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many such warnings are exaggerated, this one is not. being fit and young matters less than being acclimatized to the heat. walking with a heavy pack for 10-15 miles a day in 100+ degree temps you can easily drink upwards of 2gallons a day. even doing the trail in 2 days that's over 30 pounds of water. and betting on 2 days is a stretch considering the mental and physical strain of extreme heat with an outrageously heavy pack. if you do go its best to cache water beforehand-more than you will need in multiple locations in case coyotes get into it. bring a lot of electrolyte powder as well, hyponatremia has killed many in the desert. don't bring any meals which need water to cook. umbrella is a good idea, big bend also has a lot of ocotillo so if you bring a tarp or something you can stretch it over those to make a shade structure. loose clothing which covers as much skin as possible, wide brimmed hat, and a shitload of sunscreen on anything exposed. instant cold compresses are essential in your first aid kit, jam them in your armpits if you feel heat exhaustion coming on (which can absolutely still happen when you're well hydrated). it is physically possible to hike in the desert in summer and it can be very rewarding. but you must be willing to adapt. and i think a 30 mile backpacking trip with no resupply may just be out of the question.
t. Arizona SAR volunteer
