight bouncing off the light surfaces. You can use polarizing filters to cut down on the glare. Take your shots during the golden hours, shortly after sunrise or just before sunset, when the long shadows help to bring out the features of the terrain. Play around with different angles to emphasize the textures of the landscape.
Safety tips
Safety is paramount in remote, lunar-like landscapes. Always let someone know where you're going and when you plan to be back. Drink water frequently to avoid dehydration during your trek. Watch out for rapid weather shifts in these open, exposed areas. Stay on designated paths as much as possible. It's easy to lose your way in these huge areas with very few reference points.
