What to Know When You Go Above Treeline

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First the bad news: Every year, people die in the mountains. People just like you and me: hikers and backpackers out for rest, relaxation, rejuvenation, recreation. The two biggest killers: hypothermia and falls. Now the good news: Almost all of the tragedies are completely preventable. All it takes a little bit of planning and a respect for the power of high places. Here's a list of things to think about the next time to plan a trip above treeline.

Above treeline is above treeline: It doesn't matter if it's 2,000 feet in Alaska, 5,000 feet in Maine or 11,000 feet in California: If you're in a place that's too rough for trees to survive, you need to take special precautions.

Weather forecasts are often valley forecasts. For every 1,000 feet you climb up a mountain, the temperature drops 3 - 5 degrees. As you go higher, the wind increases, too. So pack for the weather at the top.

Mountain weather can change fast. So even on a fine day, bring raingear, a hat, and gloves and one more warm layer than you think you'll need. Keep your warm clothes and raingear where you can get at them fast.

Wet days are hypothermia days. Temperatures as high as 50 degrees can be dangerous if there is mist or rain and wind. Remember that prevention is the best treatment for hypothermia: Put your extra layers on before you get cold.

Beware of altitude sickness, which can affect people even at altitudes as little as 8,000 feet (and sometimes less). Plan plenty of time to acclimate, and if you feel headachy or nauseated, stop climbing until you feel better. If you don't feel better, go down.

In many mountain systems, thunder and lightning roll in during the afternoons. If you can, plan to be up high early in the morning. If you do find yourself on an exposed ridge as a storm begins to build, descend if you can. Even a few feet will help.

Look for a sheltered place to camp, perhaps behind a some bushes or big boulders.

Reduce your mileage goals until you are acclimated. There's a lot of stuff up there that can slow your pace: rocky terrain, tough climbs, snow, thin air, and rough weather. So be prepared for the conditions—and be flexible enough to change your plans if the going is slower than you expected.

Carry a compass and a map showing other trails so that you can bail out if necessary.

Watch out for danger underfoot! Snow often lingers into summer. If you expect to encounter snowfields, you'll need an ice ax and crampons. If you don't have them and you find yourself staring down a steep, slippery slope with a 2,000-foot drop-off, don't be afraid to detour. Or wait until later in the day, when the ice starts to melt and you can kick in steps.

Respect the mountains. They're bigger and stronger than you are.