Hike smart: Know how to stay safe on the trails at Regional Parks during snake season

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Snake coiled up on a dirt path under tall green grass and brush.

Use caution when exploring trails and remote areas of the park. Rattlesnakes cannot regulate their body temperature and will lie across trails to warm up or hide under brush, rocks or logs to cool down.

San Bernardino County Regional Parks offers open spaces, trails, camping and diverse landscapes for recreation, with each park offering its own natural habitat and ecosystem. As temperatures rise, so will wildlife and snake sightings. Snakes become more active in spring and summer months as they emerge from winter dormancy to hunt, bask in the sun and move through their natural habitats.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual visitor enjoying a walk through the park or on the trails, be aware of your surroundings. Knowing a few simple precautions can help you stay safe while sharing the trail with our resident wildlife.

If a park visitor is bitten, immediately call 9-1-1 and alert park staff as soon as possible. Remove watches or jewelry from the affected arm or leg, immobilize the area, keep the bite below heart level and, if it can be done safely, take a photo of the snake to help medical personnel identify the species. DO NOT apply ice, cut the wound or attempt to suck out the venom.

Regional Parks offers some helpful tips on staying safe in the parks and on the trails

Stay on established trails. Snakes often hide in tall grass, brush and leaf litter off the beaten path. Stick to clear, well-maintained trails where you can see the ground ahead of you.
Wear appropriate over-the-ankle hiking boots, thick socks and loose-fitting long pants. Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas.
Watch where you step and place your hands. Look down before each step, especially when climbing over rocks or logs. Never reach into crevices, ledges or under rocks without looking first.
Hike during cooler parts of the day. Snakes are most active in the early morning and late afternoon during warm months. In extreme heat, they may be more active at dawn or dusk as they seek cooler temperatures.
Use a walking stick or trekking poles. Tap the ground ahead of you, especially around rocks, logs and dense brush. The vibrations can alert snakes to your presence and give them time to move away.
Keep your ears open. A rattling or hissing sound is a warning. If you hear one, stop moving, locate the snake and slowly back away. Don’t try to identify or approach it.
Hike with a buddy and keep children close. Extra eyes help spot snakes sooner. Keep kids on the trail and teach them never to poke at or pick up any snake — even ones that appear dead.
Leash your dogs when hiking to protect them from “discovering” a snake with their nose. Avoid letting your dog sniff around rocks, logs, dense brush and use caution near ponds and streams. These are prime hiding spots for snakes. Gently guide your dog past these areas rather than allowing them to explore.
Train a “leave it” command. A reliable recall or “leave it” can stop your dog from lunging at a snake before contact is made. Practice this regularly so it’s second nature on the trail.
Watch your dog’s body language. If your dog suddenly stops, stares intensely, raises their hackles or backs away from something, they may have detected a snake before you. Trust their instincts and redirect them immediately.

Most snakes are non-aggressive and will avoid you if given the chance. Give them space and they’ll do the same! San Bernardino County Animal Care also advises to never touch wild animals as they can infect humans and pets with diseases, such as distemper, plague and rabies, all of which exist in our county. There are many animal diseases in our region that are transmissible to humans or companion pets. Keep a safe and healthy distance away from wildlife.

For more information on living with wildlife, visit animalcare.sbcounty.gov/wildlife.

Additional County Update News – June 25, 2026