Every thru-hiker will tell you there is a little voice in their head constantly nagging them to move forward. Thru-hikers are always concerned with making continuous progress on towards their goal, be it the Canadian border or the next resupply town. Yet traveling in lightning country often requires thru-hikers to be flexible with their schedule and hiking style because the risk is very real: about 10% of those struck will die, often from cardiac arrest, and the other 90% may become permanently disabled.
One way long-distance hikers can make continuous progress ahead is by being creative with their route. Although many thru-hikes have an official route, in mountainous areas it’s a smart decision to map out bailout trails or lower alternates that you can take should a lightning storm come in.
Furthermore, almost every hiker takes lunch breaks. Thru-hikers can time their breaks strategically, such that they can wait out thunder and lightning storms before heading above treeline.
The best rule of thumb is for all hikers to stay below treeline in the afternoons and when there are storms. But since thru-hikers need to make miles, some will continue high onto ridges—knowing full well that if the weather turns worse, they will need to initiate a backup plan pronto. When thru-hikers see dark clouds coming towards them, feel their hair standing on end, or observe less than 30 seconds between lightning and thunder, they know to get the heck off the mountain.
The following are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I am Jeff Clark, founder of Internet Brothers, producer of this blog, and passionate about hiking. I live in Western NC near the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests are just out my door, so the content will focus on these areas, but let me know what you would like to see on the site. 
Copyright © 2011-2023 Internet Brothers. All Rights Reserved. ISSN 2324-6057
Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by Wordpress | Logo by Design Aspirations